As the frosty air nips at our noses and glistening treetops line bustling marketplaces, it’s clear the season of giving is upon us. And with it comes a sleigh-load of seasonal marketing campaigns each more glittering than the last, aiming to capture hearts, and, if we’re honest, wallets. So, what makes a campaign not just sparkle, but resonate deeply in this winter wonderland of commerce and cheer?
Today, we’re dashing through the snow to uncover the magic behind the ads that have us all abuzz. From nostalgic nods to a childhood classic that had us setting booby traps for fun to the oceanic conservatory that’s giving back with each passing day of December, these campaigns are gifts that keep on giving.
Let’s unwrap these stories (early! Wahoo!) of marketing mastery together and discover why they’ve earned their place on the nice list. So, with a cup of cheer in hand and heart, settle into your coziest chair and join us on this merry ride through the most memorable seasonal campaigns of the year thus far.
Table of Contents
Google’s Homey Commercial
I know I already linked it in the blog about marketing lessons we learned from our top fave holiday movie classics, but Google really hit me in the nostalgic feels with their Home Alone-inspired ad this year:
WHY IT WORKS
It leans into a few things for me here.
1. Living Every Kid’s Fantasy: Being left alone like Kevin M. when your little is a dream come true. Like Richie Rich, this movie was a fantasy come true for any youngest child longing to run the show. (Pun intended.) As the baby (and resident mischief-maker) of the family myself, this film resonated with me.
2. Nostalgic marketing taps into childhood memories. Play all day in the snow, and when you got cold, plopping down to watch TV to sip on hot apple cider with a cheese and cracker snack was the ideal snow day.
3. Relatable to the Human Experience: The connection to my own humanity is fantastic. I’m not quite sure how to explain the unadulterated joy that came from seeing a grown and recovered Macaulay Culkin embracing a little bit of silliness and holiday cheer. Maybe it’s the health coach in me, but really, how amazing of a journey. It is sooo relatable. It brings hope, and it helps to melt away any humbugs stuck in your system.
SeaTrees’ Clever Calendar
This year, SeaTrees has implemented an advent calendar of elfish education full of fun facts and opportunities to give meaningful gifts that move us forward.
WHY IT WORKS
SeaTrees’ advent calendar campaign is a festive masterpiece, blending the joy of giving with the thrill of daily surprises. Here’s why it makes us jolly:
1. A Daily Dose of Delight: Just like unwrapping a gift each day of December, SeaTrees’ daily reveals keep us hooked with anticipation. From ocean-positive facts to exclusive events, there’s always something fresh to discover. Better than finding a chocolate treat behind every door, the added zest of helping our oceans is the reward.
2. Mix of Fun and Philanthropy: This campaign is a cocktail of merriment and meaning. Each day brings not just gifts or discounts, but also snippets of knowledge and updates that make us feel connected to a greater cause.
3. Collaborations that Count: Including offers from brand partners isn’t just smart, it’s adding twinkling lights to a Christmas tree. Not only does it make the campaign brighter but it also creates a sense of community. Are we all holding hands around the tree, united in our mission to protect the ocean? Because it sure feels like a Who-ville solidarity sing-a-long.
4. Embracing the Spirit of the Season: At its heart, this campaign is about giving back. What’s more true to the season than that? Even Scrooge learned that the holiday spirit is made up of generosity and kindness. It allows us to experience giving the perfect gift, knowing it brings happiness not just to the recipient but also contributes to a bigger, global picture.
SeaTrees’ advent calendar is not like just a marketing campaign; it’s a holiday journey that marries (dare I say… merries?) the delight of discovery with the warmth of doing good. Each day feels like unwrapping a little piece of hope and happiness, making the countdown to Christmas not just fun, but meaningful. A warm reminder that the best gifts are those that keep on giving – to our planet, our oceans, and our hearts.
