Move Over Burger McDonald's Is Thirsty

Over the years fast food giant, McDonald's has been making a shift to more beverage choices. In July McDonald's will roll out smoothies to compete with Planet Smoothie, Smoothie King and Jamba Juice.

But will customers think of McDonald's as a beverage destination? It might depend on the price of theirs versus the competitors.

Even so, I'm not sure I will. Over the last couple years McDonald's has added premium coffee options to their menu and I still find myself going to Starbucks, Caribou or Crimson Cup for my java. I just don't even think about McDonald's as a coffee stop. I guess I just relate the brand to burgers and fries and not coffees and smoothies.

For more info on this story read the Advertising Age article here.

Hey Columbus Moms, Momstyle is Becoming It's Own Social Networking Site!

Soon to be driven by the Dispatch Broadcast Group, Momstyle will be created with resources from the print publication and online special edition combined with the added spice of a social network just for moms, in one convenient place.

They are currently looking for moms to sign up to be a discussion leader. It’s easy and free and it’s a great way to market your own unique brand.

Simple visit the site landing page and include your contact information and why you want to be part of Columbus Momstyle.

Nickelodeon Turns 30 and Gets a Facelift

MTV-owned children's cable network Nickelodeon turns 30 years young. With the milestone comes a new brand image. The logo is set in rounded lowercase type, the focal point being a stylized dot on the lowercase ‘i’—possibly resembling the outline of a child.

Sister channel Teen Nick gets a modern, updated look as well.

Being a mom of two Nick children I asked for their opinion of the new logo. Their answers might surprise Nickelodeon.

Eleven-year-old son: "I think the old logo is more exciting for kids. I like the splatter because it looks alive. The new logo is too boring and lacks detail. Being lower case it doesn't stand out on the poster examples. I do like the Teen Nick look a lot though."

Fourteen-year-old daughter: "The old logo is more kid friendly and represented who Nick is much better. The new logo is too plain, boring and not as much fun. Does that mean they are doing away with sliming? The Teen Nick logo is better than the new Nickelodeon. At least Teen Nick shows personality."

This made me wonder if Nickelodeon put the new look in front of a demographic focus group. Maybe, but my kids definitely had a strong negative reaction to the new brand image.

For more information on the new Nickelodeon image and to see how the new logo is being used on posters visit the idsgn website.

Whatever Happened to Myspace?

(<---- Profile photo)

As a typical 28-year-old consumer, it is fascinating to take a step back and look at the overall social networking trends the past few years.  I personally started with myspace, the gateway drug which led me to facebook, and am now dabbling in twitter.  It's hard to remember the days when people used to "poke" eachother on facebook- back when it was just for college students (okay, so this may have been just after I graduated).  

Myspace seems to have found its niche in the music scene where artists can upload and promote their own music (check out local band Super Desserts!), or express their influences through public playlists, or people like myself have found an easy way to check out the new Lily Allen song before making an impulse buy on itunes. 

As a consumer, I would like to have all of these applications available in one place.  I wonder if facebook will jump on the music bandwagon.  Maybe I'm a lazy sellout, but I hope so.  

Local Charity Changes it's Name

The non-profit organization formerly known as Adventures for Wish Kids has undergone a name change to 'A Kid Again.'   Along with this change, they have launched a new website and we have noticed several billboards  and mentions in the media about their new image.  The President explains that the change was necessary in order to expand their reach, and we think that it has come at a great time, as many non-profits could use some exposure right now.  

Also wanted to mention what a great time this is for a business to partner with the organization, while it is getting so much attention.  We think Kidslinked and A Kid Again would be a great fit for each other.    They are both experiencing a lot of growth right now and have similar audiences.   So many opportunities... a Kidslinked event that benefits A Kid Again? Reciprocal web links?  Mentions on each others newsletters? PR opportunities?

There is more where that came from.  Cause marketing is our specialty.  

Kidslinked.com

Just wanted to share a website that may be of interest to some our readers (Ali!)...  www.kidslinked.com was started in central Ohio and has grown to include locations throughout Ohio and Indiana.  It's a great resource where parents can find local events, activities, discounts, childcare and much more.   The site is well-organized, visually appealing, and the info is always up to date (a topic recently discussed in the previous post!)

It was started in central Ohio by two busy parents and we wanted to congratulate them on their innovation and success.  

It seems that most of kidslinked awareness has come from word of mouth marketing, which can be impactful, especially when it is among the parent/ family niche.  We would love to help boost their online visibility and public awareness and (of course) have plenty of fresh ideas on how to market the site (even continuing on a grassroots level).  As fellow central Ohio entrepreneurs, we truly would hate to see their concept and brand dissolve as competitors join the market.  

Top Holiday Ads

When money is tight retailers tug on the heart strings to get consumers into their doors. Emotional branding at its best.  But does this type of brand advertising really work?

It worked for Best Buy this year.  Their employee's sharing heartfelt stories of helping customers find the perfect gift spot moved them up in the ranks from last year.

According to an Ad Age article, of the consumer surveyed only 17.5% felt motivated by the spots to go shopping, 43.5% were not motivated by the spots, and 39% didn't care what the spot was because they already shop at these retailers.

