Does FUNNY Sell?

When Signs Make You Laugh

In the past I have written about whether a funny business name helps to make a business successful. Today, however, I will pose the question, does a funny changeable message on a sign have an impact on one's business?

We frequently pass by a local (Big Guys Pizza) in Bridgeville, PA. Their sign cracks me up every time I pass it (and that's saying a lot when you're a sign professional who deals with signage daily).

Medical Marinara..Yes, Please

The First Time I Saw It...

I thought it was hysterical! There on the sign was the message: Now Selling Medical Marinara. Insert..'rolling on the floor laughing' emoji. Of course, one immediately understands the humor of a pizza establishment using lots of Marinara Sauce for their menu offerings. But the correlation of the message to the use and current debates of "Medical Marijuana" in many communities cannot be missed and why it especially makes the sign message funny.

So does it really work? The answer is Yes..in my opinion. While I am not looking at a sign study that proves it, I do know that a good advertisement is one which sells the product without drawing attention to itself. Advertising messages are supposed to be impactful and clever, but not overpowering.

Do Funny & Clever Messages Change One's Perception Of A Brand?

Most Animals & Owners Can Relate To This

I absolutely think so, because the business has reached the viewer on an unconscious level. These messages use various colors, shapes, images or words which enable customers or potential customers to make small but powerful associations between a brand and an intended meaning.

Indian Hills Community Center

Yes..It's Funny!

And let's face it, our culture is so frequently bombarded with negative news stories, maniacal politics and the like, that quite frankly, we enjoy seeing a humorous sign message that makes us laugh or smile. And..if the business owner is really savvy, like the Indian Hills Community Center in Colorado, they have realized that the regular & consistent use of humor in their messages, has built a following in the community, 'Drive-by-ers' and established or potential customers look forward to seeing each new message. Can that translate to increased business? You bet it can. Of course the food, product or service of the business has to have raging fans and keep customers coming back for more. But the bottom line is that these messages are funny and funny equals memorable and often, brand-building and socially shareable.

At Vital Signs we love a great, funny sign message or business name! If we can help to craft yours, please give us a call or stop by to speak to our design team.

(412) 494-3308 or visit us at: www.vitalsignspgh.com

A Little Hamstring Humor..

Runners Euphoria

Getting Your Money's Worth

Without any direct, personal knowledge, I have heard it said that avid runners are often the beneficiaries of what they call, a runner's high or euphoria when running. I would imagine that the feeling that they are referring to is generated from a physiological response of some sort of endorphin release. But there are other things that can add to the joy of running also, like: Humorous Signs!

I am always on the lookout for a fun sign story and this one did not disappoint. Apparently, the Bank of America in Chicago sponsors an annual marathon. With every marathon brings a big batch of screaming and supportive family members and friends to cheer their favorite runners on and holding their heartfelt, homemade signs. These signs are from various Chicago Marathons and one Pittsburgh Marathon..

An Infectious Dose Of Energy!

Motivators!

As I scrolled through the list of fun sign messages, I could not help but to think about how these signs would make me feel if I were the marathon contender, running by them. They are really hilarious. I can just imagine the tired, beleaguered folks running by and struggling to maintain their dwindling energy when coming upon the sign(s). Talk about a pick-me-up!

A Sign Of Unity

Banana Humor

What I especially love about the humorous marathon sign idea is that it is so much fun for everyone. It unifies the runners and their cheering crowd, but also makes any marathon planners or passers-by....happy! Wouldn't it be nice if the signs we hold up for most events, made us happy in this way..

Pittsburgh Marathoners...

This Sign..Found Only In Pittsburgh

In honor of the upcoming Great Race in Pittsburgh this weekend, Vital Signs wishes for you all:  Perfect weather, lots of hydration and a sprinkling of funny signs to propel you to the finish line!

If Vital Signs can help create your humorous message, please give us a call! 

(412) 494-3308 or www.vitalsignspgh.com

Happy Trails Ya'll!!

Windows Of Opportunity

Customized Window Graphics

Allegheny Health Network

In contrast to the past, there are now a variety of branding/home decor ideas within the space of digitally printed graphics. Our Vital Signs ' customers seek customized window graphics options for privacy, brand promotion, artistic work and home decor.

Branding.. Not The Same Ole, Same Ole

Back In The Day

There was a time when a business identification sign was the only source of business branding, unless a business could afford to feature a billboard message somewhere...not anymore!

The sky is really the limit for business branding options and even the sky can be used for moving airplane messages. A much easier and affordable solution is to utilize the windows/doors within a business space. Window graphics are an affordable and easily changed option for business owners and others.