Dive into SeaTrees’ seaweed garland-laid oceanic adventure on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. (And don’t miss their exceptional Gift Guide!)
Mercedes Benz’s Classy Static Ad
Look at this classy, sharp, clean ad.
Mercedes’ sleek ad is a stroke of minimalist genius, capturing the essence of the holidays without a single snowflake or Santa in sight. (And isn’t it kinda refreshing that way?)
WHY IT WORKS
1. A Visual Whisper: The ad doesn’t shout; it elegantly murmurs “Christmas” with just the right amount of subtlety. It’s the marketing equivalent of a quiet room in a busy house during the holidays — a moment of calm that is a welcome relief to the din.
2. Sophisticated Simplicity: It’s as if Mercedes-Benz took the Christmas tree, stripped it back to its bones, and presented it in a way that’s undeniably upscale. The ad embodies the luxury associated with the brand, echoing the sentiment that sometimes less is more — especially in an often over-the-top season.
3. A Double Take Designer: Just like that designer dress that looks stunningly simple but surprises with its intricate details, this ad makes you do a double-take. At first glance, it’s a tree; at second glance, it’s a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s mastery of design, turning their emblem into a symbol of the holidays.
This ad isn’t just an ad; it’s an experience. It’s like the first step into freshly fallen snow — crisp, pristine, and leaving a lasting impression. It whispers luxury and holiday spirit in the same breath, without needing to say a word.
Clever indeed, Mercedes. Clever indeed.
Burger King’s Awesome In-App Appeal
The King has decreed that his domain is to be a welcoming holiday cove for all to enjoy Christmas their way in BK’s Tis the Cheeson in-app experience. If you’re hoping for free offers, then you’re in luck. But not only that – this clever Cozy Cabin setup not only reveals daily deals. It also is a one-stop hub for merch that will make the burger lover in your life feel like fast-food royalty.
WHY IT WORKS
A delectable blend of holiday spirit and clever marketing, here’s the scoop on why it’s a sizzling success:
1. A Feast of Daily Surprises: Much like opening a new window on an advent calendar, BK’s in-app experience offers a fresh treat each day. These rotating regal offers, from freebies to discounts, keep us coming back for more, eager to see what the King has cooked up next.
2. Cozy Cabin Charm: The Cozy Cabin setup is a stroke of genius as a festive, immersive experience. Imagine walking into a wooded winter wonderland, except it’s in your phone. This virtual cabin feels like a snug burger haven, making the deal-hunting experience all the more enjoyable.
3. Merch Galore: Talk about dressing up your holiday with a side of fries! The exclusive BK merchandise, from ugly sweaters to the off-the-wall human dog beds, is like the secret sauce of this campaign. It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it’s so Burger King. Donning a BK sweater is a whole new level of holiday cheer, tailored for the fast-food aficionado.
4. Fast-Food Royalty Vibe: This campaign makes every customer feel like fast-food royalty. It’s a clever play on the Burger King brand, turning every app user into a monarch of their own burger kingdom. It’s like wearing a paper crown in the restaurant, but way cooler – because now, you’re part of an exclusive club of burger-loving kings and queens. And you’ve got the threads to prove it.
In essence, Burger King’s “Tis the Cheeson” campaign is a jolly blend of holiday magic and fast-food fun. It’s not just about snagging deals; it’s about being part of Burger King’s merry kingdom. With each app visit, you’re not just saving money; you’re stepping into a festal, burger-themed holiday story, making your heart (and stomach) a little fuller.
An Ongoing Seasonal Marketing Hall of Fame
Man, I can’t believe I’m already at over 1,000 words. There are so many awesome campaigns out there that make me feel like little Cindy Lou Who – full of cheer despite all that may be happening this year.
We’re all storytellers here in this winter wonderland of marketing. So, let me know… when it comes to holiday ads this year, what are some of your faves? Share a seasonal campaign tale that you think deserves a round of Santa-plause for its creativity or impact!
