Marquee displays have been captivating audiences for generations, from the old-style theater lobbies to contemporary digital billboards. Their eye-catching designs and attention-grabbing messages make them the perfect tool for businesses, organizations, and event planners to promote their events or products. In this article, we will explore the world of marquee displays, their history, types, and best practices for designing and implementing them.

What is Marquee?

Marquee is a type of signage that usually consists of illuminated letters or symbols. The term comes from the French word ‘marquise,’ which means a canopy or awning. Marquees were initially used in theater lobbies to promote upcoming shows and movies, but with time their use has expanded to museums, hotels, retail stores, and even outdoor billboards.

Types of Marquees

There are four primary types of marquees: traditional, digital, neon, and LED.

Traditional Marquee

Traditional marquees are the most simple and straightforward type of marquee signage. They still have their charm and are widely used in theaters, museums, and restaurants. Traditional marquees consist of a set of opaque letters, often made of plexiglass or metal, with lights behind them to make them glow. They are usually placed on buildings or freestanding structures like poles or arches.

Digital Marquee

Digital marquees are the most modern type of marquee signage, and they are becoming increasingly popular for their versatility and dynamic displays. Digital marquees are made up of LED lights that can be programmed to display moving images, slideshows, and animations. They are commonly used in shopping malls, sports arenas, and events to promote products, services, and games.

Neon Marquee

Neon marquees are the most classic type of marquees. They are made up of colored glass tubes filled with neon gas or other types of gasses that emit a bright and colorful light. They are often used in bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, where they add a touch of retro charm to the atmosphere.

LED Marquee

LED marquees are similar to digital marquees in that they are made up of LED lights, but they are not programmable like digital ones. They can only display a limited set of letters and numbers in a scrolling or flashing sequence. LED marquees are often used in parking lots, gas stations, and other simple applications.

Designing an Eye-Catching Marquee Display

Designing a marquee display is not an easy feat, but with the right elements, it can be done successfully. Here are some key tips and elements to keep in mind:

1. Keep it simple: Marquee signs are not the place for complex imagery or long messages. Keep it simple with clear and concise language that gets the point across quickly.

2. Choose the right font: The font you choose should be clear and easy to read at a distance. Avoid cursive or script fonts that can be difficult to decipher.

3. Use contrasting colors: The letters or symbols should stand out against the background. Using contrasting colors in your design is an effective way to grab attention.

4. Keep it legible: The text should be large enough to read from a distance. The rule of thumb is to have 1-inch letters for every 10 feet of distance.

Implementing a Marquee Display

Once you have designed your marquee display, it's time to implement it. Here are some best practices to help you get the most out of your marquee display:

1. Choose an appropriate location: The location of your display is crucial. It should be visible from all angles and accessible to the audience.

2. Check local regulations: Marquees may be subject to various regulations, so make sure you check with your local authorities before installing one.

3. Proper installation: Proper installation is essential to ensure the safety of the audience and the structure. You may need professional help to install a marquee safely.

4. Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance is necessary to keep your marquee display in good condition. Check the bulbs and wiring regularly and address any issues immediately.

Conclusion

Marquee displays are a powerful tool in capturing the attention of your audience. Whether you are promoting an event, product, or service, marquee displays are a dynamic and effective way to communicate your message. With the right design, implementation, and maintenance, your marquee display can captivate and engage your audience for years to come.