It’s certainly no secret that first impressions matter. With interpersonal interactions, it is natural for most people to prioritize first impressions through firm handshakes, eye contact, and polite small talk. Here at Mantooth Company, we understand the importance of first impressions – not only interpersonally, but for businesses and organizations as well.
In our 26 years, we have found that grand openings and groundbreaking ceremonies are two of the most fantastic ways for businesses and organizations to make a positive first impression on the community. These events are a treasure trove of opportunities – they allow owners, employees, friends and family to join in a celebration of pride for what has been accomplished. These events also provide a time sharing future goals, and are excellent opportunities to invite media coverage and community participation.
Grand Openings vs. Groundbreakings: What’s the Difference?
While there are similarities between grand openings and groundbreakings, the two events often serve different purposes. Grand openings can be a whole host of different events – soft openings (these are great for restaurants), first openings of a new business or organization, or even a reopening – this sometimes happens when a business makes a big change, such as a rebrand or location change. Or return after a significant event such as a fire or remodel. Groundbreakings, on the other hand, are a way to generate community awareness and excitement about an organization or business before it is opened. Groundbreakings are great for creating anticipation, while grand openings are a wonderful way to invite the community to participate in something that is happening now.
Benefits of Grand Openings & Groundbreakings
If you’re on the fence about whether or not grand openings and groundbreakings are worthwhile events for your business, you’re not alone. Many people are confused about the benefits of these kinds of occasions, especially since they require time, energy and money to plan and execute.
At the end of the day, events like these are all about relationship building – which is what Mantooth loves most and does best! Grand openings and groundbreaking ceremonies are both ways to introduce your business or organization to the community. By facilitating an event like this, you are given a unique platform to introduce who you are, what you do, where you are located, and why the community should care!
Grand openings and groundbreakings are also a fantastic way to build relationships with other organizations and businesses. Often, events such as these are a collaboration between many people with similar goals, values and interests. There’s nothing quite like a big party to bring people together – and we have seen countless wonderful, long-time business partnerships come out of these events.
Grand openings and groundbreaking ceremonies are also ways to gain concentrated media coverage and public attention. Grand openings and groundbreaking ceremonies are opportunities for free publicity, so be sure to reach out to local news organizations and invite them to cover your event. Word-of-mouth marketing is also incredibly invaluable, and fun-filled festivities are sure to generate buzz within your community.
Best Practices for a Successful Grand Opening or Groundbreaking
We’ve been to a lot of grand openings and groundbreaking ceremonies over the years, and we have found that there are a few elements that draw the attention of the community more than anything else.
This year, we have had the privilege of participating in a number of grand openings & special events for a few of our wonderful clients.
