We believe that public relations and media relations are as important as advertising when it comes to the long-term success of one's business. Fortunately, our clients believe it, too.
We help businesses build relationships with media all over the U.S. right from our Little Rock and Fayetteville offices. Recently, Sheltair, one of our clients based in Florida, held a groundbreaking ceremony in Panama City for their new FBO (fixed base operation) facility. The need for the new airport where the FBO is located has been the topic of much debate, but Sheltair's general aviation facility is being built specifically for the long-term convenience of general aviation pilots and we are proud to have helped Sheltair gain coverage on WJHG that addressed this point.
Click here to check out the story.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
We Owe It To Our Clients
Check out this article posted today on ArkansasBusiness.com citing the Sells Agency's "significant growth in 2010." We'd like to thank our many wonderful clients for another great year as we look forward to the new challenges of 2011.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Last Minute Shopper?
We're here to help. Click below to view the Sells Agency Gift Finder.
Merry Christmas from all of us!
Merry Christmas from all of us!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
A “Sweet” Addition to the Sells Agency
December is upon us and as we prepare to decorate our tree here at the office, we have more than just the holidays to celebrate – we have a new addition to the agency! Kati Wessinger has been with us since August, assisting the busy creative team with their workload. As of this week, she will be sticking around full-time serving as a production artist.
Kati is the third new staff member to join Sells Agency this year. She is a 2010 graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville with a BA in journalism. Her hard work and excellence in all her projects these past few months made us realize that we just couldn’t bear to see her go.
As an added disclaimer, we continue to stand by the fact that Kati’s tremendous baking and cake decorating skills had no direct impact on her being made a full-time employee. This skill set is simply an added perk! If you want to check out Kati’s side gig, see her blog at katiscakeproject.blogspot.com – but don’t even think about trying to steal her away.
Welcome, Kati!
Kati is the third new staff member to join Sells Agency this year. She is a 2010 graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville with a BA in journalism. Her hard work and excellence in all her projects these past few months made us realize that we just couldn’t bear to see her go.
As an added disclaimer, we continue to stand by the fact that Kati’s tremendous baking and cake decorating skills had no direct impact on her being made a full-time employee. This skill set is simply an added perk! If you want to check out Kati’s side gig, see her blog at katiscakeproject.blogspot.com – but don’t even think about trying to steal her away.
Welcome, Kati!
Friday, November 12, 2010
Q&A With PRSSA
Last week we had some visitors at the agency – the University of Arkansas Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter. We gave the group a look into agency life, walking them through our different roles and how everyone works together to get things done. These up-and-coming PR and marketing professionals then got the chance to talk openly about the job search process with our very own Mike Sells. Below we’ve broken down some of Mike’s best advice for students entering the job market:
“You spend four years preparing for your career. You can spend two to four hours preparing for an interview.”
In other words, do your research. When you go to an interview it is usually pretty obvious whether or not you’re prepared to be there. Researching general industry trends is good, but you should also look at the specific agency and their clients and competitors. Prepare questions regarding their past projects and how they operate.
“You can’t train smart.”
In case you’d forgotten, your GPA does matter. While the number is important, balance and honesty also play a role. Don’t make excuses, but if you were working two jobs the semester you failed math don’t be afraid to say so.
“What are you doing to show me that you are the best?”
If you interview for a position in an agency, it helps to show that you truly want the position you are there for. Read books about account services, pursue internships in graphic design or volunteer your services at school as a copywriter. You should be able to show that you are developing your skills and are passionate about what you want to do.
We enjoyed the visit from a bright young bunch – one which we look forward to seeing big things from in the future.
“You spend four years preparing for your career. You can spend two to four hours preparing for an interview.”
In other words, do your research. When you go to an interview it is usually pretty obvious whether or not you’re prepared to be there. Researching general industry trends is good, but you should also look at the specific agency and their clients and competitors. Prepare questions regarding their past projects and how they operate.
“You can’t train smart.”
In case you’d forgotten, your GPA does matter. While the number is important, balance and honesty also play a role. Don’t make excuses, but if you were working two jobs the semester you failed math don’t be afraid to say so.
“What are you doing to show me that you are the best?”
If you interview for a position in an agency, it helps to show that you truly want the position you are there for. Read books about account services, pursue internships in graphic design or volunteer your services at school as a copywriter. You should be able to show that you are developing your skills and are passionate about what you want to do.
We enjoyed the visit from a bright young bunch – one which we look forward to seeing big things from in the future.
Monday, November 1, 2010
NEDA Some More Awards?
Carlton-Bates was recognized last week at the Channel Marketing Awards sponsored by the National Electronic Distributors Association (NEDA). CBC took home three awards, two that we proudly created.
Carlton-Bates was a Platinum winner in the Web Promotion category for their Honeywell Limitless® Landing Page. Honeywell’s Limitless® switches offer a wireless solution that lets switches be installed anywhere they’re needed. We used a specific landing page to target the message specifically to those who had responded to our overall Honeywell Limitless® campaign.
