A neon sign on your storefront is one of the simplest yet most effective kinds ways to alert passersby to your business. Because neon is readable in daylight, and also pops at night, signs with neon promote your business 24/7.
Select a signage firm
One of the best ways to select a firm to design and manufacture your neon sign is to find businesses that have signs you like and ask the owners who designed them. Also search online directories for sign makers or even buy online.
I recommend: Choose from a large selection of ready-made signs or design your own atonline shops
Everything-Neon.com and
Buy-Neon.com. The
United States Sign Council offers an online directory of members who manufacture signs. Search for local shops at online Yellow Pages, such as the ones at
Yahoo and
MSN.
Make it noticeable
Before deciding what size your sign should be, or where to place it, conduct field work by walking and driving by your business and assessing visibility.
I recommend: See the
U.S. Chamber of Commerce guide to figuring out proper sizing and placement.
Know the law
Many towns have zoning laws regulating signage; some communities ban neon on certain blocks, while others regulate the size of signs. You might need to consult with a lawyer to learn whether your community regulates neon signs and, if necessary, apply for a zoning variance.
I recommend: The
Small Business Administration gives you advice on signs and the law, including instructions on making your case for a variance to a zoning board.