Choosing a name for your party business

What is a memorable name you can choose for your burgeoning party business? There are many factors to consider when naming your business. Most important of all, you need to consider the longevity of the name, because changing a business name involves more than just switching a few social accounts. That said, here are some tips to help you when choosing a name for your party business

Check that a name is available

Your first port of call here is the ASIC website. Here you can check if a name is registered, and also for what category. If you do find that your name is taken, consider changing the spelling in a creative yet clear way. Don’t forget to also check IP Australia for any registered trademarks. Finally, check the domain name and social handles for your preferred name before registering. Nothing more disappointing than a taken domain name! Once you’re clear on all this, go ahead and register the business name with ASIC. Note: register only with the ASIC site directly. There are many shady businesses out there trying to profit from registering a name ‘on your behalf’ and charging exorbitant fees.
Avoid cliches and overused words
There are certain words and phrases that are very common in the party industry, and you do not want to get lost in the crowd. If possible, try to avoid cliches and overused words (yes, Confetti, ahem), unless, of course you find a unique and killer combo – then go for it!
Don’t go too long
This one is up for debate, however long business names take longer to type up (frustrating and prone to typos), are harder to design logos for, and may even be too long to be a handle on particular social sites. Here is a great resource on business name length.
Use something memorable
Using something generic is not totally bad, but try to mix it up to keep it interesting. For example ‘Sydney Balloon Maestro’ is more memorable than ‘Sydney Balloons’, and you still have the benefit of having two important keywords in the name (however, you may be limiting yourself by location – also not a great long term strategy). Of course, it still needs to be relevant and meaningful too.PRO TIP: Using generic terms (including category and location) terms in your business name is a great way to get some possible quick SEO wins, but consider that someone can come along anytime and use a similar tactic. On social, especially Instagram, you are better off using these generic keywords on your profile if you wish to be found. In addition, having a generic business name (generic keywords) may be counter intuitive for your Google My Business (GMB listing). If you have business name like ‘Sydney balloons’, your listing might not show up – because Google is uncertain if the user is looking for a particular product in a location, or an actual business. See image below of GMB listing.
Don’t narrow your future options
You may have started out doing cakes, but are now branching into other baked goods, even cake toppers! Will your business name grow with you? Again, don’t limit yourself by using a business name that incorporates particular products (or if you do, be aware of the implications). There are plenty of opportunities to add important keywords in profiles, websites and listings.
Consider tone and brand
Your business name must match your businesses’ branding and style! Using whimsical words are more suited to a fun kids party business. Using your own name for your business conveys a rather grown up, even high end feel. Targeting a particular age demographic? Don’t alienate them with language that doesn’t resonate.

Final words

There are so many fun and creative ways to create an engaging and memorable name for your party business. Consider the below:

– Words from foreign languages
– Play with alliteration
– Puns on words and phrases
– Mashup or amalgamation of existing words
– Mix an acronym with a word
– Try an anagram

If all else fails, the internet is also on hand to help. You can find a page full of business name suggestions here, and a business name generator here.