For instance, a restaurant wants to seat more of their patrons on an outdoor patio to take advantage of the warmer weather. They are seeking a way to alert potential diners to the lovely setting. Would a sidewalk sign be appropriate and effective?

Or, that same restaurant has changed their menu to reflect the season and they want to showcase their new entrees. Would a dry-erase A-Frame with their handwritten specialties do the trick? Or, what about a swinging one that hangs from a frame with several signs they can change out?

Now, what if that same restaurant already has these signs in place? Consider whether the color, layout, and message are appropriate. Hot weather calls for sizzling graphics or even a contrasting 'cool' message. Who wouldn't enjoy seeing a frosty "ICE COLD REFRESHMENT" advertisement on a 100-degree day!

Besides a change in strategy, customers change their marketing locations in response to the summer season as well. Meets such as car shows, festivals, fairs, and flea markets abound. Your clients may be using these events to vend their products and services. Wouldn't an eye-catching banner bring in more 'lookers' at their booth?

Even if your clients' locations stay put, they likely take advantage of the fact that more of their potential buyers are outdoors. Fast food establishments, strip shopping centers, or auto dealerships respond with twirling signs that rotate and flags or pennants that wave in the wind. As they move, they attract attention. Why not design some with unique messages for their businesses?

Additionally, summer signmaking opportunities abound when you analyze and target businesses whose operations swell along with the increase in outdoor activities. Would a visit to the local marina or recreational vehicle dealership be productive? A flier detailing your artistic lettering and graphic capabilities could educate sellers and buyers alike on custom services. What about contacting managers of apartments and condos and asking them whether they have pool rules posted? Better yet, visit them with a sample sign and show them how inexpensive it is to be safety conscious.

Couldn't golf ranges, putt-putt and go-kart courses benefit from posting rules and regulations as well? Or, do they need an easy-to-read price board or a snappy banner to wake passing motorists? And how about lawn mower repair shops or tractor supply houses? Show these how timely and appropriate identification will enable them to tap into the busy season.

So when the heat is on, make your signmaking opportunities rise along with the summer temperatures! The season is unique and so are the advertising possibilities. Look for them by analyzing how your customers respond and change their marketing strategies, locations, and operations.