The Inspiration

Main Street, Bridgehampton has notable influences from French culture. Other similar brands like Pierres and Almond evoke a marriage of Americana and Parisian je ne sais quoi. The idea was to bring together those influences with the nouveau riche influence of the younger generation frequenting the Hamptons. Gigi’s is a “cool kid” cafe. A haven for year-rounders and still appealing to the seasonal Hamptonites. The location is walkable for residents, is in close proximity to Hampton Jitney stop, King Kullen shopping center, and located right on Main Street.

The Idea

Growing year-round participation in businesses both from locals and vacationers is always the goal in eastern Suffolk. The battle faced revolves around: rising cost of housing and lack of jobs year round. With the proper data it can be assumed that majority of full time residents occupy different hubs and businesses than the seasonal folk, resulting in higher turnover rates among small businesses and lack of year-round options.

The Goal

Create an environment that serves both of the seasonal folk and local residents. Welcome the individuals who live here full time by creating low cost menu options, work/study friendly environments and by hiring locals. We can achieve success, all the while enhancing the community by having a year round aesthetically appealing establishment that attracts business during the high season.

The Approach

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING

• Create a strong brand image – Evoking the spirit of Parisian cafes and combing this with the All American vibe of the Hamptons.
• Tag and invite locals to connect and work.
• Create good content – TikTok trend videos, promotional content and giveaway, researched hashtags.

PR / INFLUENCER

• Submit press releases to local news outlets + new publications focusing on f&b. – Local: Southampton Press, The Southforker, 27East, The Sag Harbor Express, East Hampton Press, Hamptons Magazine F&B – Food Business News, Bon Appetit, The Spoon, etc.
• Invite travel influencers, f&b content creators, and Hamptons enthusiasts to get an exclusive sneak peek before grand opening. – @wishbonekitchen, @hamptonshour,@the_reccomendista, @thenewyorknest, @danielleferrara, etc.

Down The Line

PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATIONS

Fast forwarding we can work on special partnerships to further enhance the brands reach. Targeting fashion brands, Hampton frequenting celebrities, other f&b brands or homeware brands for collaboration on merchandise and special menu items (ala Erwhon) can be a way to increase revenue while still maintaining those low cost menu items and free work/study spaces.

BELOW: Previous example, Alice and Olivia collaboration with The Golden Pear.