Did you have a favorite holiday commercial?  Did it motivate you to shop at the store?  We'd love to hear your comments.

See the top ten comparison below.

Top Ten Holiday Ads: Consumers rank the retailer they think had the best holiday commercial.
2008 Rank	2007 Rank
Target	Target
Wal-Mart	Wal-Mart
Best Buy	Macy's
Macy's	Best Buy
Kohl's	Sears
Sears	Kohl's
Kmart	Kmart
JC Penney	JC Penney
Old Navy	Publix
Toys R Us	Meijer

La Jeune Mariee Bridal Boutique Sample Sale - Mark Your Calendar

We just sent out a mailer to central Ohio soon to be brides notifying them of our client's, La Jeune Mariee Bridal Boutique, Winter Sample Sale.  You are invited too.

Mark your calendar for January 9th and 10th 2009.  Appointments are needed.

Click here for more details

Great Holiday Event brings German Village Publicity!

The husband and I were experiencing the early stages of cabin fever yesterday and decided to get out and do something festive.  We ended up going back in time to Germany in the 18oos, where we walked down snowy cobblestone streets with glowing luminaries,  heard Christmas carolers, and stopped into some of the small businesses who offered warm cider, wine and cookies.  Seriously, who knew this kind of merriment still existed?!  Well, it did at the Annual "Village Lights...Shop, Dine & Stroll," which took place in German Village on Sunday December 7th. 

Although reading the cheesy description I just wrote almost made me nauseous, last night it was absolutely perfect.  Getting off the couch, away from the tv & newspaper where all you hear is "economy crisis, layoffs, and bailout plans" was just what we needed.   The recession was actually the perfect reason to attend this free event and spend a few bucks at these independently owned businesses.  So, way to go German Village business community! I know I will be back again soon for dinner, drinks and more shopping.  (And way to go Adam for taking your wife out for a romantic holiday evening.)  

MonaVie- thoughts?

Do any of our readers out there have an opinion on the popular and intriguing juice product, MonaVie? We just don't know what to think with some claiming it's a scam and others raving about the benefits of acai.  

What I have noticed, is that the simple bottle design, availability through individual distributors, and expensive price seem to be working well for the product.  When my husband's "dealer" (: moved away, I was thrilled to find out over thanksgiving that a relative was selling it.   I do like the taste although I just don't know how much I believe the hype.  

Here is why it works for me personally:  I start with a shot in the morning and experience that satisfaction of starting the day off right.  I take a little bit of a longer walk in the morning and try to make healthy choices the rest of the day.  So, essentially, that expensive drink of MonaVie somehow keeps me conscious of my choices, and in the end, I truly do feel better.   But is it the drink or the rest of the choices?  

Any thoughts, opinions, experiences?...

Grandview Theatre to Open early January

Renovations, decoration, and plans are being made for the Grandview Theatre (formerly Drexel Grandview) to open and film fans are thrilled!  Residents are also excited about the location re-opening (the image on the right perfectly the nostalgic and charming structure), but concerned about it's longevity.  Marketing is key, as foreign and independent films are a very specific niche. Audience research and awareness are essential for success.  How do you reach the young artsy market?  How can new customers be engaged?  What is unique about Grandview Theatre and how do you capitalize on it?  Will mainstream movies be shown?  Classics?  Who is the largest competition and where do it's clients live?  How do you involved the tight-knit Grandview community? ....  And that is just a start.

A Shout out to the Grandview Chamber

As previously mentioned, columbus imPRessions joined the Grandview Chamber and has discovered so much more than just networking and business referrals.  It is the feeling of belonging, camaraderie,  love for our little neighborhood that sits right next to downtown Columbus.  It is incredibly inspiring to meet men and women just like us (i.e. cool & funny),  who are succeeding in their own businesses right next door.  We are truly looking forward to this Thursday's luncheon where we will learn about the growth of Grandview Yard (the spot where the Big Bear warehouse used to be).   Who knows, it could be the site of columbus imPRessions new office location!  

Go Vote Then Get Your Free Donut

Today is Election Day.  Go vote and feel proud to exercise that right!  After you've placed your vote for president, stop by a Krispy Kreme Donut Shop.  Krispy Kreme wants to celebrate this "oh so sweet" constitutional right.

If you are wearing your I voted sticker you will receive one star-shaped donut with red, white and blue sprinkles.  Yum!

Meet Chef Brooke Kinsey

Powell, Ohio resident and Executive Chef/Culinary Instructor, Brooke Kinsey, brings nine years of professional experience, a distinguished culinary education, and a passionate and cheerful personality to the business. 

Brooke received her education at Johnson and Wales University, and has worked as an executive and personal chef.  She enjoys cooking with seasonal flavors, like apples and pumpkins in the autumn, and comfort food in the winter.  Brooke will be instructing all cooking classes. 

“I am excited about the unique concept Annette (Bellisari) has brought to Grandview.  The Culinary Table is different than anything in Columbus, and I am thrilled to be a part of it.  I envision some beautiful parties and incredible hand-on cooking classes.” 

The Culinary Table uniquely blends flavors and fragrance solely created for your memorable occasion. 

