Hiring Gabriel was one of the wisest decisions we made. He first joined us as the auctioneer for our Holiday Gala at Cipriani in NYC, where he helped set new records for both the auction and paddle raise. Thanks to his efforts, we raised an impressive $6 million that evening. Beyond his skills on stage, Gabriel is also a powerful consultant. He played a key role in developing our donor outreach strategy leading up to the gala. ​He is far more than just an auctioneer; he brings passion and dedication to every event, truly believing in the causes he supports. His contributions were instrumental to our success.

The biggest misconception about an auctioneer is it's an unnecessary luxury. "Let's just get the local weatherman to do it" is often the mentality of nonprofits, who think they need to save money.

If you do that -- you probably will leave money on the table. Gabriel not only is an expertly trained auctioneer, he understands the psyche of the donor, how to take them on the hero's journey and make you more money than you ever imagined. His charm, British accent and wit will dazzle you, but don't be fooled. This graduate of the London School of Economics is keenly focused on making you money -- big money!

Gabriel never disappoints! He delivers so we can deliver.

I donated a new grantLOVE edition of neons to Project Angel Food’s Angel Art “Art=Love” auction. I had agreed that the organization could sell all three sculptures in the edition, which would normally happen after the auction. But something extraordinary happened: the auctioneer, Gabriel Butu, had driven the price of the neon up to $20,000, when he stopped the proceedings and asked the three top bidders if they would each buy one of the editions for $20,000.

​In under a minute, the auctioneer had raised $60,000—the single largest artists’ donation of the evening. The effect of that sale was that Project Angel Food could provide thousands of meals to their clients in need.

Gabriel was the emcee/auctioneer in March of 2020; the last live event we both participated in for more than a year. It was very successful, in part because of the strategic homework Gabriel insisted I do. Come 2021, and I was highly skeptical that we could have an equally successful virtual event. Gabriel talked me off the ledge several times. He also introduced me to a terrific production company, and our trifecta of players planned and executed an amazing virtual fiesta, where we not only exceeded our overall fundraising goal, but hosted an energetic event that was very well-received by our guests. I am still getting feedback about how other virtual events our guests have attended don't compare. Gabriel is also great fun to work with; and he listens!

As CEO of a fundraising platform, I've seen and participated in thousands of nonprofit events. And I've had the pleasure of witnessing Gabriel host many events for charity, and also work with him personally as the host of the TOASTY Awards. Gabriel brings with him an unmatched combination of wit, charm, enthusiasm, and passion for the nonprofit sector in every event he participates in. He is a versatile host, able to create his own content to match your messaging, and also host events of all kinds – from auctions to award shows. I could not recommend Gabriel highly enough as a person, host, and nonprofit fundraiser.

I am so grateful for Gabriel's expertise as we transitioned our historied Homecoming Dinner for the New York Yankees Foundation into a virtual event.

Gabriel was scheduled to be our live auctioneer for our April 2020 event. When that was cancelled and I began the transition of the in-person event into a virtual platform, it was wonderful to have Gabriel’s expertise along the way. He really takes the time to learn about the organization, its attendees and their giving history.

Anyone who is considering hiring them for their event can expect the utmost in professionalism (both on and off screen), experience and expertise and understanding of current trends. He absolutely has his finger on the pulse of what is current in this ever-changing industry.

We had such a great experience working with Gabriel that I have recommended him to all of my other clients.​

Gabriel did a masterful job of coming up to speed quickly on our organization and auction items. He is a well-spoken, attractive man with a nice air about him (sophisticated). He was very good at squeezing the last dollars from the audience but in a way that didn’t feel uncomfortable; he kept it light and entertaining. He got the bids higher than I thought would be possible while being upbeat and humorous.

Gabriel conducted the live auction at our Spring Art de Vivre Award Benefit Dinner in New York City. He did a wonderful job engaging the crowd, and the live auction exceeded our expectations. He has great charisma, is professional and reliable, and made the experience a pleasure. I highly recommend him.

His enthusiasm, sense of humor, and “just right” coaxing were a huge hit with our crowd! We were thrilled with the live auction outcome—he doubled our paddle raise goal! Bravo!

Gabriel was wonderful in answering all of my redundant questions leading up to the event. He also provided incredibly helpful materials beforehand, ensuring we considered all the key elements of an auction. During the event, he was charming, engaging, and truly worked the room, helping us raise more funds than we anticipated. 

Amazing. You did such a good job. It was so entertaining.

You just come out even when it’s a small group, you keep everyone entertained, it's amazing. The energy that you bring to the room, to the organization. Amazing support. Amazing energy.

Big success! 100% growth over last year! Fund a need: “Almost free money”. "We had some really nice comments afterwards, and especially some of the old timers. They just said they didn't know how we were going to pull this off, and they were just amazed... You did a wonderful job. It takes a team.

LOVE the anchor’s enthusiasm with “this just in…breaking news” segment with the donation, very nice touch 😊

I’m always on the lookout for rising stars with the charisma, intuition, and energy to drive bids. Gabriel is one of them—a standout auctioneer I’d confidently send to lead any major fundraising event.

Best auctioneer ever! Thank you Gabriel for taking us to new heights never imagined! If you need an auctioneer for your event, your first and only call should be to Gabriel!

We couldn’t believe he was able to raise the pledge he did with a tough crowd at our inaugural event! Amazing job, and everyone commented on his charm and energy level. fabulous!

Gabriel is an EXCELLENT auctioneer — our auctioneer at our last two fundraising events. highly professional and articulate, we look forward to having him at our next event.