Congratulations, new business owner! You’ve honed your concept, raised the money, found your perfect space, conducted interviews – and now it’s time to open your doors, with the MBD Marketing and Events team’s tips on how to host a ribbon cutting for your new business. What is a ribbon cutting? A ribbon cutting is a ceremonial opening of your business, usually a formal event where a company representative or local public figure commemorates your new venture. The name “ribbon cutting” comes from the tradition of cutting a large ribbon with supersized scissors to “open” the doorway to the new storefront. Fun fact: The origin of giant scissors can be traced back to the Bronze Age, over 3,000 years ago. Modern ribbon cuttings need not involve the literal ribbon, though it is still a popular practice. The main purpose of a ribbon cutting is to gain publicity for and raise awareness of a new or renovated business. Ribbon cuttings and grand openings are not one and the same. Grand openings are typically the first time a storefront is open for regular business, while a ribbon cutting is a special event focused on ceremony and dissemination of information. Follow these steps to get the most out of your ribbon cutting: Plan First things first, you’ll need to set a date and time for your ribbon cutting. Your local Chamber of Commerce or an event planner can tell you the ideal day and time to host your event. You’ll also want to check the schedule of any officials or public figures you’d like to attend, before settling on a date. Be sure to allow enough time to plan the logistics of your event and to get the word out. Next, you’ll want to start on promotion (see “Promote” below). While you’re spreading the word about your event, you’ll need to prepare and send invitations to VIPs. Planning the ceremony itself involves considerations about who will host and answer questions, whether you will have any speakers, food, entertainment, seating, photography, and swag such as branded gift bags. Hiring a local event planner like MBD Marketing & Events can streamline this process, and we’ll use our huge network in northern Colorado to get you the best deals from your vendors. Promote You’ll want to get the word out about your upcoming ribbon cutting as much as possible. There are free and paid methods for creating word of mouth about your event in your community. Consider promoting your event through:
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of hours promoting your new business while you’re, well, getting ready to open that new business, you’re not alone. Our marketing and events team can handle all of the above for you! Execute Many people, even business owners, don’t realize what goes into putting on an event behind the scenes – but we are experts. Sticking to your event timeline can be a challenge when juggling multiple vendors and inevitable last-minute mishaps. Having an event planning team working in the background ensures your day will run smoothly, but if you don’t, plan to at least have someone to coordinate vendors and logistics the day of your event. Consider things like:
Publicize
Ideally, your early promotion efforts enticed local publications to attend your ribbon cutting and/or write about your new business. But you can publicize your event, too. Share photos and information about your event on your business’s website and social media pages. If your website includes a blog, dedicate a post to your successful ribbon cutting. Your event guests are a great source of free publicity. Encourage them to share your event by creating a specific hashtag for posting about your event – this allows you to easily search for posts made by guests. A selfie wall, or eye-catching backdrop for guests to take photos in front of, is a source of entertainment and visual publicity for your ribbon cutting. For help planning your ribbon cutting and day-of coordination, book the northern Colorado experts at My Big Day Marketing & Events. We take on the behind-the-scenes stress, so you can enjoy your event. For more business marketing and event tips and ideas, follow My Big Day on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Whether you're opening a new location, unveiling a remodel or opening your doors for the first time, a grand opening celebration is a great way to spread the word about your business and attract new customers. Here are some ideas to make your event a hit!
Download our free printable below.
