Open no matter what.

This post is from rainy 2009 and I included it because it was so pertinent at the time.

So, it might rain this weekend (again).
It might rain again, but we're going to be open (alomst) no matter what. We have too many groups scheduled to reschedule, so the messaging we're using, you can see on our facebook page and website, is that guests need to prepare for the CHANCE of weather, but get their groups in the right frame of mind for fun.

There are a few things that you need to do to cover your a** if you are going to be open during the rain.

Hugh's Top Five "Open no matter what" Tips.

1. Set expectations. Use good messaging to get your guests to prepare for weather, but assure them that you will be open.

2. Cover your tail. Oh yes, Hugh's been sued, so here are some pointers for minimizing your exposure. Notify, notify, notify. The last time it rained we would have riot if I would have kicked everyone out of the mazes, so I posted a man at the front of the cornfield maze entrance to stop each group and re-read our disclaimer of liability to them. They had to verbally agree to accept this condition for admittance. You may post this on a big ugly sign before your entrance as well.

Here it is:
We believe in providing a safe environment. However, the bearer does forever discharge Maple Lawn Entertainment and their agents from any and all suits, actions, damages, or claims arising from any loss of property or bodily injury.

3. Give back tickets, but not cash. It is our policy to refund people with tickets to come back even if we're running out of weekends, we honor tickets even next year. DO NOT get into an argument about it with the guest, no matter what happens YOU LOSE. Prepare your cashiers with your policy so people know, even post it on the registers so guests don't have to ask.

4. Stay staffed well. I hate labor costs just like you do, but don't understaff and create a dangerous situation. Take the lost in margin and take care of your guests!

5. Stay positive and put on a happy face. Guestsdon't want to hear you're sad, slap on a smile and make it happen. Make sure your staff knows it's important to keep guests positive and happy.

Have a great week. - Hugh