Friskies Teams up with Grumpy Cat at the 2016 South by Southwest Festival

On March 12 and March 13, 2016, at the South by Southwest interactive (SXSWi) festival, Friskies well known mascot, Grumpy Cat, graced the crowd with an appearance to promote its most recent wet cat food product, Cat Concoctions. This new product has unusual flavor combos for the curious cat, like cod in cheesy bacon flavored sauce and chicken in creamy crabby sauce. The Inspiration Behind Cat Concoctions

“For the launch of Friskies’ Cat Concoctions, we really thought it was important for people to understand the product proposition—the fact that this line of cat food was inspired by cats,” said the brand manager at Friskies, Jessica Nichols. “And since people aren’t actually eating the product, having this tangible, physical event really helps bring that concept to life. Live experiences allow us to connect with media and consumers in a fun and unique way that really resonates.”

Friskies at South by Southwest

This year marked the fourth year that Friskies and Grumpy Cat teamed up at SXSWi to form a fun experience for consumers. Feline fans were able to enjoy food, music and fun photo opportunities. Music sensations Ryan Cabrera and Blake Lewis combined talents and stopped by to sing a soft, endearing rendition of "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" that almost turned Grumpy Cat's frown upside down. Check out the You Tube video for the sweet harmonies of a Platinum selling recording artist and a runner-up from season six of American Idol. Very calming indeed!

Some Frisky Photo Ops

A fan favorite of the event was the official Friskies' spokes cat herself being on hand for a meet and greet. Quirky, fun props were available for fans to pose with alongside Grumpy Cat. Some of the silly items included a hat in the shape of a clamshell and crab claws you can slip on. There were also signs with phrases such as, "Strike a frown." For even more photo fun, a selfie station was available. At the station, participants were able to do a mash-up so that their faces were combined with Grumpy Cat's world famous scowl.

Ultimately about 1,600 festival goers attended the Friskies event. Those who could not attend were able to follow all the fun on Friskies' Instagram and Snapchat accounts or to join the online activity with #CatConcoctions. Social channels also featured Nala and Waffles, Grumpy Cat's fellow friends.

Jeep Reaches its Audience in an Inspiring Way

Do you have a story about your Jeep? Would you share it with the world? Jeep fans are some of the greatest when it comes to adventure and telling a good story. So, on the 75th anniversary of the Jeep, Jeep wants you to share your story with the world using the hashtag #MyJeepStory and post it on their website. Jeep's Latest Campaign

Jeep's latest campaign, My Jeep Story, is sure to go viral. Jeep has a solid group of die-hard aficionados who have raised their Jeep ownership into a cult-like status. These people use their Jeeps for all sorts of adventures. They prove the legendary toughness of the Jeep by taking it places where most car owners would never consider. It is these dire hard fans Jeep wants to hear from through social media and across the Internet. Jeep started out the campaign with stories from and about celebrity Jeep owners on their microsite. Furthermore, they encourage Jeep owners to tell their stories on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Jeep even gives instructions for how to tell the world your Jeep story.

Big Names about Jeeps

Jeep has enlisted the singer, Ciara, to talk about Jeeps. Her father would tell her stories about driving a Jeep during Desert Storm. The Jeep made an impression with Ciara as she grew up to drive a Jeep product as well. Her love of Jeeps comes out in this YouTube video where she tells her own Jeep story. Jeep also includes some stories regarding historical features and their Jeeps. On the microsite are Jeep stories about Marilyn Monroe, Mark A. Smith, and George Speaker and encouragement for you to share your own story and be a part of Jeep history.

Getting People to Talk about their Jeeps

This campaign is part of a year long campaign to herald Jeep's 75th anniversary. Jeep will feature 75 of the stories by the end of the campaign (for the 75th year anniversary), and all stories will be immortalized both in social media and on the microsite. Lest you think that the brand will only cover the historical and serious side of the Jeep, Jeep's story sessions cover favorite canines, summer fun, and military appreciation as well.

Jeep launched the 75th year campaign with two spots during the 50th Super Bowl. Furthermore, they are donating $1.4 million to the USO, which is also celebrating its 75th year anniversary.

Game of Thrones at the Annual South by Southwest 2016

Game of Thrones has been one of the most talked about cultural phenomena over the last half decade, seeming to only grow in popularity each passing year. Those who attended SXSW were able to see an up close view some of the of the GoT phenomena. GoT is produced by HBO, and appearing at SXSW was the Hall of Faces. This exhibit brought to life, or perhaps to death, a symbol of GoT, and turned a normal San Antonio street into a symbol of the violence and mayhem GoT fans have come to expect, and to love.