Free Download: Tips for Making Your Grand Opening A HIT
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Making Business Personal
As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in creativity. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! My Big Day makes business personal by bringing JOY to the job in everything we do. As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events *** Bringing Joy to the Job *** Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us One of our favorite unique elements of hosting the Loveland Valentine's Day Group Wedding & Vow Renewal Ceremony is the fantastic gift bags that every couple receives. Every year, local businesses offer up goodies to gift our couples and discounts on services! Wedding couples also have the opportunity to win a huge gift basket as well! Thank you to the following partners for gifting our wedding couples with something special in our gift bags and gift basket! Partners 2023
2023 brings a once in a lifetime opportunity to get married ON THE ICE at The Budweiser Event Center - prior to an Eagles Hockey Game! *Registration must be made online in advance Wedding & Vow Renewal Package includes: •Custom Wedding & Vow Renewal Ceremony in the Sweetheart City, Loveland CO •Romantic Ceremony & Background Music •Your Marriage Certificate Signed by the Officiant •Signature Wedding Cupcakes from B Sweet Cupcakes •Gift Bag from Participating Loveland Businesses •Keepsake Photo with Custom Backdrop •Keepsake Lock you can Use to Permanently 'Lock your Love' on the Famous Loveland Sculpture from Visit Loveland! •A Chance to Win a BIG Gift Basket from Local Businesses! •Tickets for you to Attend the Eagles Hockey Game After Your Ceremony! •Discounted game tickets for your family (limited number) •A Chance to Win a Ride in the VANBONI During the Hockey Game. My Big Day Marketing & Events has spent hours scouring northern Colorado for this comprehensive list of event spaces for small private events in Greeley and Windsor. These venues are ideal for groups of 50 or less and include flexible event spaces, restaurants with private dining rooms, and activity centers. This list is PURE GOLD to those who are combing the internet, trying to find an affordable and small event friendly location for their gathering in NoCo. You're welcome! 50+ Small and Flexible Event Spaces in Greeley and Windsor GREELEY Boomer House Elegant, historic home in downtown Greeley
Candlewood Suites Greeley Casual, comfortable hotel 5 miles from University of Northern Colorado
Clarion Hotel and Conference Center Affordable conference center hotel in walking distance of Union Colony Civic Center
Currier Inn Historic boutique hotel in downtown Greeley
DoubleTree by Hilton Greeley at Lincoln Park Sleek, updated hotel near Union Colony Civic Center
Greeley Recreation Center Wide variety of multi-purpose rooms and gymnasium space
Island Grove Regional Park Large trees, expansive lawns, and a range of multi-use facilities
Just Us Sisters Event Center Blank-slate event space with industrial aluminum walls and wood floors
Kress Cinema & Lounge Cocktails, food, and film in an art deco lounge/viewing room
University of Northern Colorado Large university with many indoor and outdoor event spaces and staff
Virtually Yours LLC Flexible, blank-slate event space in downtown Greeley
WINDSOR Coffee House 29 Small, community-oriented coffee shop in a modern, eclectic space
Community Recreation Center Whether you’re hosting a business meeting, corporate banquet, birthday party or wedding reception, the Windsor Community Recreation Center offers the perfect location to fit any occasion
Pelican Lakes Resort and Golf Indoor and outdoor venues with a Rocky Mountain backdrop
Power2Play Sports Premier family and youth sports facility in northern Colorado with cafe
Restaurants, Bars, and Breweries With Private Party Rooms in Greeley and Windsor GREELEY Aunt Helen’s Coffee House Warm, professional and inviting cafe with unique and delicious breakfast and lunch options
Cables Pub & Grill Fresh, handmade Italian dishes and classic American fare
Cattlemen’s Steakhouse & Saloon Quality food, atmosphere, and service – famous for premium cuts of Angus beef
Cazadores Mexican Grill and Cantina Family-owned restaurant using homemade recipes and fresh ingredients
The Charro Friendly staff serving up Colorado-style Tex Mex food and drink
The Cow Saloon & Eatery Comfortable place in downtown Greeley with local appeal
Crabtree Brewing Destination brewery with a warm, comfortable atmosphere in an industrial space
Georgia Boys BBQ True southern BBQ food served with southern hospitality
High Brau Taphouse Warm, cozy Colorado-supplied taphouse serving craft beer, cider, mead, wine and liquor
Meeker’s Colorado Kitchen & Bar (Inside DoubleTree by Hilton Greeley at Lincoln Park) Classic, Colorado-fresh food and drink in a modern, comfortably-appointed space
Olive Garden Family-friendly Italian restaurant chain
