CharacterBrand.com; premium B2B marketing services provider produces customers + sales

RARE: Start Social Media NOW

2011-12-26T12:08:00.000-08:00

Ways to get started right away improving your social media. EX:

uAdd a friend on Facebook

uUpdate your LinkedIn profile

uPost pictures of your latest projects

uWatch “how to” videos on YouTube

uSearch your online business listings

DARE: To Learn Social Media

2011-12-26T12:06:00.000-08:00

Use social media to learn more about social media itself! Search YouTube for industry-related, instructional tutorial videos. Google & Constant Contact offer loads of tools for optimizing campaigns, attracting attention & gaining more customers.

FLAIR: Marketing Best Practices

2011-12-26T12:03:00.000-08:00

uFocus on your subjectmatter experts. Be the evangelist yourbiz needs.

uBlogging allows youto educate prospective & current customers.

uContent aboutcustomers draws more customers than content about product.

uBlogging is theopposite of advertising if done well. Don’t post press releases.

uDon’t forget to havea blog promotion plan along with posting / publishing plan.

TEAR: Serve Negative Customers

2011-12-26T12:02:00.000-08:00

uRespond quickly that you are handling it

uPrivately reach out by phone, email orboth

uAlways seek to satisfy & delight - not defend

SHARE: INTERACT in Community

2011-12-26T12:01:00.000-08:00

uWrite relevant &engaging posts

uRe- / use socialmedia content

uJoin conversationswith industry peers

uTransparencyabsolutely necessary

TEAR: Social Media is NOT Free!

2011-09-27T14:30:00.000-07:00

Although it is free to create a social media account, it takes time, resources & expertise to keep it properly maintained...much less to make it meaningful to viewers & interactive with your audience. Pick the few platforms where are your most customers, then meticulously maintain those few prioritized sites for business prominence. Don't try to be everywhere!

FLAIR: Give Great Directions

2011-09-27T14:28:00.000-07:00

Clearly tell people how & where to find your business! Work to get your marketing trifecta (websites, email marketing & social media) interacting & linking all among one another. Clearly label your contact details front & center. Hyperlinks from your website to other valuable resources (& back to yours!) all improve organic search results. Other ways:

EX:

*Websites (yours &others’)

*Blogs (yours &others’)

*Archive emailnewsletters

*Link all platformstogether

PAIR: Keywords to Direct People

2011-09-27T14:24:00.000-07:00

Keywords are the search terms people enter in search engines like Google to find your business. Incorporate keywords in your website copy, AdWords & social media. Use the Google Keyword Tool Box (http://www.googlekeywordtool.com/) to learn how prospects are searching for your products & services. Direct people to your business!

CARE: Be Generous - Help Others

2011-09-27T14:14:00.000-07:00

Help other people's businesses & yours will grow organically. Freely giving of your expertise & advice establishes you as the go-to resource. The more you give, the more you get. Build trust, credibility & goodwill. Increase the number of inbound links. The word spreads!

SHARE: Make Stuff People Want

2011-09-27T14:09:00.000-07:00

People (= prospective customers!) become naturally invested in your business when you share information, tips & tools that serve them. Some suggestions for relevant, meaningful content:

*Share information,tips & advice

*Before & afterphotos of projects

*Videos, inspiration& resources

*Events, RSVP &register

RARE: Fully Integrate Your Online Presence

2011-09-13T17:34:00.000-07:00

uSocial media capabilities &features differ. Adjust privacysettings.

uExamples of blogplatforms include Blogger, WordPress & TypePad

uBuild your websiteCMS for simple & instant updates EX: Joomla

uIncorporate ShareTools to keep the message moving EX: AddThis

PAIR: Choose Based on Where Are Customers

2011-09-13T17:30:00.000-07:00

SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS = Pick YourBest Mix. Consider: where are your prospective clients, partners,suppliers & competitors? It helps identify where tofocus time & efforts. You need not maintain social media networkseverywhere, just the right places...for your business.

PARE: Prioritize Contacts for Optimal Reach

2011-09-13T17:27:00.000-07:00

Prioritize contacts to effectively reach your most valuable buyers. Some customers on your contact list are unlikely to buy now, while others may be closer to purchase time in the buying cycle. Identify your various contact groups then outreach the highest priority first.

CARE: Connect Across ALL Touchpoints

2011-09-13T17:23:00.000-07:00

Collect contacts at all touch-points <---> Link alltouch-points to social media. Touchpoints = all places customers see you = website, email marketing, business cards, fliers, business location, etc. Ask for customer's contact details & post social media links at ALL touchpoints.

PARE: Save Some Time; Repurpose Content

2011-09-07T12:44:00.001-07:00

Contacts want to connect, on their terms:

uSend emailnewsletter, then link on social media.

uInteresting article?Link on social media & newsletter.

uMake more compelling:share your quick thoughts.

TEAR: Social Media is NOT Free; Takes Resources

2011-09-07T12:37:00.000-07:00

Like all good things, social media is not free. Yes, it is free to set up an account. But that is just the beginning. It takes time, technology & people...all of which are limited resources. If anyone has told you social media is free & easy, they probably aren't doing it right.

