Why Are Email Subject Lines Important?

We all receive so many emails on a daily basis, that, to be honest, how many do we actually read? There are emails from stores we never visit, people we never contact, and spam we delete without opening. So, how can a brand stand out in a crowded email box?

According to Statistica, "People send and receive around 333 billion emails every single day. And that number’s only going up — by 2026, it’s expected to reach a staggering 392.5 billion daily emails. Daily email volume varies significantly by country, with the U.S. leading the pack at 9.7 billion emails sent daily. European countries such as Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, the UK, and France each send over eight billion emails every day."

According to CRMGrouo, "Nearly 50 percent of consumers made a purchase directly from an email in the past year. This confirms email’s direct impact on driving sales."

Without a doubt, subject lines must quickly grab the recipient’s attention. Think of a subject line as similar to a book's cover in that it strikes a balance between being informative and intriguing. 

Have you received any recent emails with memorable subject lines? A few weeks ago, I received an email with the following subject line and content:

SUBJECT LINE: Life is short. Buy the Artwork.

EMAIL CONTENT:

Life is short. Trim the tree. Buy the artwork.

30 percent off all Gray Malin Photography. Shop Now.

The subject line caught my attention, and I opened the email. While I read the email content and then clicked through to the website, I was immediately intrigued. While not a customer yet, I added this brand to my bucket list for a future purchase.

According to the brand's website, "Gray Malin is a modern day fine art photographer and New York Times best-selling author based in Los Angeles. Shooting from doorless helicopters, Gray has been a trailblazer in aerial beach, ski and park photography, and has photographed conceptual collections at historic properties including The Beverly Hills Hotel, The Plaza Hotel, Plaza Athèneè and The Colony Hotel in Palm Beach. Gray has an extraordinary ability to transport his audience to breathtaking destinations around the world with his distinct visual style. He invites you to Make Every Day a Getaway."

The photos were amazing (especially the ones of France since I'm a Francophile!) — the dogs are guaranteed to make you smile — but it was the email subject line that initially grasped my attention.

So, what can your brand learn and apply from this brand's effective email marketing?

Image Credits: Gray Malin.

Check out more stats about email marketing:

https://www.sixthcitymarketing.com/email-marketing-stats/

Meet Gray Malin and his fabulous photos:

https://graymalin.com/pages/meet-the-brand

FALL BACK TO READING SERIES 2025 – Featuring Carol Henault

It's that time of year again - to fall back to reading, so I've launched a repeat of my first series with that title and invited a dozen thought leaders to answer six questions about reading, books, and marketing. Join me today and continuing next Monday, December 15th, and then for a series recap on December 21st.

Today's featured series participant is Carol Henault. Carol has served as the Executive Director of Reading Is Fundamental of Southern California (RIFSoCal) since October 2004, and has been dedicated to the advancement of literacy during her 33 years in the nonprofit sector. She ardently supports RIFSoCal's work to ensure that underserved children can continue to choose books to call their own and discover the magic of reading. As Carol says, "Inspiring children's passion for reading is the greatest gift we can give them on their personal road to success. You could say that children without books provide the wind beneath my sails – as well as my passion. Instilling a love of reading determines whether a person will become employable at a living wage, whether they will participate in their communities – or whether we will lose their talents."

SHARE THIS: Inspiring children's passion for reading is the greatest gift we can give them on their personal road to success. ~Carol Henault #FallBacktoReadingSeries2025 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Carol likes to share this quote from Margaret Spellings (the 8th United States Secretary of Education who served from 2005-2009 under President George W. Bush), "Reading is more than a pastime. In today's world, it's a survival skill. A child who can read is a child who can learn, and a child who can learn is a child who can succeed."

QUESTION: Why did you choose the last book you read?

CAROL HENAULT: The most important thing for me is CHOICE. I have a pile - piles - of unread books next to my reading chair waiting to be read, so when I finish a book, I choose my next book depending on my mood, finding a book different than the one I just finished, or sometimes a book by the same author. The last book I chose was the new book by an author I love, My Friends by Fredrik Backman.

QUESTION: Have you ever chosen a book because you were drawn to the cover design? If yes, what was the book, and what attracted you to the cover?

CAROL HENAULT: I am passionate about trees – photographing their beauty and stateliness - and their importance to our environment and the survival of humanity. The cover of The Overstory by Richard Powers captured my imagination: "Trees fall with spectacular crashes. But planting is silent and growth is invisible."

QUESTION: Have you ever chosen a book because of its title? If yes, what was the book, and what drew you to the title?