Patrick’s Irish Pub Traditional watering hole focusing on unique, artisanal craft brews & Irish folk music
Red Lobster Casual seafood restaurant chain
Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant Delicious TexMex and margaritas in the heart of downtown Greeley
Rule105 Brewing Gluten-reduced craft brews and a full food menu
Santeramo’s Pizza House and Italian Food Traditional, homestyle eatery cooking the same Italian recipes since 1962, served with beer & wine
TightKnit Brewing Co. Nano brewery in downtown Greeley featuring some of the best local beers, plus rare guest taps
WINDSOR Asian Pearl Bistro Familiar Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese dishes whipped up in a laid-back setting with a small full bar
Betta Gumbo Cajun & Creole specialties served in a funky space with colorful decor & sidewalk seating
Cacciatore at Heller’s Kitchen Upscale Italian food created from scratch
Chimney Park Seasonal, gourmet American cuisine served in a refined setting with a patio overlooking a lake
Mash Lab Brewing Modern neighborhood brewery and restaurant
Mighty River Brewing Modern, industrial space with lots of natural light
Raffs Tavern at Highland Meadows Golf Course Favorite local restaurant with dynamic spaces available for events, parties, and golf tournaments
Activities for Private Events in Greeley and Windsor GREELEY Cinemark Movie theater with private watch parties and birthday parties
Colorado Refuge Indoor Skate Park Family-friendly indoor skate park and youth center operated by Northern Colorado Youth for Christ
Covert Elite Athletics Sports club and gym open for recreation
Family FunPlex Large recreational facility with multi-purpose rooms, waterpark, mini golf, gym, amphitheater, and ball park
Greeley Hatchet House Axe-throwing and teambuilding venue
Greeley Ice Haus Northern Colorado’s premier indoor ice arena with 3 private event rooms
Kelly Farm Pool Outdoor pool with hot tub, picnic pavilion, beach volleyball court, and more
Stella’s Pinball Arcade & Lounge Downtown Greeley’s only arcade, with classic cabinet arcade games, pinball machines, and retro tabletop games; full bar and counter food service
2454 West at Chipper’s Lanes Greeley Live music, arcade, bowling, laser tag, bar and restaurant
WINDSOR Chill Potz Paint-your-own pottery studio with a large selection
Kaizen Karate and Self-Defense Martial arts studio offering karate and self-defense classes and Nerf battles for kids and adults
Picasso and Wine Paint, sip, and create with family and friends
The Summit Entertainment center for all ages with a VIP lounge, onsite bar and restaurant, bowling, laser tag, arcade games, and more.
Swim, Gym, and Nerf Parties at Community Recreation Center Activity-based birthday parties for families with a private party room
For help planning your event and day-of coordination, book the northern Colorado experts at My Big Day Marketing & Events. We take on the behind-the-scenes stress, so you can enjoy your event. For business and private event tips and ideas, follow My Big Day on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. ![]() Making Business Personal
As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in creativity. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! My Big Day makes business personal by bringing JOY to the job in everything we do. As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events *** Bringing Joy to the Job *** Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us My Big Day Marketing & Events has spent hours scouring Northern Colorado for this comprehensive list of event spaces for small private events in Fort Collins. These venues are ideal for groups of 50 or less and include flexible event spaces, restaurants with private dining rooms, and activity centers. This list is PURE GOLD to those who are combing the internet, trying to find an affordable and small event friendly location for their gathering in NoCo. You're welcome! Flexible Event Spaces in Fort Collins A Social Place Light and airy, well-appointed all-purpose community space
Armstrong Hotel The Library accommodates up to 70 guests; The Parlor is an intimate space for smaller groups; Ace Gillett’s Lounge accommodates 50-80 guests
Cambria Hotel & Suites Fort Collins Offers two event rooms that can be set up in meeting style, classroom style, theater style, or banquet layout
Canvas Stadium Home of the Colorado State University Rams, Canvas Stadium has rooms for companies, organizations, and community events of all sizes
CanyonSide Campground (Bellvue) Unique campground and event center 40 miles northwest of Fort Collins in the Roosevelt National Forest
City of Fort Collins Recreation Facilities A variety of City-owned facilities and activity centers for small and large events
Colorado Feed & Grain (Timnath) Business collective, with local businesses under one roof
Edwards House Longs Peak Room accommodates up to 14 guests; Montezuma Room accommodates up to 30; Pergola Garden also available for rent, weather permitting