RARE: Measure Return on Social Media Investment

2011-09-07T12:25:00.000-07:00

MEASUREReturn onInvestment (ROI)

EX: positive OR negative…

uBlog Comments uClick-Throughs

uCoupons Distributed uEmails Delivered

uFacebook Friends uImpressions

uIn-Links uLinkedIn Connections

uRe-Tweets uTwitter Followers

uVisitors to Store uWebsite Visitors

uWord of Mouth uYouTube Views

CARE: Social Media Relevance to Business Owners

2011-09-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

RELEVANCE to Business Owners

Q. Mostnext revenue from…?

A. Existingclients

EX: 6,367 LikeThis

uBuild your social network of fans, followers& connections;

uUse relevant &interesting content;

allowsyou to

uReach & engage more clients &

uDrive more business.

EndorsementsLead to PURCHASE

SHARE: Importance of Facebook & Social Media

2011-09-07T12:16:00.000-07:00

SOCIAL MEDIA, happening whether your business is engaged or not:

uFacebook is expected to reach1 billion members by the end of 2011.

uHalf of active Facebook users log on daily =250 million every 24 hours.

uAverage Facebook user creates 90pieces of content every month.

uThere are 2 billionvideos viewed on YouTube every 24 hours.

uEvery minute, morethan 24 hours of video is uploaded to YouTube.

RSVP for May 6: Social Media for Interior Designers

2011-04-13T14:37:00.000-07:00

Social Media for Interior Designers; Friday, May 6
presentation at noon; open house 11a - 2p for Q&A
Presented by Sarah at Character Brand; hosted by Dillon-Wells LV A-120

RSVP for May 6: Social Media for Interior Designers via @constantcontact
Or facebook.com/event.php?eid=177853488932794
Or events.linkedin.com/Social-Media-Interior-Designers/pub/633976

Think LinkedIn could grow your design business? Learn today's most popular social media tools & how to effectively use your time. Bring friends! Serving refreshments & answers to Facebook questions! Hosted by Dillon-Wells A-120 at Las Vegas Design Center; open Tuesdays - Saturdays.

PAIR: familiar faces in interactive places

2011-03-25T20:56:00.000-07:00

3 of 3 in movement series, Source: http://www.ibelieveinadv.com

Creatives: Gabriel Queiroz, Ricardo Balbin

PARE: Slice the staring space inside & out

2011-03-25T20:52:00.000-07:00

2 of 3 in movement series, Source: http://www.ibelieveinadv.com

Advertising Agency: GREY Tokyo / G2Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan Creative Director: Masayoshi Soeda Art Directors: Mitsunori Yamazaki, Shinmei Yamamoto, Taichi Tsunoda Photographer: Akihiro Ito Published: February 2010

RARE: interactive spaces in unexpected places

2011-03-25T20:48:00.000-07:00

1 of 3 in movement series, Source: http://www.ibelieveinadv.com

To applaud the 22 athletes of Team EDF for their performance in 2010, close and reopen these two pages several times very quickly

Advertising Agency: Euro RSCG C&O, Suresnes, France Creative Director: Jean-François Goize Art Directors: Julien Saurin, Nathalie Winkelmann Copywriters: Nicolas Gadesaude, Jean Desportes Published: December 2010

FLAIR: Make your customers hungry for your offerings

2011-03-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

5 of 5 - Kiss Radio, for those... Source: http://www.ibelieveinadv.com

Advertising Agency: Jandl, Bratislava, Slovakia Creative

Director: Pavel Fuksa 

Art Directors: Pavel Fuksa, Matus Nemcik 

Copywriter: Adam Rovny 

Illustrators: Pavel Fuksa, Matus Nemcik 

Published: January 2011

TEAR: Give your customers resourceful, decisive direction

2011-03-25T20:32:00.001-07:00

4 of 5 - Kiss Radio, for those... Source: http://www.ibelieveinadv.com

Advertising Agency: Jandl, Bratislava, Slovakia Creative

Director: Pavel Fuksa 

Art Directors: Pavel Fuksa, Matus Nemcik 

Copywriter: Adam Rovny 

Illustrators: Pavel Fuksa, Matus Nemcik 

Published: January 2011

PAIR: messages that relate value to every customer

2011-03-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

3 of 5 - Kiss Radio, for those... Source: http://www.ibelieveinadv.com

Advertising Agency: Jandl, Bratislava, Slovakia Creative

Director: Pavel Fuksa 

Art Directors: Pavel Fuksa, Matus Nemcik 

Copywriter: Adam Rovny 

Illustrators: Pavel Fuksa, Matus Nemcik 

Published: January 2011

CARE: Appeal to your various customer segments

2011-03-25T20:22:00.000-07:00

2 of 5 - Kiss Radio, for those... Source: http://www.ibelieveinadv.com

Advertising Agency: Jandl, Bratislava, Slovakia Creative

Director: Pavel Fuksa 

Art Directors: Pavel Fuksa, Matus Nemcik 

Copywriter: Adam Rovny 

Illustrators: Pavel Fuksa, Matus Nemcik 

Published: January 2011

PARE: multiple incarnations of your customer's needs

2011-03-25T20:19:00.000-07:00

1 of 5 - Kiss Radio, for those... Source: http://www.ibelieveinadv.com

Advertising Agency: Jandl, Bratislava, Slovakia Creative

Director: Pavel Fuksa 

Art Directors: Pavel Fuksa, Matus Nemcik 

Copywriter: Adam Rovny 

Illustrators: Pavel Fuksa, Matus Nemcik 

Published: January 2011

RARE: Blue Bee in Santa Barbara, CA

2010-10-26T14:41:00.000-07:00

These are four separate full-page ads from the same magazine each featuring the same store. Each ad focuses on a different area of its business, showing the depth of its product but still tells a cohesive story. This method gives readers four chances to notice the ad, internalize its message & feel inspired to visit the store or its website.

