You may choose to host a ribbon cutting if:

• You are a brand new business.
• You have recently remodeled or expanded your current location.
• You have moved locations.
• Have an upcoming milestone anniversary.
• Have gone through a recent rebranding.

New members can schedule a ribbon cutting when dues are paid in full.

Please schedule your ribbon cutting 30 days in advance.

• This gives the Chamber time to prepare and you enough time to plan. Look under "Host a Successful Event" for more tips.

If you would like a Chamber presence (staff and volunteers) at your ribbon cutting, we are currently offering these days and times:

• Tuesdays starting at 11 AM
• Thursdays starting at 11 AM
• Exceptions will be considered for special events if they fall on evenings or weekends.

In case of inclement weather

• Our staff and volunteers will not be able to attend your scheduled event. If you choose to reschedule, we will gladly work to find another date with you.

We understand how special a ribbon cutting ceremony is. So, we want to help set you up for success.

Set a Date

To minimize the potential for conflict, avoid scheduling your event around holidays and other community events - this can reduce the turnout for yours. Also consider how the time of day might affect your guest attendance and plan accordingly.

The following links can help you quickly avoid a scheduling issue:

• Major and Observed Holidays
• Community Events

Location Considerations

Generally, the location of your event should take place where you are opening/re-opening your business or where the construction will take place. If your business does not have a physical location the Chamber is more than happy to host at the Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center office.

It is important to make sure your venue will safely accommodate those you choose to invite. Make sure to give any neighbors in your immediate vicinity and/or your landlord a heads up that there will be guests in and around your location.

If you are planning on an outdoor venue, have a back-up plan in case of inclement weather. Also, be mindful of the fire code/occupancy regulations if you plan on having an inside venue.

Please make sure to have parking available for your guests that is clearly marked (or where you expect guests to gather outside).

Determine a Guest List

Your ribbon cutting is a fantastic opportunity to bring people together and highlight your business.

This is your event, so we encourage you to think about inviting anyone supportive of your business. Not everyone will be able to attend, but this celebration can be as grand or intimate as you would like.

Here is a list of individuals you may wish to invite:

• Employees
• Family and friends
• Customers
• Vendors and or suppliers
• Neighboring businesses
• Other Chamber members
• Your employee’s family members, past employees, or others who are supportive

Plan Event Activities

Based upon the size and scope of the event, you may need to make various arrangements. This can include:

• Food and refreshments
• Props, signage, etc.
• Rentals, such as chairs, a sound system, a tent, etc.
• Professional photography (Reminder: Chamber staff will take photos and videos on cellular devices)
• Agendas, presentations and more

Promote your Event

We suggest that you promote your event prior to your date of hosting. Sending out invitations to your guest will be where most of your attendance will come from. If you have invited the Chamber to participate, this will include 1 KLC staff member and your Champion Ambassador. Since Ambassadors is a voluntary role, others will try their best to attend as many ribbon cuttings as possible.

The Chamber will help promote your event through our social media channels as well as in our weekly e-blasts that are sent out to other Chamber members.

• On the day of the event, be sure to share photos on social media and tag @YourChamber with the hashtag #KLChamber.

By hosting a ribbon cutting event, you can:

• Introduce both the Chamber, Chamber members and public to your business.
• Announce your ribbon cutting on the Chamber's social media, e-blast newsletter and more.
• Familiarize the Chamber, Chamber members and public with your products/services and location.
• Help begin a customer base and generate leads/sales from attendees.
• Chamber staff, Ambassadors and volunteers will participate in your special event.
• Chamber staff will provide the ceremonial ribbon, bring the "big scissors," and take photographs/video at the event.
• Your photos will be featured on the Chamber's website in the home page carousel for recent ribbon cuttings, the slideshow on this page, our monthly business connection newsletter and The Daily News.
• Photos and videos will also be shared on social media (Instagram and Facebook) to commemorate this momentous occasion. 

You’re part of the largest professional business network in Cowlitz County. Attend ribbon cuttings to celebrate and support fellow members and continue to grow your professional network. Be in the know about what’s happening with the growing and thriving business.