CAROL HENAULT: The Weight of Ink by Rachel Kadish. I was fascinated by the title as the weight of ink used to write is negligible, so I assumed the story had to have something important to say.

QUESTION: Have you ever finished reading a book, been disappointed by the ending, and thought you could have written a better ending? If yes, what was the book, and how would you have ended it?

CAROL HENAULT: I have been disappointed by the ending of many books, but never really spent time creating a new ending. Too excited to start a new book instead.

QUESTION: Is there a social media account, a national book publisher, or book club you follow for reading recommendations?

CAROL HENAULT: Amazon knows what I like to read, as that is where I purchase most of my books – so their recommendations are often on target. And because they are on target, I buy way too many books! My daughter and I share what we are reading, and I read the LA Times 10 best books every Sunday. And of course I rely on my fellow book addicts!

SHARE THIS: Amazon knows what I like to read. ~Carol Henault #FallBacktoReadingSeries2025 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

QUESTION: What book should everyone read, and why?

CAROL HENAULT: A Lesson before Dying by Ernest J. Gaines. I read it many years ago, but clearly remember being overwhelmed by its "wrenching story of death and identity in a small Cajun Louisiana community in the late 1940's." The novel "tells the story of two men who, through no choice of their own, come together and form a bond in the realization that sometimes simply choosing to resist the expected is an act of heroism."

I must share a list of some of my favorite books. I read so many books that often I cannot remember them until I look back.  However, here is a list of books that I loved and vividly remember:

[1] A Constellation of Vital Phenomena by Anthony Marra

[2] The Weight of Ink by Rachel Kadish

[3] The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert

[4] A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

[5] The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

My gratitude to Carol for sharing her insights and for being a part of my fall back to reading series. Until next week, happy reading!

Image Credit: Cambridge Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring.

Connect with Carol at these links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-henault-992a124

RIF-SoCal: https://www.rifsocal.org/programs

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rifsocal

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@rifsocal

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rifsocal

Marketing News of the Week: Coat of Arms, Colors of the Year, and More

During the last week, okay, the last couple of weeks, there were news stories that reflected brand experiences, brand identity, brand storytelling, "of the year" news, personal branding, philanthrophy, special event marketing, and more.

GREEN FOR GOOD

Did you see WICKED: FOR GOOD when it arrived in movie theaters on November 21st? If not, it will be in theaters for awhile and most certainly in the news when Academy Award nominees are announced. In the meantime, consider this statement from the movie: GREEN FOR GOOD. THINK OF WHAT WE CAN DO...TOGETHER.

According to the movie's website, "The themes in Wicked: For Good remind us that we can all have the courage to stand up for what we believe in and to do real good in the world. Being Green for Good means carrying Elphaba’s spirit into our own lives – taking everyday steps to support nature and our communities. Our collective actions – big and small – truly matter. Our choices add up, and when we all work together, we achieve the extraordinary. Because like Elphaba and Glinda, together we’re unlimited. Elphaba’s journey illuminates a new kind of magic: the power of doing good, for people and the planet. From everyday actions to shared moments of stewardship, these can all contribute toward a better future for everyone. Gather your friends and join us in taking meaningful actions. For Good! From beautifying a local park to creating art that envisions a greener future, there are limitless ways to join the challenge. Post how you’re showing up for the environment on social media using #GreenForGood and your city (e.g. #GreenForGood #LosAngeles). Tag @wickedmovie and challenge a friend to keep it going! For every #GreenForGood hashtag, we will plant a native tree to protect wildlife habitats."

NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE FIGHTS CANCER

During November, the National Hockey League showed its support to fight cancer - similar to when, during Major League Baseball's World Series, all fans were invited to #StandUptoCancer. According to the NHL website, "Hockey Fights Cancer was founded in 1998 as a joint initiative between the NHL and NHLPA. This remarkable initiative has raised over $44 million since its inception and been at the forefront of raising awareness and supporting those affected by cancer, touching the lives of millions. For the past 27 years the National Hockey League and the National Hockey League Players' Association have united players, teams, coaches, broadcasters, caregivers, doctors, nurses, patients, survivors, and fans behind the powerful Hockey Fights Cancer initiative at the national level through the NHL and NHLPA, and hyper- local level across the 32 NHL teams. Each season, every team hosts their own Hockey Fights Cancer night, and celebrates their hockey/cancer community locally, typically in November, which is Hockey Fights Cancer month."

Hockey Fights Cancer uses purple because it represents all cancers under the umbrella of the "Hockey Fights Cancer" initiative. Lavender is the universal ribbon color for all cancers, symbolizing unity and hope in the fight against the disease. Fans are encouraged to wear lavender to show their support, and players wear purple gear like helmets and jerseys during games to highlight the cause.

