Cutting The Ribbon

If there is one way to grab the public's attention, it is the announcement of a ribbon cutting ceremony for your business. People are generally inclined to be curious about new things, and the launch of a new company definitely attracts those who want to see what you have to offer. And the perfect invitation starts with cutting the ribbon.

Actually, it starts so much before you actually pick up the scissors. So here are a few things you need to consider before you buy the ribbon.

Plan, plan and then plan some more. There are preliminary steps to take before the big day.

Decide on a date, time and location if you don't actually have a storefront. Census shows that Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays work best. If you want to grab those invitees at lunch, plan on 11:45 am until 1 pm. Afternoon works best between 3 and 5. And if you must do an evening launch, begin around 4;30 pm and end it by 7. Most business individuals usually want to go home first or come to your event and still be home before 8 pm. Now the location is important. Make sure your space is clean, easy to maneuver in, or if you work from home, chose a location with good parking, clean restrooms, and the ability to accommodate all of your guests.
Invite, invite, and invite. Think about everyone you know, and who they know, and ask all of them. Whether you go with a physical invitation, or send out mass emails, the more guests you have the better. Then move on to your local chamber of commerce members, the mayor, city council, local politicians, any celebrities you have access to, and clergy. Don't forget the media. Local television, radio and the newspaper may be willing to cover your big day and showcase it later. Blast your special day on Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Getting the word out is your responsibility. Also consider the business owners around you. This is an excellent way to introduce yourself and get to know them. Plus, they have all the inside info regarding your street, customer traffic and gossip.
Include a sign in list at the entrance and capture new customer names, email addresses and phone numbers. This is a fantastic way to start an updated mailing list.
Set the mood. Consider hiring a deejay to play soft music or set your stereo to something that fits your style. A yoga studio doesn't want to be playing hip hop and a mechanic shop doesn't want a string quartet. Adjust accordingly.
Shoot them, meaning with a camera. Take some pictures, and then take some more. Get with anyone invited, including with your dignitaries and anyone who will post about you. Now is not the time to be shy.
Make sure your staff is well trained and able to talk about what you have to share with your potential clientele. This is the time to have all hands-on deck. Your employees should stand out in the crowd with company logo items on, so they are easily spotted. They can answer questions that you might not get to, and this sets up a friendly relationship with your customers and staff.
If you feed them, they will come. It's a shame to say it, but people want something to nosh on. If your event is scheduled before 5 pm, consider water, coffee, juice, and tea. Add finger sandwiches, veggies, and dip. If you are planning an evening event, wine and beer are okay to serve, as long as you have nonalcoholic options too. Consider having a little more substance to this time frame. Maybe a nice soup in winter, or several types of salad in the summer. Using local cuisine is always a plus. And if you can, cater this part of your celebration. This will be one less thing you have to worry about and control.
Choose one or two speakers to say something about you and your company. Keep the speeches short, no more than 10 minutes. Then, cut the ribbon. Of course, you don't have to stick with plain old gold scissors and red ribbon. Think outside the box. If you own a hardware store, use chain and bolt cutters. Or a karate studio might want a young client to "kick" the ribbon apart. Consider different options tailored to your company.

After all is said and done, post your photos on social media the next day. Personally call and thank politicians and agency representatives those who took time to stop by and see you. Send out a heartfelt thank you to everyone else. Anyone who showed you support needs to know how much you appreciate what they have done.

Announcing your new venture is hard work, but exciting. And when you do slice the ribbon in half, remember this is your dream coming to life. #ribboncutting #launchyourbusiness #planning