Check out our interview with foodie influencer Amanda Ramirez aka @mandyeatsny
May 16, 2024 — Comments are off for this post.
Check out our interview with foodie influencer Amanda Ramirez aka @mandyeatsny
March 3, 2025 — Comments are off for this post.
Jellycat has increased in popularity, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide with their distinctive approach to experiential and influence marketing. Brothers Thomas and William Gatacre founded Jellycat in London in 1999. The name is inspired by Tom’s seven year old son. He insisted on combining two of his adored things, jelly and a cat! Jellycat as we know it consists of high quality plushies with unique designs. These designs range from a wide variety of themes, including whimsical creatures, keychains, animals, and food themed items. In 2018 Jellycat released Jellycat Amuseables. It features charming and love-able plushies with legs such as a cherry, watermelon, mushroom, cacti and pineapple. Jellycat's creativity extends beyond plush toys, leading to unexpected brand experiences like the Jellycat Diner.
The very first Jellycat Diner appeared in New York’s iconic FAO Schwarz toy store in Rockefeller Plaza in September of 2023. The diner highlights the brand's creativity and ability to gather generations to enjoy an immersive experience. Similar to a real diner experience, the crew will proceed to “cook” and package your meal during this visit. The use of this diner is a great time for the whole family and an instagrammable moment for all! Jellycat has become a social media sensation. With their food and drink collection, Jellycat is featured on various platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. Jellycat has succeeded expectations with unique designs and an imaginative approach to marketing the typical stuffed animal. The creativity and innovation used to employ the diner has allowed the nostalgia of Jellycat to remain while still being successful in a rapidly heightened digital landscape.
The Jellycat website states that the Jellycat Diner experience includes an Amuseables food item, a matching pin, personalized stickers, and gift packaging. The Diner excels at including brand colors, fun packaging, and personalization to create an unforgettable adventure. The diner features blue and white checkered flooring complemented by retro diner signs and lighting. These elements emphasize Jellycat's deep-rooted history while evoking a sense of nostalgia and comfort that defines the brand.
As someone who is not exactly a plushie enthusiast, I own two Jellycat plushies myself. This is not an uncommon phenomenon, as Jellycat's growth and popularity have reached unexpected demographics. Jellycat has become increasingly popular on social media. Fans and influencers began creating videos taking followers through their experience at The Jellycat Diner. Many individuals travel solely to visit the Jellycat Diner experience, from collectors to those who thought they were adorable through online platforms. During the holidays, groups of adults traded Jellycats during their Friendsgiving and Secret Santa events and posted these reveals on TikTok. Influencers such as Graceellasmith on TikTok with 13.3K followers participated in this trend. With 211.5K likes and 12.2K shares, the social media traction does not stop there.
Other influencers such as @cookingwithcocktailrings and @viennaskye on TikTok, have posted their visit to the Jellycat Diner. Consumer interest is reflected through Jellycat's various hashtags and tags on Instagram and TikTok. With consistent content, #jellycat holds 277.3K posts solely on TIkTok. By leveraging these social media trends, Jellycat has targeted a diverse audience with continuous consumer interest growth.
The Jellycat Diner is an exceptional example of the success that follows a seamless combination of experience and influence. With the extension of the brand, Jellycat created an immersive, shareable event. Jellycat's approach fuels organic social media buzz while attracting followers of all ages. Through immersive experiences, nostalgic branding, and a strong social media presence, Jellycat has built a community that extends beyond traditional toy collectors. This spectacular campaign aligns with Likey Co’s philosophy. We believe in creating impactful, experience-driven marketing that strengthens deep consumer relationships and brand loyalty. Here at Likey Co., we value the power of authentic engagement and innovation in influential and experiential marketing.
December 16, 2024 — Comments are off for this post.
The digital creation space is constantly unquestionably changing due to social culture, current events, and trends. For many brands, the digital space is where they can creatively engage their audiences. This fast-paced nature can present itself as a challenge to those brands trying to stay relevant. Satisfying multigenerational audiences and creating stimulating campaigns are the key to successful marketing!
