Know-How Exchange : Advertising/PR

The beauty of owning a restaurant is you can create your own holidays-- like "over the hump Wed". A few days ago it was Julia Child's birthday-- we used that as a theme for a small party!

I have owned a restaurant and managed others. Tap your liquor reps-- they have deep pockets-- and can bring in winemakers etc. When I think Caribean, I think rum. Do rum tastings, or a rum themed dinner. (I did one when single malt scotches were "in"). I would invite in local artists to display-- changing the exhibit every month or so. The art was for sale, and the artists appreciated the exposure. I would regularly do winemaker dinners.

I invited a local school to sing Christmas Carols. My restaurant was French so we celebrated La Bastille Day and the coming out of new beaujolie. We gave out daffodils the first day of spring, roses on Mom's day. We invited a local boutique to hold seasonal fashion shows. I was just in a restaurant that on Sunday's has specials on mimosa's, and a unique build your own Bloody Mary bar. They were packed! Hold a pig roast!

Consider introducing a Blue Hawaiian theme. Blue Caribbean waters, Hawaiian/Polynesian Grill, curaco Blue Hawaiian drinks...great start! Offer % off for anyone who wears Hawaiian print, leis. How about a limbo dance, with prizes going to the winner(s). Fresh flowers, of course, on plates, for centerpieces, and welcoming guest in the lobby. Kona coffee with (coconut, pineapple, mango, etc) desserts can top off the Hawaiian respite.

Makes me long for Oahu all over again!

jag
MarketBase