Quick question

[oun8]

My nightclub is opening the first of Aug. Im new the business(this is my first one). And I need some advice. How do you keep the bad crowd out? For instance the thugs and trash. Also I would like to learn from your mistakes please tell me some of things that you have learned along the way.

Thanks,
Nathen
Klub Komotion L.L.C.

[Ria]

It will be hard at first to keep the thugs and rowdies out because they are going to test you and see how far they can go. Best bet is to hire doormen(bouncers)that have done this kind of work before, and tell them what you want to see happening. hang back and watch the people, by the way they move, talk and act you'll be able to see who to keep a close eye on. Just a suggestion, don't bar anyone until they have done something. If you start kicking people out for no apparent reason you will end up loosing the customers you want. As you know drunk people( even nice ones) act stupid sometimes, and sometimes first impressions don't go over well, But the second ones count. Also watch your doorman,just to see if they are looking for the same things that you are.

[The Event Guy]

Don't you know to whom your bar will be catering to???? Your opening is only a month away so you need think about who you're targeting with your advertisment.

If you're just sending out general advertisments and wishing for the best, then expect to have problems arise with a conflict of personalities. However, if you've done your homework, then you've already began marketing your bar to specific types of people that you want in your bar.

Your opening night will be a crucial night for setting the standard of what will be accepted, expected, and what will not. Therefore, you would be sent to the head of the class if you hosted a VIP reception about an hour ahead of the general public. The people that should be at this are your family, friends, work associates, and media.

I agree with Ria that your doorstaff needs to have an understanding of what you expect of your patrons...although, this entire topic isn't as cut and dry as this repsonse seems because there's alot that goes into this process.

Anywhooo, this is a start so make certain you invite the right people. Good luck.

[Michael Black]

Personally, I would reccomend 1 week before a trial run (or 2 trial runs) with friends and family. The following Thursday, I would do a vip/media only, followed by a Friday public opening.Your whole marketing program and launch including pricing,public relations/press releases, all advertising, and promotions and entertainment, should be well thought out and planned for at least the first 90 days.Your music, marketing and educated staff (especially head door) are key in planning the outcome and crowd you desire.

[NYCClub]

Well, I work in a nightclub in NYC right now and as a way to keep the crowd somewhat respectable they have a dress code: No Sneakers, No Jeans, No headwear. Headwear includes hats, caps, Bandanas, etc. Off course depending on your place and what your target market it, you will know whether you can do this or not. Also make sure you include this in the advertisment not just tell your doorman because if people don't know the code they will show up any way they want and be very upset that they could not get in. Hope this helps.