Dunkin - the known and loved American franchise - is a brand that has mastered the ability to evolve its digital creation appeal to multiple generations and stay relevant. Their classic donuts and timeless coffee recipe are the main ingredients that keep customers coming! It's affordability, reliability, and convenience has motivated many customers - older and younger - to continue visiting their local Dunkin's.
Here at Likey, we've previously explored the best way marketers can tackle multiple generations from Boomers to Zoomers. Because Dunkin has such a multigenerational audience, their marketing therefore must resonate with a number of different generational groups. Here are a few ways they successfully do so for each generation:
Here at Likey, we admire the successful work Dunkin has done in influencing their multigenerational audiences, as this is no easy task. Furthermore, given the brand's long standing presence, its ability to strategically use social media marketing in order to fulfill a need for multiple generations is outstanding. We look forward to see more from Dunkin!
November 12, 2024 — Comments are off for this post.
Gamification is steadily becoming a relied-upon source of entertainment. In a post-pandemic world, people are used to virtual gatherings. They might tolerate an in-person, sit-down event, but that doesn’t mean they’re necessarily ecstatic about it. Event attendees are looking for excitement to fill in the gap between diminished attention spans and an itch to pull out their phones. This is where gamification experiences comes into play, pun intended. The act of applying game play to an event has the potential to spark curiosity about a brand. Keep reading to discover Likey Co's top five picks for gamification in 2024 events.
The beauty of competition is that it motivates attendees with rewards (a brand’s products, of course). It’s a source of positive reinforcement that encourages attendees to give the brand their full attention. Gamification increases engagement between attendees and a brand. It also fosters a sense of community where people can bond over the highs and lows of competition. This experience provides the perfect opportunity for social media content. Ultimately, gamification ensures that attendees make lasting memories at an event, which Likey Co prioritizes when considering the craft of experience.
Without further ado, let’s unveil Likey Co’s favorite gamified events from the past year.
Nissan launched their 2025 Nissan KICKS at the beginning of the NCAA Men’s March Madness Basketball Tournament. They then proceeded to showcase this exciting launch at the 2024 New York International Auto Show with their “Thrill Street” booth experience. They hoped for engagement between attendees and the brand, and they succeeded.
Nissan’s “Thrill Street” booth encouraged event attendees to participate in several gamified activities that, when compiled together, posed a fun challenge to people looking to experience their digital Thrill Machine prize station. Conquering a scavenger hunt, trivia quiz, and a collection of stamps would lead to this Thrill Machine. What’s especially stirring about this event is that Nissan chose to incorporate several gamification activities into one entertaining experience.
Interestingly enough, Netflix transitioned their Geeked Week from fully virtual to live for the very first time this year. Geeked Week is an event where Netflix divulges all the latest updates about their platform’s content to eager fans. This year, Joe Manganiello hosted Geeked Week in Atlanta to celebrate special exclusives and spread news to fandoms.
To spice things up for guests, Netflix incorporated different, exciting games into their event. “Geeked Trivia Battle” took place, questioning attendees about popular shows on Netflix’s platform like Squid Games and Black Mirror.
On top of that, a live-streamed event took place. Fans welcomed the opportunity to play a version of the infamous “red light, green light” from Squid Games. Winners earned props and Netflix merchandise.
What makes this gamification experience so memorable is its authenticity. Netflix utilized gamification tactics while tying competition into shows that the brand is heavily associated with. Event attendees got the chance to immerse themselves in an experience that stays true to Netflix’s content and values.
While the Gov Ball’s primary purpose is to celebrate music, it’s also an excellent opportunity for brands to showcase creativity with themed installations.
The Gov Ball urged attendees to “step right up to the Rakuten R-cade for a chance to win prizes from top brands.” Again, the authenticity of this gamified experience aided Rakuten in standing out from its competition. As a tech conglomerate, Rakuten’s theme of an arcade was simultaneously unique and fitting. They even incorporated a claw machine into their retro, white and purple striped tent. If the act of gaming wasn’t incentive enough for attendees, one of the prizes at the arcade was the chance to win free tickets to 2025’s Gov Ball. Talk about incentive.
