A live pledge is the game-changer of any charity fundraiser, it builds instant emotional connection and generosity in real time. Unlike a silent auction, it allows me to engage directly with donors, share stories that inspire giving, and create a wave of excitement as every pledge is celebrated.

I set a clear target and three tailored giving tiers, high, middle, and lower, each linked to something tangible the charity can fund. This makes every donor feel part of the impact and keeps the room united behind a shared purpose. As one client said, “We raised £10,000 before we had even begun.”

Sometimes, even after a lively live auction, silent auction, and entertainment, the energy in the room can dip—like it did at one event I hosted where it was nearing 10pm and the atmosphere had slowed. I invited the CEO to share a few heartfelt words, followed by children whose lives had been transformed by the charity’s work. This simple but powerful act completely shifted the mood, sparking renewed enthusiasm that led to a hugely successful pledge. I’m always ready to think outside the box and bring in the right voices because the most impactful live pledges are built on teamwork and genuine connection.

At the Jigsaw Trust fundraiser, the charity had never attempted a live pledge before but they trusted my guidance, and together we made it unforgettable. Their goal was £30,000 to fund a new play centre for children and adults with autism, and within the first 60 seconds of launching the £2,500 pledge tier, we’d already raised £10,000.

Momentum took over, the room came alive, and by the end of the appeal we’d reached £30,600 surpassing the target. For me, that’s the magic of a live pledge: when storytelling, energy, and generosity collide to create something extraordinary. It’s not just about raising money; it’s about raising belief in what’s possible.

Securing a €78,000 pledge in Monte Carlo wasn’t about pressure—it was about precision, storytelling, and emotional connection. As a professional charity auctioneer, my role was to create a moment where generosity felt inevitable.

By framing the pledge not as a donation, but as a direct investment in life-saving medical equipment, I transformed a financial ask into an opportunity for impact. Every element from the pre-event conversations to the live delivery was designed to elevate the room and inspire leadership. When that single paddle finally went up, it wasn’t just a bid; it was the culmination of purpose, preparation, and trust. That moment funded vital equipment and reminded everyone that the right words, at the right time, can truly save lives.

It’s never just about the numbers in the room, it’s about unlocking generosity. Even with an intimate crowd of 80, by getting everyone truly invested in the cause and pulling on those heartstrings, we raised nearly £1,800 at the lowest pledge level of £100. That’s the power of connection, compassion, and a room united around one shared purpose. Every pound counts and when you inspire people to give, they always give their best.