We started out by using white popcorn buckets they can be reused over every year. however this year we had to many prizes and not enough buckets, so I went to the local dollar store and bought white lunch bags. My other suggestion would be to use plastic take out containers with lids and slice a hole in the top.

Hi JDA,

I use inexpensive 8x10 frames from the dollar store for all of my descriptions. I also frame large certificates when they are included in large baskets. You can print certificates or description sheets to an 8x10 size, printed on an 8.5 x 11 sheet and cut it down to size, or you can simply print on 8.5 x 11 sheet and purchase the certificate frames. No need to cut each sheet! I love the acrylic frames, but they eventually scratch and I have found that the dollar store frames add a nice touch to all of my auctions.

The dollar is in the details and when you add simple touches, like frames for your descriptions, people really take notice. In fact, I frequently have many winners of my auctions ask to keep the framed description and I will always happily hand it over, since it only cost a dollar! I will post a sample of one of my description sheets in the file share section.

Good luck!

The 8.5x11 acrylic stands can be very nice for displays, especially the ones that lean back at an angle. But they can get pricey if you need many.

One thing - first decide if you NEED to display the certificate (well, usually a copy, marked as a copy). Some certificates are great, clear, have the company logo. Others use small text and aren't easy to read as you pass by. Instead we often create a flyer with eyecatching clipart, colors, and, details highlighted in large font.

But still -then how to display the flyer? If you can manage what you need in half sheet, printing on cardstock and folding as tent signs is super easy, cheap, and takes minimal space.

I also find essential a bag of acrylic clips about 3" x 2" and serve as a stand to hold placecard, signs, etc. Usually you find them at a trainer or conference supply source. Sometimes Amazon. PCNametag carries them. (Works better for 8.5x11 size turned landscape. Sometimes you need to fold a piece of paper/cardstock to create a "spine" to help the flyer stay upright if portrait orientation.)

These are sold by the dozen and I keep a bag of 2 dozen in my supply kit. They are super handy for events, serving many purposes.

Hi JDA,

Do you mean physically display the certificate? Or do you mean what should you do to attractively convey the gist of the item, given that you're going to hide the certificate elsewhere?

(I'd hesitate to display certificates themselves as they are easy to swipe. Keeping them organized in envelopes in the check-out area is a good idea.)

For display ideas, these posts might help. (There's little difference between your display for the tricky tray and a silent auction, outside of the fact that a tricky tray wouldn't include a bid sheet):

Why I love acrylic stands in silent auction displays
www.redappleauctions.com/silent-auction-...ving-acrylic-stands/

(video) Silent auction display ideas, without using acrylic stands
www.redappleauctions.com/video-silent-au...ay-ideas-no-acrylic/

Incorporate the 5 senses into displays
www.redappleauctions.com/silent-auction-...ons-use-five-senses/

And, finally .... if you happen to have this jeweler in your tricky tray, this post will tell you how to display it:
Everyone's favorite color on the silent auction table
www.redappleauctions.com/video-silent-au...bles-favorite-color/

Sherry