When you first see a business, how does it make you feel? Are you drawn to it or turned off by its appearance? Your restaurant’s storefront can affect your ability to attract good employees, impress new customers, and influence the amount of repeat business that you get.

1. Clean up the Parking Lot

If people walk into a parking lot full of trash, they are unlikely to be impressed by their initial experience. Make sure that the lot is well-lit enough to ensure safety for your guests as they enter and exit your business. You don’t want to lose customers because they don’t feel safe or comfortable in your neighborhood.

2. Make your Entryway Inviting

Your entryway is a big part of your business’s first impression. It can attract customers or turn them away before they even step inside. A nice door is a great way to make your entrance feel welcoming. Consider how you want customers to feel when they first walk in. Don’t skimp on the door since this is one of the first things people will notice about your business. Sometimes potted plants can make all of the difference in attracting customers and making them feel welcome.

3. Put Effort into your Signage

Make sure that you have easily visible signs for your business, both indoors and outdoors. If people can’t find you, they won’t come in. There should be a sign out front that is easily visible so that people know how to get inside.

4. Use Colors that Match

After your storefront is set up and the word has gotten out about your business, you should consider how people perceive you based on the colors you use. When decorating your storefront, make sure that you use colors that match what is going on inside. If there are bright colors or patterns inside the business, incorporate some of those into the wallpaper or paint choices for the outside.

5. Take Advantage of Lighting

Take advantage of lighting in ways that will highlight your business and its colors. Bright lighting can really make a difference when it comes to the overall feel of your storefront. Have the overhead lights on inside and use lamps outside to highlight store features, special offers, or even your regular products. Make sure the entrance is well lit so that customers can see where they are going on their way inside.

6. Comfortable Seating for Everyone

Consumers are more likely to purchase a product or service when they feel comfortable. Consider having some seating outside of your business so that people can sit comfortably if they have to wait. They should feel you want them to be there, even if you are a little busy at that moment. Furniture should be arranged in ways that encourage lingering and conversation.

An Inviting Atmosphere

As you can see, there are many subtle things that you can do to improve your storefront and make it more welcoming for customers. Take the time to consider what sort of impression that you want people to get when they first see your restaurant. Think about what you would like to see if you were walking by and looking in. Try to create the sort of atmosphere that will bring people inside. Show them know that you value their business and welcome them into your restaurant.