Grand Opening Checklist

Site Preparations

• Ensure that your store site is ready for guests, including traffic and parking considerations
• Introduce yourself to neighboring business owners and invite them to festivities
• Determine events (ribbon cutting? Soft launch?) and who will be invited
• Develop a budget for your grand opening and track spending

Publicity and Outreach

• Have invitations designed and sent to customers and/or distinguished guests
• Reach out personally to elected officials, Chamber of Commerce, and business leaders
• Ensure that your company website and social media profiles launch with pertinent details
• Secure advertising, flyers, and other paid marketing
• Reach out to local media with targeted press releases and invitations to ribbon-cutting, etc.

Grand Opening Program

• Ensure the ordering of door prizes, giveaways, décor, etc.
• Confirm vendors, catering, valet, music, PA system, photographer/videographer, etc.
• Develop short agenda/program; line up speakers. Secure official for ribbon cutting
• Ensure that you or another company representative is available for media interviews

Ongoing and Follow-Up

• Clean up store site and thank tenants/landlord for their patience and support
• Post Grand Opening photos and video on social media and website
• Send thank you notes to officials, speakers, media outlets, etc.

Other