NEW SPOKESPERSON FOR AMERICAN EAGLE

People magazine reported, "Martha Stewart, the 84-year-old lifestyle guru has built an empire on her eye for design and exquisite taste, especially when it comes to all things festive. So, it just made sense when American Eagle asked her to be the face of its GIVE GREAT JEANS holiday campaign, spotlighting denim as a universal gift that never goes out of style."

Stewart explained, "I have spent decades helping people create beautiful holidays — from setting the perfect table to trimming the tree to finding that last-minute gift that saves the day. So when American Eagle approached me about being part of their holiday gifting campaign, I was immediately intrigued. Denim is a universal gift that works for everyone on your list. Jeans have always been a staple in my wardrobe, and giving a great pair of AE jeans is always a nice gift to give. I’m constantly moving between decorating, cooking and, most importantly, wrapping gifts, and I need to make sure I have an outfit that is comfortable and stylish. The beauty of AE jeans is their versatility and ability to move with you throughout the day. They are flattering, sleek, and soft enough to make wrapping gifts or hosting a dinner in them effortless."

According to Marketing Dive, "Martha Stewart Does the Holidays in American Eagle sees the apparel brand embrace a multi-generational audience of both gift givers and recipients. That goal is achieved through the presence of Stewart, who is easily recognized by older and younger generations alike, explained CMO Craig Brommers. The campaign was informed by an E-Poll study which found that Stewart’s name and image awareness among Gen Z grew by 33 percent between 2020 to 2024 and is now on par with millennials. Stewart has become something of a marketing mainstay in recent years, working with brands ranging from Pure Leaf to Miracle-Gro and Tito’s vodka."

UNVEILING OF NEW COAT OF ARMS BY PRINCE AND PRINCESS OF WALES

According to Marie Claire, "The couple received their Conjugal Coat of Arms, which represents them in heraldic terms as a married couple, in 2013, two years after they tied the knot. The new version of the royal symbol has been updated to incorporate imagery representative of their status as Prince and Princess of Wales. The couple's original Conjugal Coat of Arms featured William's badge on the left and Kate's badge on the right, flanked by the Supporters of the Royal Lion and Unicorn, respectively."

In the event brochure for a late-November Royal Variety Performance at Royal Albert Hall in London, the couple quietly unveiled an updated version of their Coat of Arms. "The updated version incorporates elements associated with the Prince of Wales, specifically, the Prince of Wales' feathers, which have been associated with the title since the 14th century, as well as a coronet of the Prince and Peers and the Prince of Wales' official motto "Ich DIen," which is German for "I Serve." The ornamental emblem in the design is topped with a lion in both versions, but in the updated Coat of Arms, the lion wears a coronet and the emblem is surrounded by a plume of feathers."

MACY'S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE

While there are many brands that stand out on Thanksgiving, one overshadows them all. The parade is held from 8:30am to 12noon Eastern time on Thanksgiving Day and has been televised nationally on NBC since 1952. According to New York Dearest website, more than 45 million people tune in to watch the parade on TV. According to The Wrap, "As of 2024, NBC pays Macy's $20 million per year for the license to be the parade's official broadcaster; the parade earns a substantial profit for the network, with ad buys averaging $900,000 per 30-second commercial in 2023 — a fee comparable to NBC Sunday Night Football — bringing in a gross revenue of $52 million." A unique aspect of working at Macy’s is that Macy’s employees have the option of marching in the parade. And in 2026, the parade will mark its 100th anniversary.

FABERGE EGG

The AP reported, "A rare crystal and diamond Fabergé egg crafted for Russia’s ruling family before it was toppled by revolution is going up for auction, valued at more than 20 million pounds ($26.4 million). Christie’s auction house says the Winter Egg is just one of seven of the opulent ovoids remaining in private hands. It will be offered for sale at Christie’s London headquarters on December 2nd. The 4-inch (10-centimeter) tall egg is made from finely carved rock crystal, covered in a delicate snowflake motif wrought in platinum and 4,500 tiny diamonds. It opens to reveal a removable tiny basket of bejewelled quartz flowers symbolizing spring. One of just two created by female designer Alma Pihl, the egg was commissioned by Czar Nicholas II for his mother Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna as an Easter present in 1913. Pihl’s other egg is owned by Britain’s royal family. There are 43 surviving imperial Fabergé eggs, most in museums."

Margo Oganesian, the head of Christie’s Russian art department, said "The egg is THE MONA LISA for decorative arts."

