Entreprenuer Spotlight

Being an auctioneer can be rewarding and lucrative

How many female auctioneers have you met in your life? Chances are not very many. As of July 2022, only 15 % of National Auctioneer Association members were women. Of that 15%, an astounding 78% of those women are auctioneers and entrepreneurs/business owners! So that tells you that Magnolia Gardens, the auction house in Hockley, Texas, owned and operated by Tina Murphy, is pretty special. Tina started working the auction floor and presenting merchandise eighteen years ago. She became so enamored with the trade and the people that she decided to become a professional. So, she earned an auctioneer license, which required 80 hours of classroom instruction, through a TDLR-approved auction school. She studied specific topics relating to the business of auctioneering. Tina explained, "I never cared for second-hand items growing up, but now it is my life and love. The history behind some items can be like a love story. Objects can hold so much value in them - and not necessarily monetary. I basically started out in this business doing antiques solely." "During the pandemic, we had to adapt to the changes. But fortunately for us, unlike many other companies, we never stopped working and my employees kept their jobs. Several local businesses closed but we were able to help other businesses stay open. By us selling their overstock or other items, they could pay their bills, which tided them over. I am very grateful and proud of that. "I feel happy and blessed that because of our community and reputation, we have been able to do many fundraising projects. We've raised over $13,000 for first responders. We have conducted auctions and fundraising projects for the nonprofit “Tunnel to Towers Foundation” which offers untold benefits to survivors facing medical bills due to illness. Because I own my building, I have the freedom to hold a variety of auctions and events there. We have held small business socials, pet rescue groups to help in pet adoption, vendor sales, and weekly auctions. I love being an auctioneer. I can help a variety of people – from those who want to honor their deceased loved ones to children helping their parents downsize or move to assisted living. Items are precious treasures that represent memories of someone's hard-earned money, time, and life stories. My staff and I treat all items with great respect, as if each belonged to our own family members. You can find us every 3rd Saturday at 18090 Bauer Rd. Hockley, TX 77447 at 7:00 pm. All other Saturdays and Tuesdays , visit us online for a live auction at 7:00 pm at https://www.facebook. com/MagnoliaGardensAuction.