If you’re anything like the average American (or the average northern hemisphere inhabitant), chances are you like staying cozy from December to March. And if you work in the hospitality industry, chances are that your business thrives when you take this tendency of the average northern hemisphere dweller to heart.
We hate going out in the cold, and when we see a beacon of comfort in the form of a restaurant or hotel, our instinct is to run to it. By following the tips below, you can utilize the colder months to your advantage and create an inviting restaurant atmosphere in a cold climate.
Focus on Warmth and Comfort
One way to create an inviting atmosphere in a cold climate is to focus on warmth and comfort. To do this, use warm colors, cozy furnishings, and plenty of blankets and pillows.
You can also use linens and towels to create a feeling of warmth in a few different ways. First, using warm colors such as red, orange, and yellow can help to create a cozy atmosphere. Additionally, using plush, soft towels and linens can add a feeling of luxury and comfort, while adding soft, warm blankets and throw pillows to the mix can further help to create a welcoming and inviting space.
Just remember: when it comes to textiles, the fluffier, the better. You want your space to feel like a warm hug.
Add in Soft Lighting
Adding in soft lighting can also help create a cozy atmosphere. To harness the power of soft lighting, use dimmer switches, which allow you to adjust the brightness of your light fixtures.
Another option is to use lamps with soft, warm-toned bulbs. Candles can provide a similar effect. Is one light source not enough for you? Follow the Swedes’ lead. According to blogger Niki Brantmark, Scandinavian design states that every room should have five to seven light sources, with some even recommending up to nine.
Provide Complimentary Hot Drinks
Providing access to hot drinks and comfortable seating can make your space feel more welcoming. Consider adding a hot chocolate or tea carafe in your entrance, and allow your guests to fill insulated disposable cups free of charge. You could even place a sign outside of your establishment that reads, “Free hot drinks! Come Inside!”
Word to the wise: according to the rule of reciprocation, people are much more likely to buy something when they feel indebted to the seller. So, if a kindly gentleman has a free hot tea in his hand, chances are he’ll pick up your pamphlet and give you a call (if he doesn’t book a service right then and there).
Provide Comfy Seating Options
Additionally, allowing guests to sip tea and lounge in comfortable chairs at their leisure will communicate to them that your business is accommodating and welcoming. You’re in no rush to shoo your valuable clients off, so they should be in no rush to leave.
Keep Your Space Well-Heated
Lastly, keeping your space well-heated and insulated is a foolproof principle to attracting chilly clients. To ensure that no one’s teeth chatter when they enter your facility, ensure that your heating system is in good working order and that it’s appropriately sized for your space. This will help to ensure that your space is heated evenly and consistently.
Also consider adding insulation to your walls, windows, and doors to help retain heat and reduce heat loss. Finally, keep drafts at bay by closing all doors and windows.
Conclusion
Attracting clientele during the colder months may seem daunting, but by incorporating warm textiles and towels, soft lighting, comfortable seating, hot drinks, comfy seating, and warm air conditioning, you’ll create an inviting restaurant atmosphere in no time.
By paul
If you’re anything like the average American (or the average northern hemisphere inhabitant), chances are you like staying cozy from December to March. And if you work in the hospitality industry, chances are that your business thrives when you take this tendency of the average northern hemisphere dweller to heart.
We hate going out in the cold, and when we see a beacon of comfort in the form of a restaurant or hotel, our instinct is to run to it. By following the tips below, you can utilize the colder months to your advantage and create an inviting restaurant atmosphere in a cold climate.
Focus on Warmth and Comfort
One way to create an inviting atmosphere in a cold climate is to focus on warmth and comfort. To do this, use warm colors, cozy furnishings, and plenty of blankets and pillows.
You can also use linens and towels to create a feeling of warmth in a few different ways. First, using warm colors such as red, orange, and yellow can help to create a cozy atmosphere. Additionally, using plush, soft towels and linens can add a feeling of luxury and comfort, while adding soft, warm blankets and throw pillows to the mix can further help to create a welcoming and inviting space.
Just remember: when it comes to textiles, the fluffier, the better. You want your space to feel like a warm hug.
Add in Soft Lighting
Adding in soft lighting can also help create a cozy atmosphere. To harness the power of soft lighting, use dimmer switches, which allow you to adjust the brightness of your light fixtures.
Another option is to use lamps with soft, warm-toned bulbs. Candles can provide a similar effect. Is one light source not enough for you? Follow the Swedes’ lead. According to blogger Niki Brantmark, Scandinavian design states that every room should have five to seven light sources, with some even recommending up to nine.
Provide Complimentary Hot Drinks
Providing access to hot drinks and comfortable seating can make your space feel more welcoming. Consider adding a hot chocolate or tea carafe in your entrance, and allow your guests to fill insulated disposable cups free of charge. You could even place a sign outside of your establishment that reads, “Free hot drinks! Come Inside!”
Word to the wise: according to the rule of reciprocation, people are much more likely to buy something when they feel indebted to the seller. So, if a kindly gentleman has a free hot tea in his hand, chances are he’ll pick up your pamphlet and give you a call (if he doesn’t book a service right then and there).
Provide Comfy Seating Options
Additionally, allowing guests to sip tea and lounge in comfortable chairs at their leisure will communicate to them that your business is accommodating and welcoming. You’re in no rush to shoo your valuable clients off, so they should be in no rush to leave.
Keep Your Space Well-Heated
Lastly, keeping your space well-heated and insulated is a foolproof principle to attracting chilly clients. To ensure that no one’s teeth chatter when they enter your facility, ensure that your heating system is in good working order and that it’s appropriately sized for your space. This will help to ensure that your space is heated evenly and consistently.
Also consider adding insulation to your walls, windows, and doors to help retain heat and reduce heat loss. Finally, keep drafts at bay by closing all doors and windows.
Conclusion
Attracting clientele during the colder months may seem daunting, but by incorporating warm textiles and towels, soft lighting, comfortable seating, hot drinks, comfy seating, and warm air conditioning, you’ll create an inviting restaurant atmosphere in no time.