SKECHERS PIVOTS

According to Retail Dive, "For Skechers, long known for its slip-on shoes, 2022 was a turning point. That was the year the brand became the official footwear sponsor of the U.S. Open for pickleball. What followed was three years of expansion in the performance footwear market, from soccer cleat and basketball shoe launches to signing numerous professional athletes. It’s a pivot for a brand that grew its reputation on selling comfortable shoes for kids and retirees, but it’s not without reason. One of the brand’s first forays into performance was in golf, a sport where athletes spend a lot of time walking and standing. That’s a natural bridge for a brand like Skechers."

One of Skechers’ greatest challenges in catering to the performance market may be branding. Competitors like Adidas and Nike have decades of experience serving athletes and decades of name recognition among buyers. But two recent brand ambassadorship deals demonstrated the company’s ambitions: actress and fashionista Sofia Vergara and the 7-foot-tall NBA center Isaiah Hartenstein. And of course, one way Skechers is differentiating itself is by focusing on comfort, one of the brand’s defining characteristics. Its performance shoes prioritize comfort features and some even integrate its slip-on technology. 

STARBUCKS BETS ON GEN Z AND RED CUP DAY

According to Nation's Restaurant News (NRN), "Starbucks is betting on Gen Z to help bring back coffeehouse culture. A recently published Starbucks-commissioned survey of 2,201 U.S. adults from Morning Consult found that 70 percent of Gen Z consumers plan to visit a coffee shop this Thanksgiving week, in comparison to about one-third of the same demographic who plan to visit a bar or pub. Perhaps even more telling, Starbucks said, is that nearly half of Gen Z plans to sit down and “savor the moment” with family or friends during their Thanksgiving week coffee shop visit, more than any other generation surveyed except for millennials."

In other Starbucks news, NRN reported that, "Red Cup Day was a huge win for Starbucks this year. The coffee giant reportedly saw a nearly 45 percent surge in traffic on November 13th, the day of the reusable holiday cup giveaway, according to Placer.ai data. It was the biggest sales day in company history for the North America market, Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol said. The giveaway day caused hour-long wait times for holiday drinks."

US PENTAGON AND SCOUTING AMERICA

NPR reported, "The century-old partnership between the U.S. military and Scouting America could be coming to an end. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is planning for the military to sever all ties with Scouting America, saying the group once known as the Boy Scouts is no longer a meritocracy and has become an organization designed to "attack boy-friendly spaces." In a draft memo to Congress, which sources shared with NPR but which has not yet been sent, Hegseth criticizes Scouting for being "genderless" and for promoting diversity, equity and inclusion. The military has provided support to the Scouts for more than 100 years, assistance that was formalized in 1937. But in one memo, Hegseth says, "The organization once endorsed by President Theodore Roosevelt no longer supports the future of American boys."

Scouting America released a statement in response, "Scouting is and has always been a nonpartisan organization. Over more than a century, we've worked constructively with every U.S. presidential administration — Democratic and Republican — focusing on our common goal of building future leaders grounded in integrity, responsibility, and community service."

BBC'S APOLOGY TO PRESIDENT TRUMP

According to CBS News, "The BBC has issued an apology to President Trump over the editing of a speech he gave on January 6th, 2021, that aired in its documentary "Trump: A Second Chance." Trump had threatened to sue the British broadcaster for $1 billion over the program about the Capitol riot, and the BBC noted in a statement Thursday that it "strongly disagree[s]" that there's a basis for a defamation claim. BBC lawyers wrote to Trump's legal team in response to a letter they received, the BBC Press Office said. In that letter, lawyers working for Trump alleged that the October 28th, 2024, episode of the network's "Panorama" documentary program, which was produced by an external production company, sought to mislead viewers by editing together three separate sections of the speech made by Trump."

According to the BBC's press office, "While the BBC sincerely regrets the manner in which the video clip was edited, we strongly disagree there is a basis for a defamation claim." 

"The BBC's response to Trump's legal team laid out five main arguments why the organization believes there is no legitimate case against it, BBC News reported. CBS News has not seen the letter sent by the BBC in reply to Trump's legal team. According to BBC News' report, those arguments include that the episode in question did not air in the U.S.; that it did not cause Trump harm, as he won the election a week later; and that the edits made were intended to shorten a long speech rather than to mislead. It also said that the clip was not meant to be taken in isolation, and that matters of public concern and political speech are protected under U.S. law."