Gardens on Spring Creek A botanical oasis in the heart of Fort Collins and one-of-a-kind venue with multiple, flexible indoor and outdoor event spaces
The Golf Club at Fox Acres (Red Feather Lakes) Country club with flexible indoor and outdoor event spaces
Hilton Fort Collins Close to downtown Fort Collins and Colorado State University; the only rooms in Fort Collins with mountain views
Homewood Suites by Hilton Fort Collins Upscale event spaces with the comforts of home
Marriott Fort Collins Newly-renovated, flexible event spaces
Ohana Mountain Ranch (Bellvue) Family-run ranch on 60 acres in the foothills west of Fort Collins
Poudre Landmarks Foundation – Carriage House Unique, historic backdrop with lush grounds for small events
Ptarmigan Country Club Variety of flexible event spaces available
Rist Canyon Inn – Farmhouse (Laporte) 120-year-old farmhouse and accompanying buildings set among old growth trees, lush golden pastures, and a glistening creek
Wolverine Farm Event Hall accommodates up to 60 guests
Restaurants, Bars, and Breweries With Private Party Rooms in Fort Collins Austin’s American Grill (Harmony Location)
Avogadro’s Number Music venue, bar, and vegetarian-vegan-friendly American restaurant
Beau Jo’s Colorado pizza chain with die-hard fans
Bistro Nautile Seafood restaurant with a focus on French-influenced food using farm-fresh ingredients
BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse Semi-private area accommodates 50-70 guests
Black Bottle Brewery Nontraditional beer and restaurant with gastropub
Blind Pig Pub and grub with vegetarian options and live music
Blue Agave Grill Two semi-private party areas accommodate 20-25 guests each
Brothers Bar & Grill Laid-back bar and grill with private and semi-private event options
Cafe Vino Restaurant with a focus on fresh, organic, locally-sourced ingredients, featuring local craft beers, over 200 wines, and decadent pastries
The Colorado Room Can accommodate 50-60 guests
Coopersmith’s Pub and Brewing Onsite brewery and English pub paired with an American dining experience
CopperMuse Distillery Distillery Production Room accommodates up to 25 guests; outdoor patio/deck seats up to 40, weather permitting; Tasting Room accommodates up to 40
The Crown Pub Private basement accommodates 60-70 guests
Cups Community Coffee Locally owned and operated coffee shop serving delicious drinks and fresh food
The Emporium American Brasserie offering warm, approachable hospitality in an energetic space – emphasis on fresh, regional ingredients and extensive wine list
Farmhouse at Jessup Farm The Farmhouse can host events for 10-100 guests
The Forge Publick House Craft beer bar with a warm atmosphere and a large, colorful patio
Hello Brew Co. Small brewery with a cozy taproom in an old house in downtown Fort Collins
Fun, funky craft brewery off the beaten path
Gilded Goat Brewing Company (Midtown) Family-owned brewery and taproom with a warm, inviting space
Ginger & Baker The Teaching Kitchen seats up to 30 guests; The Wine Cellar seats up to 48; The Mill Top accommodates 50-90 guests
Hello Brew Co. Small brewery with a cozy taproom in an old house in downtown Fort Collins
HuHot Mongolian Grill Two semi-private party rooms; each accommodates up to 10 guests
Illegal Pete’s Rooftop and indoor space available for private events
Jax Fish House Upscale chain serving gourmet seafood dishes and creative cocktails in a relaxed, stylish setting
Jay’s Bistro Upscale dining with multiple private rooms Lirano Wine Bar European speakeasy with wine and cocktails
Little On Mountain Fun neighborhood eatery for brunch and supper
Magic Rat at The Elizabeth Hotel Offbeat and unique live music venue with food and drinks
Maxline Brewing Locally owned, family-run brewery and tasting room in midtown Fort Collins
Maya Cove Bar and grill with casual fare and die-hard fans
The Mayor of Old Town Nationally recognized full bar and restaurant that specializes in craft beer
The Melting Pot Private, intimate tables and rooms available
Moot House Modern English pub fare and local craft beers served in cozy quarters with fireplaces
New Belgium Brewing Classic Fort Collins brewery with lots of indoor and outdoor space
Nick’s Restaurant & Bar Semi-private function room and patio available for events
Odell Brewing and OBC Wine Project Well-known brewery with draft microbrews, beautiful patio and mountain views
Oregano’s Family-friendly neighborhood joint serving tasty Chicago pizzas and Italian dishes
Otto Pint Local brews and signature pizzas served in an unfussy atmosphere with lots of natural light
The Post Chicken and Beer Private event room accommodates up to 50 guests
Pour Brothers Community Tavern Fun, relaxing environment with local beer, craft cocktails, and unforgettable bites
Prost Brewing Co. & Biergarten German style beers in a charming, rustic brick building downtown
Purpose Brewing and Cellars Rustic brewery with a unique vibe and intimate space
