It only looks like the real thing.

Ok, NOOoooww I am loving this campaign. Don't get me wrong. I loved it when I first saw the James Dean ad, and the Louis Armstrong, and, of course, the Lucille Ball?...forget about it. Very well done, on strategy and excellent execution. But the Gilda, well, now you've got me. It's that emotional connection that makes a great ad. Maybe it's because she is from my era. (are you shooting a little younger, Armstrong?) Maybe it's because I love the colors, or her spirit, but whatever it is, it speaks to me. This one goes on my wall.

www.armstrong.com

Going to the dentist can be fun.

Ok, well, maybe not in every instance. I just completed a corporate ID and website for a dental practice, that believes in a more holistic approach to dentistry. Their offering includes a combination of advanced technology and a caring environment.
Developing a brand image, new name, logo and tagline was a challenge I enjoyed. I have learned that you just never know which projects are going to end up being the ones you love until you dig into them.

To see the final corporate ID/website (or to find a great dentist) you can visit www.aernidental.com

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

Move over Red Bull.

Nutricosmetics. The next new niche. I was reading about this in Fast Company, a great source for trend-following. I am always interested in new product categories that spring up, new ways to package old ideas. I love the marketing of this "ingestible", Glowelle from Nestle. Will the 40+-somethings (I know a few...) that love to be sold on youth elixirs buy into this? I don't know, but I will be keeping an eye on it.

(cool website, too)
http://www.glowelle.com