A ribbon cutting is the ceremonial opening of a brand new, newly renovated, or relocated business. It can inaugurate a business’s first day of business, or it can take place weeks after the business’s soft opening. The Chamber also considers ribbon-cutting requests for renovation/expansion and anniversary celebrations. It offers the opportunity to meet key leaders in the community and get acquainted with your neighbors and Chamber Members. We provide these services absolutely free
to Chamber members.
By hosting a ribbon cutting, you can:
- Introduce both the public and Chamber members to your business
- Familiarize the public and Chamber members with your product/services
- Familiarize the public and Chamber members with your physical location
- Begin a customer base
- Generate leads and sales from attendees
It is important to make sure your venue will safely accommodate those you choose to invite. Make sure to give any neighbors in your immediate vicinity and/or your landlord a heads-up that there will be guests in and around your location.
If you are planning on an outdoor venue, have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. Also, be mindful of the fire code/occupancy regulations if you plan on having an inside venue.
Please make sure to have parking available for your guests that is clearly marked (or where you expect guests to gather outside).
Scheduling your ribbon-cutting
We have found that the best time to schedule your ribbon cutting is Tuesday-Thursday. Since Chamber ribbon cuttings are business-to-business events, we do not recommend you schedule your event on a weekend or in the evening. Business members tend to be available in the afternoon (noon – 3:30 pm). To minimize the potential for conflict, avoid scheduling your event around holidays and other community events.
Additionally, the Chamber needs at least 4 weeks’ notice and will not schedule the same day as other ribbon cuttings. This lead time is critical to getting key volunteers and city officials to attend. The Chamber schedules a maximum of two celebratory events per month and cannot guarantee the number of guests in attendance.
In case of inclement weather (Public Schools close), our staff and volunteers will not be able to attend your scheduled event. If you choose to reschedule, we will gladly work to find another date with you.
What happens at a ribbon cutting?
Yes, you actually cut a ribbon. The most common location is the main entrance of the building, but it can also be stretched across another important location within the business, especially during inclement weather.
Think about who you would like to be in the photo with you. The business owner or manager will be the person who holds the scissors and cuts the ribbon. You may also want to include family members and staff by inviting them to hold the ribbon and/or stand behind you so they are included in the photos.
A Chamber representative will arrive approximately 15 minutes prior to your scheduled ceremony. During this time, we will contact you to finalize details and make sure we are all set for success.
The Chamber representative will say a few words, and welcome everyone. A city official may make some remarks. A designated business representative will be introduced and given the opportunity to explain the business and the significance of the event. Some items to share include:
- Your company name.
- When and where the company was founded
- What the business does
- A short overview of the services
- A quick history of the business
- Introduce any staff, family, or anyone else that has played a key role.
Services provided by the Chamber.
The Chamber will promote your event on its social media channels, on our websites, in our weekly newsletter and announce it at our various events prior to the event. We will also send out an invite to select local officials.
Chamber staff will provide the ceremonial ribbon, bring the “big scissors,” and take photographs/videos at the event. Photos and videos will also be shared on our website and newsletter to commemorate this momentous occasion.
Expectations of the Host
Some businesses like to provide refreshments and a tour for their guests. This is not a requirement, but again, it can be a nice touch. Should you choose to provide refreshments, consider the time of day – if it is morning or afternoon, we suggest keeping it light, as many folks will need to head back to the office.
This is your event, so we encourage you to think about inviting anyone supportive of your business. Not everyone will be able to attend, but this celebration can be as grand or intimate as you would like.
The most successful ribbon cuttings are those where the business has sent personal invitations. Develop an invitation list. Consider inviting friends and family, neighboring businesses, current/potential customers, business associates, suppliers, employees, and elected officials. To increase awareness about your event, promote it via your social media channels, newsletter, and website. Additionally, alert local media outlets about your business update
Pay it forward!
You’re part of the largest professional business network in the region. Attend ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings to celebrate and support fellow members and continue to grow your professional network. Be in the know about what’s happening with the growing and thriving business.