Rally5* Local crafted eats including gourmet burgers, power bowls, mac and cheese, and salads – private event rooms coming spring 2023* Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant Delicious TexMex and margaritas in downtown Fort Collins
Simmer Relaxed neighborhood eatery for hearty American classics, beer, wine, and cocktails
Smokin’ Fins Regional restaurant concept featuring a unique menu of seafood, sushi, and BBQ
Sonny Lubick Steakhouse Locally owned fine dining restaurant
Snowbank Brewing Award-winning brewery with a unique taproom, focused on innovation and a passion for the Colorado lifestyle
Stodgy Brewing Company Friendly neighborhood brewery and taproom with a unique atmosphere
Sunset Lounge at The Elizabeth Hotel Intimate, elegant indoor rooftop lounge in downtown Fort Collins
SweetWater Brewing Company Full kitchen, taproom and patio with brews, hard seltzers, teas, and more
Timnath Beerwerks (Timnath) Authentic, one-of-a-kind northern Colorado beer experience in the historic Timnath Feed & Grain Building.
Tony’s Bar and Rooftop TV, billiards, and other bar staples in an industrial space
The Whisk(e)y Pub grub, hundreds of whiskeys, and live music in a warm atmosphere with leather booths
415 Updated American classic restaurant with multiple event spaces available
Activities for Private Events in Fort Collins Ascent Studio Rock climbing and fitness facility
Board & Brush Creative Studio DIY project and painting studio with beer and wine offering wood sign painting parties
Chipper’s Lanes Horsetooth Activity center with bowling, laser tag, pool, volleyball, and a full restaurant and bar
Cinemark Movie theater with private watch parties and birthday parties
City of Fort Collins Pottery Studio Educational and recreational facility offering diverse classes, activities, and opportunities for all ages; participants learn a wide variety of basic clay techniques
Color Me Mine Paint-your-own ceramics studio
The Cooking Studio A place where amateur cooks, aspiring young chefs, teams, families, and friends come to learn, explore, and unleash their inner chef
The Dinner Detective Murder mystery dinner experience
Fly High Trampoline Park Amusement center with trampolines, indoor soft play, foam pit, indoor basketball court, and dodgeball court
Fort Collins Escape Room Premier escape room experiences - 3 experiences available
Fort Fun Massive family-friendly, lakeside recreation center with mini-golf, go-karts, batting cages, a skating rink, and much more
The Gorehound’s Playground Unique event space and store for horror movie buffs
Looking Glass Escape Lounge Exciting escape rooms featuring a bar and lounge
Old Town Putt Indoor mini golf course and bar for 21+ parties
Painting With a Twist Have a night out sipping, socializing, and creating
Pinot’s Palette Upscale painting and wine experience
Rollerland Skate Center Family-friendly activity center with roller rink, laser tag maze, indoor playground, and arcade
Somewhere Secret Escape Room Explore the room and complete puzzles to find the treasure chest at the highest-rated escape room in Colorado
Urban Air Adventure Park Indoor adventure park with playground, climbing hill, climbing walls, dodgeball, Go Karts, trampolines, rope course, virtual reality, warrior course, Slam Dunk Zone, and giant inflatable airbag
X-Golf Premier indoor golf and entertainment venue
830 North – Chipper’s Lanes Activity center featuring bowling, laser tag, arcade, pool, volleyball, and a full restaurant and bar
*************************************** For help planning your event and day-of coordination, book the northern Colorado experts at My Big Day Marketing & Events. We take on the behind-the-scenes stress, so you can enjoy your event. For business and private event tips and ideas, follow My Big Day on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Making Business Personal
As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in creativity. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! My Big Day makes business personal by bringing JOY to the job in everything we do. As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events *** Bringing Joy to the Job *** Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us Company retreats are often the easiest way to bring team members together and focused on a specific cause. They are also often the best way to strengthen team bonding. Well-planned and organized company or board retreats can help boost camaraderie and communication between members, and they often provide an increase in productivity. The My Big Day Marketing & Events team can help you plan and execute the perfect retreat or team-building experience from beginning to end! How My Big Day Can Help Your Team Connect As your retreat planning partner, My Big Day can help with everything from venue location to itinerary planning. Here is what we can offer:
