Trying to make up some raffle prizes on a budget, can anyone help ?

[Zazzabeans]

Didn't know where else to put this post sorry if in wrong section.
I'm taking part in a coffee morning for Macmillan , I'm hoping to do a raffle but I'm struggling with prizes,
I'm looking for beauty samples etc so that I can make up some gifts.
I have emailed all of the big brands but no one is willing to help :(
Just wondered if any lovely mumsnetters are willing to help ?
All for a good cause

[Littlef00t]

Nothing I can help with, but have you asked local shops? Eg Boots? They might have got some samples in? Otherwise new businesses are often keen to get known and you could persuade them a free treatment or £10 voucher is a good marketing investment.

[Zazzabeans]

I have asked boots and beauty counter in debenhams and house of Fraser but was told they only do samples when you buy products as they were getting far too many requests :(

[WipsGlitter]

Smaller local shops and businesses are a better bet.

[RJnomaaaaaargh]

Yes locally run businesses and put it into a letter to leave with them.

[Robotgirl]

Ask local businesses to donate prizes (meal for 2 at a local pub? Beauty treatment at beauticians etc) ...it's free advertising for them & makes them look like good kind people too! Might have to do some bragging but if you have the gift of the gab, get crackin ????
A great cause, btw x

[Robotgirl]

Blagging, not bragging!

[Zazzabeans]

I've had a look at some draft letters online so will draft something later.
It's not exactly me doing the coffee morning, it's a group of ladies I support (they all have disabilities) and They don't have a lot of money so rely on the generosity of others, they held one last year but staff contributed the majority of presents, however no one is being as genorous this time round :( I spent quite a bit last year buying things but just can't afford much this year.

[Zazzabeans]

Will also fire off some emails tonight to companies :)

[fastdaytears]

I've had lovely donations from Hobbycraft, Lush, independent hairdressers, independent florists, loads more that I can't think of right now. Most of the big companies have a policy about doing large scale CSR not loads of small requests but not all. We've found the best thing is to write a proper letter and take it in in person being very polite and smiley. Good luck!

[fastdaytears]

Oh and if it's event that will attract parents then local tourist attactions have been generous to us donating family tickets.

[Zazzabeans]

Will have a look online and compile a list of potential companies :)

[annandale]

You need to go face to face and ask in person with a letter to back it up - emails will just be ignored. Make sure that the companies giving prizes are named on posters.

[Zazzabeans]

Thanks for that. I have started writing a letter, there's some great templates online.
Will pop in a few local shops this week :)

[Zazzabeans]

Have typed a ton of letters all ready to post tues.
Mil has also gave ,e a few little things I could make into beauty selection boxes.

If anyone else has any samples they won't use I'd be very grateful for them, I will obviously pay postage costs :)

[BreakingDad77]

Do a Graze trial and make sure you cancel?