Did you know that there are close to 60,000 bars and nightclubs in the US? Keep reading to find how to open a nightclub.
We all need to let our hair down and let loose every once in a while, whether you’re a grocery store worker or a high-level executive. This makes opening a nightclub a fantastic idea, as you’re sure to get people in, as long as you do it right.
Are you now curious about how to open a nightclub? Then keep reading. We’ll show you exactly what you need to do!
Table of Contents
Do Your Research
Always do your research before you jump feet first into a business. You can feel confident that the business you’re starting is a good idea, but chances are, you’re not the first person to think so.
You might think that opening a gay nightclub would be fantastic to serve a particular niche. But if the town’s already oversaturated with gay clubs on every corner, then it’ll be tough breaking into a well-established niche.
This is why it’s important to do your research and figure out whether or not your nightclub would be appreciated and/or needed. It’s better to find out at the beginning if your club won’t be a success, rather than after you’ve sunk a great deal of money into it.
Make Sure You Have the Capital
Speaking of money, no matter what type of business you’re opening, you need to make sure you have the capital to fund it. Typically, it takes a little bit for a business to find its footing and get off the ground, so not only do you need money to open the club, but also keep it afloat for a little bit afterward.
Depending on where you live, starting a nightclub can cost anywhere between $230,000 to over $840,000.
To find out more specific numbers, you can always refer to the American Nightlife Association. They have plenty of information about the industry, which can be helpful.
Come up With a Business Plan
Not only do you need capital, but you need a solid business plan. Otherwise, you’ll be going into things without a clear picture, and this is where people mess up. As a result, this short-sightedness can cause their club to fail very early on.
First, figure out how big of a place you need to rent. For example, if you want to accommodate 200 partygoers, plan for anywhere between 2,500 to 10,000 square feet.
Then, you need to consider everything that goes in the club, such as the sound systems, light fixtures, commercial refrigerators and freezers, and even kitchen equipment if you’re planning on selling food too.
Be creative with your business plan too. For instance, when it comes to lighting, you might want to get creative and use some tape. Use some that is electroluminescent to light up the way and make your nightclub more appealing and unique.
Get the Proper Licenses and Permits
Unfortunately, owning a nightclub isn’t all fun and games. One of the first things you need to do is get a business license. Without it, you can’t even start up or open your doors.
Also, considering that you’re most likely going to serve alcohol, as well as food possibly, you need to make sure you get all the proper licenses and permits before you open your doors. Otherwise, you risk being fined or even shut down.
Other permits you need to consider include building, health, signage, and even one from the fire department.
Take Care of Staffing Early On
Most business owners don’t realize this, but their staff will make or break their business, especially if it’s a nightclub. Not only do they need to be competent, but they’ll also need to be good with people. Otherwise, you risk alienating clubgoers.
By leaving hiring until the last second, you might end up with mediocre staff. Make sure you start early and go through a thorough vetting process. These people will represent your club, after all, so you need to only hire the best people possible.
You should also make sure you have enough people staffed for the club, especially in the early days. New clubs generate lots of interest, especially if you’re running great promotions.
Don’t try to save money by skimping on staffing. Being overstaffed instead of understaffed is better in the beginning, as this ensures that your guests get the attention they deserve.
Do Heavy Marketing
Your budget shouldn’t all just go toward getting the club physically ready. You need to also allocate a good proportion of it to marketing. After all, if no one knows when your nightclub is opening, plus other important details (such as the hours and location), how are you going to fill it up on the opening night?
Use the power of social media and even hire a social media manager to up the hype for your nightclub. Take photos and videos of your club’s progress. You can even run some contests to get people interested and excited.
Getting club promoters can be a good idea as well, as they’ll have the proper connections to get the word out as well.
Now You Know How to Open a Nightclub
Now you know all the ins and outs when it comes to how to open a nightclub. We understand that it’s not a business that’s right for everyone, so maybe your eyes have been opened after reading this article.
In that case, at least now you have a newfound appreciation for entrepreneurs who set out to open the hottest new clubs. And you never know: this information might just come in handy sometime in the future!
For more informative articles like this one about the nightclub business, please read the rest of our blog now!
