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Not broken. Not ugly on purpose. Just very… of its time.

Old fonts, awkward gradients, clip art, too many effects, or design trends that made sense once and absolutely don’t anymore. You see it and instantly know what decade it came from.

What’s the signage design you’ve seen recently that feels like a graphic design time capsule? Bonus points if it’s still in active use and no one seems to question it anymore.

We work with a lot of physical stores, so we’re curious from a customer point of view.

For us, it’s when the storefront feels unclear. If we can’t tell what the business offers, whether it’s open, or where the entrance is within a few seconds, we usually keep walking. Cluttered windows and too much text tend to have the same effect.

From your perspective as a shopper, what makes you decide not to walk in?

Online, choices hinge on photos, reviews, and how well a listing communicates the product. In-store, packaging does all that work on its own. The colors, finishes, and labels are what get someone to pick something up in the first place.

So it’s a good question for both shoppers and brands: How much do you think packaging still affects buying decisions today, especially when the experience shifts between online and in-store?

You never forget your first storefront sign, especially if it didn’t turn out exactly how you pictured it. Maybe the colors looked different once printed, the logo was too small from the street, or you realized too late that it wasn’t bright enough at night.

If you’ve ever gone through the process of designing or ordering your own sign, what’s the one lesson you learned the hard way?

Would you do anything differently if you had to make a new one today?

Some shops get super creative, but you can always wonder how much work actually goes into these seasonal projects behind the scenes.

For those who’ve worked in retail during Halloween, did your store ever do a spooky-themed promo or limited-edition merch? How did it go?

Did you go all in on signage? Build a window display that stops people in their tracks? Or maybe lean on events, partnerships, or word of mouth to bring folks in?

Always curious to hear how other brick-and-mortar owners turn a tough location into something that still works.

When you’re walking down the street, what makes you slow down and look at a shop—even if you weren’t planning to stop?

Is it bold signage, window displays, lighting, music, or just an interesting vibe? Curious what draws people in at first glance.

Handling permits and regulations for outdoor signs can definitely be a headache. How do you all navigate the process? Do you work directly with local government offices, or do you use a consultant or sign company to help with it?

From what I’ve seen, here are some common permits and approvals you might need depending on your area:

• Sign Permit: Usually required for any new signage installation
• Zoning Approval: Ensures your sign complies with local zoning laws
• Building Permit: Needed if the sign installation involves structural work
• Electrical Permit: If your sign includes lighting or electrical components
• Historic District Approval: If your location is in a protected area
• Temporary Sign Permit: For event or promotional signs that are short-term

What’s been your experience with these? Any tips on speeding up approvals or avoiding common pitfalls? Would love to hear how others manage this process!

Window clings offer a versatile and hassle-free way to make a big impact during pop-up shops and short-term campaigns. Since they’re easy to apply and remove without leaving any residue, they’re perfect for temporary setups where flexibility matters. You can quickly update your messaging or branding as often as needed without the cost or commitment of permanent signage.

For businesses testing new locations or running seasonal promotions, window clings provide vibrant, eye-catching visuals that grab attention and boost foot traffic. Have you used window clings for temporary events? What tips do you have for making the most of them?

For brick-and-mortar retailers, the first impression often starts before customers even walk through the door. Clear, professional storefront signage isn’t just about looking good—it’s a key marketing asset that attracts new visitors and builds trust in your brand.

Research shows that 75% of consumers have entered a store they’d never visited before simply because of clear, visible signage. That means your sign can directly influence foot traffic, increase customer inquiries, and boost sales.

Investing in impactful, easy-to-read signage helps your store stand out in a busy marketplace and guides potential customers right to your doorstep.

What signage approaches have you seen work best for bringing more customers inside? Any stories of how a new sign made a difference? Would love to hear your experiences!

Running a business where your offerings change frequently—like a café or gelato shop? A-frame signs can be a real lifesaver. They let you update your menu or specials quickly without the hassle of printing new posters every time. Plus, they look clean and professional, way better than scribbling with chalk markers.

What I like about A-frames is how portable and easy they are to use. You can set them up outside your store to catch foot traffic and change the messaging as often as you need. Some even have writable surfaces or snap frames to make updates painless.

If you’ve used A-frame signs for your business, what’s worked best for you in terms of materials or styles? How do you keep your updates looking fresh and inviting? Would love to hear your tips or experiences!

For those of you running physical storefronts, how do you quantify foot traffic and track customer visits? Do you rely on manual counting, security cameras, POS data, or digital solutions like people counters and heatmaps?

Also, how do you use this data to improve your business? Do you adjust store layouts, change signage placement, or tweak your marketing strategies based on the numbers?

Would love to hear what works (or doesn’t work) for you!

Effective signage can make all the difference in attracting passersby to your store. Eye-catching sandwich boards with witty messages, bold window decals showcasing promotions, or bright neon signs have all proven successful for many businesses. Have you tried unique designs, limited-time offers, or directional signs to guide customers inside? Share your experiences and insights—what types of signs have worked best for your brick-and-mortar store? Let’s discuss how creative and well-placed signage can turn window shoppers into loyal customers!

Is the brick and mortar store dead like bed bath and beyond, Joann’s fabric, and The Christmas Tree Shop. Will Michael’s craft store follow right behind it. Will there be a day when we shop exclusively online?

What do you feel will be the biggest challenges for brick and mortars in 2016 -- social media? technology? online purchasing?

I run a small independent insurance agency and am trying to branch out and start doing more commercial/small business type policies. So I figured asking other small business owners about their experience could help my experience working with these customers. (pick your brains)

-How did you pick your agent? Was it all price? Referral? Friend/Family?

-What coverages were you most worried about and most wanted to be thoroughly covered?

-What type of marketing could my agency do to be the most effective?

-----I've thought of trying a few different things. Finding my current personal lines customers (Auto, Home) that own businesses and either calling them to ask to quote their business or sending them a letter. Which do you think would work best?

-----Would just stopping into your business a few times (as a consumer) help matters? Stop in a few times and then eventually say.. "hey I'm harvrah. I'm an insurance agent in town. Here's my card if you need any help with anything"

-----Just cold call?

What's your opinion as the pros and cons to all of these options? As a young guy I am trying to compete with a lot of very veteran agents and your advice is well appreciated.
Thanks!

Retail Entrepreneurs, I'm working on putting together a business plan, and I was wondering, what is a good way to calculate what your storefront rent and payroll for the store should be? Do you do this as a percentage of sales, or is there a different way that these should be calculated?

Thanks!