Know-How Exchange : Advertising/PR

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Pick your contest judges wisely and strategically. Who are the hot personalities in your area? Which of them have name recognition beyond your city limits or within your trade? Who is not local but might be in your area during the contest?

Some examples to consider, especially if you're in a major metro area:

Good-looking local news anchors
Popular disc jockeys
Well-known restaurant owners (here in Houston they're almost like rock stars)
Athletes on your local teams
Actors currently touring in your theaters
Interesting book authors
Witty, socially elite players
Former mayors

Michele also touched on the idea to make it a gala event. Perhaps you can make it more promotable/attendable by adding the charitable twist -- "ticket proceeds go to Alcoholics Anonymous." (Kidding, obviously!)

A third idea: Make it a singles event. Get EVERYONE to place their votes at a party (and maybe even online). Choose your local "most eligibles" to pick their favorites and reveal the winning concoctions. Encourage the press to be there, naturally! Might help if you host the event in a press-intriguing location, too, like the tearoom at the Ritz.

- Shelley