Debbie Laskey's Blog

Welcome to Debbie Laskey's insights and commentary about BRANDING, MARKETING, LEADERSHIP, SOCIAL MEDIA, EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT, and CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES. Debbie has worked in high-tech, the Consumer Marketing Department at Disneyland Paris in France, nonprofits, and insurance. Expertise includes strategic planning, brand development, marketing plans and audits, competitive positioning, websites, communications, public relations, employee engagement, customer experiences, and social media marketing.

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

Happy Bastille Day!

Do you consider yourself to be a Francophile? Since I've lived in France twice, I definitely consider myself a Francophile, or in other words, someone with an appreciation for the French culture, language, people, and history. The word is formed from the prefix "Franco" (meaning French) and the Greek suffix "phile" (meaning lover of). Use of word was first recorded in 1887, according to Merriam-Webster.

Bastille Day ("le 14 Juillet" in French) commemorates a key turning point of the French Revolution, the storming of the Bastille in 1789, and has been celebrated as a national holiday since 1880. According to Britannica, "From the beginning, speeches, military parades, and fireworks, along with public revelry, were part of the celebration. The slogan "Vive le 14 juillet!" ("Long live the 14th of July!") has continued to be associated with the day." And the oldest and largest military parade in Europe is held on that date each year on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, featuring troops, tanks, and fighter jet flyovers with red, white, and blue smoke.

According to travel expert Rick Steves, "The Storming of the Bastille transformed more than just France. It inspired many other nations to demand liberty — to rise from medieval oppression to modern democracy. Anyone with a sense of history can recognize the enormous debt the world owes to those brave Parisians who stormed the Bastille to fight for a government of the people. It's a cultural rallying point, symbolizing freedom of all kinds. If you're in France on Bastille Day, join the proud locals in their sheer joy of personal liberty. Indeed, wherever you are on July 14th, lift a glass to freedom and declare, 'Vive la France!'"

And now, let's pivot to marketing and check out five famous French brands.

AIR FRANCE

According to Wikipedia, "Air France is the flag carrier of France, and is headquartered in Tremblay-en-France. The airline is a subsidiary of the Air France–KLM Group and one of the founding members of the SkyTeam airline alliance. As of 2013, Air France served 29 destinations in France and operates worldwide scheduled passenger and cargo services to 201 destinations in 78 countries. The airline maintains its global and domestic hub at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. Tracing its origins back to the 1910s, Air France was formed on August 30th, 1933 through the merger of five existing airlines in France...During World War II, Air France moved its operations to Casablanca, Morocco...Air France recruited its first female flight attendants in 1946...From 1976 to 2003, Air France became one of only two airlines (British Airways being the other) to regularly operate supersonic services (daily trans-atlantic Concorde service).

Upon its formation, Air France adopted the seahorse logo of its predecessor Air Orient, known as the hippocampe ailé (sometimes derisively called "la crevette" or shrimp by its employees), as its insignia. Prior to the Air France-KLM merger in 2003, the hippocampe ailé was used on the nose section of aircraft next to the Groupe Air France title; after the merger, the Air France-KLM logo was substituted at the nose area, and the hippocampe ailé was relocated to engine nacelles (containers that cover and protect airplane engines). The acronym "AF" has also featured prominently on the airline's flag and its signage. On January 7th, 2009, Air France officially changed its logo to a red stripe."

MICHELIN

Michelin is a French multinational tire manufacturer based in France known for its tires for automobiles, motorcycles, and bicycles. According to Forbes, "The company has been the world's largest tire manufacturer by annual revenue since 2021."

According to the brand's website, "In 1900, there were fewer than 3,000 cars on the roads of France. To increase the demand for cars, and accordingly car tires, the car tire manufacturers and brothers Édouard and André Michelin published a guide for French motorists, the Guide Michelin. Nearly 35,000 copies of this first, free edition were distributed. It provided information to motorists such as maps, tire repair and replacement instructions, car mechanics listings, hotels, and petrol stations throughout France. The founders thought the Guide might encourage car owners to drive more, which would increase tire wear and in turn boost replacement sales...The Michelin roadmaps were reproduced in England for the Allied invasion during World War II. In 1940, the Germans also reproduced the 1938 edition of Michelin maps for their invasion...The Michelin Guide ended printed copies in 2021 in most markets. After 121 years, Michelin transitioned to digital publication and released a proprietary app. This allowed Michelin to distribute the guide to a larger audience at no charge."