Speaking of the Honeywell Limitless® campaign, Carlton-Bates earned a Gold in the Integrated Marketing category. Through the landing page, an eblast and banner ads, we created a campaign to increase awareness of the product. The results among prospects were impressive, with the eblast being opened by almost 1,500 people, 11% of which went on to click-thru to the site
Carlton-Bates also won a Gold for The Current, their employee newsletter. It is the main vehicle used to deliver information to the CBC team and keep all employees informed about what is going on at CBC. This newsletter is created internally at Carlton-Bates and mailed directly to the homes of CBC employees and their families.
Congratulations to both Carlton-Bates and our team.
Carlton-Bates was a Platinum winner in the Web Promotion category for their Honeywell Limitless® Landing Page. Honeywell’s Limitless® switches offer a wireless solution that lets switches be installed anywhere they’re needed. We used a specific landing page to target the message specifically to those who had responded to our overall Honeywell Limitless® campaign.
Speaking of the Honeywell Limitless® campaign, Carlton-Bates earned a Gold in the Integrated Marketing category. Through the landing page, an eblast and banner ads, we created a campaign to increase awareness of the product. The results among prospects were impressive, with the eblast being opened by almost 1,500 people, 11% of which went on to click-thru to the site
Carlton-Bates also won a Gold for The Current, their employee newsletter. It is the main vehicle used to deliver information to the CBC team and keep all employees informed about what is going on at CBC. This newsletter is created internally at Carlton-Bates and mailed directly to the homes of CBC employees and their families.
Congratulations to both Carlton-Bates and our team.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Place Your Bats
For most offices, this week means an onslaught of unnaturally colored baked goods and fun-size candy bars amid a few sparkly orange and black decorations. If your dress code is lax enough, you might even see a few distasteful, though pop culturally relevant, costumes. But here at the Sells Agency, our Halloween celebrations have been put on hold. This Monday there were no tricks, no treats – only TERROR!
It was a dreary, humid Monday morning as Sells Agency employees began to trickle into the building. Gaea Miller, director of finance and usual early bird, arrived first on the scene, expecting nothing out of the ordinary as the elevator doors opened to the second floor. Thoughts of the upcoming pay period were erased from her mind as a new image was seared into it. There it was, outside the window, hanging upside-down in wait.
“Well at first when I saw the big round belly and the beady eyes, I thought it was another politician coming after my vote, and that was the scariest part,” said Miller. “I left the lights off and ran back to my office where I distracted myself by making up random amounts for when I call in this week's payroll.”
Media director Greg Harrison was the next to arrive. Having a demonstrated record of level-headedness in times of skunk-flavored jelly bean dispensation and rodent windshield wiper duct infiltration, his demure reaction surprised no one.
“Really it just looked like a potato with wings hanging on the window,” said Harrison. “I have a friend who says they aren’t dangerous, so I wasn’t worried.”
In the agency-wide traffic meeting, an announcement was made alerting everyone to the imminent danger lurking in the lobby. The minute the meeting ended, copywriter Lauren Carrigan could be hearing yelling, “he’s so cuuuuuute!” as she fumbled to snap a picture with her phone. She was quickly distracted with a large, tedious document to proof before she could bring up the topic of adoption.
Though the threat was removed by mid-afternoon, this image was captured from security footage.
It was a dreary, humid Monday morning as Sells Agency employees began to trickle into the building. Gaea Miller, director of finance and usual early bird, arrived first on the scene, expecting nothing out of the ordinary as the elevator doors opened to the second floor. Thoughts of the upcoming pay period were erased from her mind as a new image was seared into it. There it was, outside the window, hanging upside-down in wait.
“Well at first when I saw the big round belly and the beady eyes, I thought it was another politician coming after my vote, and that was the scariest part,” said Miller. “I left the lights off and ran back to my office where I distracted myself by making up random amounts for when I call in this week's payroll.”
Media director Greg Harrison was the next to arrive. Having a demonstrated record of level-headedness in times of skunk-flavored jelly bean dispensation and rodent windshield wiper duct infiltration, his demure reaction surprised no one.
“Really it just looked like a potato with wings hanging on the window,” said Harrison. “I have a friend who says they aren’t dangerous, so I wasn’t worried.”
In the agency-wide traffic meeting, an announcement was made alerting everyone to the imminent danger lurking in the lobby. The minute the meeting ended, copywriter Lauren Carrigan could be hearing yelling, “he’s so cuuuuuute!” as she fumbled to snap a picture with her phone. She was quickly distracted with a large, tedious document to proof before she could bring up the topic of adoption.
Though the threat was removed by mid-afternoon, this image was captured from security footage.
Friday, September 24, 2010
A Bridge to the 19th Century
If you happened to hear cracks of gunfire and booming cannons in the central Arkansas area earlier this month, there’s no need to be alarmed. A full-scale Civil War re-enactment of the Battle of Reed’s Bridge took place on September 11 and 12 in Jacksonville.
