Ah. The day of love created by the greeting card companies. It’s a busy day for those in the restaurant biz, and we’re here to provide three tips for making the most of Valentine’s Day.
- Be sure your customers know you are open on Valentine’s Day. Mondays are often dark days for restaurants, and not all of your customers will know you are open, especially if you have only promoted specials within your four walls.
- Send a quick email reminder that you recommend a reservation. Include a few tips for making the meal more romantic – Arrange to have flowers delivered to the table beforehand. Call ahead to get a special message placed on the table or drizzled on a dessert plate.
- Add a few Facebook posts throughout the week.Include a few pictures of your special Valentine’s dishes or give an exclusive discount to Facebook fans if they reserve a table by Thursday.
- Send a quick mailer out to last year’s reservation list. Check your reservation list today against last year’s list. If you see guests who have not made a reservation yet, send them a quick reminder through the mail. Our new coupon templates are the perfect size to mail.
- Promote a Valentine’s weekend. Many people will be celebrating early this year, since the big day falls on a Monday. Be prepared with reservations and specials all weekend long.
- Promote a family love lunch. Valentine’s Day can be a special day for the whole family. Try offering a brunch or lunch with a special menu. You still have time to promote it if you get your act together today.
- Send Valentine’s cards to your customers. You don’t have to have an event or special menu for this. Simply recognize your customers with a Valentine email or card.
Share your Valentine’s successes in our Facebook discussion.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi Amanda,
Great post! It seems like a given that Valentines day is a big day for dining out and that all the lovebirds will be flocking to your spot if it’s romantic enough, but you raise some great points here that every restaurant should consider if they want to stand out from the pack. Sending emails to last years diners is a great idea, especially packed with some incentives like coupons. Revving up for the weekend prior the Vday makes tons of sense too, lots of people might be cashed out by Monday!
Sam
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Thanks for your feedback Sam! Appreciate it! You’re right about being cashed out by Monday. This is a pay week for most folks. We’re glad you stopped by!