Tips for a Successful Grand Opening Celebration

You’ve been working for months (if not years) on your small business, and now all of that hard work has paid off: it’s grand opening time! Not only do you deserve a party to celebrate all of your accomplishments, but a grand opening event is a wonderful way to garner some additional publicity for your new venture.

Does a grand opening event seem like a daunting prospect? It doesn’t have to be! With good planning and preparation, it can be simple, successful – and FUN!

Plan well in advance

You’re busy. Your guests are busy. By planning your event two to three months in advance, you’re giving yourself enough time to execute the event you want, and inviting your guests before they get booked on the same night.

Decide on the size and format of the event, and set the budget

An extravagant party may not be right for your business. Some other options to consider are an open house, a ceremony, a fundraising drive or a coffee and dessert reception. Consider how much you have to spend, how much help you’ll have in planning and executing the event, and what your ultimate goals are. Don’t plan for more than you can handle!

Keep your budget at the forefront of your planning

In the initial planning, brainstorm a list of everything your event will need – invitations, food, drinks, decorations, giveaways, professional servers or cleaners, etc. As you continue to plan, make sure all of those things will fit in your budget, and be prepared to cut if you need to.

Know your audience – and reach them where they are

Because a grand opening event is such a great way to attract potential customers and investors, it’s essential to know who you want to attract and how you’ll get them in the door. Individual invitations are an excellent way to spread the word, of course, but also consider sending a press release or advertising online if you’re looking to attract media or find a new audience.

Keep the momentum going after the event ends

Your grand opening is just the beginning of your publicity efforts. Consider it the launch of your ongoing marketing strategy, and figure out how one can support the other. For example: at the grand opening, give away clothing or swag with your business name and website, or coupons or special offers for guests to use and distribute to their networks. The goal is to ensure that the buzz from the grand opening lasts long after the event itself.

At our Minneapolis party rental warehouse, we have everything you need for your grand opening celebration, from tables and chairs to linens and food service essentials. Save time and money by renting instead of buying new!