How to Choose the Perfect Neon Open Sign for Your Storefront

First impressions matter - especially for storefronts competing for customer attention. A bright, welcoming open sign can instantly attract passersby and signal that your business is ready to serve. Among all options, neon open signs for business are timeless favorites for their visibility, charm, and character.

If you’re wondering how to select the right open neon sign for your shop, cafe, or bar, this guide breaks it down step by step. From design and color choice to size and placement, here’s everything you need to know before buying one.

1. Why a Neon Open Sign Still Works

Despite the shift to digital marketing, the physical storefront remains your brand’s first touchpoint. An illuminated open sign is more than a functional display - it’s a visual invitation.

A well-designed open light sign can:

• Enhance visibility during day and night
• Attract foot traffic
• Reinforce your brand personality
• Create a welcoming atmosphere

Modern LED open signs for business combine classic neon aesthetics with energy-efficient lighting. They’re bright, durable, and customizable, making them ideal for small stores, restaurants, and salons alike.

If you’re searching for neon signs for sale, you’ll find endless variations - from retro open signs with nostalgic appeal to modern LED open closed signs with color-switching options.

2. Types of Neon Open Signs You Can Choose

Choosing the right open signs for shops depends on your business type, location, and design preference. Here are some popular options to consider:

a. Traditional Glass Neon Open Signs

These use glass tubes filled with gas to produce a vivid glow. The vintage neon open sign look works beautifully for diners, bars, and retail stores seeking that classic charm.

b. LED Neon Open Signs

Made with flexible silicone tubing, LED open signs mimic traditional neon but are safer and more energy-efficient. They’re long-lasting, lightweight, and can be customized into nearly any design.

c. Custom Open Signs

For brands that want to stand out, custom open signs allow you to choose your own font, color, size, and logo. Pairing your open message with your LED name lights or brand logo can make your storefront instantly recognizable.

d. Retro & Themed Signs

Want to channel old-school aesthetics? A retro neon open sign or bar open sign adds personality. These often feature bold fonts, glowing borders, or color gradients that bring nostalgic flair to your business.

3. Choosing the Right Size for Your Storefront

When picking the size of your open signs outdoor, consider visibility and proportion. Here’s a quick guide:

• Small Shops (Under 300 sq ft): A light up open sign around 18-24 inches wide is ideal.
• Medium Stores (300–600 sq ft): Go for a big open sign between 24-36 inches for better visibility.
• Large Storefronts or Restaurants: Opt for oversized illuminated open signs or dual open closed LED signs that can be seen from a distance.

Always position your neon window signs at eye level or slightly above it for maximum effect.

4. The Best Colors for Neon Open Signs

Color plays a huge role in visibility and mood. Here’s how different hues can impact your store’s vibe:

• Red Open Signs: Classic and bold, great for bars or nightclubs.
• Blue Open Signs: Cool and calming, often used in salons or spas.
• White or Yellow Neon: Clean and modern, suitable for cafes and boutiques.
• Green or Multicolor: Playful and dynamic for tech stores or retail outlets.

The right color should reflect your brand personality. For instance, pairing a neon open sign with matching custom light up signs creates a cohesive, professional look.

5. Placement Tips for Maximum Visibility

Where you place your open sign affects how easily customers notice it. Follow these tips:

• Front Windows: The best location for neon window signs, ensuring visibility from both directions.
• Above Entryways: Perfect for large storefronts or malls.
• Outdoor Walls: Use waterproof open signs outdoor options to attract attention at night.
• Indoor Counters: Compact LED open signs for business work well inside cafes or takeaway outlets.

If your business operates at night, combine your open neon sign with subtle ambient lighting to create an inviting glow.

6. Comparing LED and Traditional Neon

Not sure whether to choose traditional neon or LED? Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	Traditional Neon	LED Neon
Brightness	Softer, vintage glow	Adjustable, bright output
Power Use	High	Energy-efficient
Maintenance	Fragile, requires upkeep	Low maintenance
Customization	Limited shapes	Fully flexible
Cost	Higher	More affordable

For most modern businesses, LED open signs are the smarter choice. They’re eco-friendly, safe to handle, and compatible with indoor or outdoor setups. You can even customize them to act as LED name lights or part of your brand wall.

7. Design Ideas for Modern Storefronts

Want your open signs for business to stand out? Here are some trending design styles:

• Minimal Typography: Clean fonts with warm white lighting.
• Double-Color Borders: Contrasting tones like red and blue for impact.
• Logo + Open Combo: Combine your logo and open text for instant brand recall.
• Animated Lighting: Flash or fade effects for light up open signs that grab attention.
• Retro Aesthetic: A retro open sign brings nostalgic character to themed stores.

Each design element contributes to your brand’s visual language, turning a simple sign into a marketing tool.

8. Durability and Weather Resistance

If your open sign is outdoors, durability is crucial. Look for neon signs for business that are water-resistant and UV-protected. Acrylic backing is ideal since it’s lightweight and sturdy.

For windy or rainy regions, ensure your open light sign includes proper mounting brackets and sealed edges. High-quality illuminated open signs from trusted brands like NeonChamp are built to last years with minimal maintenance.

9. Matching Your Open Sign with Interior Decor

Consistency makes your space look intentional. Pair your open neon sign with:

• Wall neon signs featuring your tagline or slogan
• Warm accent lights for depth
• LED strips to complement your brand colors

Restaurants often combine open signs for restaurants with glowing menu boards, while salons may use elegant custom light up signs that match their interior themes.

10. Energy Efficiency and Longevity

Modern LED open signs last up to 50,000 hours or more, offering long-term savings. They consume up to 70% less power than traditional glass neon.

When comparing neon signs for sale, check for features like dimmer options, remote controls, and adjustable brightness - these small upgrades make a big difference in usability and lifespan.

Final Thoughts

A well-designed open neon sign is more than decor - it’s an investment in visibility, branding, and customer experience. Whether you prefer a vintage neon open sign, a retro open sign, or a modern LED open sign, the right choice will make your storefront shine brighter and draw in more customers.

At NeonChamp, we craft premium-quality neon signs, custom light up signs, and LED name lights to match your business needs. Explore our neon signs for sale and bring your storefront to life with an illuminated open sign that stands out day or night.