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Fundraising Ideas Christmas Tree And Wreath Sales
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Christmas Tree Sales
Christmas tree sales have been
a favorite way to raise funds for
community service organizations
like the Optimist Club, Lions Club,
and other service organizations.
We've all seen the colorful lit lot
with different size trees and the
big signs describing what they
will provide with the funds
generated.
This is a fairly easy way to earn several thousand dollars. Although, it will require two volunteers each night which means it is moderately labor intensive. One Boy Scout Troop in Maumelle, Arkansas raised $1500 on a small corner of a bank lot.
In the late Summer or early Fall your group should contact a number of tree farms in your area. If you are having trouble finding it in the yellow pages or the Chamber Of Commerce, you might try the Department of Agriculture and Forestry for help. You might also ask neighbors where they got their trees. Keep your eye out for signs indicating Christmas tree farms as you drive through the country side. Here's one good national tree farmer -- Evergreen Agricultural Enterprises, 800-472-9361
Contact at least two tree farmers, but usually it's good to get a quote from four different farmers. These price quotes will be a general range only since the tree farmers will sell at a higher price trees with are nice versus those that are slightly crooked or squat. You will want to do the same. For example, if a tree farmer sells you a tree for $10 then you will want to sell it for $18 or $20. If he sells you a tree for $20, you will have to sell it for $34 to $40.
A few months prior to your sale, be sure to get clearance from local governing authorities. Make sure that the local police are notified if you expect large traffic output on the streets near your site. Also, ask them to drive by and keep an eye on your lot while you are away. As you choose your location, check with your city planning or zoning office to determine the ability to sell Christmas Trees. Usually, if you use a section of a supermarkets parking lot, it will most likely be alright.
Locate electric sources for your lot. Can you run an extension cord from the merchant whose lot you are using. Generators are to be discouraged unless you have a way to muffle 95% of the sound. Otherwise, you will run customers off. You will also need a tarp and/or small storage building for conducting the transaction of the sale. Get your customer out of the cold or wet if possible.
Offer hot cocoa or hot coffee for your customers. On a cold or drizzly night, this enticement will make the difference whether someone drives by or goes somewhere else. Have large signs so that all will know about your FREE coffee or cocoa. Bring your hot drinks in thermos jugs with a way for refilling them if you run out. Small cups are the way to go since you are not really out to satisfy their thirst. Everybody loves a freebie.
Play Christmas theme music as you offer other items like Wreaths to order. Have several wreaths on display for customers to sign up for with delivery during the next few days. Sell for at least $25 or more depending on the affluency of your neighborhood. And don't forget cords of firewood that your group has cut prior to your sale. Check for prices at the supermarket (usually on display outside) and then cut your prices. Contact a local tree surgeon to inquire about donating hardwood trees they cut down during the fall.
Don't forget to offer Christmas gift baskets with food items or Christmas lighting and decorations. Get sellable decorations on consignment from"friendly" merchants to your cause. If you have a full year to plan, get Christmas decorations donated from supporters or merchants leftovers that they will not carry next year. Donations of items from merchants will help clear their inventory space and keep them from paying taxes on the inventory.
Use multiple sale items to attract different customers thereby, creating more traffic to your site and an enjoyable festive occasion so that they will refer their neighbors about the good time they had buying a tree from you. Most of all have a fun time making money for your group.
After Christmas, pickup old Christmas trees for profit. Go here to learn more.
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