Naming a company is always a fun and challenging task, but there’s something special about coming up with a recreational company name. It’s a chance to be playful and whimsical, to sprinkle a little magic dust on the creative process and appeal to your target’s inner child.
Whether you’re opening an arcade, a sports facility, a movie theater, a theme park, an escape room, a party planning business, or something else that floats your (bumper) boat, here are some tips for creating a company name that promises an entertaining ride.
Tell a Story in Just a Few Words
Some of the best recreational company names say so much with a few words or less. Shenaniganz is a great example. It’s impish and playful and hints at the myriad activities that both kids and adults can get up to: bowling, axe throwing, virtual reality, arcade games, bumper cars, and more. The name lets target customers know that Shenaniganz is a place where they can let loose and have fun.
Another excellent example of a recreation company name that tells a story is Painting with a Twist, an art studio where inexperienced artists can come to paint, socialize, and drink wine. The word “twist” works well because it calls to mind the action of twisting a cork out of a wine bottle or adding a twist of lime, and it also conveys a relaxed air that lets customers know they don’t have to be talented painters to participate.
Be Aware of Seasonal Challenges
Many seasonal recreational companies adjust their approach in the off-season in order to continue drawing business. Ski resorts may offer activities like mountain biking and zip lining in the warmer months, and summer-centric businesses like sleepaway camps offer educational school trips during the school year. Don’t put unnecessary limitations on your recreational business; if you want it to be seen as a year-round destination, try to avoid names that might repel customers in the off-season.
For example, a farm that offers year-round activities from berry-picking to haunted hayrides probably shouldn’t have the name Summerland Farm. It could make potential customers believe there’s nothing fun to do there during fall and winter.
Don’t Over-complicate the Process
There’s beauty in simplicity, and even though the options for naming a recreational company are boundless, you don’t want to get too carried away trying to do something wacky and different. Some of the most successful recreational businesses keep it short, sweet, and straightforward, including companies like Topgolf, Studio Movie Grill, Seaworld, and Planet Fitness. These names promise action and entertainment without making people stop and wonder, “How did they come up with that name?”
Aim at the Appropriate Audience
When naming a recreation company aimed at kids, you don’t need to worry about sounding too juvenile. Aqua-Tots, Celebration Station, and The Little Gym are great examples of kid-centric recreation company names. When it comes to adults, however, you need to strike a delicate balance. Your company name can’t sound too juvenile, or adults will feel silly participating; at the same time, you still need to let them know that they can let go of their inhibitions and just have fun.
Urban Air is a great example of this. It hints at the action-packed, enjoyable experience that you would expect from an indoor trampoline park — with a little bit of edginess that appeals to teenagers and adults.
Atlantis Bahamas is another excellent recreation company name. As a resort, it technically falls into the hospitality category, but features such as pools, water parks, golf courses, and dolphin encounters make it a recreational company as well. The name works perfectly because there’s an air of both exclusivity and adventure to it — after all, Atlantis is the “lost city” of myth, so it’s as if everyone who stays there has stumbled upon hidden treasure. The name lets you know that there is so much to experience and discover.
How NameStormers Can Help
Are you ready to name your recreational company? Our experts at NameStormers have more than three decades of experience naming companies of all sizes across all industries. Our unique methodology allows us to create names that are splashy, original, and viable. We can’t wait to hear more about your recreational company and get started on your naming project. Get in touch with us today!