On August 27, 1863, Union soldiers clashed with Confederates as they marched toward Little Rock. Today, nearly two years of restoration work have helped make it look as it would have at that time. Recent updates include a new information stand, two Civil War era cannons and a walking trail. The largest addition is a small 19th century homestead, consisting of a barn, family cabin and a kitchen cabin and garden. The Reed’s Bridge battlefield is on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered the best-preserved Civil War site in Arkansas.
Visitors were able to explore the camp and battlefield and learn from re-enactors what it was like to live as a Civil War solider. Demonstrations of military drills and musket training were given, and examples of everyday life, such as cooking and crafts, were provided throughout the weekend.
This year’s battle was a great success and the event received some notable media coverage in Little Rock. The event was featured on both KTHV’s “Amazed by Arkansas” and on KARK Channel 4. Two stories on Reed’s Bridge also ran in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. The Reed’s Bridge Battlefield is located on Highway 161 South in Jacksonville. It is open and free to the public to visit, so if you missed the battle this year, be sure to check it out soon!
On August 27, 1863, Union soldiers clashed with Confederates as they marched toward Little Rock. Today, nearly two years of restoration work have helped make it look as it would have at that time. Recent updates include a new information stand, two Civil War era cannons and a walking trail. The largest addition is a small 19th century homestead, consisting of a barn, family cabin and a kitchen cabin and garden. The Reed’s Bridge battlefield is on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered the best-preserved Civil War site in Arkansas.
Visitors were able to explore the camp and battlefield and learn from re-enactors what it was like to live as a Civil War solider. Demonstrations of military drills and musket training were given, and examples of everyday life, such as cooking and crafts, were provided throughout the weekend.
This year’s battle was a great success and the event received some notable media coverage in Little Rock. The event was featured on both KTHV’s “Amazed by Arkansas” and on KARK Channel 4. Two stories on Reed’s Bridge also ran in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. The Reed’s Bridge Battlefield is located on Highway 161 South in Jacksonville. It is open and free to the public to visit, so if you missed the battle this year, be sure to check it out soon!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
See Fayetteville in Stop-Motion
We just completed a new TV spot for Fayetteville and it involves some pretty eye-popping special effects. Using a stop-motion effect and computer-generated background, the focus is on a woman ready to get away. Through the magic of hand-drawn construction paper illustrations, live action and still photography, she takes a journey through Fayetteville. By the end, she experiences cycling, water skiing, dancing and pretty much everything else you can do in the city.
Production included a very long day for Terry Gilchrist, who spent about 10 hours lying on a green screen contorting herself into various poses. The wizards at Rizon Films made all the magic happen and Laura Kuykendall served as both broadcast producer and art director. Watch it for yourself. Better yet, watch it several times to see what you missed the first time.
Production included a very long day for Terry Gilchrist, who spent about 10 hours lying on a green screen contorting herself into various poses. The wizards at Rizon Films made all the magic happen and Laura Kuykendall served as both broadcast producer and art director. Watch it for yourself. Better yet, watch it several times to see what you missed the first time.
Friday, August 27, 2010
All Aboard the Welcome Wagon
The Sells Agency has recently welcomed several new faces to our rapidly expanding team. As we told you in our last post, one of our summer interns will be making her time with us permanent. Sarah Kurrus, a very bright and talented recent graduate of Vanderbilt University, has taken on a new position as Public Relations Account Coordinator and will assist our clients with their diverse PR needs.
Because the additional help over the summer was such a relief, we realized that it’s time to open our doors to even more staff. Two new associates – Suzanne Hill, who joins our media department, and Kati Wessinger, an in-house freelance artist – are quickly settling in.
Suzanne is a recent graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and has just completed a summer internship at another local agency. She will be a key part in the media planning and buying process. As a journalism major, Suzanne was very involved in campus leadership through the advertising club, student ambassadors and other organizations. She also has experience in leading large groups of spirited high school students as a head instructor for Universal Cheerleaders Association. We could always use the help corralling some of the more spirited characters around this office.
Kati will assist the art directors for the next few months, helping them tackle an increasingly busy workload. She, too, is a recent graduate from the U of A and is multi-talented in that not only does she excel at her agency projects, but she moonlights as a very talented baker, cake decorator and blogger. We promise, that the latter skill set had no influence on our decision to bring her on board, but those cupcakes she made last week were delicious!
Needless to say, we’re thrilled to have such an exceptional group of new employees. And we have a feeling we’ll be welcoming more soon.
Because the additional help over the summer was such a relief, we realized that it’s time to open our doors to even more staff. Two new associates – Suzanne Hill, who joins our media department, and Kati Wessinger, an in-house freelance artist – are quickly settling in.