Blue Bee * http://www.bluebee.com/
REACH CUSTOMERS WITH CONSISTENCY

PARE: present customers entire categories

2010-10-26T14:37:00.000-07:00

Check how these clocks are all merchandised together by product category, rather than manufacturer. This fun strike-point with all the various styles & sizes is perfect for grabbing customers' attention. Provide your customers a vertically-integrated message to present depth of product. When is it for you that time flies fastest?

Home Sweet Home * http://www.hshhome.com

MERCHANDISE PRODUCTS, NOT COMPANIES

PARE: be THE go-to retail location

2010-10-19T12:13:00.000-07:00

Rocket Fizz is a wildly fun candy & soda pop shop for kids of all ages! Every candy from today to nostalgic candy is packed into one huge vertical product selection with several locations. People love the racing, rocket interiors. How do you have fun with your customers? For what reasons do they remember their experience shopping you?

Rocket Fizz * http://www.rocketfizz.com/
INTERNALIZE YOUR BRAND IMAGE

CARE: Proactively inform & extend rewards

2010-10-19T12:05:00.000-07:00

Here Starbucks proactively posts a safety recall notice in each of its locations. Not only does it immediately take action for a dangerous product, but offers customers who return the recalled product a full refund PLUS complimentary beverage of any size. It helps make a negative situation less bad. Do you see companies taking responsibility? What about since the advent of social media or Citysearch?

Starbucks * http://www.starbucks.com/
IMMEDIATE, RESOLUTE, RESPONSIBLE ACTION

FLAIR: Color, style & timely audience amusement

2010-10-13T17:24:00.000-07:00

Dog lovers everywhere will appreciate this "spooky poodle," a contestant in a dog-grooming competition. Not only is it creatively imagined & supremely executed, it is just too cute not to share. How creative are you in constructing timely, colorful messages for your audience? Happy Halloween!

DECORATE FOR THE SEASON

PAIR: Creatively used, already existing product

2010-10-13T17:19:00.000-07:00

Check this creative display from Copps grocery store in Green Bay, WI. Its merchandisers used already existing inventory (12-pack containers of Mountain Dew) creatively aligned for a special message that definitely resonates with its audience. How will your business utilize already-existing resources?

Copps Food Centers * http://www.copps.com/

USE YOUR EXISTING RESOURCES

SHARE: A User's LinkedIn Experiment

2010-10-08T18:12:00.000-07:00

Character Brand just had to "like" & "comment" on this brilliant LinkedIn post. As an experiment this user asked, if fellow users saw the post, to comment. Already his message elicited responses from 35,000 people & growing - imagine how many more impressions! Does your message travel? How will your business reach farther?

LinkedIn * http://www.linkedin.com
REACH FARTHER THAN EVER

FLAIR: Tweak your Sense & Style

2010-10-08T18:02:00.000-07:00

Tara at Tweak is a retail & marketing genius who openly shares to build & inspire the industry. Her latest is Tweak, a 4th quarter pop-up store in LA packed with functional yet fun pre-packaged holiday gifts. This e-blast provides readers her timely tips for back-to-school style. Do you share your knowledge with customers?

Tweak * http://tweakly.blogspot.com/

BE THE INDUSTRY RESOURCE

PARE: Join Industry Groups for Growth

2010-09-21T15:10:00.000-07:00

In which trade associations, groups or memberships are you involved? Are you an active participant in groups best targeted for your audience & interests? Character Brand is a proud new member of Business Marketing Association (BMA) - provides services, resources & opportunities specifically for business-to-business marketers.

Business Marketing Association * http://www.marketing.org

CONNECT WITH YOUR INDUSTRY

PAIR: National Assoc. of College Stores at Las Vegas Market

2010-09-21T14:58:00.000-07:00

Check this article in Home Furnishings Business - strategy for the furniture retailer! National Association of College Stores so graciously attended Las Vegas Market. NACS is a not-for-profit trade association representing the $10 billion campus retailing industry. Members include 3,000+ stores serving colleges, universities & K-12 schools in US, Canada & worldwide. NACS is headquartered in Oberlin, OH.

National Association of College Stores * http://www.nacs.org/

STRENGTH IN NUMBERED GROUPS

CARE: Jan's Kitchen on K-News Radio - 3 of 3

2010-09-15T18:16:00.000-07:00

Does your business name clearly explain the essence of your company & what customers should expect? Does your company & its representatives embody these characteristics in all its decisions & actions? What ways could your organization's core values be reinforced? Fulfill your promises to customers!