Apparently, claw machines were a big hit with the brands this year. Making its iconic return to the Austin City Limits Music Festival, Tito’s claw machine had festival attendees lined up and wrapped around corners in hopes of winning the prize: a wristband that enabled access to Tito’s exclusive side stage lounge. The side stage lounge provided cocktails, massages and shade, a much-needed reprieve from the beating Texas sun.
Cleverly, this gamification experience not only encouraged people to engage and interact with Titos, but the reward itself was also another opportunity for attendees to further experience the brand.
There’s no better place to flaunt your innovation and imagination than at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.
Reddit wisely based their activation at the Cannes festival on the notion that the best product recommendations come from their platform. Their installations took event attendees on a journey through the process of attaining a recommendation on the app with the phrase “all roads lead through Reddit.”
The gamification experience emerged when attendees were given the opportunity to play mini-golf. If they achieved a hole-in-one, then they got to keep their recommended product, which ranged from nail polish to Tide Pods. Attendees were undoubtedly entertained. Reddit’s use of the game of mini golf created a memorable experience for people who will now associate the platform with the excitement of bated breath before a golf-swing.
All five of these brands cleverly executed an experience that had both the potential for virality and the compelling nature of the challenge. As this form of experience prevails in events, brands will be expected to step up their own game and get creative. Gamification induces competition between attendees, but competition on who can pull off the most engaging events also grows between brands. Likey Co, for one, advocates for unmatched execution in the art of experiential events.
October 22, 2024 — Comments are off for this post.
Audrey Finocchiaro is a Rhode Island native and owner of the viral coffee shop The Nitro Bar. She tells an authentic story of how her dreams turned into reality. Finocchiaro utilizes the popular social media marketing platform, TikTok, to showcase her personal brand and the aesthetics of The Nitro Bar. Accompanied by her mini-mic, Audrey reels viewers in by placing herself in her coffee shop and interacting with her employees. Utilizing TikTok's latest trends and gossip, she asks them funny, light-hearted questions, creatively brewing in the coffee shop’s menu.
Whether that is asking her employees to make her something that will send her to the bathroom or instead, what Travis Kelce would order, viewers are hooked by the relevance to pop culture, as well as the aesthetically pleasing process of making coffee. This type of content has resulted in numerous videos that have gone viral that have left the coffee shop's TikTok account @thenitrobar. With an escalating 372.7K followers and 43.1M likes, Audrey has taken the reigns of creativity for the success of her Rhode Island small business.
Particularly noteworthy is the authenticity of the brand's origin story. The funny and relevant content and marketing approach has been the cornerstone of the brand’s strategy and virality. However, this success did not come easy for Audrey. She transparently shares how her business started as a small coffee cart and she maxed out credit cards to pursue this dream. Therefore, Audrey does not rely on trends, but rather leans into telling the genuine story behind her small business. This is more compelling to her viewers and emotionally stirring for individuals who may have similar dreams and aspirations.
The Nitro Bar’s escalating TikTok presence is a clear example of how small businesses are utilizing relevant technologies, trends, and pop culture. This strategy helps shape their brand identities and overall boost traffic and obtain new customers for their businesses. TikTok has become a major arena for where Gen Z obtains news, discovers trends, and keeps up to date with things. Therefore, using this platform to market a business or product can be the key for successful social media marketing for many up and coming small businesses.
Here at LikeyCo, we value influence and connecting “influence to experience.” Audrey Finocchiaro's success in social media marketing encompasses this idea. Business owners are strategically using their platforms and social media marketing trends to market the experiences attached to their products. Furthermore, trendy and innovative content creation can significantly impact consumer behavior. TikTok and other social media platforms are vessels for connecting consumers to these experiences. For many Nitro Bar customers, it is so much more than getting their blueberry latte’s. It is the experience of interacting with the employees, feeling a sense of belonging, and having an emotional connection to the brand.
