Schedule a Ribbon Cutting
We are here to help you celebrate your new office or location. The Tri-City Regional Chamber and Richland Chamber also provide grand opening events for members.
Schedule Your Event
The City of Richland supports Ribbon-cutting and Grand Opening events Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Please contact us if you have special needs outside of these days and times. Accommodations may be made on a case-by-case basis.
If you are a member, or plan to join the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce, schedule here.
If you are a member, or plan to join the Richland Chamber of Commerce, schedule here.
Tips for a Successful Grand Opening
Choose Your Date and Time
Give yourself a month to plan the ceremony and to get on the calendars of the people you want to attend.
If your new space is still being finished, wait until you're certain when the new space really will be finished before you plan your ribbon cutting.
To ensure City leaders attend and recognize your business, be sure you have your Richland business license and certificate of occupancy.
Don't hold the ceremony too late in the day, when sunset will make taking good photographs more difficult. An hour before noon or an hour after noon will allow people to take a longer lunch. After 3 p.m., many business folks will be able to break away, attend your ceremony, and can also try to get home early.
Spread the Word
Make a list of everyone you would like to attend. We will take care of sending your event to City leaders. Ask your friends and family to spread the word.
Post the event on social media, and, as the event draws closer, keep updating the page. Change your posts to make them interesting and to keep people coming back. Announce your social media presence in your company newsletter and emails.
Send Invitations, Post Flyers
Plan the Ceremony
Speakers - Who will talk about your news, give a brief synopsis and thanks?
Ribbon Cutter/Holders - Should be owners, partners, etc., flanked by chamber of commerce dignitary and other VIPs, perhaps family
Food - Choose and book the caterer, or order light snacks and drinks. Food should be simple and easy to eat. Food trucks are a popular option.
Photographer - Hire your own photographer so that you're not dependent on the media. We cannot guarantee our staff will take the pictures you want, so plan ahead to ensure you have the best photos for your social media and website.
Plan to keep the entire event to between 30 minutes to an hour. If you prefer custom ribbons or bows that you can keep, be sure to order them at least a month before the event.