When we first launched our business in Christchurch, we were on a tight budget. Like many others, we took a DIY approach to signage—vinyl lettering ordered online, hand-painted boards, and printed flyers in the window. It looked fine at the time, but we quickly learned that “fine” wasn’t enough.

After a few months of dealing with peeling letters, unclear messages, and general wear and tear, we decided to work with a professional sign writer in Christchurch. The change in quality and results was immediate—and worth every cent.

What Went Wrong With DIY Signage

Don’t get me wrong—DIY signage has its place. It can work for market stalls, pop-ups, or temporary promotions. But for a permanent, street-facing business, it just didn’t hold up.

The main problems we faced:

• Durability: Our outdoor signs faded quickly in the sun

• Design: Fonts weren’t readable from the street

• Brand consistency: Everything looked mismatched and patchy

• Installation issues: Signs kept coming loose or falling down

Customers often walked past without noticing us. Some even said they didn’t realise we were open because our signs looked temporary or unprofessional. That was the wake-up call we needed.

Why We Turned to a Professional

We contacted Langham Signs after seeing their work for another local business. They weren’t just printers—they were actual sign writers with design experience, material knowledge, and a clear process.

Here’s what we got from the switch:

• Expert design support with options we hadn’t considered

• High-quality materials built for Christchurch weather

• Clear, legible signage that stood out without being loud

• Proper installation with no bubbles, peeling, or wonky edges

We didn’t just get a better-looking sign—we got a solution that worked long-term. Even our branding looked more consistent after getting their help.

ROI: The Long-Term Payoff

One of the biggest lessons we learned? You don’t save money by doing things twice. While DIY felt cheaper up front, we ended up reprinting, replacing, and adjusting those signs again and again.

Since switching to a pro:

• Our signage has lasted without fading or damage

• We’ve had more foot traffic, especially from drive-bys

• Customers take us more seriously and trust us more

• We don’t worry about signage anymore—it just works

We realised signage is more than a label—it’s a reflection of your business. When it’s done well, it builds credibility from the outside in.

Switching from DIY signage to a professional sign writer in Christchurch was one of the smartest business moves we’ve made. It saved time, boosted our visibility, and helped shape a stronger brand. If you’re relying on homemade signs or patchy printouts, it might be time to upgrade. Talk to the experts at Wrap Innovations—because the right sign can do far more than just show your name. It can grow your business.