Suzanne is a recent graduate of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and has just completed a summer internship at another local agency. She will be a key part in the media planning and buying process. As a journalism major, Suzanne was very involved in campus leadership through the advertising club, student ambassadors and other organizations. She also has experience in leading large groups of spirited high school students as a head instructor for Universal Cheerleaders Association. We could always use the help corralling some of the more spirited characters around this office.
Kati will assist the art directors for the next few months, helping them tackle an increasingly busy workload. She, too, is a recent graduate from the U of A and is multi-talented in that not only does she excel at her agency projects, but she moonlights as a very talented baker, cake decorator and blogger. We promise, that the latter skill set had no influence on our decision to bring her on board, but those cupcakes she made last week were delicious!
Needless to say, we’re thrilled to have such an exceptional group of new employees. And we have a feeling we’ll be welcoming more soon.
Friday, August 13, 2010
A send-off for our interns
It is with both a sad heart and a sense of pride that we say 'good-bye' to our summer interns. While we're not happy to see the Class of 2010 leave, we are also very proud of what they have accomplished this summer.
They've broadened their knowledge of the advertising industry, not only seeing first-hand how an ad agency works, but also touring vendors. From television production to printers, Lauren has coordinated trips that exposed them to the many facets of our industry. If we have only proven to them that life is not exactly 'Mad Men' then we have done our jobs.
The interns have been involved with campaigns for almost all of our clients, but their primary project has been for Safe Places. This non-profit organization has been mentioned in an earlier blog entry and we'll show you the fruits of their labor in a week or two, but we've seen a peek at what they've done…and it's impressive.
Thanks to Robert Haynes and John Cater. They'll be returning to their schools (UCA and UALR, respectively) for their final semester before graduating. We hope to see them here at the Sells Agency sometime in the future. Sarah Kurrus, however, won't be leaving us. She is now working for us, full-time, as a Public Relations Account Coordinator. Congratulations to Sarah on proving herself this summer and showing us how foolish we'd be to let her get away.
To celebrate their last day, we'll be chowing down on pizza at lunch. That's one thing we know they've learned – we at the Sells Agency like to eat. Almost as much as we've liked having the interns here for the summer!
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Taking Flight with Holland SheltAir Aviation Group
So far 2010 has kept us on our toes, and we’re excited to say that it doesn’t seem to be slowing down. Here at the Sells Agency, we are thrilled to begin working with Holland SheltAir Aviation Group, based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Founded in the 1960s as Holland Builders Inc., it wasn’t long before the general aviation development and contracting company started to expand.
Today, Holland SheltAir provides a variety of aircraft services to the aviation community through its network of fixed-base operations located in Florida, New York and Georgia. The group also encompasses aviation design-build and leasing subsidiaries Holland Builders Inc. and SheltAir Aviation Facilities. With Holland Builders Inc., SheltAir Aviation Facilities and SheltAir Aviation Services being under the umbrella of the Holland SheltAir Aviation Group, they are able to incorporate a unique combination of skills related to the development, management and operation of properties in commercial and general aviation.
As we begin working on a strategic marketing program for SheltAir, one of the primary goals in our work will be to streamline the marketing efforts of the three different Holland SheltAir operations. We’ll be sure to keep you updated as our partnership with SheltAir takes off.
Today, Holland SheltAir provides a variety of aircraft services to the aviation community through its network of fixed-base operations located in Florida, New York and Georgia. The group also encompasses aviation design-build and leasing subsidiaries Holland Builders Inc. and SheltAir Aviation Facilities. With Holland Builders Inc., SheltAir Aviation Facilities and SheltAir Aviation Services being under the umbrella of the Holland SheltAir Aviation Group, they are able to incorporate a unique combination of skills related to the development, management and operation of properties in commercial and general aviation.
As we begin working on a strategic marketing program for SheltAir, one of the primary goals in our work will be to streamline the marketing efforts of the three different Holland SheltAir operations. We’ll be sure to keep you updated as our partnership with SheltAir takes off.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Learning our ABC
We’ve had our hands full throughout the first half of this year helping ABC Financial Services, Inc. with a full rebranding effort. We’re excited to finally announce our partnership with this new client. Over the past 30 years, ABC has experienced tremendous growth. They were founded in 1981 as a simple billing company, but they have gradually evolved to provide full-service software, marketing and EFT solutions to fitness clubs across the country. This huge growth called for rebranding of equal proportion.
Among the efforts, ABC wanted the central focus of their ad campaign to be on their outstanding customer service and client relationships. We’ve illustrated this in various media, most prominently on their website. As well as updating the site with a new look, new functions and easier navigation, we took quotes from actual clients about their experiences and put them front and center. Nothing gets the point across like hearing results straight from the source.
We also updated ABC’s logo to give it a more modern feel. A curved line now swoops through the name, representing the company’s forward momentum. Check out their new look and all the progress we’ve made at ABC’s new website, www.abcfinancial.com.
Among the efforts, ABC wanted the central focus of their ad campaign to be on their outstanding customer service and client relationships. We’ve illustrated this in various media, most prominently on their website. As well as updating the site with a new look, new functions and easier navigation, we took quotes from actual clients about their experiences and put them front and center. Nothing gets the point across like hearing results straight from the source.
