Ribbon Cutting
Tips for a Successful Ribbon Cutting
WHAT DOES THE CHAMBER DO?
• Invite the Chamber Board of Directors, Ambassadors, local and regional government officials, and general membership to attend.
• Bring the BIG scissors, ribbon and confetti poppers (if approved).
• List your event on the Chamber’s website, monthly newsletter, and on social media – featuring your logo and/or graphics.
• Contact local media for coverage of the event and send reminders.
• Briefly address guests, introducing you as the host.
• Provide you with a list of local media contacts and caterers, upon request.
WHAT DOES THE HOST DO?
• Invite your customers, staff, board, managers and other guests to attend.
• Share about your business. This is typically done after the Chamber representative has gathered the group’s attention and introduced you as the host. Please limit your speech to three minutes.
• Provide tours of your facility for those interested in participating.
• Think of a fun way to cut the ribbon!
Of course we always have our big scissors, but if you are a landscaping business and want to use a chainsaw, we can do that as well!
• Provide light refreshments if desired.
1. Organized Planning and Coordination
- Set Clear Goals: Define the purpose of your event, whether it’s to generate excitement, foster connections, or celebrate achievements.
- Select the Right Date and Time: Ribbon cuttings are only available during our regular office hours: Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, Friday: 8:00 AM–12:00 PM. We recommend scheduling your ribbon cutting during these standard business hours to ensure maximum participation from our team and community members. Please be sure to check our events calendar to avoid any scheduling conflicts, and reach out to us so we can help find the best date and time for your celebration!
- Create the Agenda: Outline the event flow, including welcome remarks, speeches, the ribbon-cutting moment, networking opportunities, and any demonstrations or tours.
2. Who Should You Invite?
- Use Chamber Resources: We can help you create promotional materials and share your event on social media. Consider utilizing our networking opportunities to spread the word.
- Invite Your Network: Reach out to friends, family, vendors, and social media followers to join in the celebration.
- Send Invitations: Use a mix of email, social media, and traditional mail to ensure your invitations are received well in advance. Follow up with reminders as the event approaches.
- Media Coverage: Chamber staff will coordinate with local media outlets to cover the event for you!
3. Make It Fun
- Decorations: Use branded decorations and signage to create a welcoming environment that showcases your business.
- Snacks and Refreshments: Offering light snacks or beverages can enhance the experience and encourage attendance if promoted effectively.
- Be personal: Our team will facilitate guest interactions and help share your business story during the event.
4. How to Have a Successful Event
- Delegate Roles and Responsibilities: While the Chamber will assist with logistics, consider delegating roles for greeting guests or managing registration.
- Prepare Materials: Keep speeches concise and engaging, and have any promotional materials ready for distribution.
5. Market Your Ribbon Cutting
- Posting on Social Media: Utilize platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to create buzz before, during, and after your event. Encourage attendees to share their experiences.
- Take Photos During Your Ribbon Cutting: Consider hiring a photographer or designating someone to document the event through photos and videos, which can be shared online.
6. Create an Unforgettable Experience
- Personalize Your Event: Consider small branded giveaways or thank-you notes to leave a lasting impression.
- Use Chamber Members: There are many members than can assist with advertising, marketing, food, and other necessities! Be sure to check the business directory for options!
- Tip: Collecting business cards for a prize drawing can also facilitate future connections.
By focusing on these key elements, you can ensure your ribbon-cutting event is a success and leaves a positive impression on all attendees. The Clinton-Sampson Chamber is excited to help you celebrate this milestone!
For further assistance, please reach out to info@clintonsampsonchamber.org
Ready to Start Planning Your Ribbon Cutting?
