Small businesses across the county have been getting tips on how to make their shop windows stand out from the crowd and help attract more customers.
In the run up to Small Business Saturday on December 2, Durham County Council organised two, three-hour window-dressing workshops for those who own or work in independent businesses.
The workshops were carried out by Helen Goodwin from the award-winning ‘Made You Look’ visual display consultancy and whose displays have featured in national magazines and won awards.
The sessions provided retailers with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, advice and tips from Helen on how to use their windows to their greatest potential.
Cllr Carl Marshall, Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “With the challenges of online and out of town shopping, it is even more important to help our local businesses attract custom and continue to grow.
“Window displays are crucial in creating the right first impression and I know all those who attended the sessions are already putting what they learnt into practice.”
The workshops, held at Durham Town Hall, were attended by 12 retailers.
Jayne Wilson, from Jaynes of Sedgefield, said: “Following the session with Helen, I know the importance of giving my window the wow factor to help attract visitors to the shop.”
Rachel Dawson, from Imago Beauty and Holistics in Shotley Bridge, said, “I feel very inspired to use everything I have learned after the workshop provided me with some inspirational ideas.”
The fifth national Small Business Saturday campaign takes place on Saturday, 2 December and encourages consumers to shop local and support small businesses in their communities.