Hanging Out Your Own Shingle

Hanging out your shingle is an old expression going back a couple of centuries when a professional who usually worked out of their home would create a sign made of a tile or shingle and post it near their door. Things have changed a lot since those times and, like everything else in life, became much more complicated. Opening a brick and mortar business is an exciting and expensive time. Choosing the right sign to begin branding your business is a big part of showing people who you are and what your service or product is.

If you are ready to select a sign for your business here are four steps to help you select the best storefront sign for your particular business:

• Check Zoning - The first thing you will need to do is check zoning restrictions at your location. You can do this by contacting the city planning office in your community. They often provide information on sign size restrictions, illumination restrictions, number of signs allowed and so on. If you are leasing a space or building you will want to review your lease to make sure whatever you install is in compliance not only with the city but with your lessor as well. Many a businessman who installed a sign not in compliance has become very frustrated when they received a fine and had to replace the sign. Do not be one of them. Lit Signs
• Make Sure Your Sign Fits The Neighborhood - You will want to make sure your sign adapts to other businesses around you and to the environment in which you are going to be operating. If you are in an historic district you will want your sign to reflect that period or if you are in a new modern strip mall you may want something flashy.
• The "Kiss" Method - Keep it simple (stupid). A simple well-designed sign can make as strong as an impression as a more elaborate, fancy sign that is simply made to attract attention. Avoid putting a lot of detailed information on your sign. Make sure it is not cluttered or confusing. Remember this sign is more than likely going to be part of your branding.
• Do Not Overkill - What we mean by that is storefront signs come in all types of materials, sizes and shapes.

• They can be illuminated, backlit, part of an awning, made out of plywood or plastic. They can be constructed out of wood, metal or be painted on glass. They can be made in any color on almost any material.

Once you have narrowed down what you feel you need and can afford, it is time to talk to your sign company and present your ideas. Do not let price be your guide with such an important task. Pick an established company that cannot only construct your sign(s) but offer suggestions based on their own wisdom and experience. Choosing the right sign company is a whole other article. For right now follow the above steps to get started and see where it takes you.

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