Now that you've got your work done (or are close to being done) it's time to plan out the opening.  Don't do this alone either.  Pick a close group of friends, maybe two or three, and then brainstorm all of the possibilities.  If you've got a good idea of how you want the space to look that night that's great because you're ahead of the game already, but it's still a good idea to run your ideas by someone else.  There's always something you didn't think of - trust me. 

Lesson #8: You've got one shot - make it count!

So, what do you want to do?  What kind of impression do you want to make?  Will there be food?  Are you going to paint the walls?  Lighting? Questions, questions, questions!  But all are pertinent to making a show a success!  Again, consistency is key.  Don't over do it, but use the opportunity to its fullest potential. 

Oh, and for the guys out there, plan on getting a haircut. It makes a difference.