Character Brand appeared on Jan's Kitchen, Saturdays on K-News in Palm Springs.

BUILD STRENGTH OF CHARACTER

SHARE: Jan's Kitchen on K-News Radio - 2 of 3

2010-09-15T18:14:00.000-07:00

What platforms do you provide customers to enter your place of business? How do you close sales & ensure repeat purchases? Does your business connect customers together with one another? Businesses that build communities of advocates thrive in today's marketplace. Kick-start growth now!

Character Brand appeared on Jan's Kitchen, Saturdays on K-News in Palm Springs.

BRIDGE CONNECTIONS WITH CUSTOMERS

DARE: Jan's Kitchen on K-News Radio - 1 of 3

2010-09-15T18:12:00.001-07:00

How progressively do you coordinate plans for growing business...then drive these action plans for outcomes? What ways do you measure the results of campaigns? For all businesses there is an entire range of management effectiveness. Re-evaluate aspects of your business for forward momentum.

Character Brand appeared on Jan's Kitchen, Saturdays on K-News in Palm Springs.

PROACTIVELY DRIVE YOUR BUSINESS

SHARE: Retailer Tips for Tradeshows

2010-08-24T15:32:00.001-07:00

*CONNECT with Market services.

Reach your marketplaces' professional, dedicated management team to guide new buyers -

& even those most experienced - to new product, resources & business-building value.

*ASK questions of everyone.

From the compelling selection of showrooms to your local sales representative &

fellow industry colleagues you meet at Market, engage one another in dialogue.

*SHOP around everywhere.

The best buyers edit & tailor their collections to reflect their very core customers.

They shop high & low, around, under & nearby every place: retail is our passion.

*PLAN ahead of time.

Schedule, plan & budget your business, time, resources, finances & appointments.

The best-laid but flexible plans yield productive, efficient & effective tradeshows!

*EDUCATE & entertain yourself.

These tradeshows invest in business-enriching programming to build networking,

industry connections, know-how & prowess. Guaranteed to learn some value!

*MEET fellow retailers.

Fellow retailers are your best allies & intimately familiar with mutual

challenges & opportunities as together we navigate the business environment.

Those that build communities with one another & among customers thrive!

*STAY connected online.

Internet is an incredible source for trends, product, news & your core customers.

Explore, research, investigate & incorporate your business with its online audience!

DARE: build business with Character

2010-08-24T15:16:00.000-07:00

ACTION PLAN #1

Need inspiration for retail store planning, sales effectiveness & sales incentive plans?
OUTCOME =
Marketing & branding, brand strategy development & strategic brand management

ACTION PLAN #2

Not sure marketing dashboard for retail analytics, trend tracking & online retail?
OUTCOME =
Retail & brand consultant specializes in furniture, home decor & gift trade shows

ACTION PLAN #3

Striving to enhance your customers' brand experience & embrace buzz monitoring?

OUTCOME =
Log on CharacterBrand.com for retail industry news & branding experts
Business to business (B2B) branding, marketing communications & media
Character Brand = social network developers & social media management

FLAIR: Snap! Retail to buy & sell

2010-08-20T09:03:00.000-07:00

Buyers did you spot Snap! Retail at gift+home tradeshows nationwide? Connect with its rich social media (http://www.facebook.com/snapretail *
http://twitter.com/snapretail), packed with innovative ideas for delighting your customers, platforms for increasing traffic & sales plus network with fellow retailers! Do you advocate "community?"

Snap! Retail * http://www.snapretail.com
ENGAGE YOUR RETAIL COMMUNITY

SHARE: your neighborhood Fresh & Easy

2010-08-20T08:52:00.000-07:00

Have you a Fresh & Easy grocer in your neighborhood? It works from the ground up to pass on savings to you the customer. Perhaps you've seen TV commercials featuring its own customers - to "save" on real actors? It offers the full range of food products but less square footage than regular grocers. Is your business efficient?

Fresh & Easy * http://www.freshandeasy.com/
REINVIGORATED PLANS FOR EFFICIENCY

DARE: Bold Look of Kohler

2010-07-11T19:54:00.000-07:00

Kohler kitchen & bath products are statements themselves but its marketing team takes BOLD an entirely new level! Have you seen tv commercial where the guy dumps bolts in his Kohler toilet in [unsuccessful] effort for the sexy female plumber to visit? How does your business make a meaningful, perceived & real impact?

Kohler * http://www.kohler.com/

MAKE YOUR LOOK BOLD

FLAIR: Designing Spaces for the Season

2010-07-11T19:48:00.001-07:00

Goorin Brothers is always evolving new ways to merchandise their hats. (Rugs also seem a particularly difficult product to effectively merchandise.) These floating beach balls intermingled with fresh summer styles make just the playful, punchy statement of summer fun. How does your message correlate to what is relevant?

Goorin Brothers * http://www.goorin.com/
MAKE YOUR MESSAGES RELEVANT

DARE: Dillon-Wells reps Studio Artique

2010-06-28T23:07:00.003-07:00

Dillon-Wells represents Studio Artique, world-class framed art, frames & mirrors. The companies partner together to bring their designers meaningful value, Market incentives & the latest most intriguing product introductions. Have you noticed the horse motif reoccurring in today's design aesthetic? How will you explore & internalize the wide-open west in your business endeavors?

