My view from my desk

The longest title in WordPress history? I wonder how the content folks are going to feel about that? There is no other way to introduce Mudd + Wyeth, their YaffBAR and the re-entry into the market of Spot the Dog reflective gear than with a long title.

I am thrilled to have worked with Mark Brooks, his team of advisors and his creative folks in the early stages of development to create the brand, Mudd + Wyeth, the concept of the YaffBAR and a mission for the company. My work seems to take on more valuable meaning to me after the contract ends and when the launch occurs. That holds true with this client. I cannot speak more highly about ones integrity than that of Marks. Throughout the start-up there were trials and tribulations, tears of joy and pangs of frustrations. Mark persevered and laid the groundwork for establishing the highest standards of food quality, product quality and giving back to his community.

Owner, Mark Brooks states, “What really matters to us at Mudd+Wyeth is the ability to share and connect with our dogs, family, and friends.” He isn’t kidding. I have been to his house, met his dogs (big, small, adopted, old and young) and they are part of their family. Mark isn’t what I call a “dog person” (you know the ones where the dog sleeps on your bed and you call yourself mom or dad to) though his dear friend and close advisor on this project, Mandy is. If you are a dog lover you must check out Mandy’s blog. Mandy is the most dedicated, honest dog-lover that I have ever met

Mark is a good guy, a health nut, a great dad, and doting husband and has a lovely English accent. (It’s true.) He and his wife wanted to create something to share with their dogs and YaffBARS™ are just that. They are energy bars with all people ingredients, (nothing unhealthy) and they are good enough to share with your dog. (Carob instead of chocolate, that kind of thing.)

Fifteen years ago they introduced sturdy, reflective wear for dogs. Today they have re-launched the product line, Spot the Dog reflective wear under the Mudd + Wyeth umbrella. It is better than ever and further exemplifies their commitment to these four-legged family members.

There is no question in my mind that Mudd + Wyeth will be successful. I am grateful to call Mark my friend and Mudd + Wyeth my client. Please visit their website and purchase some products, you won’t be disappointed. Maybe first visit Golden Hugs (the non-profit organization that Mudd + Wyeth supports) to adopt your four-legged family member?

Having a dog and sharing the love is truly something to yaff about. (You can find the definition of yaff, here.)

The post The Launch of a New Brand, The Marketing of a New Idea & The Re-launch of a Great Product Line are all something to Yaff About appeared first on Harvest Limited.

The view from my desk.

My new website harvestlimited.com was a work in progress for far too long.  Why? It was about me. Have you ever tried to write compelling copy about yourself that was humble but had a lot of bragging thrown in? It is not an easy task. My sister and brilliant writer Deb emailed me, “It must have been excruciating.” She was right.

Here is the thing. I wanted to write it myself. I needed it to be as authentic as I am when I work with my clients. Who knows my capabilities better than I do? So I had no choice but to engage in this project. (Full disclosure: I did get some help from my SEO word guy Ben McCarty.) The next decision to make was whether to write in the first person or the third. By now I am sure you have noticed that third person won out. First person simply read horribly.

I know what you’re thinking. There isn’t that much copy on the website. Wrong. To me, it is filled with copy, more copy than one could ever imagine, an autobiographical amount. OK, not really, but this is how I felt.  Should I even mention what it was like to sit for a photo session? Thank God for the incredible grace, humor and talent of George Soules. As my friends and family know, I am the one usually found with a Nikon strapped around my neck; it reduces the risk of being the subject matter.

Telling my clients’ stories is one of the best parts of my marketing world. I love that work. It comes naturally to me and I am good at it. I dive right into who the owners are, what differentiates their product/service, and what they love to care about. That becomes the story. The product/service needs to be exceptional, the marketing must be thoughtful and transparent and most importantly, the client must have a story to tell. This is what ultimately results in brand longevity.

Maybe I should have hired a marketing strategist like me?

Comments encouraged.

A recent read. High on Business by Alan Newman

The post Marketing Oneself is Hard Work appeared first on Harvest Limited.