1. Reach Out to Local Newspapers - Look for reporters who write about grand openings and send them an email or reach out by phone or set up a coffee meeting. Being in the paper adds credibility to your business and is easily shareable on social media.

2. Social Media – Be sure your social media accounts are set up and congruent. Often, customers visit your social pages before they even see your website. Make sure they are informative, CORRECT, and easy to navigate.

3. Create an Event - Create a Facebook event from your Facebook page for the grand opening. Include as many details as possible, and motivate people to interact by offering an early bird bonus for people who register for your grand opening early.

4. Word of Mouth - In our ever-connected world online, many business owners have forgotten the lost art of networking. Talk to businesses in the local area and let them know who you are and when you're opening. Extend a personal invitation for them to stop by.

5. VIP List - Make a VIP list of some influential people in your marker and invite them to a special sneak-peak or first look at your store. Some call this a "soft opening". Many people have found success with making special invitations for this and hand delivering them with a request for RSVP. (think wedding invitations with a response card to return to you to get a promo, discount, etc.)

Create a schedule for your event. Include the following:

• Early Hours for your VIP invites
• Product demonstrations or free instruction sessions. Don't be afraid to do things more than once as some people may come late and miss things
• Any potential for cross promotion with noncompetitive businesses who are already attracting your customer. Set up a specific offer for them to promote to their customers. (i.e.. Come see us at Bob's grand opening and our customers will get X). Don't forget charities and public service organizations who would like to come.
  
  

Finally, don't forget to talk to neighbors about parking and traffic. Your grand opening will be busy, and you don't want to upset the neighbors on day one. Be sure to give them a heads up so they are aware and can plan accordingly. And if the mood strikes you.... INVITE THEM!