So You Want a Custom Sign? A Checklist for Business Owners

Name: Apogee Signs
Price range: $$

Eye-catching signage is a powerful tool for any business. A custom sign can turn heads, promote your brand, and leave a lasting impression on potential customers. Imagine driving by a storefront with a sign that perfectly captures your brand identity and entices you to step inside. That’s the power of a well-designed custom sign!

However, before you contact a sign company and get swept up in the exciting world of design options and materials, take a step back. Having a clear vision in mind is crucial for a successful outcome. The following checklist will guide you through some key questions to consider. By gathering this information beforehand, you’ll be well-equipped to have a productive conversation with a sign company. This will ensure your custom sign perfectly reflects your brand and achieves your marketing goals.

Define Your Goals (What are you hoping to achieve?)

Having a clear understanding of your goals will guide the design and messaging of your sign.

Are you looking to:

- Increase brand awareness? A prominent sign with your logo and company name can help you achieve this.
- Attract new customers? Consider incorporating a special offer or highlighting a unique selling proposition on the sign.
- Direct customers to your entrance? A clear and concise wayfinding sign is essential.

Know Your Location (Where will the sign be displayed?)

The location of your sign will influence several factors, including:

- Size and visibility: A pylon sign for a highway might be much larger than a door sign for a storefront.
- Materials: You’ll likely need a weatherproof material for an outdoor sign, whereas wood or acrylic might be suitable for an indoor sign.
- Regulations: Local zoning ordinances might have restrictions on sign size, placement, and lighting. Checking with your local authorities can save you time and frustration down the line.

Consider Size and Visibility (How big and how well will it be seen?)

The size of your sign should strike a balance between grabbing attention and complementing its surroundings. Here are some things to consider:

- Traffic flow: If potential customers are driving by quickly, a larger sign might be necessary.
- Viewing distance: The sign should be easily readable from the intended distance.
- Existing visual landscape: Avoid a sign that will be overshadowed by trees, buildings, or other signage.

Craft Your Message (What do you want people to know?)

Keep your custom sign clear, concise, and easy to read from a distance. Here are some tips for crafting an effective message:

- Focus on the most important information.
- Use strong verbs and action words.
- Keep it brief – people absorb information quickly in passing.

Develop a Design Concept (Optional - Do you have a visual style in mind?)

Having a design concept in mind can help you communicate your vision to the sign company. This could include:

- Color scheme: Consider colors that complement your brand identity and are eye-catching.
- Font style: Choose a font that is easy to read and reflects the tone of your brand (professional, playful, etc.).
- Logo or imagery: If you have a logo or specific image you want to incorporate, have it readily available.
- Mood board or sketches: These can be a great way to visually represent your ideas, even if they’re not polished.

Set a Budget (How much are you willing to spend?)

Custom signs can vary greatly in price depending on several factors:

- Size and complexity: Larger signs with intricate designs will naturally cost more.
- Materials: Materials like wood or metal can be more expensive than vinyl banners.
- Lighting or electrical components: Illuminated signs will add to the cost.

Determine a realistic budget to guide the sign company in suggesting suitable options that fit your needs.

Think About Maintenance (How easy will it be to keep clean?)

Consider the long-term upkeep of your sign. Here are some things to think about:

- Material selection: Some materials are easier to clean and maintain than others.
- Accessibility: How easy will it be to reach the sign for cleaning or maintenance?

By gathering this information beforehand, you’ll be well-equipped to have a productive conversation with a sign company. Think of yourself as armed with a roadmap to guide the design process. The sign company will be able to leverage your input to translate your vision into a tangible masterpiece. They’ll advise you on the most suitable materials, sizing, and placement to ensure your custom sign delivers maximum impact.

Remember, a well-designed custom sign is an investment in your business’s success. By taking the time to plan and collaborate with a sign company, you’ll get a sign that you’re proud of, one that attracts customers and strengthens your brand presence for years to come.