Ribbon Cutting Parties

Last night I attended a ribbon cutting party for an upscale boutique opening near the Dallas fashion district.

I always get a kick out of these events - they are all the same, just different faces.

Here are the basic key ingredients, at a glance, on how to host this type of event:

1. There's always some sort of raffle/drawing/giveaway. Sometimes you can enter for free. Sometimes you pay money to purchase a ticket. The value of the prize drawing can vary, but the prize always consists of merchandise that can only be purchased at that venue.
Example: last night's ticket price was $20, which enabled you the opportunity to win a designer dress, a shawl, a scarf and a personal consulatation - total prize value: $2,000.

2. Always have a person of honor present. This could be the owner of a building or something far more grand. Last night, a Dallas Councilwoman was present as was a Russian diplomat.

3. Always have some sort of entertainment. This is very broad. Some places serve hors d'oeuvres, some opt for more flamboyant. Last night, a traditional Russian band/orchestra entertained. Fascinating.

4. Always have a photographer on hand. At least one.

5. Always start late. Because all who are invited will all arrive "fashionably" late...

6. Speaking of invitees...invite a diverse and varied cross section of folks. I could pen an entire new blog section on this point alone...

7. Most importantly, perfect "the look". These parties are often attended by a crowd of folks who try so very hard to see just how dis/un-interested they can look. Here's how to imitate "the look". Have your eye lids slightly closed, keep your lips together and suck your cheeks in ever so slightly (not so much that you look like you are trying to do a fish face). The goal is to look put-off or annoyed. So whatever it takes to achieve that look...well...you get the idea. Practice at home in front of a mirror.

So there you have it, everything you ever wanted to know about Ribbon Cutting Parties/Boutique openings! Now don't you feel more well rounded already??