According to the brand's website, "Back in the late 19th century, in the early days of the company, the Michelin brothers were exhibiting their products at a fair in Lyon when one of them noticed that if you added arms and legs to the pile of tires they were showcasing, it would look like a man. A few years later, with the contribution of a caricaturist, the Michelin Man was born...In those days, in old movies, tires were white, so the character naturally adopted that color, which he has kept to this day. Also, the main tire market back then wasn't for cars, but for bicycle wheels, so he was created as an assemblage of thin rings, unlike the ones we're familiar with today. He immediately became Michelin's brand ambassador. This friendly mascot who inspired trust and emphasized the comfort provided by Michelin tires, was a big success."

And as a further brand extension, according to Wikipedia, "While the Michelin Guide was originally created as a guide for French motorists and has been published since 1900, it later developed into an international reference for dining and travel. Michelin inspectors (reviewers) visit restaurants anonymously and award one, two, or three stars - and inspectors' meals and expenses are paid for by Michelin, never by a restaurant being reviewed:

(1) One MICHELIN Star is awarded to restaurants using top quality ingredients, where dishes with distinct flavours are prepared to a consistently high standard.

(2) Two MICHELIN Stars are awarded when the personality and talent of the chef are evident in their expertly-crafted dishes; their food is refined and inspired.

(3) Three MICHELIN Stars is the highest award, given for the superlative cooking of chefs at the peak of their profession; their cooking is elevated to an art form and some of their dishes are destined to become classics."

PERRIER

According to the brand's website, "Perrier natural mineral water originates in Vergèze, France. Beneath the surface, deep within the secret depths of the Garrigues massif and the vast Vistrenque plain, ancient limestone rocks shape the exceptional water. Our goal is ensuring a continuous supply of its high-quality water, both now and for future generations."

In 1898, Dr. Louis Perrier bought a spring and created a company for the production of mineral water, drinks, and hygienic products. In the same year, the spring got its modern name Perrier, after the name of the new owner. Since 1992 the brand has been owned by the Swiss company Nestle. And Perrier is the official water of Stade Roland Garros, home of the French Open tennis tournament.

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

According to the brand's website, "Born in Paris and raised among three sisters, Christian Louboutin grew up fascinated by femininity — a living work of art to be exalted. At the age of ten, he encountered a pictogram banning high heels to protect museum floors. By sixteen, he became an intern at the Folies Bergère, already designing shoes for the cabaret's glittering dancers. A self-taught apprentice, Christian refined his craft alongside master artisans. In 1991, driven by a desire for creative freedom, he opened his first boutique in Paris. He painted the soles of his shoes with a nail polish in a vivid red, thus creating his legendary red sole. The House expands to New York, and soon, celebrities embrace his creations, turning Louboutins into red-carpet icons. (What were TV character Carrie Bradshaw's fave heels? Yep, Louboutins!) In 2009, Christian and pop star Mika share more than a few affinities, vibrant universes, a love for the stage, and childhoods surrounded by three sisters. From this encounter is born the men's collection, a new chapter for the House of red sole. In 2021, Christian launched the "Walk a Mile in My Shoes" collection in collaboration with Idris and Sabrina Elba, to support charitable organizations working toward social justice. In 2022, Christian announces the launch of collections for the entire family: adults, children, and even pets. In 2025, Christian presents an eyewear collection with art deco accents and signature red touches. Though global in reach, the Christian Louboutin universe remains rooted in Paris, a city whose charm permeates every creation."

