Whether your retail business is large or small, in a mall or on the high street, selling fashion or food, a VIP event can generate great business.
A VIP event can also be a great way to thank customers, support vendors, raise money for the community, or just have a good time.
A good VIP event requires precise planning and execution to be successful for the business and for the clients. These are the steps that will guide you to a successful VIP event.
Understand why. Your VIP event must have a reason. This could be to raise money for a local charity, thank shoppers, launch a new line, or give special customers a first look at a sale. Once you know why you are hosting the VIP event, many other plans will be implemented.
Dress code. Decide on a dress code for the occasion. If the event is for VIPs and is special to your goals, consider having a dress code that matches this.
Supply. Make sure you have all the necessary stock to make the event a success.
Be legal. If you are serving alcohol or food, make sure you are not violating any ordinance. A good VIP even uses alcohol and food well to create a very special atmosphere in the store.
Promote widely. Take enough time to promote the event and get maximum attendance. Use your customer database, consider a showcase to promote the event. Also offer a story to the local newspaper for promotional coverage of the event.
You saw the store. Make the store look special so it really feels like a VIP event. Consider hiring some red carpet and security to make the entrance look more special.
Play music. Use music to enhance the atmosphere of the store as well. It is vitally important that regular customers have a very different shopping experience.
Have a moment at the event. Gather everyone together for a short speech about the event and its purpose. If it is to raise money for a charity, invite the director of the charity to speak. If you are launching a new provider, ask the provider to speak. If it’s to allow your VIP customers to participate in a sale, promote the items and have a couple of super cool offers to advertise.
A well-done VIP event can refresh the way local buyers view a business. It can also refresh the business in the eyes of the employees, vendors, and owner.
The key is to do your best, it is a VIP event after all and this means it is the best of the best. The more energy you invest, the more likely you are to reach the goals you have set.