Live Auctioneer
Expo Auctions is now partnering with expert speaker Tony Rissley to help level up your next event!
What if your fundraiser felt like a party that people didn't want to leave?
That's where Tony comes in.
Hi, I'm Tony.
I'm an auctioneer who accidentally discovered that when you combine theatre, comedy, genuine human connection, and strategic fundraising know-how, magical things happen.
Like donors who can't help but bid. Energy that's actually electric. And revenue that makes your board do a happy dance.
Ready to stop playing it safe and start raising real money?
What Makes My Approach Different
I Actually Care About Your Mission
This isn't just a gig for me. When I step on your stage, I'm representing YOUR years of hard work, YOUR impact, YOUR donors' potential to change lives. I take that seriously. Even whilst making people laugh.
I'm Part Entertainer, Part Strategist
My background is in improv and theatre. I know how to read a room, adjust on the fly, and keep energy high. But I'm also obsessed with the strategy behind what makes people bid. It's not magic—it's psychology. And it works.
I Do My Homework
I don't show up 10 minutes before doors open. I arrive early. I study your donors. I learn your stories. I build a game plan that's customized to YOUR event, not some cookie-cutter approach I use everywhere.
I Make Boring Things Fun
Let's be real: Asking for money is awkward. Auction items can be dry. Mission moments can feel heavy. But when you combine storytelling, humor, and genuine connection? Suddenly people are leaning in instead of checking out.
I See Your Donors as People, Not Wallets
Every person in your room has a story. A reason they showed up. A cause they care about. My job is to connect with them as humans first. The bidding follows naturally when people feel seen, valued, and part of something bigger.
True Story
One nonprofit went from $127K to $178K in one year. Same donors. Same venue. Different energy.
Quality Matters
This organization cut their live auction from 42 items to 12 and raised 30% MORE.
Last Chance
A gala was on the verge of being cancelled.
Instead it became their highest grossing event in 15 years.
The Proof is in the Results
Like these real-life scenarios below, see what Tony can do for your next event.
Pick Your Vibe: Three Ways to Work Together
SPARK
Live Auctioneer Services
You need someone to bring energy and expertise to your live auction. That is what this is.
Professional live auctioneering that drives competitive bidding
Pre-event strategy call to talk through your items, audience, and goals
Storytelling that conencts each auction item to your mission
Pacing that keeps donors engaged from start to finish
Optional emcee services if you want me to lead your full programme
Your staff and volunteers can breathe (I've got this)
Perfect For:
Organizations with strong event infrastructure who need expert auctioneering to maximize results.
FLOW
Full-Service Auctioneer + Emcee + Silent Auction
We lead your entire evening. You get to relax and enjoy your event.
Tony as your auctioneer AND emcee - high energy all night
Live auction that creates excitement and drives donations
Expo Auctions silent auction management platform with complete setup and support
Strategic integration so both your silent and live auctions perform
Your team can focus on donors instea dof logistics
Support from planning through execution
Perfect For:
Organizations that want a seamless, professional event where everything works together.
IMMERSION
Custom 4D Fundraising Experience
We create a fully designed stage experience around your mission.
A customized show designed specifically for your organization
Themed moments, surprises, and interactive elements throughout the night
Custom scripts and transitions that elevate the entire experience
An event that feels premium and unforgettable
Deep emotional connection to your cause through immersive storytelling
Your signature fundraising moment that people talk about all year
Perfect For:
Organizations ready to create something truly special that sets a new standard.
Ready to Make Your Next Event Incredible?
Tell us about your goals and how Tony can help you exceed them.
500+ Events
Millions Raised
Proven Results
We heard so many compliments on Tony’s fun and engaging live auctioning. He made it enjoyable instead of dreadful…and boy can he get money out of people. It’s like they are having so much fun they don’t realize how much money they are spending!
Cindy Vinson
Midwest Food Bank of GA