How did the iconic red sole happen? According to the website, "It all began in 1992, in the designer's Parisian atelier. As he was finalizing the prototype of the Pensée model, Christian was captivated by the elegance of the silhouette — but found the black sole too dull, disrupting the harmony of the design. His eyes fell on his assistant, who was applying a vibrant red nail polish. In a spontaneous gesture, he grabbed the bottle and painted the sole from toe to heel. The transformation was immediate — the shoe came to life. The red sole is more than just a color — it's a statement. A symbol of passion, confidence, and audacity, this vibrant red captures the very soul of the Maison. Far beyond an aesthetic detail, it has become a true icon of modern luxury. Wearing Christian Louboutin is about walking with assurance and freedom. A manifesto of style, it reflects Christian Louboutin's unique vision. This red sole has left its mark on the collective imagination — from red carpets to the silver screen."

SHARE THIS: Inspiration can strike at any moment. From architecture, an object, a pattern, or even the way someone walks. If you keep your eyes open, there will always be something to spark your imagination. ~Christian Louboutin #BastilleDay #BrandStorytelling #DebbieLaskeysBlog

HERMES

According to the brand's website, "For six generations, Hermès has been an independent, family-owned, artisanal, creative, innovative, and responsible French house. While designing timeless and durable objects, it seeks to safeguard, pass on, and develop its know-how and exceptional skills in line with its human values rooted in craftsmanship. Hermès is committed to retaining the majority of its production in France through its 63 production and training sites, while developing its network of almost 300 stores in 45 countries. The group employs more than 26,000 people around the world, including 16,300 in France. Since 2013, Hermès has been led by Axel Dumas, a sixth-generation family member. The brand is known for its scarves, handbags, jewelry, watches, leather goods, shoes, boots, and more."

According to Madison Avenue Couture, "At the heart of the Hermès logo lies a rich narrative of timeless elegance, artistry, and expertise. The horse and carriage motif reflects the brand's origins in crafting the finest equestrian gear and its commitment to creating products that blend heritage with innovation...The iconic Hermès symbolism speaks to the enduring power of luxury. Just as the carriage was a mode of elegant travel for the aristocracy, Hermès products are vehicles of self-expression and style. For many, owning their first piece adorned with the Hermès logo means they have truly arrived. The original Hermès brand logo was produced in black on an ivory background with a gold foil trim. However, during World War II, material shortages left no colors available but bright orange cardboard for packaging. First adopted in 1942 out of necessity, the now-iconic Hermès orange boxes soon came to symbolize luxury and modernity. Initially imprinted simply with black text, the Hermès logo was added in 1950, transforming it into a timeless emblem of style and exclusivity...The Hermès logo has undergone subtle changes since its introduction, reflecting the brand's ability to evolve while remaining connected to its heritage. After its introduction in 1950, the carriage and horse Hermès logo was further refined in the 1970s, taking a more minimalist approach to the image. The updated logo, known as the Duc Carriage, simplified the lines of the horse, carriage, and groom, giving the emblem a sleek, modern appearance and a distinct sense of power. Later in the 1970s, the Hermès wordmark was added to the Duc Carriage, with the name Hermès in all capitals, rendered in a handsome serif font. Through subtle changes, the Hermès brand logo has evolved while maintaining its timeless appeal. It stands as a symbol of meticulous craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation — the very strengths Hermès is built upon."

Which other French brands, logos, or brand ambassadors stand out to you? Chime in and share, and merci beaucoup!

SHARE THIS: Sir Winston Churchill was a Francophile who often expressed his admiration for France, though his attempts to speak French were atrocious, per French historian François Kersaudy. ~Wikipedia #BastilleDay #Francophile #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Image Credits: One Mile at a Time (Air France), Perrier, Christian Louboutin, Michelin, and Hermes.

Read "What Francophile Actually Means (And How to Embrace It)" by Natalee of Madalyn et Rose:

https://www.madalynetrose.com/what-is-a-francophile/

Read "10 Signs You Might Be a Francophile" by Genevieve:

https://www.cafegenevieve.com/10-signs-you-might-be-a-francophile/

Read how Bastille Day is celebrated in other countries:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bastille_Day

Read here on my Blog: "Let's Celebrate Eiffel Tower Day!" (March 31, 2026)

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2026/03/lets-celebrate-eiffel-tower-day.html

Watch a documentary of the 50th Anniversary of the Concorde presented by Air France:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzKqAgYBo1M

Friday, July 10, 2026

Who Wants French Fries Today?