PANTONE COLOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2026

Pantone Color Institute announced its 2026 Color of the Year on December 4th. Recognized as the global color authority, Pantone chose CLOUD DANCER, Pantone 11-4201, the first time a shade of white has been chosen since it began naming a color of the year back in 1999. According to TIME Magazine, "This year’s pick is meant to represent serenity and tranquility, which Pantone says is ever in need in a frenetic society. Cloud dancer calls back to the need for human connection."

BENJAMIN MOORE COLOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2026

The following news was announced back in October but is included due to all the other OF THE YEAR announcements. The paint color brand announced SILHOUETTE AF-655 as its color of the year for 2026 and described it as "a distinctive color that weaves luxurious burnt umber with delicate notes of charcoal."

SHERWIN-WILLIAMS COLOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2026

For the first time, Sherwin-Williams and its sister brand HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams teamed up to reveal a joint 2026 color of the year. The news was announced back in September but is included due to all the other OF THE YEAR announcements. The two brands announced UNIVERSAL KHAKI SW 6150 as their color of the year for 2026 and described it as "a tailored and timeless neutral with the endless possibility of a fresh canvas."

AKZONOBEL'S COLORS OF THE YEAR FOR 2026

The following news was announced back in September but is included due to all the other OF THE YEAR announcements. First though, did you know that this brand has been around since 1792? According to the paint color brand's website, "It’s time to dance to the Rhythm of Blues™ and celebrate AkzoNobel’s Colors of the Year 2026 – an upbeat and versatile color family that’s calming, connecting and creative. There’s a trio of shades for next year – the light blue Mellow Flow, the dark blue Slow Swing, and the vibrant Free Groove – so everyone can find a style that works for them. The harmonious collection of signature indigos is just what we need in our homes, according to the results of the company’s extensive annual trend research."

LITTLE GREENE'S COLOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2026

The following news was announced back in September but is included due to all the other OF THE YEAR announcements. First though, did you know that this brand is a 300-year-old family-run business in Northern Wales? The brand chose ADVENTURER, a regal plum aubergine very similar to burgundy, as its color of the year for 2026 and explained that "it combines sophistication with comfort and works well as an accent wall in bedrooms, bold powder rooms, or dining areas, and pairs beautifully with neutrals or pale pinks."

According to Ruth Mothershead, creative director at Little Greene, "The movement toward burgundy represents customers' growing confidence with color in their homes. Adventurer provides that perfect balance of regal sophistication and intimate comfort."

GRAHAM & BROWN'S COLOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2026

The following news was announced in September but is included due to all the other OF THE YEAR announcements. The leading British interiors brand announced DIVINE DAMSON as its own color of the year for 2026 and explained, "The deep, plum shade is designed to work on its own or be paired with a more subtle, complementary color like gray. The dark, moody red is a mix of oxblood, cherry, and mocha brown (a color trend that also defined 2025), with a touch of deep aubergine (a color that's growing in popularity). The color was inspired by the lush tones of ripe damson and figs."

VALSPAR COLOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2026

The following news was announced in August but is included due to all the other OF THE YEAR announcements. The paint brand announced WARM EUCALYPTUS 8004-28F as its color of the year for 2026 and explained, "Sometimes a color gives you a warm feeling inside. And out. This year, that color is our 2026 Color of the Year — naturally restorative and serene Warm Eucalyptus."

GLIDDEN COLOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2026

The following news was announced in August but is included due to all the other OF THE YEAR announcements. The paint brand announced WARM MAHOGANY as its color of the year for 2026 and explained, "Warm Mahogany is a rich, grounded red that’s bold enough to draw immediate attention and reserved enough to make a timeless statement. Any style, any space, any mood."

According to Ashley McCollum, color marketing manager at Glidden, "The color can be both intimate and dramatic and is a timeless color that aligns with Glidden’s 150-year heritage."

BEHR PAINT COLOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2026

The following news was announced back in July but is included due to all the other OF THE YEAR announcements. The paint color brand announced HIDDEN GEM N430-6A as its color of the year for 2026 and described it as "a smoky jade that embodies an air of mystery and sophistication."

DUTCH BOY PAINTS' COLOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2026

The following news was announced back in April but is included due to all the other OF THE YEAR announcements. The paint color brand announced MELODIUS IVORY 313-2DB as its color of the year for 2026 and explained, "This creamy beige pairs effortlessly with various materials, including wood, cozy textiles, and handmade crafts, which support the rise of slow living and nostalgia-inspired aesthetics."