As part of the series, the faces of the dead seen at the Hall of Faces, presumably all suffering their demise from an executioner’s swing of a sword, can be seen as a warning to the enemies of the state. At SXSW, fans were able to join the macabre scene and have their own face digitally installed in the ghoulish hall. The Hall of Faces wasn’t just a one-off exhibit for SXSW, but it will instead travel the world, going to Europe, and then returning to San Diego in time for Comic-Con.

In addition to seeing and even joining the Hall of Faces, there was a chance to experience a hologram that was a simulation of Melisandre’s flame, which fans of the show know she uses like a crystal ball. The hologram, created by Dreamoc HD3, was 30 seconds of exclusive content visible through those flames. Viewers were able to learn more about what happened to Jon Snow, or at least gain a few more hints as to whether Jon Snow is really dead or not.

Fans 21 years old or older were then able to try some grog. Not grog, but a beer called Ommegang’s Game of Thrones: Iron Throne blonde ale. Presumably the beer has a shorter nickname to make it easier to order at the local bar.

A vice-president of consumer marketing at HBO, Joanna Scholl said that part of the reason GoT went all out for this display and interactive content was not only to please fans of the show, but to impress non fans that might be influential in areas of technology and social media. These wielders of influence might become fans of the show themselves, or influence other people to become fans. Scholl said, “We wanted to bring something that was state of the art and allow them the opportunity to engage and share content from the show.”

The sixth season of Game of Thrones will premiere on HBO April 24. By that time, thousands of people will have been able to become a part of the Hall of Faces if they have chosen, enjoyed Melisandre’s magical flame, and even enjoyed a drink of Iron Throne blonde ale. Certainly by April 24, those people will ready for the premier.

"America's Best Breakfasts" Tour Hits the Miami Scene

Breakfast is hitting a level of popularity in recent years that rivals all other meals. There are endless options to have if you love breakfast or brunch. If you are in the Miami area than you can enjoy the tour of “America’s Best Breakfasts.” This event is put on by SoBe Food Fest Creator, Lee Schrager. It’s in celebration of his new cookbook by the same name featuring local recipes from coast to coast. What’s Included With Your Ticket

With your admission ticket you also will receive a copy of this third cookbook,”America’s Best Breakfasts: Favorite Local Recipes From Coast To Coast.” This cookbook is a compilation of 75 of the best breakfast recipes that Lee discovered on a cross country road trip he took a few years ago. His philosophy on breakfast is that it’s obviously, “the best meal of the day.” The fact that no other meal allows you to wear a bathrobe while eating is another one of his takes on this very important meal. Of course, it’s preferred that you get dressed for the “America’s Best Breakfast” Tour.

Where Is The Event?

The event itself takes place at the Magic City Casino with over 40 of the best South Florida restaurants participating. There will be walk up brunch stations all over the casino to sample all kinds of unique breakfast foods. Some favorites, and some that are going to be new to your palate. So if you enjoy Egg Benedict, waffles, and savory bacon galore you aren’t going to want to miss this chance to nosh on breakfast fare that will tantalize your tummy. Some of the key restaurants involved are 27 Restaurant and Bar, DIRT, Palomilla Grill, and Novecento. Although that’s just a taste of which restaurants are going to be there. Check the entire list to find out if your favorite breakfast dining spot is going to be a featured participant.

Not Only Brunch

It’s a 21 and over event only on account of the fact that the Bloody Mary bar, featuring Tito’s Homemade Vodka and the Mimosas, will be free flowing with your pre-purchased ticket. What brunch is complete without these tasty drink options? Some people even say it’s the best part of brunch! Don’t worry though, non alcoholic options will be available as well as coffee and juice.

Buy Your Tickets Early

Get your tickets early to this “Can’t miss food event”, where the lineup of sweet and savory treats will be overflowing in this walk up brunch spectacular! Check out the “America’s Best Breakfasts” event page that will give you all the details you need to purchase your own tickets. It’s Sunday, April 24th at 11:30 am, so mark your calendars now to make sure you don’t miss this popular Miami experience.

Jaguar at Art Basel Miami Beach

Deconstructing the Jaguar to explore the symbolism of the brand through art installations is a style of brand marketing that has proven quite effective. Originating in the world famous London shopping store, Harrods, the Wallpaper* Handmade exhibit will be part of the Art Basel Miami Beach experience. By transporting this magnificent collection of contemporary art as related to the car brand Jaguar to the best event space Miami has to offer, Jaguar is achieving a marketing dream.

When marketing your brand at Art Basel Miami Beach, one must realize the potential to reach the high brow American art audience, as well as potential customers, sponsors and partners from the U.S. and internationally. As one of the world's most sophisticated and well organized art showcases, Art Basel Miami Beach offers brands the chance to engage audiences in a roundabout way. In order to expand the American reach of this British owned manufactured automobile, presenters of the Wallpaper *Handmade are attempting to make an emotional connection with drivers who may be capable of affording a Jaguar but not bonded to this British model.

