The Business/Club Window Decorating Contest will be here very soon! Here's our top ten ways to pre

🎄 Top 10 Ways to Prepare Your Window for the Riverton Holiday Festival 2025The holiday season in Riverton, Wyoming is almost here! Local businesses and clubs are gearing up for the Business/Club Window Decorating Contest, and this year’s theme is “Making Spirits Bright.” To help your display shine on Main Street, here’s a Riverton-specific top 10 list for preparation.

1. Start with a Story
Let your window tell a festive tale that embodies “Making Spirits Bright.” Make your display reflect what it means to you, your business,  and Riverton! Perhaps a cozy scene, joyful interactions, or a whimsical winter tableau that spreads holiday cheer.

2. Sketch Your Window Layout
It's never too early to start planning your design. Use foreground, midground, and background layers to create depth and highlight what makes your store and building special! Do you have open display windows, meaning you can see into the store?  Do you have closed display windows, meaning the windows have a backing? Use the wonderful architecture in your building as inspiration!

3. Use Light to Create Magic
Lighting is essential. Highlight focal points with spotlights, backlighting, or string lights to make your display glow.

4. Mix Textures and Materials
Layer materials such as greenery, ribbons, wood, metallics, or reflective surfaces. Incorporate your own merchandise, specialized items, local crafts, or small gift ideas to tie your display into the holiday season.

5. Stay True to Your Brand
Your window should reflect your business identity while celebrating the festival theme. Whether elegant, playful, or cozy, ensure your display feels authentic and inviting to you.

6. Incorporate Movable or Interactive Elements
Interactive props or modular setups let you adjust your display, add small surprises, or create a “wow” moment for visitors passing by.

7. Create a Strong Focal Point
Pick one centerpiece—a tree, gift, snow globe, or holiday scene—and surround it with supporting elements that echo the “Making Spirits Bright” theme.

8. Draw Inspiration from Local and Online Resources
Explore past Riverton festival winners, Pinterest boards, and professional merchandising blogs like Unibox and MannequinMadness for ideas as well as our own inspiration page found on the Business/Club Window Section of this very website!

9. Test Your Display Day & NightView your window from outside during daylight and evening. Adjust lighting, props, and color contrasts to ensure it’s eye-catching at all times.

10. Collaborate with Fellow Riverton Residents
​Local artists, designers, or neighbors can offer fresh ideas. Collaboration can elevate your display from good to unforgettable while reflecting community spirit.

✨ Bonus Tip: Take photos of your final display to share on social media and festival channels. Your window doesn’t just brighten your storefront—it helps make Riverton shine for the holidays.