The Culinary Table is an intimate gathering venue and hands-on cooking classroom built with old world charm and a twist of modern flair.  Bellisari’s Catering and Natural Designs have fused their talents creating unforgettable celebrations filled with food, flowers, family and friends. 

Pull up a chair.  To reserve your seat at our table or to sign up for one of our cooking classes call 614.488.3714 or email info@theculinarytable.com.

We Smell A Nittany Lion

This weekend is the biggest, BIG Ten match-up thus far - OSU and Penn State.  All the makings of a great game - both team undefeated in the conference and a night game.  Even though the game is being played in Columbus, there might be an overpowering smell of Nittany Lions.

Why?  Because a company called Masik makes Collegiate Fragrances and one of their scents is of Penn State University. The only Big Ten school to have a scent so far.  

Masik is the only company of its kind to make distinctive fragrances reflecting each schools unique and distinguished characteristics.  Creating a product like this will surely connect with consumers that our passionate about their Alma mater.

When creating a school fragrance they consider school colors, mascot spirit, landmarks, campus trees and flowers, and traditions.

OSU doesn't have a fragrance yet. But if they did what do you think it would smell like?  We'd love to hear your comments.

Want OSU to have a fragrance?  Email Masik at newuniversity@masik.com.  If they license the product a percentage of each bottle sold would go to the university scholarship and athletic fund.

Learn . . Love . . Live - Cancer Cooking Classes

Enjoy cooking?

Starting next month our client, The Culinary Table (located in Grandview) will be hosting monthly Cancer Cooking Classes.   These classes teach nutrition for caregivers, family, patients, or anyone wanting to have fun and learn through cooking.

For more information contact info@theculinarytable.com.

Goin' Fishin' Kid

We love to fish.  Something we both have enjoyed ever since we were little kids.  It made us happy, and taught us some of life's greatest lessons.  

Everyone knows of Pepperidge Farms Goldfish Crackers.  I bet most people have tried and even liked them.  We have and we do. 

That's why this cause-marketing program caught our attention.  Pepperidge Farms has created Fishful Thinking.  A program that provides parents with tools to teach their children how overcome failure, be positive and achieve their goals.

This program and the website provides advice from medical professionals, recommends self-help books, and provides positive activities for parents and children all while subtly promoting their products.

Very tastefully done.  A perfect brand partnership.  

Patience and perseverance life lessons needed for fishing, as well as growing up successfully.

Goodie Bags

This Sunday is the 60th Primetime Emmy Awards.  To mark this milestone celebration presenters and nominees will be raking in the goodies.  Exclusive brands from all over covet the chance to have their brand and products represented in the goodie bags that the Hollywood elite take home.

Every presenter will receive a Dooney & Burke satchel filled with goodies worth more than $30,000 - yes you saw it right - $30,000.  Some of the items include:  a certificate for a 15-inch Zenith flat-screen TV, an invitation to host a private dinner party at one of the Morton's Steakhouses, a day of services at Ona Spa in LA and a new Sprint PCS phone.

Think that's good.  Check out what the nominees who don't go home with the golden statue receive:   Lasik eye surgery at the Assil Sinskey Eye Institute in California, Obagi Medical skin procedures, round-trip ticket to anywhere Song Airlines flies, year membership to Clay gym in New York City, Boucheron sunglasses, Mephisto shoes, fur and leather bag from Elliott Lucca, Vavamojo good-luck necklace, and a Tracy Place watch to name a few.  All these total about $25,000.

It's a win, win for everyone.  The brands get great exposure to some of the riches and most influential people in the country and the stars get more loot than they need.  Maybe some will have a kind heart and donate their goodie bag to charity.

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Back to School

If you are a parent, teacher, school administrator, or a human being, then you are well aware that it's back to school time!  The news media loves this stuff to death every August.  Saving on school supplies, back to school wardrobe shopping, first day back stress, immunizations... the headlines go on & on.  So what do you do when the news seems focused on one subject? Make your story fit in!  A few examples:

• Whole Foods Market helping shoppers prepare for back to school season.  Attention grabbing statistic:   "The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that nearly 22 million school days are lost annually due to the common cold alone. Strengthening the immune system and good nutrition are essential at this time of year when kids are headed back to the classroom."  
  

..... Mom & Dad better pack organic lunches or kids will be missing millions of lessons!

• Credit Unions Reach Out to Ohio Schools:  800 letters were recently sent from the Ohio Credit Union League to guidance counselors throughout Ohio to remind them of an impending financial education mandate and introduce them to the free educational web portal www.MoneyAndStuff.info.  

...... Teachers better educate the kids about good financial habits with this free resource!

Doggyspace - seriously

Yes, I am serious, it's social networking for dogs. While some may think this is ridiculous, (non dog- lovers), we think it is wizardry. Pet owners love to show off photos, talk about their dogs, act like their dogs have 'friends', and what not. The intelligent dog that came up with this concept knew that selling web banners and advertisements would be easy since he would be capturing dog owners who would do practically anything for their pooch. Petsmart and SPCA are a few brands you see at first glance among the tons of ADORABLE wittle guys!