Guys, let me start with a little background.
We own a small cafe on the north shore of Lake Tahoe, Global Cafe https://globalcafetahoe.com/
Neither my wife or I have a background in the food and beverage industry but through some twists of fate we ended up owning a cafe on the lake. We have an amazing view of the lake from our patio, with outside seating for about 20 or so people, as well as about 20 or so inside. We have a beer and wine license with a great selection of craft beers and wines. We also have (very) gourmet coffee with amazing espresso and locally roasted coffees.
Enough of the background already...
This spring I'd like to host a Herf, and I need some advise as well as maybe a kick in the head as to why we're doing this in the first place! We'll have to close the place down, and make it a private event to comply with smoking rules. With that said, we'll be charging entry for the event. I'm thinking that we should charge about $35 and include none alcoholic drinks and hor de'oeuvres and maybe some entertainment. Charge for beer and wine, and any entrees attendees would want.
Advantages, beautiful views of Lake Tahoe while enjoying a cigar or 3, plenty of recreational activities if the family is coming up for the weekend, good food and drinks in an area where people don't smoke in public a lot. Enjoy the BOTL company that comes with sharing a good smoke with friends.
Disadvantages, I have no idea how many cigar smokers are local, if anyone would buy a ticket, or if anyone would come up to the lake for the event.
Do we loose our ass closing down for an event no one buys a ticket for? Or do it and hope for the best?
If you were somewhat local would you buy a ticket? Or enjoy a good cigar at your home?
Asking the questions to the FOH mind trust before committing to this type of event.
FYI, I design automation systems for heavy industry, mostly mining, and my wife is a corporate accountant, so the hospitality stuff isn't really in our wheelhouse.
Thanks for any advice in advance!