Customers may be looking for window coverings to send an internal or external branding message, for privacy or simply as an artistic touch to the work environment. Fortunately, Vital Signs can take care of all of these for you.

Dual Solutions

It is not uncommon for customers to request window graphics as an extension to their custom wallcovering (another custom solution that Vital Signs offers). Looking to add a very custom touch to your corporate or home interior with wallcoverings, we can assist with the design, production and installation of your one-of-a-kind wallcovering/mural.

Home Decor Options

Frosted Vinyl Design For Bathroom Privacy

Whether you are looking for custom corporate wallcoverings or custom wallpaper and applications within the home, Vital Signs has an option(s) for you. Looking for a small frosted vinyl enhancement for a window...we can do it!

Artistic Bamboo Design

I Can See Clearly Now

Perhaps you have thought about adding window graphics but you're afraid to block the view/light? Not to worry, Vital Signs has a see-through vinyl option which allows the message to be seen for outside viewing, but does not obscure the inside views out of the window(s). 

Looking For An Effective Way To Brand Your Windows?

Call Vital Signs TODAY for a FREE Estimate!

(412) 494-3308 or Visit us at: www.vitalsignspgh.com

It's That Halloween Time Of Year!

October 31, 2019

Whole House Silhouette Windows

It's always fun for me to write about the fun and and sometimes over-the-top Halloween decorations that we can create for our customers at Halloween time. Halloween is one of those holidays that is almost universally loved. Not only can we don our colorful or creepy costumes, we get to decorate our living and work spaces to reflect our love of Halloween.

Custom Murals or Wallpaper (Removable)

Fun Finger Wallpaper

A Nightmare On (YOUR) Street

Embellished Mirrors

No matter what you are planning... a Ghoul's Night Out, a Halloween Hootenanny or simply choose to hand out candy and watch all of the kids in their most spooktacular costumes, cool Halloween decorations are a must. Inside or out; the mood must be established and Vital Signs has the design team to do it!

Vinyl Window Graphics Draped With Sheer Fabric

Give Me Some Ideas...

Custom Signs With Your Design

There are a large variety of Halloween Decorations that Vital Signs can produce to give your space that perfect holiday touch. Whether you are considering Kid-Friendly designs or an all out Boos & Booze Bash, we've got your covered (or at least your space covered).

Zombie (or your Halloween choice)  Bathroom Signs

Some of the Halloween themed products we can create are listed below:

Back-Lit Halloween Silhouettes

                                                                                                                                                               

• Applied vinyl to windows/doors (inside or out)
• Back-Lit Silhouettes
• Fun & Frightful Signs
• Door Decorations 
• Vinyl Embellished Mirrors
• Floor Graphics
• Whole-House Silhouette-Figured Windows
• Wall Murals/Custom Wallpaper (Removable)
• Halloween Themed Wrapped Objects

We Want To Help!

If you are need of some Halloween decorating assistance, we are only a phone call or email away! But you better be careful if you're trying to text us....

We Couldn't Resist!

Call Vital Signs (412) 494-3308 or visit us at:

www.vitalsignspgh.com

Pittsburgh Progress

The Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)

Vital Signs does a large amount of work for the PIT in various capacities. Recently, we had the enjoyable opportunity to make signs for a very neat project, which was just unveiled at the airport yesterday (July 24, 2019). The project is a new sensory room, called Presley's Place.

Presley's Place is being touted as the most comprehensive sensory-friendly airport suite in the world. The room was designed to accommodate individuals who are on the Autism spectrum; have sensory processing issues or other neurodevelopmental challenges. The idea for the room came from Jason Rudge, a PIT heavy equipment operation and the father of 4 year old Presley.

The Un-Veiling of Presley's Place

How Will The Room Help?

The link between brain and behavior is called 'sensory integration'. Most folks are able to regulate (receive and respond) to the various stimuli that they receive all day long, but for others there can be serious challenges in integrating the incoming stimuli. Add to this, the fact that airline travel is already stressful for most of us. It can be overwhelming for a person with sensory challenges.

Presley's Place Complete With Bubble Tubes

Enter Pittsburgh International Airport

Presley Checking Things Out

Presley In The Mock Airplane Cabin

The Pittsburgh Airport is in the midst of a costly, but much needed redevelopment effort. I think that the addition of this sensory room is not only inspired, it's smart! Presley's Place offers a calming respite for travelers with sensory processing issues and their families to de-escalate prior to getting on a plane or even after landing. To best understand the needs of this community, a variety of parents; caregivers and professionals were brought together to share their experiences and to offer suggestions for the room's design.

