How do we generate excitement and interest in the event?

How do we make it "cool" to go to the grad party?

Do not assume that people are just going to come to the grad/prom party.  You have to work at making them realize that this is going to be an amazing time…a “not-to-be-missed party”.  So once you have decided on your party theme start planning your promotional campaign. 

Okay…how do we do this?  Here are some generic things that you should know about promotions.

1.   The best advertising campaigns are saturation campaigns. 

That means that you get the message out as much as you can so that you know for sure that they have heard it.  The best time is ideally just before the tickets go on sale.  (Your promotions need to be done at the time when students are going to buy).  Do something wild or fun to announce the grad party.  Create posters, do a big announcement, use the in-school media, dress up your promoters, hold contests, try to secure some nifty giveaways and prizes.  Basically, build on your theme with your promotions.

2.   Plan a follow-up strategy, ahead of time. 

Find ways to involve students.  Simple contests work.

3.   Be consistent by developing your theme both visually and musically. 

Keep your theme identifiable with your message so every time you do a promo, students will know it’s for grad.

4.   The most memorable ads are the unexpected ones. 

The ones that make you smile, that make you feel warm inside; the ones that are simple, not crazy stupid, just maybe a little crazy are the best.  Brainstorm with your committee and your most creative friends.  Look through magazines, papers and see what catches your eye.  Listen to the radio and figure out what stands out, then ask yourself – why?  For promotions use a mix of mediums.

5.   Keep your print ads and posters simple. 

Use white space or big pictures effectively.  Use interesting bold letters.  Keep wording to a minimum.  Title, place, time, cost where to get tickets.  Use a bold type, colour, and clear pictures to represent the mood that you want to create. 

If someone in your school is good at desktop publishing, they can create much of this on computer.  Take advantage of your art department.  Involve as many people as you can.