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Ribbon Cutting

What would be ideal days and times to schedule ribbon cuttings:

Schedule your event at least two weeks in advance. The best time to schedule a Ribbon Cutting is on a Monday-Friday between the hours of 10am-4pm. While GOPIP works hard to accommodate the scheduling preferences of businesses, we must also consider the availability of the Ambassadors, Staff, and City Officials to ensure a successful event. Ideally, it is best to work with GOPIP before selecting a date.  

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The ceremony itself runs anywhere from 10-15 minutes. Before the ribbon is cut and pictures are taken, welcoming remarks are given by an Ambassador and followed by an opportunity for a representative of the business to speak briefly.

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Attendance at ribbon-cutting ceremonies varies widely depending on the time and date selected and how much promotion is done on behalf of the business.

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Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies are free!

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Ribbon-cutting ceremonies are typically held for the following occasions:

  • Welcoming a new business to Ottumwa (can be held up to 1 year after opening)

  • Celebration of a milestone anniversary (5yr, 10yr, 25yr, etc.)

  • Celebrating a relocation or major renovation/remodel

  • Rebranding

  • Breaking ground on a new development

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To make your ceremony a success, the GOPIP Ambassadors will:

  • Promote your opening by making a Facebook Event

  • Arrange for the GOPIP Executive Director and City Mayor to appear (In their absence, a designee will be present)

  • Provide the BIG scissors and ribbon for the ceremony

  • Take pictures which will be posted on social media and the GOPIP Newsletter

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To make your ceremony a success, you might consider:

  • Inviting friends, family, customers, etc.

  • Designating a representative in advance to give remarks at the ribbon-cutting

  • Providing tours at the event

  • Placing business cards and/or brochures around the common area

  • Serving light snacks and/or beverages (This is optional. Serving refreshments may encourage guests to stick around for a bit)

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Please note: A professionally shot and edited video of your ribbon-cutting event is included at no cost for GOPIP members. Non-members may request a video for a $100 fee.

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Call 641-682-3465, or Email reception@ottumwaiowa.com to schedule your ribbon cutting today!

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