From the Studio to Auction: Designing for Good
Last year, I was delighted to donate items to The Heart of Texas Labrador Retriever Club to help raise money for their events. I was even happier when they reached out to ask if we could partner again for their next silent auction in November 2025.
Additionally, I agreed to create some gift items for a silent auction at the company I work for to help raise money for an employee fund we have, which our NAM employees can request in times of need.
Having two events this year, I started creating right after Valentine's Day to ensure I could have everything ready by the end of September. My focus this year was to create pieces that would make great gifts at a reasonable price, and that people would actually use or display. I decided to focus my efforts on small nesting plates and trinket dish sets since these items are small and light. This ensured they could be easily shipped or carried in luggage while traveling.
Here are a few examples of pieces donated in 2025:
The feedback from the auctions was positive, and I love that each item will bring joy to someone this Christmas season, as well as enable the retriever club to host events next year. Silent auctions are a great way to raise money, and I was thrilled to hear that the dragon trinket dish shown above sold for $95.00!
I have a full-time job, so I have limited time to create, but making items for a good cause inspires and motivates me to work in the studio. I am speaking with a local animal rescue and shelter to explore ways to work together to help raise money for food and vet costs.
Creating these handcrafted pieces and knowing they directly benefit great causes is truly rewarding. Whether I'm supporting the important work of The Heart of Texas Labrador Retriever Club, helping colleagues in times of crisis, or assisting local animal rescues and shelters, it proves that every moment spent in the studio is time well spent. Each year brings new designs and opportunities to give back, and I look forward to sharing more updates on these charitable collaborations and new creations soon! Thank you for supporting my passion and these vital organizations.
Warm regards,
Renee Holder