As a stellar window display in London, the Jaguar Design exhibition featured mind expansive collections one might not relate to automobiles—at first. For example, of the displays coming to events in Miami is 'Revolution,' a lighting display by Moritz Waldemeyer that brings the sleek lines and fast movement of Jaguar to life by combining interior and exterior shapes. Yet another collection brings to mind a dressing room with a scene featuring Mary Katrantzou's 'Neo' dress that showcases laser cut design along side Harry Winston's 'Ultimate Jewelry Box' in a retro gold model.

Other names that will be included in the approximately 70 works at the Handmade exhibitions during Art Basel Week include Karl Lagerfeld, Peter Saville, Hervé Van der Straeten, Johanna Grawunder, Brioni and Poltrona Frau. In order to stand apart from other art installations at the venues in Miami during Art Basel Miami Beach, Jaguar has managed to incorporate the top names in luxury design in elements seemingly unrelated to the automobile industry, such as women's dresses and bedroom furniture, among the key concepts of Jaguar--fashionable, streamline and luxurious yet accessible and functional for the modern, high end car owner.

Grey Goose at Art Basel Miami Beach

It is hard to overstate the impact that Art Basel Miami Beach has on the global art scene. Art Basel Miami Beach and the events in Miami held during this week attract an international audience ready to explore creativity in all of its aspects. This creates a pristine marketing opportunity for brands all around the world to create brand awareness and exposure.

One primary example is Grey Goose Vodka. Grey Goose is the proud sponsor of the Fusion MIA Art Fair which will feature African and Latin artists and music provided by the Miami Symphony Orchestra. Guests will enjoy specialty libations from Grey Goose. This strategic marketing campaign will create a lasting impact for the brand on a globalized level.

Grey Goose understands the value of marketing your brand at Art Basel Miami Beach as do the many other brands you will see amongst the tents, the events and the art installations. Prior to the event brand marketers identify some of the event space Miami has to offer and the events they will host. They carefully select which stellar marketing opportunity they would like to participate in, by determining which one resonates most with their brand strategy.

 It is important for local, national and international brands to promote themselves at Art Basel events in Miami as they draw in a substantial amount of visitors. Anyone involved in brand marketing understands the importance of spreading brand awareness during Art Basel Miami Beach.

Vita Coco Coconut Water at Art Basel Miami Beach

Vita Coco Coconut Water, the best selling coconut-water brand in the United States, is cementing its reputation as an elite drink by sponsoring the 2013 Select Fair Miami. The Fair, held during the week of Art Basel Miami Beach, showcases the best of the best of contemporary artwork to discerning art collectors who have come from around the world to be a part of Art Basel.

Vita Coco Coconut Water will be served at several special events, including the VIP preview pre-Basel event that lets serious collectors see and buy art before the general public gets a chance. By associating its brand name with such an exclusive and elite event, Vita Coco reinforces its image as a drink for the world's elite, the rich and the famous, and the taste makers and trendsetters.

Vita Coco will also be served at a special public reception for the artists, a festive event with DJ sets and explosive work from a performance artist, which will link the brand to cutting-edge culture, the club scene, and having a good time.

Select Fair Miami is a satellite event to the world-famous Art Basel Miami Beach. Held just two blocks from Art Basel and one block from the beach, the Select Fair gathers together the cream of the crop of contemporary art in all mediums, from painting and sculpture to street art and outsider art.

Art Basel attracts an international crowd of elite contemporary art collectors. When they are seen and photographed drinking Vita Coco Coconut Water, the message will be clear that Vita Coco is a brand that stands above the rest -- just as the Select Fair Miami stands above the rest by choosing only the very best artists and galleries to showcase and sell.

Vita Coco's name and logo will be prominent in Select Fair printed materials and online. The more its reputation as an elite drink is enhanced, the more it will appeal to the mass market as well.

GE Capital at Art Basel Miami Beach

Experience one of the world's most stylish neighborhoods, the Wynwood District in Miami, this December 4 to 8 for Spectrum Miami. The week of Art Basel Miami Beach will be inundated with art gallery shows and entertainment options.

In order to stand out from the top artists and promoters in the world at this outstanding showcase opportunity, Spectrum facilitators have moved mountains. Starting with the sponsorship, GE Capital is sponsoring the VIP trade lounge, while show sponsors include ArtSpot International Art Fair, AroundTown arts and culture magazine, ArtSlant, and Art Business News. By involving the top names in print and online media in relation to the art community, Spectrum is achieving its goal of astounding brand marketing.