We also updated ABC’s logo to give it a more modern feel. A curved line now swoops through the name, representing the company’s forward momentum. Check out their new look and all the progress we’ve made at ABC’s new website, www.abcfinancial.com.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Getting Safe Places out of Harm’s Way
Our interns met with local non-profit Safe Places last week and got a look at what the organization does for our community. It was an introductory meeting more than anything else, but it showed us that Safe Places is in desperate need of donations.
If you aren’t familiar with the organization, it is an advocacy group that provides a number of services to the area, like anger management classes, interventions for youth who have been exposed to violence or abuse, and trauma counseling, among many other things. It even houses Pulaski County’s rape crisis hotline.
Safe Places doesn’t get much funding from the government despite being a non-profit organization. The grants they receive provide some support, but never-ending operating expenses mean Safe Places is still short by an intimidating amount. Private donations are welcomed, but they are consistently few in number. Though police, hospitals and other local agencies rely on Safe Places to aid in some of their responsibilities, monetary compensation for their services is rarely offered.
That’s where we come in. Our interns will be helping Safe Places revise their marketing strategies, making them effective enough to get the donations they so urgently need. This includes an overhaul of their website, brochures, press releases and newsletters.
If any organization deserves recognition in the minds of our community members, it’s Safe Places. The valuable services they provide are offered nowhere else, so it’s important that we find them the support they need. We’ll be sure to report back as our interns make more progress throughout the summer.
If you aren’t familiar with the organization, it is an advocacy group that provides a number of services to the area, like anger management classes, interventions for youth who have been exposed to violence or abuse, and trauma counseling, among many other things. It even houses Pulaski County’s rape crisis hotline.
Safe Places doesn’t get much funding from the government despite being a non-profit organization. The grants they receive provide some support, but never-ending operating expenses mean Safe Places is still short by an intimidating amount. Private donations are welcomed, but they are consistently few in number. Though police, hospitals and other local agencies rely on Safe Places to aid in some of their responsibilities, monetary compensation for their services is rarely offered.
That’s where we come in. Our interns will be helping Safe Places revise their marketing strategies, making them effective enough to get the donations they so urgently need. This includes an overhaul of their website, brochures, press releases and newsletters.
If any organization deserves recognition in the minds of our community members, it’s Safe Places. The valuable services they provide are offered nowhere else, so it’s important that we find them the support they need. We’ll be sure to report back as our interns make more progress throughout the summer.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Interns Make an Entrance
Our Career Clarity program kicked off Monday with our first batch of interns arriving to the office. They will be with us through the end of July, working in account services/PR, copywriting and art direction/design. Here’s a look at the chosen few:
Account Services/PR: Sarah Kurrus, Vanderbilt
Sarah comes to us from right here in Little Rock. She’s had other internships at PR firms in Little Rock and Nashville, but we’re betting ours will be her favorite. Sarah is the community service type and likes to travel. She’s involved in leadership programs at Vanderbilt, including within her sorority.
Copywriting: Robert Haynes, UCA
Robert is from North Little Rock and works for his school paper as ad manager and designer while classes are in session. He’s a big gamer and has no problem talking at length if someone asks him about his favorite RPG (that’s role-playing game for the rest of us). Our advice? Don’t ask him about his favorite RPG.
Art Direction/Design: John Cater, UALR
John is a graphic designer and illustrator from Lonoke. He freelances in web design and has completed several sites that will be used by his school. We’ve discovered he’s also a big video game fan, so he and Robert should get along just fine.
We’re excited to welcome our interns and watch the program as it gets underway. Next week, they’ll begin their very own project helping a local nonprofit, Safe Places. Until then, we’ve got them hard at work. Cream and sugar, please.
Account Services/PR: Sarah Kurrus, Vanderbilt
Sarah comes to us from right here in Little Rock. She’s had other internships at PR firms in Little Rock and Nashville, but we’re betting ours will be her favorite. Sarah is the community service type and likes to travel. She’s involved in leadership programs at Vanderbilt, including within her sorority.
Copywriting: Robert Haynes, UCA
Robert is from North Little Rock and works for his school paper as ad manager and designer while classes are in session. He’s a big gamer and has no problem talking at length if someone asks him about his favorite RPG (that’s role-playing game for the rest of us). Our advice? Don’t ask him about his favorite RPG.
Art Direction/Design: John Cater, UALR
John is a graphic designer and illustrator from Lonoke. He freelances in web design and has completed several sites that will be used by his school. We’ve discovered he’s also a big video game fan, so he and Robert should get along just fine.
We’re excited to welcome our interns and watch the program as it gets underway. Next week, they’ll begin their very own project helping a local nonprofit, Safe Places. Until then, we’ve got them hard at work. Cream and sugar, please.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
A Cinco de Mayo to Remember
Competition at the first Sells Agency Nacho Bowl was fierce, but we have to admit that our creativity far surpassed our scores. All four of our teams helped prove that it’s not whether you win or lose – it’s how goofy you look when you play the game.
