To establish a presence in the community, a grand opening should be part of your business launch strategy. Area residents can get a first-hand look at services and sample products, which will increase brand awareness. Other company owners will attend the event, too, which could open the door to partnerships and other small business opportunities. The following tips to throw a grand opening will get operations off to a fantastic start.

3 Event-Planning Tips for Business Grand Openings

1. Join the Chamber of Commerce

Well before the grand opening date, become a member of the local chamber of commerce. These organizations provide small business opportunities to help new and established companies thrive, which boosts the local economy. From creating invitations to sending emails to consumer contact lists, representatives and fellow members will help build interest in the event.   

2. Promote a Big-Ticket Giveaway on Social Media

To promote the grand opening online, create a social media campaign. In addition to posting on the business’s Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts, fellow chamber of commerce members can post event alerts on their social media pages to encourage attendance. For more incentive to go, highlight a giveaway as one of the grand opening activities. Put a big-ticket item up for grabs, as many people will be eager to walk away with expensive merchandise for free. 

3. Brand All Product Packaging & Promotional Items

The main goal of a grand opening is to make a lasting impression. When attendees are invited to experience the business, your products and services will come to mind later. To build brand recognition, all food and additional samples should be put in packaging with the business name, logo, and social media handles. If you give out certificates for complimentary services, make sure these elements, as well as the business address and phone number, are on the documents as well. Include the same graphics and information on tote bags, T-shirts, and other promotional items.

For small business opportunities to help your operations grow, become a member of the South Fulton Chamber of Commerce Inc. Established in 1947, the Union City, GA-based chamber of commerce will advertise your business’s grand opening and provide representatives to perform ribbon-cutting. The team will also provide free email services to promote your campaigns and host networking events to create relationships with small-business owners throughout South Fulton County’s eight cities. To discuss membership options and small business opportunities, call (770) 964-1984. Stay tuned for events on the organization’s website and news on Facebook.