Key Features of Presley's Place (1500 sf) include:

• A realistic airplane cabin experience
• Private Soundproof Spaces
• Adjustable Lighting
• Transitional space between the concourse and room with real-time flight information and interactive terminal map
• A sensory-friendly restroom with adult changing station and adjustable sink
• Comfortable Seating
• Individual Rooms With Bubble Tubes 

Kudos to the Pittsburgh International Airport

Presley's Place is one shining example of the airport's on-going commitment to serve ALL passengers! Thanks for allowing Vital Signs to be a part of such a rewarding project!

We Can Help Execute Your Vision Too!

Call Vital Signs TODAY! (412) 494-3308

www.vitalsignspgh.com

* Images & information for this post was obtained from the Pittsburgh International Airport website.

Need Signs?

Obtaining signage for your business or event does not have to be a hassle. In fact, we work hard to make the process easy for you. There are considerations to think about when obtaining signage.
 
Some of the sign details and questions you should consider when planning for your sign(s) are listed below:
 

• Where will my sign be used (Interior or Exterior)?
• What type of sign material should I use (soft or hard)?
• Do I want a basic sign, high-end sign or something in between?
• Budget.. What can I afford to spend on signage?
• Do I need to consider the cost/financing of my signage before I start a business?
• How do I want the sign mounted?
• What surface will the sign be mounted to?
• What type of mount do I need? Hidden or Decorative.
• How high on the building/surface will my sign be mounted?
• How long do I need this sign to last?
• What size/shape do I want/need the sign to be?
• Do I need a single- sided or double- sided sign?
• Do I want an illuminated, non-illuminated or indirectly luminated sign?
• Are there landlord sign guidelines in my lease?
• Am I required to comply with a franchise sign design?
• Do I have the occupancy permit for my business location?
• Do I have a logo for my business?
• Do I have a design for my sign?
• Do I need a designer or can I work with your design staff?
• How many colors do I want to use?
• Do I want to use a specific font/text for my sign?
• Do my colors need to be very specific? (PMS/Pantone color chart)

Not sure about the answers to these questions? Give us a call! We will be happy to discuss all of the details with you, make suggestions and brainstorm the possibilities! 

Call Vital Signs TODAY  (412) 494-3308

Kindness Counts!

A Friendly Reminder..

The Aftermath Of Hate

On October 27, 2018, the world watched in horror as news about the latest mass shooting which took place at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, PA was broadcast. Sadly, these stories are becoming more commonplace. If it isn't a shooting, it is the daily war of politics, accusations and pointing fingers. In short, we have become a society of angry battling egos, or so it seems.

What A Great Message!

Enter Kindness Zone Signs 

I am consistently impressed with the progressive ideas and innovations that Pittsburgh has included in it's growth plan. And though the recent idea of placing 25 Kindness Zone Signs throughout the city is a simple one and may seem small to some, I love it! And no, Vital Signs didn't make the signs, but we think it's a great message to remind people of.

In response to the handful of people who were upset about the signs and their potential costs, Mayor Peduto explained that the city's sign shop made the signs with existing materials at no cost to the city.

Let's Make It Viral!

My only suggestion is that we should add these signs to every neighborhood! Truly, we are so bombarded with the "ugliness" of our world today, that I find it refreshing to see a positive message reminding us of who we were meant to be, not only as individuals, but as a city of diverse residents. I also think that these Kindness Zone Signs let our visitors and tourists know, that we value kindness. What better impression is there to make than that...Pull up a chair & enjoy some Pittsburgh kindness!!

Kudos!

Kudos to the city of Pittsburgh and Mayor Peduto for letting others know that kindness is one of the many positive things that Pittsburgh would like to be known for.

If Vital Signs can help you with any type of sign or custom graphics application, please give us a call or stop in. And yes...Kindness Counts!

(412) 494-3308 or visit us at: www.vitalsignspgh.com

When Every Traffic Jam Is A Branding Opportunity

A Van New Make-Over!

The "BEFORE"

If you have followed our Vital Signs blog for awhile, you know that I love a good Before & After story and one of our recent projects is the perfect branding example. Many businesses have the need to use a truck, van or other large vehicles for deliveries and such. Savvy business owner who utilize delivery vehicles are rapidly recognizing that branding their delivery vehicle(s) with advertising graphics can get their business huge branding exposure.

How much you ask? Well according to the Outdoor Advertising Association of America, more than 95% of Americans are reached by media targeting vehicle drivers and passengers. One vehicle wrap can generate between 30,000 and 70,000 impressions daily. In fact, fleet vehicle advertising boosts name recognition 15 times greater than any other form of advertising.

