Top Ways to Make Sure Your Ribbon Cutting is a Success

written by Jamie Anderson, Sr. Director of Membership and Partnerships

A successful ribbon-cutting or groundbreaking event is a wonderful way to celebrate a new business opening or a relocation. To help make your event memorable and impactful, here are some key elements to consider…and the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce is ready to assist you!

1. Clear Planning and Organization

  • Set Clear Goals: Define the purpose of your event—whether it’s to generate buzz, build relationships, or celebrate your new location.
  • Choose the Right Date and Time: The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce typically holds ribbon cuttings on Monday through Fridays at Noon and Monday through Thursdays at 4:30 PM to help our Ambassadors and Board of Directors plan ahead.

2. Inviting the Right Guests

  • Leverage Chamber Resources: The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce will list your Ribbon Cutting on our Events calendar with your logo linking to your website, in our monthly Ankeny Business Journal, and in our bi-weekly Connections email.
  • Invite Your World: Reach out to your friends, family, customers, suppliers, and social media followers to join in the celebration.

3. Create an Exciting Atmosphere

  • Decorations and Setup: Use branded decorations, banners, and balloons to create a festive environment and ensure your location is ready to be showcased.
  • Provide Refreshments: Offering light snacks or refreshments can create a welcoming atmosphere. If your business is a restaurant or specializes in a product to taste, giving out samples of your signature dish or beverage is a great way to showcase your business. You are not required to provide anything, just a helpful tip!
  • Engage the Audience: The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce will lead guest engagement by encouraging introductions and allowing you to share your story. We will also provide the ribbon and scissors for the big moment!

4. Smooth Event Execution

  • Assign Roles and Responsibilities: While the Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce will handle the Ribbon Cutting duties, you may need additional help if the event is particularly large. Consider assigning roles such as greeting guests, guiding tours, or assisting with refreshments.
  • Prepare Speeches and Materials: Keep speeches brief and engaging, and ensure you have any handouts, brochures, or promotional materials ready to distribute.

5. Leverage Marketing and Promotion

  • Promote on Social Media: Utilize platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to promote the event before, during, and after.
  • Capture the Moment: The Ankeny Area Chamber of Commerce will take video of the event and a photo of cutting the ribbon. You are encouraged to have someone take high-quality photos and videos to share on social media, your website, and with local media.

6. Provide a Memorable Experience

  • Add Personal Touches: Personalize the event with thank-you notes, small branded giveaways, or special offers to encourage future business. Consider collecting business cards or contact information for a prize drawing, which also allows for follow-up communication.

By focusing on these key elements, you can ensure your ribbon-cutting or groundbreaking event runs smoothly and leaves a lasting positive impression on all attendees. The Ankeny Area Chamber is here to support you in making it a great success!
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re excited to help you celebrate!