The chips won't matter, for chippers sure but for regular folk they won't really care one way or the other
The tables, space, and chairs help.
Having offerings of beer/beverages, some kind of snack whether it's a hot dog roller or popcorn machine, soft pretzels and nacho cheese... it may take a bit financially to get things going, you can ask your players to bring donations but I would let them get to that stage on their own. The biggest thing is the environment and the people, having a good crowd. Players that show up on time, players that don't disrespect other players. Being organized, (for tournaments) have your starting stacks ready to go when people arrive, offer on time bonuses (generally a single 1k chip or something of the nature) to encourage people to be on time, have a clear display of your time clock and blinds (just throwing out ideas, you may already do this)
Also having clear house rules, and handling any situations that may arise in a timely and fair manor will also bring better players and a better environment.
I agree with maybe starting on a week night when more people are available, have friends inquire with friends to bring new players. If you get solid recruits, have them reach out to friends and family they may know. Once your game becomes solid, switching back to a Friday or Saturday night will be easier as people will want to come.
Never be afraid to tell someone not to come back if they disrupt the comfort of your game or players. I agree that maybe starting out getting things going with the football season approaching may be a good way to branch out, just be careful of folks getting distracted by TV action during a hand. I also recommend using an evite or group text, the evite is great as it offers yes, no, and maybe along with reminder emails the week of. Last minute cancellations are ok sometimes, but if you have 2 regulars that bail more often than not don't waste your time. Just be honest with them, a simple hey I need more commitment or I will be obligated not to invite you as our game is dependent on you being here. As the game grows them showing up occasionally won't have such an effect.
Do you play primarily hold em for cash games? Maybe introducing mixed games slowly, or bomb pots and straddles, different things to keep the game fun (if you don't already do these things, just brain storming)
Also, please don't take any of the above in offense as I don't mean to come off that you don't know how to host a game, just thinking of smaller details that really do make a difference in regards to getting more players, and good people.
Edit- I also agree with the above, perhaps knowing the stakes, and pay outs would be a bit helpful as well