There is a lot that goes into planning a successful company retreat - logistics, travel, transportation, activities, and itinerary. Let our team help you build lasting relationships and success. We will help you with all of the details so you can focus on the purpose of your gathering and what your company is trying to achieve by bringing people together.
Follow My Big Day on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about our services. You can also find retreat planning inspiration on our dedicated and curated Pinterest page. We love our events, and they will always be part of our business, but we are also passionate about providing outstanding marketing services for our clients. As a team, we’ve been building the marketing side of our business over the last several years, and we are excited to share with you our updated marketing packages. Each of our new packages is designed around your business goals. We also provide a la carte options to suit your needs and budget. Drumroll, please… Maintenance Package
Small Growth Package
Business Expansion Package
Included in All Packages:
Additional A La Carte Services
MBD Marketing & Events recognizes that not everyone has the budget or know-how to put their business 'out there.’ In a world of thousands of messages and ads being put in front of us every day, it can be difficult for business owners to figure out the best method of marketing without blowing their budget or having to hire additional employees. Grow your small business with My Big Day Marketing & Events, and you’ll have a team behind your brand – on budget. Read more about our business marketing services and contact My Big Day to develop and expand your business. Our talented team of women comes from a variety of educational backgrounds with decades of experience in the marketing, communications, and event planning industries. For all types of event and marketing tips and ideas, follow My Big Day on Facebook and Instagram. Small Business. Big Impact.
As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in the creative touches so many marketing campaigns & events these days are lacking. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! Allow us to WOW you and your guests! As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events Small Business. Big Impact. Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken
MBD has been in business for 16 years and we have a team of 14 industry professionals who have learned a ting or two over the years about networking.
What do you NEED to know? Download our free printable! ![]()
It’s pretty simple - smart Small Businesses rely on Referral Programs to bring in leads. Referral Programs are effective tools in converting leads and expanding your loyal customer base. What is a Referral Program for Small Business? A referral program is a word-of-mouth marketing strategy that turns your most satisfied customers into brand ambassadors. To simplify - your customers do a lot of your marketing for you! Referral programs let satisfied customers share their brand experience with partners, colleagues, and friends - providing a much larger communication web than your business could do on its own, at a fraction of the cost! The purpose of a referral program is to acquire leads and build credibility. When you ask your customers to consider others who might benefit from your product or service, they will forward leads that are already a good fit for your brand. It means you will spend less time and money on acquiring new customers - these referred clients will come in already with exposure to your business. For many, a Small Business Referral Program produces images of punch-card programs or discount coupons. These are low-budget tools that can produce results, for sure, but even small businesses can expand their reach by collecting and using data and creative communication. How to Start Your Own Referral Program There are a variety of referral program software systems that you can research and utilize in setting up your own referral program. You can also utilize a variety of templates connected to your current CRM that allow you to create a bank of referral request emails, referral follow-up emails, social content about your business, and tools for creating a positive customer experience. That all sounds like a lot of work, but it is actually quite easy. After setting your referral program goals, start by:
Referral Program Examples You can reap great benefits from a strong and well thought out referral program. Offering your customers an official way to spread the word about your business and rewarding them for their efforts is the name of the game! There are many creative ways in which you can launch a successful program:
There are many ways to engage with your current customers to build a quality program that will benefit your bottom line. You can increase your visibility, expand your audience base, and grow closer to your current customers, for a fraction of the cost of paid advertising. Something to consider when creating your business and marketing plans! Small Business. Big Impact.
