Mcowens
We once had a company tell us shortly before our auction that they put an item in the mail to us. Having no reason to doubt this they went ahead and put it in the event publication. When the item didn't show up they attempted to reach the donor with no reply. Good thing is that over event publication states that items are subject to change so it wasn't a big deal and there were so many items it didn't really matter. Since then nothing goes in the program book unless we have it in hand. If something arrives past the publication deadline we put the item out at our event but its just not listed in the publication. We put a date that we need the item by in our solicitation letter. Companies that say they are sending something monts out are contacted about 6 weeks before the event with a friendly thank you and note that we are requesting donors get items to us by such and such a date so that we can include them in our publication. If an item doesn't show up after the reminder we let it go. All in all it has not been a frequent issue though.
mcowens - We have had things not show up. We always contact the company. We actually just called one yesterday - our item was to have been mailed 4 weeks ago. They checked and OOPS! it didn't get mailed. It is worth a try.
This is my first official time soliciting for our tricky tray! Our theme this year is "A Night at the Movies"! I am trying to get autographed pictures of actors/actresses to raffle off as the table prizes! I was able to get John Travolta but am having a hard time locating official addresses for others. I just sent a letter to Matthew McConaughey that someone posted earlier! If anyone has any official addresses for other actors and is willing to share, I would appreciate it very much!