Crisp mornings, colorful leaves, and pumpkin-spiced everything — fall in Seattle is a season full of energy and opportunity for local businesses. But as the days get shorter and the rain rolls in, your signage needs to work a little harder to stay eye-catching and durable.
Whether you’re a coffee shop promoting seasonal drinks, a boutique gearing up for holiday shoppers, or a restaurant hoping to draw in cozy dinner crowds, your signage is your silent salesperson. Let’s break down the best ways to keep your business signs strong, stylish, and effective this fall.
1. Weatherproof Your Signs
Seattle’s fall weather is famously unpredictable. One moment you’re basking in afternoon sun, and the next you’re dodging a downpour. That means your signage needs to withstand moisture, wind, and shifting temps.
Smart material choices: Durable options like aluminum, acrylic, and PVC hold up against wet conditions without warping or fading. For temporary promotions, vinyl banners with a weather-resistant coating are a go-to. Don’t forget UV-resistant finishes to fight off fading from those surprise sunny days.
Extra protection: Already have signs in place? A protective laminate or sealant can extend their life — especially for wooden signs, which absorb moisture if left untreated.
2. Keep Visibility High as Days Get Shorter
By mid-fall, Seattle sunsets happen well before dinnertime. That means your signage needs to shine even after dark.
Add illumination: LED-lit signs and spotlights help your message stand out and give your storefront a professional, polished look.
Design with contrast: Pair bright lettering with darker backgrounds (or vice versa) so your message pops in low light. Warm fall colors like orange, gold, and deep red can bring seasonal flair without sacrificing readability.
3. Use Seasonal Promotions to Your Advantage
Fall is full of reasons to refresh your signage: back-to-school, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and early holiday shopping. Temporary signs let you highlight specials without long-term commitment.
Custom banners: Affordable, durable, and quick to install, banners are perfect for seasonal deals. Add fall-inspired graphics like leaves or pumpkins for a festive touch.
A-boards: Also called sandwich boards, these sidewalk signs are a Seattle staple. They’re portable, easy to update, and great for drawing in foot traffic. Just make sure you choose sturdy materials that won’t tip over when the wind kicks up.
4. Plan for Wind and Rain
If there’s one thing Seattleites know about fall, it’s that the weather doesn’t hold back. The last thing you want is a damaged or toppled sign.
Secure installation: Use rust-proof hardware and check your fastenings regularly. For banners, reinforced grommets and heavier poles can prevent tearing.
Weighted bases: If you’re using freestanding signs, invest in sturdy bases to keep them grounded against gusts.
5. Lean Into Fall Aesthetics
Autumn’s cozy vibes are the perfect design inspiration. Adding seasonal touches can make your signage more inviting and memorable.
Warm colors and imagery: Shades of burnt orange, mustard yellow, and burgundy instantly say “fall.” Pair them with visuals like falling leaves, hot drinks, or pumpkins for an extra seasonal spark.
Readable fonts: Bold, simple lettering ensures your message is seen from a distance. Even the prettiest fall design won’t matter if customers can’t read it quickly.
Ready to Refresh Your Signage This Fall?
Fall is a season full of opportunity, and your signage should rise to the occasion. At McNamara Signs, we create custom business signage designed to handle Seattle’s wet weather while standing out in style. From durable outdoor signs to eye-catching seasonal banners and illuminated displays, we’ll make sure your business gets noticed.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s get your fall signage ready to shine.