Frequently Asked Questions
Auction Donors
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a large and small tree?
Large trees range from 6 to 9 feet in height, while small trees are often between 3 to 5.5 feet tall. Please choose the donation that best suits your ability to decorate it on decorating day.
What does it cost to donate a tree to the festival?
There is no cost to donate a tree. We encourage donors to creatively decorate their trees to attract the highest bids, which supports our cause and charity partner.
When is decorating day?
Decorating Days are on Wednesday, November 18, 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., and Thursday, November 19, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where is the festival located?
The festival will be held at the Gas South Convention Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, GA 30097. Directions for decorating day drop-off and other details will be provided to all donors in November.
Can I use glass ornaments?
For safety reasons, we recommend using shatterproof or non-breakable ornaments. Please help us deliver your tree in excellent condition by showing our auction volunteers your fragile decorations before leaving on decorating day.
Can I pre-decorate my tree at home and bring it fully assembled?
Due to transportation challenges, large trees should be assembled and decorated on-site during the designated decorating day. We will reinforce your tree trunk to ensure it is stable enough to move to its new home. Moving the tree without the reinforcement can lead to devastating damage.
Small trees can be decorated at home and brought fully assembled if the tree sections are secured so they do not separate. Please refer to the decorating guidelines for these instructions.
I can’t make it during decorating day times. Can I bring it another time?
Because of the complex nature of executing an auction of this size, we cannot accept late items. Please contact your auction coordinator to assess other options.
What does Suggested Retail Value mean?
The Suggested Retail Value (SRV) is an estimate of the price your donated item would sell for in a retail setting. This information helps bidders understand the value of your donation. Please watch this video for additional details on estimating the suggested retail value of your auction donation.
Can I donate a gift certificate or other items with my tree, wreath, or centerpiece?
Yes, additional donations, such as gift certificates or other items, are welcome and will add value to your auction contribution. Any items included in the tree or wreath space will be sold with the auction item.
Who do I contact with questions?
For any additional inquiries, please contact our Pre-festival Auction Team at [email protected].
What is the cause this auction supports?
Proceeds from the auction go to Street Grace, a local organization working to eradicate the sexual exploitation of women and children in Georgia and beyond. Funds provided directly impact individuals in our local communities.
How many tree spaces are available?
We have a limited number of tree spaces available. We recommend early registration to ensure your spot.
How are tree spaces assigned?
Tree spaces are pre-assigned by our auction team for the best aesthetics and flow. If you need more than one tree space for your tree display, please notify the auction team so they can properly allocate the space..
What happens if my tree does not sell?
Any auction items not sold during the event will be donated to local charities or families in need. The Georgia Festival of Trees has never had an auction item remain unsold. We are grateful to all who continue to support this important cause.
How do you determine the opening bid?
The opening bid for each item is set by our auction committee, which considers the fair market value, uniqueness, and potential interest from buyers. This decision is based on historical data, current market conditions, and the overall presentation of the auction item.
Will someone help me unload my supplies at the Gas South Convention Center?
Yes, we will have volunteers to assist you with unloading your supplies on the designated drop-off days. You will receive detailed instructions in the weeks leading up to the festival.
If I’m just dropping off a wreath or centerpiece, do I have to pay to park?
No, there will be no charge for parking on auction set-up days.
How many people can come to help me decorate my tree?
We do not have a limit on the number of people who can help decorate a tree. Working with friends and family is one of the best parts of giving to the Festival of Trees. As a reminder, no children under 12 are allowed on decorating day.
Where do I park?
Parking is available at the Gas South Convention Center in Parking Deck 1, and will be no charge during our decorating days. Look for signs directing you to the Convention Center designated parking area. Our volunteer team will ensure you have directions to the parking deck once you complete drop-off.
Can my business name be on the tree?
Please refrain from placing your business name on your tree/wreath or other donations. However, your business name can be included on items around your tree/wreath and on your official auction card. Tree decorations should be free of logos or business names.
Do I bring my own ladder, etc., on decorating day?
We recommend bringing any necessary tools and equipment, such as ladders, scissors, and other decorating supplies, as these are not provided at the venue.
Does the tree have to be pre-lit?
Trees are not required to be pre-lit. However, if you wish to include light strands or other types of lighting on your tree, they must adhere to safety standards and be in good working order. Please do not string more than five strands of incandescent lights together. Remember to bring any cords or power strips you need if you are self-lighting your tree.
Can I pick any theme—what’s off-limits?
We love creativity! You are welcome to choose any theme for your tree if it’s family-friendly and doesn’t contain controversial or offensive material (i.e. weapons, political statements, drugs, etc.).
Benefits for Donors
- Recognition: Your name and/or business name will be prominently displayed on your auction item.
- Program Acknowledgment: We’ll include your name or business in our festival program.
- Online Visibility: Receive recognition on our website and social media platforms by utilizing the tree donor spotlighting section in our donor portal.
- Complimentary Tickets