Are you a foodie? If yes, then you know that each year on the second Friday in July, it's time to celebrate an American favorite, the almighty French fry. Today is National French Fry Day.

According to NationalDayCalendar, "French fries, also known as chips, fries, finger chips, or French-fried potatoes, are deep-fried potatoes. Though most people eat their fries with ketchup, some people dip their fries in ranch dressing, vinegar, or mayonnaise (very popular across Europe)."

According to the BBC, "According to popular folklore, the dish originated in the winter of 1680 in the freezing villages along the Meuse River (in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands). Because the river was frozen, the poor villagers could no longer fish, so they allegedly sliced potatoes into the shape of small fish and fried them as a replacement. Alternatively, some historians point to pushcart vendors on Paris' oldest bridge, the Pont Neuf, in the late 18th century as the inventors of the deep-fried pomme Pont-Neuf, giving Paris its own claim to the dish."

But according to Mashed, "The story of how fried potatoes became "French" fries usually points to World War One. When American soldiers were stationed in the French-speaking Wallonia region of Belgium, they encountered the fried potatoes and dubbed them "French fries" due to the language spoken by the Belgian locals."

And let's return to the BBC, "The British staple of fish and chips is yet another contender for the most emblematic fried-potato dish. While chips are slightly different from fries, particularly with regards to their shape, the similarities between the two are incontestable. In 1928, The New York Times declared fish and chips England's hot dog."

In Spain, fries are "patatas fritas;" in France, they're called "pommes frites;" and in the United Kingdom, they're simply called "chips."

So how can you celebrate today? Here are some expected fries deals from GiveAwayGoose.com:

(1) McDonald's: Free medium fries with any $1+ purchase in the McDonald's app (MyMcDonald's Rewards). McDonald's runs a "Free Fries Friday" deal most weeks, so this is one of the most reliable.

(2) Wendy's: Typically, a free any-size fry with any in-app purchase for Wendy's Rewards members.

(3) Sonic: Free medium fries or tots with any purchase via the Sonic app.

(4) Burger King: Royal Perks members usually get a fry deal (often free fries with a purchase) on or around fry day.

(5) Checkers & Rally's: Known for a genuinely free fry promotion — in past years a free large fry, sometimes by showing a recent competitor's fry receipt, with no other purchase required.

(6) Smashburger: Often a free fry with any online, in-app, or in-store purchase (sometimes needs a promo code).

(7) Wayback Burgers: A discounted ($1) regular fry for Wayback Rewards members.

(8) Del Taco: Del Yeah! Rewards members often get a free regular fries with any purchase.

Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Let's Celebrate World Chocolate Day!

According to Whitakers, "World Chocolate Day, also known as International Chocolate Day, is celebrated on July 7th each year. This day is dedicated to appreciating and indulging in one of the most popular treats in the world: chocolate. The celebration is believed to mark the year 1550, when chocolate was first introduced to Europe.

In 1519, a Spanish explorer was served a chocolate-based drink by Aztec emperor Montezuma. The explorer took the drink back with him to Spain and added vanilla, sugar, and cinnamon to improve the taste. The drink gained popularity in England and France during the 1600s. Edible solid chocolates were created in the 1800s. Gradually, chocolate-based dishes appeared across the world.

There is a famous quote from John Q. Tullius, "Nine out of ten people like chocolate. The tenth person always lies." Chocolate is known to raise serotonin and dopamine levels, contributing to an improved mood and overall sense of well-being."

Do you know the difference between CACAO and COCOA? Cacao is the defining ingredient in all chocolate and chocolate products. It refers to the raw, unprocessed version of the fruit and the seeds inside the fruit, whereas cocoa has been roasted at high temperatures.

And now, let's pivot to marketing and check out five famous chocolate brands.

HERSHEY'S

According to the brand's website, "Milton Hershey made his mark as a successful confectioner, philanthropist and innovator. But Milton was by no means an overnight success story, nor did his achievements come without their hardships. In fact, his first two candy companies were met with failure. It wasn't until his third business that Milton's hard work and talent paid off. From then on, Milton prospered as a successful businessman and generous humanitarian that improved the lives of thousands."