Dillon-Wells Los Angeles & Las Vegas

www.dillonwells.com * T: (800) 231-5636

DARE TO BE WILD

FLAIR: Intriguing Designs & Headlines

2010-06-28T23:07:00.001-07:00

Time & time again, Black Ink presents its customers clean & engaging graphic design. It leads prospective customers to ponder, "what stationery design can their team create to garner anticipation for MY upcoming event?" Let Black Ink's thoughtful designs guide your customer messaging. How do you clearly present call-to-action to which your customers respond?

Black Ink * Pacific Palisades, CA * T: 310.573.9905
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=135164345284
QUICK MAKE YOUR MARK

SHARE: Inner-City Arts Hosts Summer Party

2010-06-08T03:19:00.000-07:00

Inner-City Arts gracefully serves the community by providing arts to children, from music to dancing to pottery & painting, dreaming & beyond. You are invited to its summer party for fun, food & festival! Does your company regularly (frequently even?) host its trustiest associates for relationship & community building?

Inner-City Arts * downtown LA, CA
http://www.inner-cityarts.org/
CELEBRATE WITH YOUR ADVOCATES

TEAR: C. Glenn Merchandising? No!

2010-06-08T03:13:00.000-07:00

Picture the irony here: how would your customers appreciate this "merchandising?" This photographer is "just walkin" from East Coast clear to West (no agenda, just walkin!) & recording his travels along the way. Visit http://imjustwalkin.com/ when you have time to spend enthralled & appreciating life's little treasures.

http://imjustwalkin.com/
LIFE WITH PASSIONATE ZEST

FLAIR: Strikepoints & Creative Packaging

2010-06-08T03:07:00.000-07:00

Island Dog Gear is the fun brand, evidenced here & throughout the company by this striking merchandise display that draws in consumers. The surfboard shape is also represented in the sturdy & effective packaging that invites the consumer sale. Do your sales & marketing materials speak volumes of your product & story?

Island Dog Gear * San Francisco, CA
http://www.islanddoggear.com/
CLEVER CONSISTENCY COUNTS

CARE: Fred Segal supports UN humanity

2010-06-08T03:02:00.000-07:00

Again Zero Minus Plus at Fred Segal hosts its rotating charitable arts gallery, which continually engages customers with its worthy endeavors, wild launch parties & heartfelt causes. This time proceeds benefit Unitid Nations humanitarian agencies & generously sponsored. What's your reason to celebrate?

zero minus plus at Fred Segal

Santa Monica, CA * www.zerominusplus.com

SUPPORT YOUR STANCE

RARE: "It" Bags Make the Gift

2010-05-23T21:19:00.001-07:00

Black Ink in Pacific Palisades, CA makes gift giving thoughtful (personalized gifts!) but thoughtless (making the purchase so simple for customers, they need not give the purchase a second thought!). Do you provide customers comprehensive solutions to which they cannot say "no?"

Black Ink * Pacific Palisades, CA * T: 310.573.9905

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=135164345284

GIVE CUSTOMERS EASY SOLUTIONS

FLAIR: Junk to Funk Fashion Show

2010-05-23T21:18:00.001-07:00

"Junk to Funk" at Portland Intl. Airport is intended to inspire individuals to more responsible consumerism, creative re-use & conscious disposal. One masterpiece is fashioned from Crown Royal bags, another spoons from frozen yogurt shops & another quite literally, a potato sack suit!

Junk to Funk * Portland, OR * www.junktofunk.org

UNBOUNDED CREATIVITY WITH PURPOSE

SHARE: City Center Crystals, Las Vegas

2010-05-23T21:17:00.002-07:00

This sign appears on Melrose Avenue, a famously chic shopping mecca. What better place to advertise 500,000 square feet of brand-new luxury retail space at City Center Las Vegas? Does your company sensibly post where potential / customers will internalize & act on the message?

Crystals Retail & Entertainment * Las Vegas, NV * www.crystalsatcitycenter.com

PROXIMITY TO LIKE-MINDED

DARE: Nine & One-Half Minutes...

2010-05-23T21:17:00.000-07:00

This shocking statistic makes for a provocative, impactful statement: this epidemic happens all around us, & the billboard stresses immediacy to get educated & tested to know one's status. Do you evidence your claims with facts, figures & statements that objectivize what is your impact?

Act Against Aids * US Dept. Health & Human Services * www.actagainstaids.org

STATISTICS SPEAK VOLUMES

PAIR: Bundled Product Packages

2010-04-29T18:03:00.002-07:00

Kitchen Kitchen groups favorite products & recipes together for simple shopping & easy gift giving. See products packaged at Victoria’s Secret (panties 3 for $30!) & McDonald’s (mini value meals). What do you purchase in this manner? How do you encourage customers add items to transactions?

Kitchen Kitchen * Indian Wells, CA * www.kitchenkitchen.com

PARE: C Magazine Covers

2010-04-29T18:03:00.000-07:00

This ad for C subscriptions appeared within the magazine’s own pages. What better way to showcase your entire purchase than featuring various magazine covers & headlines? This is an inviting taste for what readers may expect. Do you consistently remind consumers how you serve them?

