Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a Raffle?
Yes, there will be a raffle for an opportunity to win fabulous prizes. Tickets are $5 each and can be purchased by bid number or with cash. There will only be 500 raffle tickets sold.
Q: How does the dessert auction work?
How does the dessert auction work? There will only be 18 delicious desserts available for purchase. All desserts will start as silent auction items with a starting bid of $40. Any dessert that reaches a silent auction bid of $100 will transfer to a live auction item which will be auctioned off during the Luncheon. Desserts can be enjoyed at your table or boxed to take home.
Q: Are the centerpieces for sale?
Yes, the centerpieces are for sale. There is a centerpiece sales table by the front of the ballroom. A Mathis Guild member will be at that table selling centerpieces. If you want to buy a centerpiece, you will purchase it there. Once purchased, you will receive a sold sign you can put on the centerpiece of your choice. Centerpieces will be sold at a set price.
Q: Are any of the decorations for sale?
Some, but not all of the decorations will be available to buy at the Luncheon. If the item is for sale, there will be signage close to it with instructions on how to bid on it.
Q: How does the silent auction work?
There are paper bid sheets next to each item. Bid sheets are clearly marked in bid increments with the guaranteed bid amount in the bottom right corner. To place a bid, write your bid number in the box next to the bid amount. If you mark the "guaranteed" bid box, the item is sold to you; no one else can bid on it. Otherwise, it is sold to the highest bidder.
Q: When does the silent auction open?
The Silent Auction Room opens at 11:30 a.m.
Q: When does the silent auction close?
The silent auction closes at 12:20 p.m.
Q: How do I pick up the items I won?
Silent auction items will be ready for pick up at the end of the program after you have made payment.
Q: How do I make payment?
By swiping your card when you check in, you have agreed to use this card as your method of payment for reconciling any auction purchases, raffle purchases, and/or donations incurred during the event. We will be charging cards after all fundraising activity has concluded. You may make alternative arrangements at check in.
Q: How long will the event last?
While there isn’t a set end time, the formal program typically ends about 1:30 - 2 p.m. We do our best to keep to our schedule, but with a room filled wonderful women who love to visit and chat, it is always difficult to predict. We appreciate and thank you for spending your time with us.
Q: What if I need to leave early?
Timing during this event is always a little unpredictable and we understand sometimes you just need to leave early. If you do, please stop at the check out table and make sure you are paid for any items purchased and we will help locate them for you to take home.
Q: Is my auction purchase tax deductible?
When purchasing items at a charity auction, you may be able to deduct the amount you paid above the item's fair market value (FMV) as a charitable contribution. For example, if an item's FMV is $100 and you bid $150, you can likely deduct $50. Tax information about the deductibility of your Luncheon Ticket will be in the back of the Luncheon Program available at the Event. The Mathis Guild operates under the Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Foundation Tax ID #91-1145592. Please consult your tax advisor for any additional questions.