The Bowl and the Beautiful, starring Jason, Emily, Kristen and Allison, quickly learned that bowling and dresses didn’t mix. The team went 0-2, but Emily emerged victorious with the prize for lowest score.
Amber, Thad, Leigh and Casey teamed up as the Bowling Stones. Coming into the match as underdogs, the team surprised themselves with a record of 1-1 and had a great time.
The Alley-pinos played well together and dominated their first opponent. EnchiLaura and Gregamole looked like pros while Markarita and Jade No Carne had some great frames.
The team to beat from the beginning was Spare Me. Mike, Rachel, Jon and Lauren came armed with wrist guards and their own bowling balls. Jon’s first game score, complete with five consecutive strikes, was the high score for the day.
The Alley-pinos took on Spare Me in the heated championship round – complete with heckling and scheming. Both teams bowled well and, as chance would have it, Mike bowled a spare in the last frame to defeat the Alley-pinos by four.
The Bowl and the Beautiful, starring Jason, Emily, Kristen and Allison, quickly learned that bowling and dresses didn’t mix. The team went 0-2, but Emily emerged victorious with the prize for lowest score.
Amber, Thad, Leigh and Casey teamed up as the Bowling Stones. Coming into the match as underdogs, the team surprised themselves with a record of 1-1 and had a great time.
The Alley-pinos played well together and dominated their first opponent. EnchiLaura and Gregamole looked like pros while Markarita and Jade No Carne had some great frames.
The team to beat from the beginning was Spare Me. Mike, Rachel, Jon and Lauren came armed with wrist guards and their own bowling balls. Jon’s first game score, complete with five consecutive strikes, was the high score for the day.
The Alley-pinos took on Spare Me in the heated championship round – complete with heckling and scheming. Both teams bowled well and, as chance would have it, Mike bowled a spare in the last frame to defeat the Alley-pinos by four.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Hey, you! Check out this TV spot.
We recently created our first television spot for our new client, QualChoice Health Insurance. Designed to look nothing like your typical insurance ad, we personally think it accomplishes that pretty well. The accompanying print follows the same visual look, as will the three TV spots to follow in May. See the campaign on stations in Little Rock and NWA. But, if you just can't wait, you can view the first spot here.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Accomplishments from NWA
Leigh Allison has been a fixture of our public relations department since joining the Sells Agency in early 2007.
She recently received Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), a mark of distinction for those in the public relations industry who demonstrate their commitment to the profession and to its ethical practice. Only an average of 300 people attain APR status per year throughout the United States.
Leigh’s commitment to the industry extends to her role in the Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), the leading organization for area PR professionals committed to strengthening and advancing the industry. PRSA recently named the Northwest Arkansas chapter the fasted growing “boutique” chapter in the nation.
She currently serves as president of the chapter, plus she was chair of the hospitality committee that recently organized and hosted the successful “Building Your Brand” PRSA Communications Conference held in Rogers in October 2009. The conference boasted 100 participants from Arkansas and Oklahoma.
Much of her focus is spent managing her clients’ various public relations needs, including strategic planning, media relations, issues management, event publicity and executive training. In the banking and finance industry, she works closely with regional giant Arvest Bank, whose assets now reach beyond the $10 billion mark. Her work with Arvest includes media markets in both Arkansas and Missouri in addition to working on bank-wide initiatives.
Aside from banking, she helps promote one of Arkansas’ best tourism products, the city of Fayetteville, and is very familiar with the healthcare landscape in Northwest Arkansas through her work with Mercy Health System of NWA and HealthSouth of Fort Smith.
After beginning with the Sells Agency in January of 2007 as a public relations account coordinator, Leigh advanced to become an associate account executive in a little over a year and then earned the title of account executive in October 2008. Two promotions, an accreditation and even her own blog entry – what more could anyone want? Seriously, though, congratulations to Leigh on reaching yet another milestone in her career.
She recently received Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), a mark of distinction for those in the public relations industry who demonstrate their commitment to the profession and to its ethical practice. Only an average of 300 people attain APR status per year throughout the United States.
Leigh’s commitment to the industry extends to her role in the Northwest Arkansas Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), the leading organization for area PR professionals committed to strengthening and advancing the industry. PRSA recently named the Northwest Arkansas chapter the fasted growing “boutique” chapter in the nation.
She currently serves as president of the chapter, plus she was chair of the hospitality committee that recently organized and hosted the successful “Building Your Brand” PRSA Communications Conference held in Rogers in October 2009. The conference boasted 100 participants from Arkansas and Oklahoma.
Much of her focus is spent managing her clients’ various public relations needs, including strategic planning, media relations, issues management, event publicity and executive training. In the banking and finance industry, she works closely with regional giant Arvest Bank, whose assets now reach beyond the $10 billion mark. Her work with Arvest includes media markets in both Arkansas and Missouri in addition to working on bank-wide initiatives.
