An Open House or Anniversary Party is an excellent way to promote your school, gain new students, and generate revenue. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan and execute a successful event.
1. Choose the Right Date
Select a date that doesn’t clash with holidays or large community events. This ensures maximum attendance.
2. Promote Your Event
Use a mix of advertising methods such as cable, radio, newspaper, mailers, fliers, posters, door hangers, and cold calling. Ensure all advertising has a consistent theme.
3. Attracting Attendees
Offer a significant prize (e.g., $1,000 cash, skiing package) to draw people in. Alternatively, have a staff member dress up as a popular character to attract attention.
4. Activities and Entertainment
- Face Painting: Charge $2-$5 depending on the artwork.
- Video Games: "Beat the Staff" game for $1 per 2 games.
- Carnival Games: Knock down cones, beam the instructor, suction star throwing, and pop the balloons.
- Wood Breaking: Charge $1-$2.
- Power Pad: Measure the force of a strike for $1.
- Food and Drinks: Sell refreshments.
- Merchandise Sale: Offer discounted items.
- Membership Deals: Offer discounts for new sign-ups and upgrades.
5. Prizes
Give away raffle tickets for small prizes and conduct drawings every 30 minutes. Reserve larger prizes for the end of the event.
6. Demonstrations
Prepare two types of demos: a 15-minute short version and a 30-minute long version. Perform the shorter demos throughout the day and the longer one at the end.
7. Motivating Current Students
Involve them in the demonstrations and offer incentives for bringing friends who sign up. Offer grand prizes for the student who brings in the most new members.
8. Expected Outcomes
Success depends on your promotional efforts and event execution. Aim to attract a large crowd and convert attendees into new students.
Example Breakdown
- Attendance: 893 people
- Revenue from Activities: $1,925
- Merchandise Sales: $634 (net)
- Food and Drinks: $462
- Board Breaking: $289
- Power Pad: $386
- New Sign-Ups and Upgrades: $1,455
- Total Revenue: $5,151
- Total Expenses: $4,165
- Net Profit: $986
- New Students: 12 (plus 6 more the following week)
Tips for Success
- Go all out: Put maximum effort into planning and promotion.
- Start early: Begin promoting at least four weeks in advance.
- Utilize your students: Get them involved in advertising and event participation.
- Stay organized: Ensure every part of the event is well-coordinated.
- Have fun: Enjoy the event and make it a memorable experience for everyone.
By following these guidelines, you can host a successful Open House/Anniversary Party that boosts your school's visibility and enrollment.