The Hershey's family of brands include: Hershey's Kisses, Reese's KitKat, Symphony, York, Milk Duds, Mounds, Hershey's Mr. Goodbar, and many more.

SHARE THIS: The first HERSHEY'S Milk Chocolate bar was sold in 1900 by Milton S. Hershey and has been referred to as "The Great American Chocolate Bar." #FunFact #WorldChocolateDay #DebbieLaskeysBlog

GODIVA

Recognizable by its gold boxes, this brand is currently celebrating its 100th anniversary. Started in a small Brussels (Belgium) workshop by Pierre Draps, Sr., in 1926, "GODIVA carries a legacy of artistry, craftsmanship, and indulgence. Inspired by Lady Godiva's bold and generous spirit, we create chocolates that awaken the senses and transform every moment into something extraordinary."

SEE'S CANDIES

Recognizable by its white boxes and stores, this brand is timeless. "In 1921, Mary and Charles See had one dream: to Bring Joy, One Bite at a Time. Today? We're still doing things the Mary way, crafting irresistible treats with only the best ingredients. Over a century later, we've expanded from one shop to over 250 worldwide! And though we continue to grow, our commitment to service and quality never wavers." Fun fact, Mary See's black and white kitchen inspired the interior of See's stores.

GHIARDELLI CHOCOLATE COMPANY

The brand's founder, Domenico Ghiardelli, was born in Italy in 1817, and saied to America in 1849. His first store was in Stockton, California, to offer supplies to miners. Reminder, gold was discovered in nearby Sutter's Mill in 1849. He forever changed the trajectory of chocolate with his second store in San Francisco. In 1893, the company bought a building on San Francisco's northern waterfront - this is the present site of Ghirardelli Square. Two interesting historical notes: "In 1906, the great San Francisco earthquake and fire destroyed much of the city, but the Ghirardelli plant was not damaged. Manufacturing operations resumed within 10 days after the disaster. And in 1923, the now-famous Ghirardelli illuminated light bulb sign was created. Visible for miles, the sign became a welcome sight to ships passing through the Golden Gate Strait." In 1965, San Francisco declared Ghiardelli Square an official city landmark; and in 1982, Ghiardelli Square received National Historic Register status. In 2012, the company celebrated its 160th anniversary.

NESTLE

The company began in 1866 with a production facility in Europe to create condensed milk. By 1905, the company had more than 20 factories and was selling in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Australia. By the end of World War I, the company had 40 factories. Over the years, the company has evolved with the times (like with the additions of refrigerators and freezers) and focused on health-conscious consumer needs and sustainable supply chains. Today, the company has an umbrella of brands in addition to chocolate.

SHARE THIS: Switzerland is the country that consumes the most chocolate; followed by Germany, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. #FunFact #WorldChocolateDay #DebbieLaskeysBlog

So, how will you celebrate today? You could watch a movie or read a book with a focus on chocolate. Here are some recommendations:

MOVIES:

*Wonka (2023)

*Lessons in Chocolate (2007)

*Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)

*Chocolat (2005)

*Forrest Gump (1994)

*Like Water for Chocolat (1992)

*Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971)

FICTION:

*The Loveliest Chocolate Shop in Paris by Jenny Colgan (2013)

*The Chocolate Thief by Laura Florand (2011)

*The Chocolatier by Jan Moran (2020)

*Chocolat by Joanne Harris (1999)

*Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel (1989)

*Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl (1964)

SHARE THIS: Snickers is a popular chocolate bar that was first introduced by the Mars, Inc. company in 1930 and was named after a horse owned by the Mars family. #FunFact #WorldChocolateDay #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Lastly, if today is not long enough for a chocolate celebration, there are other chocolate-themed days throughout the year. Chocolate is a popular gift for Valentine's Day on February 14th (sometimes even celebrated the entire month of February); National Hot Chocolate Day is celebrated on January 31st; and September 22nd is National White Chocolate Day.

SHARE THIS: Mama always said life was a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get. ~Forrest Gump #MovieFan #WorldChocolateDay #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Image Credit: Pinterest.

