Dittoe PR is no stranger to planning grand opening events. Between Broken Beaker Distillery, two CycleBar locations, six GetGo locations, Carmel’s Market District, Hickory House, and Broken English Taco Pub – among many others – we’ve got the process down pat.
When Chicago-famous taqueria Broken English Taco Pub decided to expand to Indianapolis, they had to not only find the perfect location but also an Indianapolis public relations team to assist with grand opening planning and secure media coverage around the expansion to the Circle City. Assisting with everything from creating the guest list and sending invitations to coordinating a Facebook Live interview during the grand opening event, Dittoe PR did it all.
When planning for a grand opening event, keep the following tips in mind:
Set a goal.
Is the goal to pack the house? Secure TV coverage? Work with key influencers? Once you know where the finish line is located, it’s much easier to start the marathon. Setting an overall goal will help keep the team’s eye on the prize during the planning process.
Outline the run-of-show.
Keep everyone on track by creating a run-of-show document that will include all the key details, including contacts, timeline, media interviews, menus, entertainment, and more. The level of detail depends on the depth of the event, but collaborating with the team to ensure everything you need is in one place is integral to pulling off a successful event. Modifications can always be made, but having this prepared ahead of time relieves stress that will inevitably arise the day of.
Give yourself plenty of time.
There is a long list of steps that need to be accomplished to ensure the big day goes off without a hitch. Typically, grand openings can take weeks (or even months) to plan. By creating a timetable for weekly tasks and checkpoints, it’s much easier to stay on track. Are there potential issues that might arise? Have your vendors signed contracts? Do you know who will field media interviews or check the guest list? Include these questions and details in your ever-evolving run-of-show to keep your team on track.
Have a grand opening coming up? Contact us to find out how Dittoe PR can help!
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