C magazine * Santa Monica, CA * www.magazinec.com

DARE: Fiddler on the Roof Characters

2010-04-27T19:45:00.001-07:00

This generous pair from Fiddler on the Roof outside Denver Center for Performing Arts cannot help but make one smile. Their proportions are so strong & distinct to the artist that created them. Are your impressions, inspirations & viewpoints positioned to get noticed & make a statement?

Denver Center for Performing Arts * Denver, CO * www.denvercenter.org

FLAIR: Paige Dixon Presents at LVDC

2010-04-27T19:44:00.001-07:00

Wynn & Encore Las Vegas have the most exquisite flowers & arrangements in the world. Join floral director Paige Dixon for history of flowers & floral design secrets as part of First Friday design series. Does your business regularly host its customers for reoccurring, anticipated events?

PRESENTING: FLORAL HISTORY & DESIGN

May 7, 2010 at 10:00 am

Building C, LVDC seminar room C-176

Las Vegas Design Center * Las Vegas, NV * www.lvdesigncenter.com

PARE: Lamp Parts Storefronts in China

2010-04-21T02:24:00.002-07:00

These are exotic storefronts in industrial city Zhongshan, southern China. They do not sell entire finished lamp (shade, finial, base, cord) to which Americans are accustomed; rather these stores sell a variety of individual lamp parts for consumers’ best mix-and-match. Which do you prefer?

Storefronts * Zhongshan, China * http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zhongshan

Photos courtesy of Trend Lighting * www.tlighting.com

PERSONALIZED OPTIONS FOR CUSTOMERS

CARE: Starbucks’ Grounds for your Garden

2010-04-21T02:24:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed at your local Starbucks? A silver bin filled with individually packaged, already used coffee grounds. Starbucks encourages customers keep coffee grounds out of landfills, reduce its environmental footprint & nurture its customers’ own gardens. Have you practical solutions?

Starbucks * everywhere, USA * www.starbucks.com

RESOURCEFULLY, INEXPENSIVELY BUILD BRAND

FLAIR: Hermes Tokyo Store Opening

2010-04-19T12:30:00.001-07:00

Hermes recently opened its Tokyo location with a royal bash! Guests were greeted with this fun, whimsical fit-to-be-tied entrance. The tie sets the atmosphere of the party & also exemplifies the energy of the company. The evening lives on weeks afterward in attendees’ minds & blogs like these!

Hermes * Paris, France * www.Hermes.com

Photos courtesy of BizBash * www.bizbash.com

BRING LIFE TO BRAND

CARE: Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market

2010-04-19T12:29:00.000-07:00

Spot these banners along regular intervals all around LA. Not only do the banners promote Farmers’ Market, but also the city & what could be considered a holiday in California – Earth Day. Green living has permeated our mindsets; what eco-friendly adjustments might your business make?

Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market * Beverly Hills, CA * www.beverlyhills.org
IS YOUR CONSCIOUS GREEN?

PAIR: Dodgers’ “My Town” Campaign

2010-04-15T16:23:00.002-07:00

Baseball season is open! Dodgers billboards all around LA feature famous Angelinos decked in blue uniforms. The campaign combines two reminiscent sentiments: people likely have an emotional reaction to Star Wars or America's favorite pasttime. Do you combine business forces?

Dodgers * Los Angeles, CA * http://losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com

REVERT CUSTOMERS TO HAPPINESS

CARE: “Good Works Space”

2010-04-15T16:23:00.001-07:00

zero minus plus introduces its latest charitable installation through April. Kind Campaign is an internationally-recognized movement & documentary based on the powerful belief in kindness that brings awareness & healing to “girl-against-girl” crime. Do your messages carry weight?

www.kindcampaign.com * zero minus plus at Fred Segal

Santa Monica, CA * www.zerominusplus.com

KINDNESS IS ESSENTIAL

SHARE: 100 Displays Under $100

2010-04-14T02:50:00.000-07:00

Linda Cahan is a retail design strategist. Her latest is a how-to book of creative retail ideas from visual merchandisers across America. This inspiring new full-color book gives easy recipes for cooking up fabulous store window displays & interiors. How will you re-invent your environment?

$39.95 in print or $25 by PDF

Order by email: lindacahan@verizon.net

CHALLENGE WHAT YOU'VE "DONE"

PAIR: Google April Fools

2010-04-14T02:49:00.000-07:00

Did you log on the web’s #1 search engine April 1? Then you were greeted with an unfamiliar term “Topeka” in the usual Google colors & fonts. Google renamed itself after Kansas for the day: what better worldwide recognition for the state of KS? Click for complete story:

www.dailynews.com/news/ci_14800133?source=rss

Google * Mountain View, CA * www.google.com

HAVE FUN WITH CUSTOMERS

RARE: Decorate to Create Ambiance

2010-04-14T02:48:00.002-07:00

What fun on its exterior, how could one pass? This 20,000 square foot warehouse imports antiques & artifacts for the home & garden. The decorated exterior generates such anticipation & its website graphics as colorful & whimsical. How do you create atmosphere in your business?

