STEPS TO HOSTING SUCCESSFUL EVENTS PART ONE I have a deep passion for hosting in-store events, and I love every aspect of the planning process. Happy customers at the conclusion of a successful event make it worth all the work. Organizing events demands additional time and effort, yet the payoff is evident when your customers eagerly inquire about the next one. I spent a decade managing special events for RNK Distributing, during which I gained valuable insights through a combination of hands-on experience, learning from my mistakes, and receiving guidance from industry experts who have generously shared their expertise. Let’s kick things off by identifying the type of event that piques your customers’ interest. This industry is full of talented educators who bring with them a wealth of knowledge to help your customers learn something new, whether it is a new technique or the latest tool to make their hobby better. You may have to conduct some research to discover your ideal match.
After determining the type of event, the next step is to set a date. It’s important to take local events into account. For instance, if you’re in a college town, check whether your chosen dates align with any home games, as this could negatively impact your event. Educators often have tight schedules so keep in mind that your event might be scheduled a year in advance. If your event will be held at an external venue, make sure to secure available dates from the venue before reaching out to the educator. Now that you’ve chosen the event type and the date, it’s time to promote it! Spread the word by sending out save-the-date announcements through email, social media, traditional mail, text messages and even phone calls. You should post flyers throughout your shop, including hightraffic areas like the bathroom. If your educator has a substantial social media following, consider collaborating with them to boost the event promotion.