A Special Celebration of Your Business
Celebrate your business success with a professional ribbon cutting ceremony! The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce is here to help showcase what your business has to offer and connect you with the community.
Why Choose a Chamber Ribbon Cutting?
A ribbon cutting event is your opportunity to:
- Showcase your business to potential customers and community leaders.
- Build valuable connections with Chamber members and local officials.
- Generate publicity through Chamber marketing and social media.
- Create lasting memories with professional photos and recognition.
- Establish credibility through official Chamber endorsement.
From our experience, you can expect anywhere from 5 to 50 people in attendance, depending on your promotional efforts and guest outreach.
Qualifying Events for Ribbon Cuttings
Your business must be a Chamber member and qualify for one of these celebrations:
- Grand Opening – New business within first 90 days of opening.
- Milestone Anniversary – Celebrating significant business anniversaries .
- New Location – Moved to a new location or major expansion/renovation.
- Groundbreaking – Breaking ground for new construction or development.
What the Chamber Provides
Complete Marketing Support
- List your event on the Chamber website calendar.
- Announce your event in Chamber email blasts to thousands of members.
- Promote the event on Chamber social media platforms.
- Post professional photos on social media after your event.
VIP Guest Coordination
- Invite elected officials, Chamber Board of Directors, and Ambassador Committee.
- Coordinate with Chamber staff to attend your ceremony.
- Note: Elected officials often present citations and say a few words.
Professional Event Management
- Provide ceremonial ribbon and large scissors
- Conduct the official ceremony with proper protocol
- On-site support to ensure smooth event flow
The Chamber charges a marketing fee for ribbon cuttings. Contact us at (239) 332-2930 or [email protected] for current pricing.
Your Role in Creating a Successful Event
Essential Planning Steps
Scheduling (4-6 Weeks in Advance)
- Contact the Chamber as early as possible to secure your date.
- Recommended times: Monday-Thursday, 4:30-5:30 PM or 8:30-9:30 AM.
- Ceremony begins at the top of the hour.
- Earlier scheduling gives you better date selection.
Guest List Management
- Your responsibility: Invite customers, prospects, friends, family, and neighboring businesses.
- Provide the Chamber with a list of company representatives for recognition.
- Make personal contact with your local mayor for added impact.
- Plan for a significant number of invitees to ensure good turnout.
Day-of-Event Essentials
Required Elements
- Company signage visible for photos.
- Adequate parking for expected attendees.
- Refreshments – Light appetizers and beverages for evening events, or coffee and pastries for morning events.
Recommended Enhancements
- Balloons and signage in front of your business.
- Free gifts, drawings, or giveaways (great for collecting contact information!).
- Tours of your facility (if appropriate).
- Podium and microphone for events with 50+ people.
- Partner with fellow Chamber members for catering and services.
Event Program Flow
Professional ceremony includes:
- Opening Remarks – Chamber President welcomes guests and introduces VIPs.
- Official Recognition – Town officials and elected officials present congratulations and citations.
- Business Presentation – Your opportunity to address guests about your business.
- Ribbon Cutting – The ceremonial moment with professional photos
- Networking & Refreshments – Guests enjoy mingling and learning about your business
Pro Tips for Maximum Impact
Preparation Strategies
- Be operational 2-3 weeks before your grand opening to work out any issues.
- Promote on your social media in addition to Chamber promotion.
- Remember: Every attendee is a potential customer who can influence others.
Special Opportunities
- Joint ribbon cuttings available with other nearby chambers you’ve joined.
- No Fort Myers location required – we serve the greater region.
- Utilize Chamber member services for catering, printing, and event support.
Ready to Schedule Your Celebration?
Your ribbon cutting is your stage to showcase your expertise and connect with the community. Let’s make it memorable!
Contact Information
Phone: (239) 332-2930
Email: [email protected]
Schedule early for best availability. We recommend 4-6 weeks advance notice.