TORANI'S FLAVOR OF THE YEAR FOR 2026

According to FoodDive, "Specialty syrup manufacturer Torani declared its flavor of the year for 2026: FOREST PINE. Every year since 2022, Torani produces a flavor meant to predict the next big taste trend among consumers. The choice of forest pine for 2026 reflects growing demand for botanical flavors and nature-inspired, sensory-rich experiences. Forest pine blends flavors of pine, ginger and sage with the goal of capturing "the essence of the outdoors." The flavor will be added to Torani’s Puremade syrup lineup, which uses cane sugar and colors from natural sources. Although pine is typically associated with the winter season, Torani said its flavor is meant to be enjoyed all year long. The company said it would dedicate 100 percent of profits from the forest pine syrup to seven nonprofit organizations offering work readiness opportunities, many of them connected to the outdoors."

GREEN WEDNESDAY

While we all know about Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday, and Giving Tuesday, have you heard about Green Wednesday for the day before Thanksgiving? According to CNN, "Adding to late November’s ever-growing list of festivities and shopping promotions, cannabis brands are now marketing “Green Wednesday” the day before Thanksgiving, when childhood friends reunite and presumably light up. And consumers are heeding the call: Green Wednesday is the second-largest holiday for cannabis behind April 20, said Joyce Cenali, co-founder of the Cannabis Media Council, a trade group that seeks to improve the public perception of weed."

What other recent marketing buzz caught your attention? Since there's always something happening that impacts marketing, read #DebbieLaskeysBlog for the scoop!

Image Credits: Kensington Palace and Instagram.

Visit Green for Good's website:

https://www.wickedmovie.com/en/green-for-good

Learn more about how Hockey Fights Cancer:

https://www.cancer.org/about-us/our-partners/sports-alliances/hockey-fights-cancer.html

Read One Girl's Journey to Become An Eagle Scout:

https://www.npr.org/2021/03/30/982282155/she-just-wanted-it-one-girls-journey-to-becoming-an-eagle-scout

Did you know that one brand announced a Mural of the Year for 2026? Check it out:

https://www.grahambrown.com/us/product/eternal-citybespoke-mural/142786-master/

Pantone Announced its 2026 Color of the Year!

Pantone Color Institute, the global color authority, has chosen CLOUD DANCER, Pantone 11-4201, as its 2026 color of the year, the first time white has been chosen since it began naming a color of the year back in 1999. 

According to TIME Magazine, "This year’s pick is meant to represent serenity and tranquility, which Pantone says is ever in need in a frenetic society. Cloud dancer calls back to the need for human connection."

According to NPR, "Each year, Pantone selects a shade it projects will represent and define the year ahead — a prediction of the upcoming year's global mood and culture. The chosen color sits at the forefront of Pantone's brand identity for the year, appearing in everything from commercials and Pantone-branded merchandise to external brand and artist collaborations."

Leatrice Eiseman, Pantone's Executive Director, explained, "Cloud Dancer represents a “calming influence in a frenetic society, rediscovering the value of measured consideration and quiet reflection. The color is associated with new beginnings and signifies our desire for a fresh start. While different shades of white have long been ubiquitous in fashion, Cloud Dancer specifically embodies billowing silhouettes and natural fabrics like feathers."

According to Laurie Pressman, Pantone's Vice President, "Every year since 1999, the program has sought to highlight how what is taking place in our macro-culture at a moment in time is expressed through the language of color. To choose a color of the year, (we) sift through current cultural, political, and style references, settle on a color family and then focus on the precise shade — paying close attention to its name, too. The color name is critical. The minute you hear a name describing color, you instantly conjure up an image. The goal of the program is to help companies and consumers better understand the power color can have."

During 2026, Cloud Dancer and its Pantone trademark will appear on a myriad of brands including: Motorola smartphones; Post-it Notes; Joybird furniture; Mandarin Oriental tea sets, spa treatments, and luxurious stays high up in the clouds; Pura fragrances; Command hanging wall hooks; and Play-doh. The reason for the Post-It Notes is that, according to Pantone, they "have long been the canvas for ideas, big and small. Cloud Dancer is the centerpiece of the new Neutrality Collection, available in spring 2026, and (by blending calm and clarity, it creates) a grounded canvas for daydreams big and small."

On a humorous note, David's Bridals, the bridal gown brand, shared on its Instagram account, "Seems to us Pantone is in their bridal era."

What do you think Pantone's 2027 color of the year will be? Here's a hint: Keep up with 2026's news with marketing-tinted glasses for clues!

SHARE THIS: The goal of Pantone's Color of the Year choice is to help companies and consumers better understand the power color can have. ~Laurie Pressman, VP of @Pantone #PantoneColoroftheYear #BrandIdentity #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Image Credits: Pantone.

