Whats possible?

[Z-in-MT]

Before I ask any questions I'll outline what I'm working with.

Several individuals I know want to open a bar/nightclub. We are in a smaller sized town that doesn't have a huge population. There are a large number of bars in town, but nothing you could call a actual club. I'm currently working with a couple of individuals that have enough money to start something, and one individual that actually understands what it will take, but we're still just starting out. I think it would be safe to say we have at least a year or more before anything solid takes off.

Anyways, because of the low population the two main investors want to be able to target younger individuals, 16 - 21, as well as the 21+ crowd. This creates an obvious problem because how do you allow younger people into an adult venue that severs alcohol, without alienating either group, and also maintaning order.

I'm not asking for exactly what we would need to do, but some ideas that worked for others that I can use to figure out how to make it work for us.
Amazingly enough money isn't the main problem right now, it just trying to figure out howto make a profit in a state that has a max of 3 actual night clubs, and none that can compare to anything you would find in a large city, but has countless bars.

Thanks for the info.

P.S. This is a great site, and I appreciate any help.

[mauimanana]

i recommend starting with raves, which are nothing more than dance venues.

seen then started by renting out vfw's, american legiosn or any facility that you can rent by the night with no commitment and a simple permit. after a year of doing these then you will have established a following and valuable experience. during this time scout out suitable venues and put together a business plan that covers the a-z. like they say , "free the mind, the ass will follow."

best of luck

[Angie]

Anyways, because of the low population the two main investors want to be able to target younger individuals, 16 - 21, as well as the 21+ crowd. This creates an obvious problem because how do you allow younger people into an adult venue that severs alcohol, without alienating either group, and also maintaning order.

I'm not asking for exactly what we would need to do, but some ideas that worked for others that I can use to figure out how to make it work for us.
Amazingly enough money isn't the main problem right now, it just trying to figure out howto make a profit in a state that has a max of 3 actual night clubs, and none that can compare to anything you would find in a large city, but has countless bars

Couldn't you have teen nights? That way you can have both. Obviously, on teen nights you would need to lock up liquor, and add more security. You couldn't have anyone under 18 in your bar when your selling liquor legally... so if you wanna do both you will hafta do it on different nights..maybe some slow nights?

I think its awesome that you have the money, thats my big problem right now. We seem to be in similar situations as far as the small town and such. I think its a very good thing there are only 3 nightclubs. I know exactly what you mean as far as not anything you would find in a large city, thats how it is here too. So I think you will do well, because your place will be THE place to go to! Just make it unique, and have promotions to draw in your crowds. You could get involved in the local music sceen. Thre are very talented people with a following, and need a cool place to play. They would bring in their fan base, and that would help you out too. Um, you could have themes on your teen nights, like the blacklight or whatever. You say it has countless bars, well don't be another plain old bar. Get your heads together and think of everything and anything to make the place awesome, and know you will have to promote the heck outta it. :) Thats just my 2 cents anyways, and I am not an owner...yet :) :)