Aside from banking, she helps promote one of Arkansas’ best tourism products, the city of Fayetteville, and is very familiar with the healthcare landscape in Northwest Arkansas through her work with Mercy Health System of NWA and HealthSouth of Fort Smith.
After beginning with the Sells Agency in January of 2007 as a public relations account coordinator, Leigh advanced to become an associate account executive in a little over a year and then earned the title of account executive in October 2008. Two promotions, an accreditation and even her own blog entry – what more could anyone want? Seriously, though, congratulations to Leigh on reaching yet another milestone in her career.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Tiger makes a commercial. The Sells Agency makes a TV appearance.
Nike launched a controversial ad featuring Tiger Woods with a voiceover by his deceased father, Earl. Released last week, just in time for his debut at the Masters, this TV spot had more free coverage in both the mainstream and social media outlets than even Nike could’ve paid for.
Love it or hate it, the spot seems to be helping Tiger’s reputation, which is what Nike was banking on. According to Zeta Interactive, a company that monitors message boards, blogs and social media posts, Tiger’s public perception is on the rise – as if it had any other way to go.
The day prior to the Masters tournament, Woods’ online reputation was at 51 percent positive and 49 percent negative. Just two days later, the positive number had reached 69 percent and the negative fell to 31 percent. Not surprisingly, Nike’s online reputation rose between ten and 15 percent, too.
We were invited to share our two cents on the Nike spot with KARK and KARZ viewers last week. Click here to view the news segment – and the Nike ad itself. Here’s hoping our already stellar reputation garners a few extra points in the polls!
Love it or hate it, the spot seems to be helping Tiger’s reputation, which is what Nike was banking on. According to Zeta Interactive, a company that monitors message boards, blogs and social media posts, Tiger’s public perception is on the rise – as if it had any other way to go.
The day prior to the Masters tournament, Woods’ online reputation was at 51 percent positive and 49 percent negative. Just two days later, the positive number had reached 69 percent and the negative fell to 31 percent. Not surprisingly, Nike’s online reputation rose between ten and 15 percent, too.
We were invited to share our two cents on the Nike spot with KARK and KARZ viewers last week. Click here to view the news segment – and the Nike ad itself. Here’s hoping our already stellar reputation garners a few extra points in the polls!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Sells Agency Movers and Shakers
They grow up so fast, don’t they? Like a proud parent, we have watched as talented and ambitious college grads begin their advertising careers with us and evolve into independent, multi-faceted and service-oriented employees. Lately, several of our junior level associates have surpassed our great expectations and therefore deserve some recognition – and new titles. That’s why we’re proud to announce the promotion of three junior associates, Jason Rogers, Lauren Carrigan and Allison Drennon, plus the addition of one new associate, Casey Wormington.
Jason works in Little Rock in the creative department and was promoted from associate art director to art director. Frankly, he’s so talented we forgot he wasn’t a full-fledged art director. He has been with the agency full-time for one year and worked part-time for two years while attending UALR. He has primary art direction and design responsibilities on multiple accounts, including Carlton-Bates, Rx Solutions and the Jacksonville Advertising and Promotion Commission. His exceptional work for the agency has won several industry awards.
Lauren joined the agency’s Little Rock office in late 2008 as junior copywriter and quickly rose to the position of copywriter. She has created concepts for nearly every client within the agency, including Fayetteville’s current marketing, Rx Solutions’ materials and the new QualChoice campaign that will debut in April. She is the agency’s resident grammar enforcer and handles our summer internship program as the Career Clarity Coordinator. Had she written this blog entry, it would be much more clever – our apologies.
As a member of the account services team, Allison’s experience in both public relations and account service has enabled her to move from account coordinator to associate account executive in the 18 months she’s worked for the agency. She’s also a newlywed and has recently moved from our Northwest Arkansas office to Little Rock. All that change doesn’t faze the multi-talented professional who has always worked closely with clients in both central and Northwest Arkansas.
And because we scoop up talent whenever we find it, we knew we had to hire Casey, who has filled the account coordinator position within the Northwest Arkansas office. She has experience as a print advertising coordinator for a nation-wide auto parts business and has a degree in Advertising and Public Relations from Drury University. We’re looking forward to watching her excel as well.
Jason works in Little Rock in the creative department and was promoted from associate art director to art director. Frankly, he’s so talented we forgot he wasn’t a full-fledged art director. He has been with the agency full-time for one year and worked part-time for two years while attending UALR. He has primary art direction and design responsibilities on multiple accounts, including Carlton-Bates, Rx Solutions and the Jacksonville Advertising and Promotion Commission. His exceptional work for the agency has won several industry awards.
Lauren joined the agency’s Little Rock office in late 2008 as junior copywriter and quickly rose to the position of copywriter. She has created concepts for nearly every client within the agency, including Fayetteville’s current marketing, Rx Solutions’ materials and the new QualChoice campaign that will debut in April. She is the agency’s resident grammar enforcer and handles our summer internship program as the Career Clarity Coordinator. Had she written this blog entry, it would be much more clever – our apologies.
