Conducting a holiday open house should include
- advertising campaign, which may include direct mailings as well as advertisements in print, radio, and television media and on the Internet (e.g., on the school Web site)
- holiday design supplies
- a range of fresh, silk, and/or dried holiday designs, which may include wreaths, table pieces, swags, and novelty items
- seasonal holiday displays
- decorated holiday tree(s), if applicable
- poinsettias and other holiday potted plants dressed for retail sale, incorporating foil, baskets, and novelty containers
- special shop attractions, which may include refreshments, music and other forms of entertainment, floral demonstrations, and door prizes
- setup for taking orders for custom holiday designs and seasonal potted plants
- a post-holiday open house evaluation and recommendations for future events.
Process/Skill Questions:
- When should a holiday open house be conducted?
- When should preparations begin for a holiday open house?
- What media outlets may/should be used to advertise a holiday open house? When should advertisements appear in the various media?
- Are open house events cost-effective? Why or why not?
- What are the considerations when developing a timeline for preparing a holiday open house?