There is some old adage about planning, but it never really stuck with me. This explains why I married Greg. When you are getting ready for a Grand Opening, there are all kinds of resources out there about how to plan, what to do, how much to spend, how to market, etc… However, what they don’t tell you is to confirm your sign will be ready (or else it will drive your husband go crazy).
In my mind, the word still gets out and the doors are still open and hopefully kind folks like you will stop on by and check us out even with our temporary sign. But, I could be wrong.
I do believe you only get one chance to make a first impression (apparently that one stuck). Signage, having your brand defined and your customer service top notch are all apart of the equation however our sign is the lowest on the list.
What do I want to happen when you come in to MTN Merch? I want you to be welcomed warmly, I want you to be briefly informed about our store without feeling pressured or pushed, and most importantly I want you to leave saying, “that was a really neat store and those folks were really nice.” Of course, I want you to say we are the best place to find apparel – T-shirts, hoodies, caps, sweatshirts, stickers that will appeal to kids, adults, teens, tourists, AND locals. I would also like you to find our store unique in it’s boutique style, reclaimed barn wood, steampunk type fixtures and locally made leather, hand turned wood, made in Asheville soaps, lotions, hot sauce and gourds. All under one roof, even without an official sign, in the historic Biltmore Village.
Perhaps it’s too simple in my mind, which is why we have t-shirts and water bottles to giveaway, will have music and are running ads… but it all boils down to service and experience. We can’t wait to celebrate our Grand Opening this 4th of July weekend with you, our neighbors and visitors (just don’t mention the sign).