Every delivery is an opportunity for brand exposure to all pedestrian traffic; other driver traffic and for anyone who views a wrapped vehicle throughout the duration of it's daily travels.

Let The Fun Begin

World of Rugs Beautiful Showroom

Aside from the fact that we enjoy installing cool graphics on vehicles, we especially enjoy seeing our customers generate new business with their vehicle graphics/wraps. We were excited when approached by World of Rugs located in the Robinson Town Centre in Robinson, PA. to wrap their delivery van.

Now what many folks may not realize about a vehicle wrap is that there are varying degrees of graphic coverage. The area to be covered is determined by the customer of course, but can cover  portions of a vehicle or the entire vehicle. With World of Rugs, we started with a true blank slate..that is, a plain white van.

Good Design Counts!

BEFORE

AFTER

A good design is a memorable design. The Vital Signs Design Team collaborated with World of Rugs to create a large, colorful wrap design. Not all companies can utilize one of their products within the design of a vehicle wrap, but World of Rugs had the perfect product to incorporate within the design (a colorful image of one of their beautiful, hand-crafted rugs). I like it when a wrap can include an image of what a company produces. Pedestrians and other driver traffic have only a short period of moments to view a passing vehicle wrap. With the World of Rugs van, it is easy for viewers to process the image of the rug on the van and know immediately what the company is advertising. The viewer can then focus on the contact information of the company.

Unique Wrap Design

Do People Really Notice?

With 96% of Americans traveling in a vehicle as a driver or passenger within a one week period, vehicle wraps make sense, and yes, they are noticed! 30% of mobile outdoor viewers base buying decisions on ads they see. 98% of in-car riders indicated that they noticed vehicle/truck-side graphics. Not only that, when comparing CPM (Cost Per Thousand Impressions), Vehicle graphics/wraps cost far less than other forms of advertising. Vehicle Wraps are a true advertising power-horse, they work around the clock. Our customers have consistently shared with us how effective their vehicle wraps have been in providing great brand exposure and increased business.

We Happen To Know...

Huge Variety of Handmade Rugs

Because we have purchased a lovely living room rug from World of Rugs, we happen to know the quality of the rugs that they sell. With a selection of over 4000 rugs which include: Persians; Decorative Orientals; Contemporary and Tribal, there is truly a style for everyone! We already know what great products that World of Rugs has to offer..but now with their new vehicle wrap, World of Rugs extends a daily mobile invitation for everyone else to come visit their lovely showroom and see for themselves!

We Can Help Craft Your Mobile Marketing Message Too!

Say YES to a Vehicle Wrap!!

If you are thinking about adding a vehicle(s) wrap to your marketing mix, please give Vital Signs a call TODAY! We can help turn your traffic jams into advertising opportunities.

Call Vital Signs at (412) 494-3308 or visit us at: www.vitalsignspgh.com

Seasonal Signs

Spring & Summer Events

I'm going to go out on a limb (since we live in Pittsburgh) and guess that warm weather may soon be here on a full-time basis. Warm weather signals the blooming of foliage and flowers, as well as many annual events.

Family Reunions

Families everywhere will come together to celebrate their annual family reunion. Signs and banners are a great way to commemorate the occasion.

• Family Reunion Banner/Sign
• Family Reunion Directional Signs
• Picture Backdrops

Your Custom Reunion Yard Sign

Graduations

It's That Time Of Year!

Many families will celebrate the graduation of a child or love one from high school or college. Vital Signs offers a variety of sign/graphic products to help set the mood.

Fun For Selfies!

We Can Make A Customized Graduate Banner

• Graduation Banner/Signs
• Graduation Backdrops
• Life-Sized Stand-Up of the Graduate
• Large image of Graduate for messages & signatures
• Off-To-College Signs/Banners
• Hand-held Graduation Face
• Graduation Yard Signs/Directional Signs

Weddings

Weddings are universally in abundance in warm weather. As our digital and graphics capabilities continue to expand, there are several various types of wedding signs/banners & decor that we can produce for you!

Couple Signs

• Wayfinding/Directional Signs
• Couple Signs/Banners
• Floor Graphics
• Picture Backdrops
• Seating Charts
• Wedding Decor (Custom Drink Cooler, etc.)
• Table/Chair Signs
• Couple Stand-Ups
• Table Centerpieces/Decor

Wedding Cooler And Decor

If you're getting ready to plan one of these memorable seasonal events, Vital Signs can help!! Call us TODAY so we can assist with the planning. Our design team is happy to help make your event everything you want it to be..unforgettable!

Call Vital Signs For Your Event Needs!

(412) 494-3308

www.vitalsignspgh.com