In terms of what to expect at the Spectrum events in Miami, the show coordinators are encouraging artists on an international scale to compete in a juried art fair. Photography, glassworks, sculpture and paintings are the categories of entries permitted in the contest. Only the crème de la crème are granted a showcase for one of the most sophisticated events in Miami during Art Basel.

The coordinators have very specific guidelines in terms of displays in order to maintain a cohesive and open feel for viewing by visitors. While 50 of the top galleries and 50 juried artists in a wide range of mediums and styles will display their finest creations at the event, visitors will be able to view the works in a mod, streamlined setting.

When marketing your brand at Art Basel Miami Beach, follow the lead of Spectrum. Creativity is key for a display of dozens of art installations. However, by organizing the event with structure and form, you can be sure to make a professional presentation.

In terms of promotion, using sponsors from online and print media in your focus area ensures your event will receive appropriately targeted publicity. Venues in Miami offer some of the greatest freedoms in visual marketing on a large scale in the world. For an arts related event space Miami during Art Basel these cues from Spectrum will give your brand marketing a boost.

Swarovski at Art Basel Miami Beach

Art Basel Miami Beach has become one of the most popular events in Miami in recent years. Miami proves to be the perfect winter holiday spot for the international elite in the world of art. It’s no wonder that thousands will be flocking to Miami, with miles of sandy beaches, a well-established art culture and the hottest night life in the country.

Miami will welcome the international art world December 5^th-8^th in a city wide celebration of art in all of its forms. Exhibitions, talks, events, and exclusive parties are just a part of this now, world renowned art event. Every aspect of art and art admiration has found an outlet in beautiful Miami Beach, Florida.

Almost as popular as the art exhibits themselves, are the exclusive art receptions and parties. Many of these events are by invite only and prove to be a networking Mecca for those pushing ahead in the world of art. Event space Miami offers many opportunities for marketing your brand at Art Basel Miami Beach. Miami proves to be a brand marketing hot spot during this event.

One such event will be that hosted at the Maison Martin Margiela Boutique. This ultra-exclusive cocktail party is being hosted to showcase the newest collection by Atelier Swarovski. The collection is called - Crystalactite.

Margiela and Swarovski have teamed together to use new gem technology to create the futuristic Crystalactite jewelry collection. These pieces resemble the naturally occurring stalactite formation of developing crystals. For those lucky enough to get an invitation to the Margiela Swarovski event they will get a first glimpse of what is sure to be one of the most exclusive gifts this holiday season.

Art Basel Miami Beach proves to be the one event in which visitors can enjoy the work of well established artists while also being introduced to rising stars in the art world. International galleries will be exhibiting the work from the masters alongside emerging artists that are just beginning to explode on the art scene.

Exhibits will be divided into specific sectors using different venues in Miami to showcase specific types of art, for instance Nova, will showcase never before seen piece by new and emerging artists. Other sectors will include Film and Magazines. Art Basel Miami Beach attempts to truly encapsulate the full spectrum of art expression in our modern culture.

Dom Perignon at Art Basel Miami Beach

If you are thinking of marketing your brand at Art Basel Miami Beach, you could take a cue from the brilliant marketing strategy of Dom Perignon. The high-end champagne maker is collaborating with superstar artist Jeff Koons to create special-edition Dom Perignon bottles, which are sure to be seen at the best events in Miami.

This brand marketing is inspired because it brings together two famous names that are synonymous with luxury. The champagne maker reinforces its image of being the best in its class by associating itself with an artist who commands top prices for his work.

The special-edition bottles, which are sure to a major topic of conversation at venues in Miami, are based on Koons' Balloon Venus for Dom Perignon, a $20,000 bottle-holding sculpture, which was unveiled earlier in New York. The bottles incorporate Koons' iconic balloon shapes. The popularity of his balloon forms cannot be overstated. Recently one of Koons' large dog balloon sculptures sold at auction for more than $58.4 million, which is the highest amount ever paid for an artwork by a living artist.

The bottles containing Dom Perignon Vintage champagne will be available in pink and gold, and will sell for $389 and $199, respectively, with the pink bottle containing rosé, and the gold, blanc. At these prices, they are sure to be a huge hit and to be seen in many an event space Miami trendsetters will congregate in. The excitement created by this collaboration will cement Dom Perignon's reputation as the essential champagne for people who appreciate the finer things in life.

Art Basel Miami Beach attracts exactly the kind of opinion leaders who can create the type of buzz that high-end brands like Dom Perignon thrive on. With 50,000 art collectors, curators and artists converging on the Miami show from all around the world, there is no better place for memorable and lasting marketing campaigns for luxury brands.