Want to be a chocolate taste-tester? Check out these tips from Ghiardelli:

https://www.ghirardelli.com/how-to-taste-chocolate

Learn more about CACAO and COCOA:

https://www.webmd.com/diet/difference-between-cocoa-and-cacao

RECIPE for DoubleTree by Hilton's Official Chocolate Chip Cookie:

https://stories.hilton.com/food-beverage/static-doubletree-reveals-cookie-recipe

RECIPE for Paula Deen's Decadent Chocolate Brownies:

https://www.pauladeen.com/recipe/maggies-decadent-brownies/

Saturday, July 4, 2026

How will your brand celebrate Independence Day?

Since today's date is July 4th, today is celebrated as Independence Day in the United States. For those of us in the marketing arena, we're tuned into brands based on how they celebrate.

Do the following brands stand out today simply because they feature the word "American" in their names?

*American Airlines

*American Broadcasting Company (ABC)

*American Express

*American Greetings Corporation

*Bank of America

Or, do these brands stand out today because they align their logo, brand messaging, social media posts, and advertising with the red, white, and blue colors of the American flag?

One of my long-time favorite brands is Sherwin-Williams, because it used one of its color swatches to match one of the colors on the American flag in a social media post years ago.

However, remember, the buzz of the moment should NEVER overshadow a brand's core brand promise, brand story, and mission.

So, which brand do you think will be the winner as this year's stand-out brand on the 250th anniversary of America's Independence Day? Chime in and share.

Thursday, July 2, 2026

Best Social Media Post of the Month of June 2026

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 my favorite tweet of all time, 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 monthly series on my blog appearing during the first week of each month (hard to believe I've been writing these posts since February 2025), I share my choice for the best social media post of the preceding month. My 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 June 2026 was a post on June 8th by the Illumination's movie brand MINIONS in a response/share of Wendy's fast-food restaurant promotion for the new movie MINIONS & MONSTERS (that arrived in theaters yesterday), that appeared on Twitter/X. The partnership with Wendy's added another amusing perspective to all the buzz and co-branding surrounding the new movie.

The MINIONS account posted "Love the new profile pic @Wendy's." The comment included a share of the new profile pic of the Wendy's spokesperson DRESSED AS A MINION plus an updated header image featuring the co-branded WENDY'S x ILLUMINATION'S MINIONS & MONSTERS MEAL.

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 MINIONS & MONSTERS and Wendy's definitely succeeded in my book!

Which brand will stand out during July, and why? Swing by #DebbieLaskeysBlog during the first week of August to read about my choice.

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Celebrate International Tartan Day with an Email Marketing Tip!

As I've written a number of times here on my blog, when done well, email marketing can be a successful way to reach your brand's target audience. However, due to the number of emails that arrive in everyone's crowded email box on a daily basis, how can one solitary email capture a reader's attention? It turns out that a well-written subject line plus surprising content may just do the trick.

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." And according to CRMGroup, "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."

Recently, I received an email with a subject line and content that stood out. However, before we get to the email, a quick note about today's significance: Today is International Tartan Day, a date that was founded to commemorate the anniversary of the repeal of the 1747 Act of Proscription that banned wearing a tartan. Celebrated annually in Australia and New Zealand on the 1st of July, it's an opportunity for people of Scottish descent to proudly show off their Scottish roots. Now, back to the memorable email.

_______

SUBJECT LINE: A Special Thank You Gift from Great Scot

EMAIL CONTENT:

Thank you for all the LOVE.

We've been genuinely overwhelmed by the love you've shown since the launch of the Greenland Tartan. It has travelled further and faster than we ever imagined, shipped to Royals, celebrities, and diplomats, and most importantly to so many true lovers of the Arctic, both in Greenland and all over the world.

And then something made us laugh (and nod in agreement). So many of you have said some version of: "Could the polar bears and huskies please come with it?" As in...wrapped up in your scarf with you, or curled up on your picnic basket!

So, by way of a thank you, for the next 7 days only, we're sending a very plush soft toy along with qualifying orders. Your choice of Murdo (the plush Arctic husky) or Magnus (the plush polar bear).