As a connected collective of experts, My Big Day specializes in the creative touches so many marketing campaigns & events these days are lacking. With superior organization, marketing experience and original ideas, we pull off amazing events and campaigns! Allow us to WOW you and your guests! As purveyors of fun with My Big Day, we support businesses and individuals in the growth of their ideas, events and marketing strategies. Our creative aptitude allows for unique ideas. Our passion for perfection makes every client a priority! Contact MBD Marketing & Events Small Business. Big Impact. Phone: 970-613-1455 or 303-886-3068 Email Us We serve the entire Front Range; Denver, Southern Wyoming, the CO Mountains, and Northern Colorado: Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, Berthoud, Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, Boulder, Wellington, Johnstown, Evans, Severance, Timnath, Mead, Frederick, Firestone, Milliken Whether you’re just starting your small business or are well-established, a communications plan is crucial for your business success. Here are four reasons why you need a small business communications plan – and how My Big Day can help. What is a communications plan? A communications plan or strategy is a system through which businesses communicate news and marketing messaging within the company and externally. Internal communication may occur between colleagues, human resources staff, and company management. Information may be communicated externally to the public, news media, clients, suppliers, and other businesses. The goal of a communications plan is to ensure your business’s messaging remains consistent, no matter who is receiving information and from which representative of your company. Communications plans are designed to be proactive, but are absolutely necessary in a crisis. A communications plan may address not only what message should be broadcast, but through which channels (for example, that certain types of messaging should be communicated through email, over the phone, or via internal memos). Why do I need a communications plan for my small business? Company Image A standardized, professional method of communication with the public lends your business credibility. Consistent communication builds external trust in your business, and trust is paramount to success. It is important to know which message(s) you want to convey to specific target audiences, which is where marketing comes into play. Conflicting information released by different parties sporadically conveys an image of disorganization, which degrades trust. Having a unified communications strategy that everyone in the company is aware of prevents confused messaging. Crisis Management Some sort of reputation crisis, whether big or small, is inevitable during the life of your small business. It may be one disgruntled client or a newsworthy catastrophe that affects a wide audience’s perception. Either way, having a strategic communication plan in place will reduce uncertainty for you and present your company as a unified front under scrutiny. Community Relations Engaging with and supporting your community is essential to your business’s image. Your company’s public reputation is enhanced by giving back, including support of nonprofits, local initiatives, and other businesses. Staying abreast of industry happenings helps you make better business decisions, and positive relationships with other businesses build trust and mutual respect. Internal Business Objectives and Employee Morale Having everyone in your company on the same page is essential to efficient operations. Everyone in your company should understand their roles and tasks and have the information necessary to carry them out. Missing or inconsistent information frustrates employees and decreases performance. Trust, loyalty, and transparency are cultivated through a consistent internal communications plan between employees and management. How do I create a small business communications plan? Creating an effective small business communications plan requires knowledge of branding, measurable goals, target markets, media relations, communication channels, campaigns and events, and evaluation of measurable communication analytics. Executing a strategic communications plan is a big job, and most small businesses don’t have a marketing or PR professional in-house. Internal communications plans, particularly for small companies, can be managed by an owner, president, or manager. External communications are best managed by professionals trained in marketing or public relations. At My Big Day, we offer a long list of small business services, including strategic communications planning, in conjunction with:
Our talented team of women comes from a variety of educational backgrounds with decades of experience in the marketing, communications, and event planning industries.
Reach out to find out how we can help you grow your small business! For business marketing and event tips and ideas, follow My Big Day on Facebook and Instagram. Visit our Small Business Marketing Pinterest board for more from your local small business experts! |
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