Cargo * Portland, OR * www.cargoinc.com

AMUSE & ENTERTAIN CUSTOMERS

DARE: Kohl’s Center for Retailing Excellence

2010-04-14T02:48:00.001-07:00

UW-Madison is one of few colleges to offer BS degree in retailing & among the nation’s top programs. Well-known retailers support as it produces talented, bright professionals for their businesses. Note the rotating banner ads & frequency? What are keys to the future of retail?

Kohl’s Center for Retailing Excellence * www.sohe.wisc.edu/centers/cre

University of Wisconsin-Madison * www.wisc.edu

CULTIVATE LEADERSHIP IN RETAIL

FLAIR: Outrageous Outfits Always

2010-04-14T02:47:00.001-07:00

No matter your musical tastes, likely Lady Gaga is familiar. Not only a talented performer, she is also the consummate entertainer. At every turn she grabs your attention & the headlines. She makes one wonder, “what will she come with next?” Do your customers ask what’s next in-store?

Lady Gaga * US tour begins 7-1 * www.ladygaga.com

KEEP CUSTOMERS CONJECTURING

PARE: Advertising on Sunset Strip

2010-04-14T02:46:00.000-07:00

Consumers are continually bombarded by advertising messages. Take this drive on the famous Sunset Strip: how many ads do you count in this photo? Which are the most prominent & striking? How can your business capitalize on high-traffic areas? (There are 18 ads in this photo!)

Sunset Boulevard * Los Angeles, CA * www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunset_Boulevard

LOCATION, POSITION & HIGH VISIBILITY

CARE: Chair Affair Home Benefit

2010-04-14T02:45:00.000-07:00

At Chair Affair on 4-8, live & silent auctions feature 100 local artists to support The Community Warehouse. This is the Northwest’s only furniture bank that supplies furnishings & household items at no cost to families in need. What talent & resources have you to contribute?

Mario’s * Portland, OR * www.marios.com

The Community Warehouse * www.communitywarehouse.org

BUILD COMMUNITY BRIDGES

RARE: Swapping Painted Storefronts

2010-04-14T02:44:00.000-07:00

De la Barracuda is a skateboard shop on Melrose. Every couple months it repaints its giant storefront, creating an amusing, rotating art space on its high profile, highly trafficked street. Does your storefront leave the neighborhood wondering, “what is next?” & “what is inside?”

De la Barracuda * Los Angeles, CA * www.barracudashop.com

TRAIN CUSTOMERS TO LOOK

DARE: Unexpected, Odd Messages

2010-04-14T02:43:00.002-07:00

Maker’s Mark bottles POP off this billboard straight to the blue sky! Unusual shapes invite a longer, more thoughtful impression - because this is not the same “seen” rectangle. The message is also especially tuned to its Los Angeles-centric audience. Does your advertising explode?

Maker’s Mark * Loretto, KY * www.makersmark.com

BE “OTHER” FROM OTHERS

PAIR: La Cienega Design Quarter

2010-04-14T02:43:00.001-07:00

For over half a century, stylish shoppers discover treasure troves of antiques, furniture, rugs, accessories & art at LCDQ. Neighborhood businesses band together for the power & efficiency of marketing in numbers. How will your business align with others for increased awareness?

La Cienega Design Quarter * Los Angeles, CA * www.lcdqla.com

COLLABORATE IN YOUR COMMUNITY

TEAR: “Business Closing” Signs

2010-04-14T02:41:00.000-07:00

Why is it one never notices some businesses until there is a “store closing” sign outside? Why when sales were flagging did they not create a banner inviting in customers? What is the point to finally invest in marketing collateral when the message is you will no longer be conducting business?

Fornarina * Italy * www.fornarina.com

SHARE: “Coming Soon” Notices

2010-04-14T02:40:00.002-07:00

Los Angeles eagerly anticipates the arrival of Vivienne Westwood from across the Atlantic! Although store build is not even near complete, thousands will be exposed to the upcoming opening courtesy of this simple banner. Do you excite customers enough to engage & tell others?

Vivienne Westwood * London, England * www.viviennewestwood.com

BUILD PRE-AWARENESS

SHARE: Thom Filicia for Vanguard

2010-04-14T02:40:00.001-07:00

This Friday, Filbert & Fig hosts celebrity designer Thom Filicia. Designer awareness grew from extensive, multi-faceted outreach: telephone calls, postcards, posters, event announcements, blogs, press, individual emails, e-blasts & more. Where all do you place enticing messages?

www.ThomFilicia.com * www.FilbertandFig.com * www.EngineCo.com

Friday, March 19, 2010 * 11:30 am – 1:30 pm

FLAIR: Fatburger Jukebox Tunes

2010-04-14T02:39:00.000-07:00

Lovie Yancey created something unique. A culture. A phenomenon. The only thing she loved like hamburgers was music. So Fatburger blasts the best music from its jukeboxes, keeping you groovin’ until the juicy Fatburger is finished. Does your ambiance intrigue your customers’ senses?

