Grand Opening Planning for Beginners

How to set about planning a grand opening to launch your business right

Grand opening plans are very important since this event will help you drive those initial customers to your business. Their positive word of mouth is one of the most powerful marketing tools you can have, so you'll want to make sure the event gives customers a very positive impression.

There are lots of things you can do to make your grand opening plan successful. Three that are tried and true are the following:

1. Provide an incentive for customers to come in during your grand opening celebration.

2. Involve the local media in your event to attract more people.

3. Seek assistance from a grand opening planner.

 

Think of incentives to offer during grand opening event planning

If your grand opening plan is just to stick a grand opening sign on the door and wait, it's unlikely customers will be streaming in by the dozens. However, if you plan special events for the day, or even for an entire week -- such as money-saving offers, contests and refreshments -- you may have trouble keeping them away. This is especially true if you distribute fliers throughout the neighborhood, including at other businesses, beforehand.
Try: Read the Yorkton Chamber of Commerce's page on how to plan a grand opening. It gives advice on what to offer your potential customers as well as how to reach them in the two months prior to your event. Also, if your business is a restaurant, read MonkeyDish's article on special incentives you can try.

Solicit press coverage while you plan a grand opening event

The best publicity is often the talk that comes with creative grand opening event planning. Tipping off the local news media can help you get that buzz started. A lot of people are more likely to pay attention to their local news anchor or favorite columnist than to a piece of direct mail or a flier posted on a mailbox.
Try: Go to Mondo Times and find the names and contact information for all of your local media outlets. Call the broadcast stations' tip lines, or their general phone numbers, and give them the information about your event, making it sound as exciting and newsworthy as possible. Then send press releases to the local papers. If you're not sure how to write a press release, visit PublicityInsider from Stoller and Bard Communications for instructions.

Work with a PR company when planning a grand opening event

Grand opening planning, for beginners, can be difficult. You're often not sure what will work and what won't and you may worry about going over budget. A public relations company can help you stay focused and ultimately accomplish your goals. It can even serve as a de facto grand opening planner.
Try: Check out 1-800 Great Ad's grand opening packages. They can provide anything from hot air balloons to giant dinosaurs, as well as consulting help. Then visit Senter and Associates' website. The marketing company offers free advice for small businesses and can also work with you directly for a fee.

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