Best Social Media Post of the Month of November

How many social media posts do you recall? Do some go viral because they are for charity, like the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge? Or do some go viral because they happened at the right moment in time, like the Oreo tweet when the lights went out at the 2013 Super Bowl? Or do some go viral and become memorable simply because they're funny?

In a new monthly series on my blog - appearing during the first week of each month - I am sharing the best social media post of the preceding month. The choice may appear on Twitter/X, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, LinkedIn, YouTube, etc.

According to Google, "The best social media post of the month is typically one that effectively combines high engagement with relevance to current events, holidays, or trending topics, while also aligning with your brand identity and authentically connecting with your audience; this could include a thought-provoking question, a relatable story, a visually appealing image, a timely meme, or a behind-the-scenes look, depending on your platform and target demographic."

Without further ado, the post that earns my recognition as the best social media post of the month from November 2025 was a post on November 16th, by Sesame Street on Twitter/X.

The post stated:

“There is only one person who has known the power of 6-7 since the beginning…Ah, ah, ah!”

This post was amusing because the image accompanying the text featured “Count the Count,” a friendly vampire-like Muppet from Sesame Street who is known for his compulsive love of counting. According to Wikipedia, his main role is to teach counting skills to children, and he first appeared in 1972. When he finishes counting, he laughs and says “Ah! Ah! Ah!

This post was especially timely because Dictionary.com recently named "6 7" (pronounced "six-seven" and NEVER "sixty-seven) as its "2025 Word of the Year." According to Dictionary.com, "The annual pick serves as a linguistic time capsule, reflecting social trends and global events that defined the year. The term's exact origin is a bit unclear. Teachers and parents began hearing kids and teenagers use the term over the course of the year, and some say it can be interpreted as another way of saying "so-so," "maybe this," or "maybe that." Some have also linked the term to NBA player LaMelo Ball, who is 6 feet, 7 inches tall."

Brands that can align their products or services to an event, holiday, or trending news that everyone is talking about have the potential to be memorable. And Sesame Street definitely succeeded in my book!

What brand will stand out during January, and why?

SHARE THIS: Brands that can align their products or services with an event, holiday, or trending news that everyone is talking about have the potential to be memorable. ~@DebbieLaskeyMBA #DebbieLaskeysBlog #SocialMediaTip

Image Credits: Sesame Street via Twitter/X.

Join Me in Supporting #GivingTuesday!

After Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday, there's an opportunity to make a difference either by volunteering or by donating to a favorite cause.

According to Kathy Calvin, former CEO of the United Nations Foundation, "GivingTuesday is a counter narrative to Black Friday and Cyber Monday because it reminds us that the spirit of the holiday season should be about community and not just consumerism. The most meaningful gift we can give our children, loved ones, friends, and neighbors is the commitment to work together to help build a better world. Long associated with millionaires, philanthropy now belongs to everyone. Through technology and digital communications, people of all ages and all backgrounds can get involved in an issue, whether it’s making an online donation to a group on the other side of the planet or starting a petition to mobilize a community of advocates to push for change. The belief that anyone can make a difference is at the core of the United Nations Foundation’s work."

Here are the nonprofits I'm supporting this year on Giving Tuesday:

GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND (GDB) (San Rafael, CA)

"With world-class client services and a robust network of instructors, puppy raisers, donors, and volunteers, we prepare highly qualified guide dogs and K9 Buddy dogs, provide guide dog readiness skills, and offer youth programs to empower individuals who are blind or visually impaired. GDB not only improves mobility for our clients, we further inclusion. As the largest guide dog school in North America, more than 16,000 guide dog teams have graduated from GDB from across the U.S. and Canada since our founding in 1942. All of our services are provided free of charge, including personalized training and ongoing support, plus financial assistance for veterinary care, if needed. Our work is made possible by the generous support of our donors and volunteers; we receive no government funding."

CANINE COMPANIONS (Santa Rosa, CA)

"Canine Companions provides service dogs to adults, children, and veterans with disabilities and facility dogs to professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice, and educational settings. Since our founding in 1975, our dogs and all follow-up services are provided at no cost to our clients. Independence shouldn’t be limited to those who look or live a certain way. Disability reaches all races, classes, and backgrounds, and Canine Companions will too. Here are some numbers showcasing our growth:

* 8,000+ graduate teams placed since our founding in 1975

* 450 working dog teams placed in 2023

* 2,700+ active graduate teams nationwide

* 4,300+ active volunteers nationwide

* 1,100+ puppies being raised by volunteers

* Several hundred Canine Companions release dogs currently functioning in such human services roles as bomb searching, border patrol, customs, and therapy and guide dogs."

