The holiday season is upon us — which for many restaurant owners means it’s time to break out the holiday décor. Decorating for the holidays is a stellar marketing tool that can help bring customers into your restaurant. After a long day of shopping, diners want to sit down and have a bite — but in November and December, they want to do it in a seasonal atmosphere.
Don’t have room in your budget to splurge on a giant tree and a high-end Christmas display? Don’t worry! There are lots of ways to decorate your restaurant for the season without breaking the budget. In fact, we have a few ideas to inspire you right here.
Stick to One Focal Point
We know what you’re thinking: “Do I REALLY have to decorate for the holidays?” Honestly, you should; research suggests that restaurants who decorate during December see a 5-10% sales increase over those who don’t! However, that doesn’t mean you need to decorate every inch of your store.
Instead of going all-out, choose one area of the restaurant and focus on decking THOSE halls. The lobby is often the best option, as customers can see it and be drawn in as they pass your location. A bright Christmas tree, strings of twinkling lights, or any other holiday display can go a long way to putting your guests in the holiday spirit.
Upgrade the Everyday
While holiday décor is an important part of your seasonal marketing, it shouldn’t totally take over your restaurant. It’s important that your holiday decorations complement your existing decor, so that your restaurant look remains in line with the company brand.
That said, there’s nothing wrong with giving your existing decor a seasonal spin. Toss a few baubles into vases or martini glasses that are on display. Wrap lights around the plants in your lobby or outside your doors. Adding holiday touches to your typical decor won’t go unnoticed — and you won’t have to take down your existing decor!
Shop Sustainably
There is no better way to save money on your holiday decor than by using it again and again. Investing in high-quality artificial trees, wreaths, lights, and other decorations may have a high initial cost, but it will ultimately you lots of money in the long run.
Artificial greenery and greenery can help you prepare for future holidays (and it’s better for the environment, too). However, don’t forget that the dining experience is still priority number one! Make sure your staff is friendly, trained, and supported by management, and you can expect success this holiday season and every month after!