Here's how it works: Purchase a Greenland scarf or a picnic blanket, then add your free friend. Next, enter discount code ARCTIC at checkout - and we'll tuck them into your parcel.

_______

The subject line caught my attention, and as a previous customer (who purchased the Pink Ribbon Tartan), I opened the email. After I read it, I had to smile. While I had not purchased the advertised Tartan scarf or blanket - and did not intend to do so - I appreciated the marketing promotion for its creativity and add-on that was guaranteed to be enjoyed by both children and adults.

The brand, Great Scot, sells tartans and tweeds from Scotland, and according to its website, "For many people, tartans and tweeds hold sentimental value, often being passed down through generations. They are not just textiles but carriers of personal and family histories." So, the complimentary addition of an appropriately-themed plush toy to a purchase was a great idea. Big applause to Great Scot for this marketing campaign!

What can your brand learn and apply from this brand's effective email marketing?

Today's the Day for Minion Yellow!

Are you seeing yellow today? If yes, don't worry. The color is "Minion Yellow," and it's because the newest film featuring the funny little creatures from the "Despicable Me" film franchise, "Minions and Monsters," arrives in theaters today.

According to Pantone's website back in April 2019, in an industry first, "The Pantone Color Institute is excited to announce the creation of an official new PANTONE Color, Minion Yellow. Based on the Minions characters from Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment's "Despicable Me" global film franchise, including the upcoming prequel Minions, Pantone Minion Yellow is an illuminating, energetic, friendly, and fun-loving yellow shade that is designed to represent the sweet characters. An extroverted hue, it projects playfulness and warmth and is suggestive of intellectual curiosity and enlightenment."

Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute, explained, "Just as the sun's rays enliven us, Pantone Minion Yellow is a color that heightens awareness and creates clarity, lighting the way to the intelligence, originality, and the resourcefulness of an open mind. It is the color of hope, joy, and optimism. Color is contextual, and right now, there is a desire for colors that are more vibrant and uplifting. This is especially the case with the yellows, so given the worldwide popularity of the Minions, it seemed only natural to name a color after a character for the first time in our history."

And according to Jamie Stevens, Executive Vice President, Global Retail Development, Universal Partnerships and Licensing, "We are thrilled that Pantone's color experts saw market demand for yellow and looked to the Minions, as global pop culture icons, to add to its yellow spectrum."

And now, back to MINIONS AND MONSTERS, in theaters today. It's the third installment in the "Minions" prequel series and the seventh installment overall in the "Despicable Me" franchise. IMDB shared the film's premise, "Follow the Minions in 1920s Hollywood as they search for frightening creatures for their monster movie, partner with a green creature, and save the planet after unleashing monsters."

From a marketing perspective, you might want to munch on some Minions-themed snacks today. Grocery Trade News reported, "Taylor Farms and Crunch Pak have launched a new range of fresh snacks, salads, and vegetable kits inspired by "Minions & Monsters." The products will roll out nationwide across the United States in May, targeting families and children with ready-to-eat, healthier convenience options tied to a major entertainment release. Products include snack trays with apples, caramel dip, pretzels, and popcorn bites as well as ready-to-eat salad bowls, chopped salad kits, and vegetable-based meal kits such as cauliflower and broccoli with cheese mixes, designed for quick preparation at home...For retailers, the combination of fresh food and entertainment branding can increase basket size and attract family shoppers. It also supports category growth by making fresh produce more engaging, particularly for younger consumers. Seasonal tie-ins with film releases can drive short-term sales spikes and in-store traffic."

And if you'd like to wear some themed jewelry while you watch the new film, check out Swarovski's Minions line. According to the brand's website, "Celebrate your love for the Minions and brighten your home with our crystallized collectibles. Faceted with precision and finished with signature details, each figurine is perfect for adding personality to your décor. For the first time, the fun extends beyond decorations. Wear your favorite Minions character with our fun Minion necklaces or playful Minions bracelets. Complete the set with a pair of matching earrings and showcase your love for the Minions."

So, if you see yellow today, to quote Pharrell Williams from "Despicable Me 2," be "HAPPY."