How to Host a Ribbon Cutting
A ribbon-cutting ceremony is a way for a business to announce that it is open, as well as a good advertising opportunity to get its name out into the community. Ribbon cuttings are purely ceremonial, although an official does actually cut through a ribbon. The process might seem basic, but it requires planning, which should begin well in advance of hosting the ribbon cutting.
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Things You'll Need
- Company brochures or data sheet
- Invitations
- Grand-opening signs
- Balloons
- Tables
- Finger foods and drinks
- Plates, napkins,cups, eating utensils
- Ribbon
- Push pins
- Scissors
Instructions
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Contact your local chamber of commerce, and schedule a date and time for the ribbon cutting. Most chambers have specific days and times that they perform ribbon cuttings, so do not set a date before you check with them.
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Prepare a brief speech, no more than five to 10 minutes, on what your company does, the products it offers and any other information you would like to disseminate to the public. Print up extra company brochures, or develop a one-page data sheet with important information to hand out on the day of the ribbon cutting.
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3
Advertise the ribbon cutting in local newspapers, magazines and other publications at least one to two weeks ahead of time. In addition, send invitations to any special clients and community members who you particularly want to encourage to attend.
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4
Decorate the business with grand-opening signs and balloons, and make sure that it is as clean and neat as possible. Arrange with a landscaper to trim the grass and landscaping one to two days before the ribbon cutting.
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Wear business clothing the day of the actual ribbon cutting. Remember that there will be photos for newspapers, newsletters and even television crews, so you want to look your best.
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Set up finger foods on tables the day of the ribbon cutting to courage attendees to stay after the actual ceremony. Supply plenty of drinks such as tea, water or coffee. Also supply enough napkins, plates, cups and eating utensils.
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Set up the actual ribbon, which you can stretch between the door posts and secure with push pins. If this is not feasible, ask two employees to hold the ends of the ribbon tightly. Make sure you have a sharp pair of new scissors on hand to present to the person who will perform the cutting.
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References
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