The Perfect Fit

McGowan-Crain & Mozaic Rivet REBUS

I attended the first REBUS meeting for 2010 last evening, hosted by McGowan-Crain and Mozaic . . . what an event!  The 70+ attendees shattered previous REBUS attendance records and their enthusiasm was contagious!  Those attendees were entertained by Ben Crain and Todd McGowan's informative presentation of several case studies of their agency's work.  Ken Reece gave an overview of Mozaic's capabilities and Bill Freeman helped with post presentation tours.  Brian Handrigan of Gramatter, wrapped the presentations with a case study of a direct marketing effort on behalf of Royal Canin. 

Thanks to Modesto for being so kind as to provide the snacks for the evening.

Ben and Todd took turns presenting case studies on McGowan-Crain's work, across a variety of channels.  They explained their internal process for understanding and delivering brand positioning and appropriate marketing communications solutions across channels. They explained their "Smart, Simple, Strategic" foundationing and approach to all their work.  From Rosa Mexicano, an upscale Mexican food franchise, to Black Velvet Whiskey, and highlights of their 14 year run with Corona beer, Ben and Todd gave an open presentation of how they work for and succeed with their national clients.

They showed a very interesting video about "How an idea evolves".  The video does a wonderful job of showing how the addition resources of Mozaic (photography, pre-press and high end re-touching, online, and direct) can be utilized for their clients' benefit.  Check out that video and click here.

Todd delivered a final case study on one of the agency's pet projects, 1860s Genuine American Vodka.  The idea for the spirit was hatched in a local Soulard bar (1860 Saloon), when the owner told Todd that he's always wanted to create "his own" vodka to sell.  The resulting story of the brand positioning, development and launch  was fascinating to hear.  Apparently it worked, as it's now selling in six States, with more to come!

After the formal presentations members of the host staffs provided portfolio reviews for those interested.

This was the kind of event that REBUS strives for . . . An entertaining and educational presentation, presented in a very hospitable, creative atmosphere.  There's plenty of time to network with friends and meet new ones.  It's a unique opportunity to see what other agencies are doing, and what's more important, how they do it and why they do what they do.

For those of you who attended, thanks!  For those of you who missed it, we'll be announcing our next event on February 9th, very shortly.  For additional info, follow us on Facebook, or LinkedIn!

REBUS Needs Writers . . . And A Leader For Writers

Writers in St. Louis, MO: Are you looking to enhance your portfolio? Want to be a blogger without having to worry about growing a following? Want to write about what interests you in marketing, advertising, creative, social media, and the world of copy and messaging? REBUS St. Louis is a fast-growing network of young advertising professionals in St. Louis, MO, sponsored by the AdClub of St. Louis. We've recently launched a blog at www.REBUSstl.com that we will be promoting at monthly events and across social media outlets online. If you're passionate about your industry and want to grow your online professional reputation, become a blogger with REBUS. Please contact us. We have immediate openings available.

We are also looking for an experienced marketing communications writer to lead/mentor the REBUS writers.  If you have more than five years of writing experience, let us know you'd like to join the REBUS leadership team.  We'd love to have you . . .

Additional details:
We currently do not pay for content, but the blog is lead by social media experts and online advertising gurus working at St. Louis agencies, and we're all looking forward to working with you to put out compelling and relevant content about local events, professional experiences and industry trends. We'll post your name and photo next to each of your posts and get links posted on Twitter, Facebook and other places where we have hundreds of followers. Get your name out there, and join our team!

To apply:
Email Kirsten Sanders (kirstens@propaganda-inc.com) and Danny Elchert (danny.elchert@yahoo.com) with your name, phone number, email address, LinkedIn URL or resume, as well as 3+ writing samples by November 15th. We will be in touch shortly after we hear from you.

REBUS Visits Geileon . . . Hospitality and Creativity Rule

I walked into Geileon last evening for the October REBUS event, to the aroma of freshly grilled tube steaks, all the fixin's and lots of icy cold beverages . . . what a wonderful way to set the stage for what was to come!

Sarah Waters, one of the REBUS Co-Chairs made an announcement about the opportunities available through fREBUS and their pro bono efforts on behalf of regional non-profits.  fREBUS needs Young Guns and Ad Club members in positions like Sr. Designers, Sr. Writers, Sr. Account Execs, Web Developer/Programmers, Interactive Designers, Videographer/Editors and PR folks. 

fREBUS' next big project is to develop and execute all the branding, promotion and marketing for the "World Record Baseball Game" (according to Guinness) to be played in St. Louis in November, 2009.  It's an exciting opportunity for professionals to get involved in a world class project, build their books and give back to our community.  Proceeds from the game will go to benefit local Charities.

Back to Geileon . . . Kathy Leonard was kind enough to move her clients out of the main conference room, to her office and the presentation was lead by agency principle, Tim Leon.  Tim took questions from the group and explained the value of the discovery process with a client, prior to starting any creative.

Thanks to Tim Leon, Del Schwinke, Kendra Pennycuick and the other GL staffers who made everyone feel so welcome.  Hospitality coupled with openness and creativity . . . what a wonderful combination!