As a member of the account services team, Allison’s experience in both public relations and account service has enabled her to move from account coordinator to associate account executive in the 18 months she’s worked for the agency. She’s also a newlywed and has recently moved from our Northwest Arkansas office to Little Rock. All that change doesn’t faze the multi-talented professional who has always worked closely with clients in both central and Northwest Arkansas.
And because we scoop up talent whenever we find it, we knew we had to hire Casey, who has filled the account coordinator position within the Northwest Arkansas office. She has experience as a print advertising coordinator for a nation-wide auto parts business and has a degree in Advertising and Public Relations from Drury University. We’re looking forward to watching her excel as well.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Internship Program Taking Off
This May, the Sells Agency will welcome its inaugural class of interns as part of the Career Clarity program. We’re seeking three students interested in account services/public relations, copywriting and graphic design. They’ll spend the summer helping us with our favorite clients, as well as working on a project of their own. Know any college students who might be interested? More information and application instructions are available on our website.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Always a bridesmaid...
The Sells Agency was a finalist for Arkansas Business' Business of the Year award last night. While we didn't bring home the trophy, we still feel like winners. Though it may sound cliché, it really is an honor just to be nominated. Being one of five finalists is something to be proud of, plus we had a good time at the banquet. It was a great reason to break out the suits. Congratulations to the Category One winner, Custom XM printing, and to all of the winners.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Sells Agency a winner in two Addy competitions
Saturday night was Addy night in Little Rock and NWA. We attended both and came home with multiple trophies for several clients including Arvest, Rx Solutions, Mercy Health, TAC Air and even our own agency brochure.
The final results between the two competitions are:
One Gold Addy
Two Silver Addys
Five Bronze Addys
and the People's Choice Award
Congratulations to the creative department, the agency overall and to our clients. Without them, none of these awards would have been possible.
The final results between the two competitions are:
One Gold Addy
Two Silver Addys
Five Bronze Addys
and the People's Choice Award
Congratulations to the creative department, the agency overall and to our clients. Without them, none of these awards would have been possible.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Products of our Hard Work
We love being part of new projects. Whether it’s creating a new look for a client we’ve known a long time, or starting from scratch with one we’ve just met, it’s gratifying to see our ideas grow the legs they need to be successful. We’ve been working closely with one of our newest clients, US CosmeCeuticals, to give their brand new skin care line, Rx Solutions, its own unique personality and introduce it to a test market.
When Conway-based US CosmeCeuticals contacted us last spring about marketing their skin care line, we were excited about the opportunity as well as the challenges that come with branding a completely new product. Already part of a reputable compounding pharmacy within the community, they were armed with an innovative, high-quality product and an always-motivated, “whatever it takes” attitude. What they needed from us was direction, and we were happy to provide the clarity they’d yet been unable to find.
Following some preliminary planning and research, we began developing the brand and messaging. Our first challenge was determining the best way to present consumers the benefits of such a scientific product in an easily digestible manner, like that of most beauty products. For this we created a labeling system which made the products associated with each skin type immediately identifiable. Surrounding this new system, collateral materials were developed, which included original photography and detailed product information. From comprehensive product brochures and new labels to a complete website and seven-foot in-store displays, every component of the campaign was ready for rollout in December.
Now in 2010, we anxiously await the results as Rx Solutions is introduced during a three-month test market. Following this, it is scheduled to be released statewide and later, nationwide. The client’s non-stop excitement has motivated us at every step, and now we’re ready to help Rx Solutions make a big entrance. If you’d like to take a look at this impressive line of products, visit www.rxskintherapy.com.
When Conway-based US CosmeCeuticals contacted us last spring about marketing their skin care line, we were excited about the opportunity as well as the challenges that come with branding a completely new product. Already part of a reputable compounding pharmacy within the community, they were armed with an innovative, high-quality product and an always-motivated, “whatever it takes” attitude. What they needed from us was direction, and we were happy to provide the clarity they’d yet been unable to find.
Following some preliminary planning and research, we began developing the brand and messaging. Our first challenge was determining the best way to present consumers the benefits of such a scientific product in an easily digestible manner, like that of most beauty products. For this we created a labeling system which made the products associated with each skin type immediately identifiable. Surrounding this new system, collateral materials were developed, which included original photography and detailed product information. From comprehensive product brochures and new labels to a complete website and seven-foot in-store displays, every component of the campaign was ready for rollout in December.
Now in 2010, we anxiously await the results as Rx Solutions is introduced during a three-month test market. Following this, it is scheduled to be released statewide and later, nationwide. The client’s non-stop excitement has motivated us at every step, and now we’re ready to help Rx Solutions make a big entrance. If you’d like to take a look at this impressive line of products, visit www.rxskintherapy.com.
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