Casual Living

I really believe home is where the heart is. As we move into the season of cool air and warm sweaters here are some ideas to help you tug at your customer’s heart strings by creating a “homey” environment in the store.

In past blogs we’ve talked about color. It is the first thing a person notices, either on a conscious or subconscious level. Developing a seasonal color palette is extremely important. You can do this without a complete store overhaul. Pick a color that you like and find ways to work it in to your displays.

Orange is a really “hot” color right now (hint hint hint!) so I’ve chosen it as my example color theme. By bringing in different accessory items in your "signature" color you can achieve that homespun warmth in your store while creating some seasonal ambiance.

Outdoor living stores and garden centers often have hard floors. Take a tip from 18^th century colonist and put down some rugs as the weather gets cooler. Even a doormat here and there can make a big difference.

Seasonal elements from nature, either real or artificial, can provide “filler” as well as lend that autumnal “feel” to your displays. These ceramic pumpkins are beautiful or choose faux pumpkins and gourds which are readily available and can be reused from year to year. 

Accessorizing your outdoor dining vignettes can help a customers visualize the possibilities in their own space. Leaf plates are great when placed on wicker chargers to immolate an outdoor “picnic” or a back-to-school gathering for the neighbors. 

Lanterns are an extremely versatile accessory to sell or to enhance a display. Use them tables, bookshelves or next chairs as an accent. Display with a classic candle or fill them with mini-pumpkins and acorns for a decoration that is more visually stimulating. 

Most importantly - be creative with your accessories and have FUN with your displays.  

images courtesy of www.WilliamsburgMarketplace.com