My son’s first birthday is this September. This just floors me. It’s not that he’s been on earth for a year so much as that I have carried him, cleaned him, fed him and comforted him for a year.  And while some days have mercilessly dragged on (teething, indigestion, February), the year is (*blink*) over. How did that happen?

However it happened, there will be cake and noisemakers. And I will point out to everyone that I am very proud; it’s been a year and I haven’t dropped my son yet. I have to admit, I’m like this about businesses, too. You know how it is; you nurture your practice, you plan, you sacrifice, and you roll with the punches. Then it’s a year later and you’re still standing. This is good. It seems you should celebrate. And point out to everyone that you’re still here.

Marking your business’ birthday can serve you in many ways. Primarily, it is a perfectly acceptable way to socialize with your clients and deepen your bond with them. You can use it to showcase your accomplishments over the past year. It is also a good occasion to give back to your community.

It’s not enough to just declare a celebration, though. You need to create some excitement and interest around it. Gently unique or off-beat, but useful, themes appeal to people’s curiosity and sense of adventure. Play it up and promote the heck out of it. Not only can you expect more guests but your gala event will also be more attractive to local newspapers or radio.  Everyone should know that you are celebrating and why.

The best parties are ones that have projects or share fun information. A body henna artist or a foot rub clinic are always good draws. One of our local studios invites everyone help decorate a large piece of outdoor art, which then becomes a welcoming part of the studio garden.  The “How to Cook Weird Vegetables” class sponsored by my acupuncturist was a hoot. And now I know what to do with dosakai.

Whether you’ve been in practice for one year or twenty (like us!), celebrating your practice is a happy, energetic way to honor your accomplishments and to spend a little face-to-face time with your clients, community and friends.

This article originally ran in the Winter 2008 flyer.
Did you get your Winter Flyer yet? Request free samples of the latest designs or view them online.