Pantone Color of the Year 2013: Emerald Green

    

I was not surprised to see this green as Pantone Color of the Year. I feel like versions of it have been appearing on my radar for a while now. I have been playing with different ways to use Emerald 2013. One of the things I love about this color is its versatility. It can be the hero of a palette or a great grounding color for some brighter companions. The blueish-green version, almost a teal, is where I see this color going in the next couple years. I was shopping in Target and just could not resist these towels. Brave of them to mix the yellow-green with the teal, but I think it works beautifully.

Kleenex: Making the world a more beautiful place, one tissue box at a time.

Folks, I know it's just a box of tissues, but is there any reason why it can't be attractive, as well? I applaud Kleenex® Brand Tissues for raising the industry standard, with new shapes, surface pattern designs, eye-catching merchandising. Being a leader in any category means finding or creating the opportunities to stand out. I am glad to see Kleenex step up.

As a consumer, choosing between faded pink roses and the above design is no contest. I would love to see this green pattern design used in a fabric, maybe a throw-pillow, or a purse? I will settle for seeing it on my desktop.


(BTW, not sure, but I think most of these designs are exclusive to Target. Stopped by Walmart and saw nothing like these)

Letter to Target:

Dear Target Stores:

Please don't abandon me, not at a time like this, when I need you most. Yes, I am watching my spending, like the rest of America. I also still need to make certain purchases. And one of the guilt-free pleasures I get is from "expecting more" while I "pay less". Don't take that away from me.

I see from your ads that you feel the need to push price, and I understand. Just don't forget why I love you. Maybe some folks will choose another mass merchant retailer for supposedly lower prices, but your core customer still wants to feel current, on-trend, and inspired while they buy their shampoo.

How else can I say this without being blunt, "Please don't turn into Walmart." If you do, I might not be able to see a difference between the two of you, and I might start doing my shopping there, and once that happens, who knows if I'll come back.

So don't abandon me, and I won't abandon you. We need to stick together in these tough times. I have faith you will do the right thing.

Sincerely,
A true "Expect More, Pay Less" believer

http://www.target.com