Fatburger * international * www.fatburger.com

DARE: Reflect Inspiration Everywhere

2010-04-14T02:38:00.000-07:00

Visual merchandiser Michelle collects inspirations as her desk backdrop. She gathers pictures, textures, fabrics, magazine pages, words & phrases to motivate her team daily. What better approach for perspective, appreciation & embracing the brightness of every single day?

Birds’ Eye View * Los Angeles, CA * http://MyBirdsEyeViewinc.blogspot.com/

Guest Michelle Teele * design & merchandising

TEAR: Campaigns With(out) Synergy

2010-04-14T02:37:00.002-07:00

New Jersey Nets are struggling with NBA's worst record. No one attends games. Their latest promotion: New Jersey residents 18+ who attend the game receive a coupon redeemable for state income tax prepared free. Do you suppose this puts basketball fans in stadium seats?

New Jersey Nets * East Rutherford, NJ * www.nba.com/nets

PARE: Catchy, Moving Billboards

2010-04-14T02:37:00.001-07:00

The friendly team at McGrath’s rents ski & snowboard equipment near Mountain High, CA. Also available are warm snow parkas, emblazoned with contact information. All day their message zooms around its exact target audience. Where will your business name stick in consumers’ minds?

McGrath’s Ski Rentals * Wrightwood, CA * www.mthigh.com

DARE: Familiar Materials, New Uses

2010-04-14T02:36:00.001-07:00

"Crayons are a gateway drug," says Nashville, TN artist Herb Williams. "The sight & smell of crayons produce memories of childhood." His installation at NYC's RARE gallery featured 500,000 colorful crayons permeating that familiar wax scent. Do you revert customers someplace meaningful?  

AmericanStyle * Baltimore, MA * www.americanstyle.com

PARE: Ralphs Discount Lift Tickets

2010-04-14T02:35:00.001-07:00

Discount tickets for Mountain High (Angeles National Forest, CA) are available at the local grocery store. Not only is advance purchase convenient, it saves money. The card is live so simply carry along for all-day (automatically recorded!) action. Is your customer data diligently recorded?

Ralphs * Compton, CA * www.ralphs.com

FLAIR: Bustling Traffic & Crowds

2010-04-14T02:34:00.001-07:00

Apple store is always packed. Why? Because products are user-friendly, it creates a community of learning & engages customers. Each associate has a handheld POS for on-the-spot transactions = customer ease & superior one-to-one experience. Is it “cool” to congregate & shop your location?

Apple * Cupertino, CA * www.apple.com

SHARE: Branded Wallpaper Swap

2010-04-14T02:33:00.001-07:00

MTV’s web strategy is deeply integrated in its television programming & related outlets. Log on www.mtv.com then refresh several pages. The back wallpaper switches over & over. Designs are completely different, always amusing & still MTV cohesive. How will you enhance the ambiance?

MTV * New York, NY * www.mtv.com

RARE: Monogram, Personalized Bags

2010-04-14T02:32:00.000-07:00

Louis Vuitton is quintessential Parisian chic. Its latest introduction lets customers design their own product including color swatches & personalized initials. It turns a familiar pattern to the customer’s particular specifications. Do you present customers options & individualized solutions?

Louis Vuitton * Paris, France * www.louisvuitton.com

DARE: Recycled Plastic Flower Strands

2010-04-14T02:31:00.000-07:00

The cleverly creative Anthropologie team strikes with intriguing designs. Its beautifully merchandised stores artfully present product for maximized sales. This eco-chic display dangles re-envisioned flower petals. Do you stir customers with conceivable, workable solutions?

Anthropologie * Trenton, SC * www.anthropologie.com

PARE: Light My Fire Hot Sauce

2010-04-14T02:30:00.000-07:00

This Farmers’ Market stand serves thousands of hot sauces from around the world. Sauces are rated on a scale of 1 (just a little kick) to 10 (soothe the burn) - mild & amusing to spicy hot hot hot. Is your product selection so rich, varied & comprehensive that one single selection is impossible?

Light My Fire * Los Angeles, CA at The Grove

www.hotsaucetogo.com * www.farmersmarketla.com

RARE: RIP Lee Alexander McQueen

2010-04-14T02:29:00.000-07:00

Distinctive designer Alexander McQueen graced us with entertaining, progressive fashions. Sadly his creative genius is ended. His company honors his legacy in its Melrose, Los Angeles location. Other flagships include New York, London, Milan & Las Vegas. Is your news current & apropos?

Alexander McQueen * London, England * www.alexandermcqueen.com

PAIR: LACMA On-Site

2010-04-14T02:28:00.001-07:00

LA County Museum offers Art Programs out in its community. Laurel Elementary School in West Hollywood, CA is one such partner. Students need not travel TO the museum to see & experience art firsthand. Is your company well positioned in community spheres for positive influence?

LA County Museum * Los Angeles, CA * www.lacma.org

TEAR: Less-Than-Admirable "Service"

2010-04-14T02:27:00.000-07:00

Car mechanics are reputed for up-selling unnecessary services. Above all else comes customer trust & integrity: motives must always be in customers’ interest. Short-term sales do not build long-term relationships. This location sells Ford’s Lincoln & Mercury brands, but also Hyundai. Mayhem!

Ladin Lincoln Mercury * Thousand Oaks, CA * http://ladinlm.dealerconnection.com/