CAT NOIR RESCUE (Los Angeles, CA)

"At Cat Noir Rescue, we believe every cat deserves a chance at love, safety, and a forever home. We shine a light on the most overlooked felines - black cats. Based in Los Angeles, we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and foster-based rescue dedicated to saving stray, abandoned, and at-risk cats, with a special focus on those passed over due to superstition or stigma.

SHARE THIS: A black cat appearing at your doorstep is a sign of coming wealth and prosperity. ~Cat Noir Rescue #FunFact #blackcatsbringgoodluck #GivingTuesday #DebbieLaskeysBlog

What brands with important missions will you support today? Chime in and share.

SHARE THIS: You do not have to be a world leader – or even a billionaire – to make an impact. If we are going to turn things around, we all need to do our part to make it happen. Change starts with you. ~Ted Turner #DebbieLaskeysBlog #GivingTuesday

Image Credits: Guide Dogs for the Blind, Canine Companions, and Cat Noir Rescue.

Check out the nonprofits mentioned above:

Guide Dogs for the Blind: https://www.guidedogs.com

and

Canine Companions: https://canine.org/service-dogs

and

Cat Noir Rescue: https://www.catnoirrescue.org

Learn fun facts and the history of black cats: 

https://www.catnoirrescue.org/black-cat-facts

Check out Cat Noir Rescue's Wish List on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/28RQB8M19XEC0/ref=hz_ls_biz_ex

FALL BACK TO READING SERIES 2025 – Featuring Lee Goldberg

It's that time of year again - to fall back to reading, so I've launched a repeat of my first series with that title and invited a dozen thought leaders to answer six questions about reading, books, and marketing. Join me today and continuing on December 8th and 15th - with the series recap on December 21st.

A repeat guest on my blog (and one of my favorite authors due to his amazing stories about MONK who I've met in person several times), today's featured series participant is Lee Goldberg, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of nearly 40 novels, including Malibu Burning, Lost Hills, 15 Monk mysteries, five Fox & O'Hare adventures (co-written with Janet Evanovich), and more. He's written and/or produced many TV shows, including Diagnosis Murder, SeaQuest, Monk, The Glades, and co-created the hit Hallmark series Mystery 101. He's also the co-founder of Brash Books, which has published over 100 crime novels and thrillers. During the summer, fans cheered upon hearing the announcement that Lee's book series centering around the character Eve Ronin will soon be adapted for television.

QUESTION: Why did you choose the last book you read?

LEE GOLDBERG: Because my friend David Morrell, and his novel FIRST BLOOD, were the focus of the book (THE RAMBO REPORT by Nat Segaloff).

QUESTION: Have you ever chosen a book because you were drawn to the cover design? If yes, what was the book, and what attracted you to the cover?

LEE GOLDBERG: Not since JAWS, when I was a kid. And what attracted me to the cover was a big freaking shark surging up from the deep to eat a woman who was swimming on the surface of the water.

QUESTION: Have you ever chosen a book because of its title? If yes, what was the book, and what drew you to the title?

LEE GOLDBERG: LARRY McMURTRY: A LIFE. Because I am a big Larry McMurtry fan.

QUESTION: Have you ever finished reading a book, been disappointed by the ending, and thought you could have written a better ending? If yes, what was the book, and how would you have ended it?

LEE GOLDBERG: Yes, it happens more frequently than I would like. And no, I won't tell you the titles of any of the books.

QUESTION: Is there a social media account, a national book publisher, or book club you follow for reading recommendations?

LEE GOLDBERG: I like the Paperback Warrior Podcast and website for recommendations on crime novels and adventure books from the 1950s-1980s that I might have missed.

QUESTION: What book should everyone read, and why?

LEE GOLDBERG: LONESOME DOVE It works on every level. It's my favorite book of all time.

My gratitude to Lee for sharing his insights and for being a part of my fall back to reading series. Until next week, happy reading!

SHARE THIS: Books transport you to another world, to another time and place. ~LeeGoldberg #FallBacktoReadingSeries2025 #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Image Credit: Cambridge Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring.

Read Lee's previous appearances here on my blog:

FALL BACK TO READING SERIES – Featuring Lee Goldberg (December 2023)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2023/12/fall-back-to-reading-series-featuring_0588740719.html

Leadership in the Most Unsuspected Places (January 2012)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2012/01/leadership-in-most-unsuspected-places.html

Connect with Lee at these links:

Website: https://www.leegoldberg.com

Twitter/X: https://www.x.com/LeeGoldberg

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leegoldberg007

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLeeGoldberg