When the team behind the renovation of Manxonia House - one of the most historic buildings in the south of the Isle of Man - approached us to help launch their new venue 'Kellas', we couldn't resist.
Combining the heritage and original features of the Victorian schoolhouse with a contemporary design and jaw-dropping interiors, we knew they were creating something very special.
The brief
The team behind Kellas appointed Sidekick PR in early 2024 to manage the PR around the launch of the new venue, in April/May 2024.
Our objectives were:
- To generate excitement within the Manx community around the development of Kellas, with the aim of driving post-opening bookings and enquiries;
- Showcasing the diverse offering Kellas brings to the community
- Highlighting the scale of the refurbishment project, the team's attention to detail and the sensitive restoration of Manxonia House
Delivery
This was a short, sharp campaign taking place over the duration of just one month, as the finishing touches to the building were being completed.
We compiled an announcement launching a countdown to the opening of Kellas, before arranging 'sneak peek' tours of the site, weeks before the public would see it.
Once we'd created a buzz, it was then time to confirm the opening date and secure profile raising opportunities around the VIP launch and the official opening, too.
The results
We secured on-message coverage in all of the Isle of Man's media outlets, ensuring widespread reach and sparking conversation around the development.
Reservations filled up prior to opening, with people jostling to get a table at the Isle of Man's hottest new place to go.
- 57,000people reached through media coverage
- 5in-person media interviews with the team
