By Lyn M. Falk, Retail Works Inc.
According to some reports, consumers are going to start their holiday shopping in October, so that means it’s already time to deck the halls —now! Here is a helpful checklist to get you started:
Planning
Did you take pictures of last year’s décor? What still works and what needs to be changed/tossed/refreshed? Who is responsible for putting up the décor, and when? How much can you spend on new items? Make a plan and stick to it.
Exterior Décor
Can you add extra lights around your entrance(s)? If you have benches or lamp posts outside your building, give them some Holiday love by wrapping them with strips of outdoor fabric. Give evergreens in window boxes or sidewalk urns a twist by spraying some of them gold. (Remember, gold is in these days!) Wrap tree trunks with fun outdoor ribbon and/or hang ornaments from the lower branches.
And of course, your windows have to be outrageously fun and overflowing with Holiday happiness. Create a wonderland of products and props in a theme that all work together, i.e.: family room set up with a tree, large flat screen, fireplace, comfy furniture, shag carpet, funky floor lamps, bar cart, and boxes of popcorn!
Interior Decor
Decide on a theme, then strategically locate where you’ll put/hang your decorative elements, i.e.: big wreaths, garland, tree, oversized wrapped gift boxes. But DON’T overdo it. Remember, your products are still the star of the show. The décor should create a festive photographic backdrop for customers to take photos to share on social media.
Finally
Reiterate that your establishment is safe and clean. Remind customers of the various safety measurements you continue to have in place, such as: facemasks, sanitizing stations, the limited number of people allowed inside at one time, and if possible, the option to make a personal shopping appointment.
Lyn M. Falk is President and Founder of Retailworks Inc., an award-winning branding, design, display and consulting firm specializing in retail, corporate and hospitality spaces. A registered interior designer and retail consultant and a regular contributor to YSN and the AVB’s store Makeover Manual, Falk has devoted over 35 years to helping businesses build healthy, purposeful and productive spaces that move hearts, minds and merchandise. Contact Lyn at lfalk@retailworksinc.com.
