The 3 Elements of an Unforgettable VIP Experience
Christmastime is approaching quickly, and with Christmas comes holiday get-togethers, shopping, and events. It’s personally my favorite time of year! I love the family time, finding the perfect gift for someone, decorating the tree and seeing Christmas lights, and don’t even get me started on THE FOOD!
Especially in this era of COVID-19, everyone is looking for safe and fun things to do. Something I think all businesses should consider is how to give their customers an unforgettable VIP experience during their holiday events and promotions. While this is something that businesses should always be considering, now more than ever, people are craving this. Tensions are already high when people are shopping, and they are even higher now as everyone is trying to keep changing rules and regulations straight. Add in not being able to see the smiles of people while out and about, and you have some very stressed-out people indeed.
What is a VIP experience and why should I create one?
A VIP experience is a bit of a buzzword in the business world today, so I’d like to take a step back and clarify what I mean by this phrase.While I do believe treating your customers as VIPs every day is essential, there is a difference between that and a “VIP experience.” When I use “VIP experience” in this blog post, I’m specifically referring to a business crafting a special experience for their customers during an event. This type of experience isn’t just for those who pay extra to be a VIP; what makes it different is that it’s something available for all your customers. Because of this, VIP experiences are perfect for pairing with a holiday sale, launch, or promotion.
Now that I’ve defined what a VIP experience is, the next logical question is, “Why do this?” The first reason is first impressions. Crafting an unforgettable VIP experience for your clients is a great way to stand out during a new launch, grand opening, or sale. It’s a way to show your clients that you care and value them by providing next-level service as you anticipate their needs in advance and pay attention to all the little details. The second reason is that they will spread the word about your business for you. They will leave with positive memories of your business and naturally will tell their friends about it.
I will be sharing the three main elements that work together to create an unforgettable VIP experience. When you consider these three elements, you’ll be well on your way to a great event. These tips will work best for businesses like boutiques, luxury spas, jewelers, or salons; however, they will also help any business (no matter the industry) impact their customers. Additionally, there are absolutely safe ways to create a VIP experience at an event during COVID-19; you may just need to get a little creative.
1. Pair your event with an activity.
The first element of a VIP experience is to have some sort of activity happen during your sale, promotion, or launch event. This can be anything from a special tour (maybe behind-the-scenes) to an on-site entertainer such as a band or even a fine artist who does live paintings. This is a great opportunity to support other local businesses, musicians, or artists. Other activity ideas include providing a free addition to a service you provide or holding some sort of contest or game for your customers. The possibilities are endless, and truly depend on your industry and client base. The purpose of this is to provide a unique reason for people to come to the event — make sure it fits in with the overall mission of your business.
2. Get personal with your clients.
The second element is to get personal with your clients. Make the experience all about them! This can be as simple as giving them a handout with their name on it, to tailoring the experience to their preferences. Maybe you reach out beforehand and poll your customers so that they have some sort of input into what kind of activity you provide.
Another way to get personal is to simply make your clients feel at home. My hair salon does a great job of this every day. When a guest comes in, they offer coffee, tea, or ice-cold cucumber water. I always feel spoiled when I’m just waiting for my hair cut!
The last idea for getting personal is sending them home with a customized gift with their name on it. Everyone loves getting something personalized, so why not make it part of your event’s experience? Which leads me to the last element…
3. Send them home with something to remember you by.
The last element of crafting an unforgettable VIP experience is to send them home with a gift, which they will always remember you by! I’d encourage to think a little deeper than company pens or reusable shopping bags (although those are great and do serve a purpose!). I’d recommend sending them home with something more specifically related to what you are promoting. If you gave them a free service, send them home with a sample that you used. If you are a boutique, maybe it’s a free bag or scarf with a purchase of $XX or more.
A great way to combine all of the above is with live event calligraphy! As an on-site calligrapher, I can personalize handbags, perfume bottles, wine bottles, wallets, and so much more! When your customers purchase a featured item, they can stop by the calligrapher’s table for free customization services. This is a great way to send them off with a great first impression and all while creating an experience around your launch that they are sure to remember and tell their friends about!
Looking for a VIP experience that checks all the boxes?
As you are planning your Christmas and holidays launches and promotions, I’d love to see how we can partner together this holiday season! Make your event, launch, or grand opening one to remember with live event calligraphy. As a live event calligrapher in the Lake Country and Milwaukee areas, I come on-site to personalize your products or event favors for your guests by live scribing their name, initials, or a custom quote in calligraphy. Your guests go home with a special keepsake, leaving a positive and memorable impression of your company in their minds.
Some items I am able to personalize include:
- Greeting cards
- Ornaments
- Wine bottles
- Perfume bottles
- Notecards
- Wallets
- Handbags
- Belts
- …and more! If you have another idea, I would love to hear it!
Interested in learning more? Click the button below to get in touch! Even if you just have an idea to bounce off me, I’d love to see how I could help!