September 10, 2024 — Comments are off for this post.
By Caitlin Egan
It goes without question that failure is not fun. None of us enjoy it. However, when we do fail, we learn to dance in the rain. We take the fundamental steps towards success, and how we view the failure is actually instilled within us at a young age.
Besides being criminally underrated, Disney's, Meet The Robinsons exemplifies the idea that failure is both inevitable and vital for one's success journey. The movie centers around a young inventor named Lewis, who faces numerous setbacks but ultimately learns to embrace failure as a crucial step in his growth. He goes from viewing failure as a source of shame, to seeing it as an incentive to "keep moving forward." In fact, he embraces that theme so heavily, that he ends up becoming a renowned inventor. As cheesy as a Disney film may be, anybody could learn from Lewis's story if they look inward.
The messages we put into a child's mind about failure at a young age can make a difference in the trajectory of their lives. When we teach kids the importance of perseverance, we implement the message that failure is just a way for them to improve. If they become terrified of failure, many will likely shut down and fear trying again.
Elon Musk faced several challenges with Tesla early on. The company struggled with quality control issues, production delays, and financial instability. It got so bad, that Tesla came close to bankruptcy in 2008. However, Musk remained persistent. He secured funding, implemented better production practices, and focused on marketing the brand’s sustainability mission. Today, we recognize Tesla as a leader in the electric vehicle market with great innovation and commitment to renewable energy.
...and before Elon Musk, lived the one and only Steve Jobs. Most are aware that he co-founded Apple, but many don't know that he was kicked out of the company in 1985 because of internal power struggles. During his absence, he founded NeXT, a computer platform development company. While NeXT didn’t achieve significant commercial success, it created advanced technology. Things came back around, as Apple acquired NeXT in 1997, bringing Jobs back to the company. He then led a remarkable turnaround, launching iconic products like the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad, ultimately transforming Apple into one of the most valuable companies in the world.
At Likey Co., we believe that elasticity is key. As quoted by Taylor Swift, "If you're experiencing turbulence or pressure, that probably means you're rising." You cannot make a dent in discovering your greatest potential if you allow yourself to be paralyzed by setbacks.
August 6, 2024 — Comments are off for this post.
Buckle up, boomers! Want to know the secret on how Gen Z has all the scoop on what's currently going on politically? Welcome to the social media world, where short videos and memes have turned into the new news source. Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter have become not only a source of entertainment but a tool for political education. It gives Gen Z the chance to get political awareness and participate where it's important. This shift has been very strong with Gen Z and will definitely create an impact on this year’s election in November.
In the world of social media, everything is more unfiltered and authentic unlike your usual media outlets. The content news channels put out are most of the time edited and put through multiple rounds of revision to align with sponsorship guidelines. Whether you agree with them or not, these unfiltered messages provide a much more real perspective on political issues.
TikTok, a platform that was in the beginning known for its fun dances and viral challenges. But has now emerged into one of the most important platforms for political awareness among Gen Z. Who knew that dance challenges and lip-sync battles could turn political debates into viral trends.
Influencers have the ability to reach those who aren't exposed to traditional news sources. An example is Marcus Dipaola, a journalist who provides straightforward and concise updates on current events and political news. Influencers like him can break down complex topics into easily understandable segments, making news more accessible to a younger audience. With making it all more approachable it can help encourage their followers to ask questions and learn from one another.
Young users are receiving crash courses in political science all through their socials. Media organizations are using these platforms to livestream presidential debates, rallies, and election night. The recent presidential debate that occurred on June 28 was live-streamed, and responses from our candidates became quickly viral especially on TikTok. There was also a presidential rally in Pennsylvaina being live-streamed recently which turned out to be a recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Moments like this bring bringing immediate awareness and updates to users. There are many important things happening daily leading up to election day in November and it's important that everyone stays informed. Recently Each platform caters something different through live-streaming and together they create a perfect approach to political engagement making it the perfect way for Gen Z to stay educated.
Podcasts have opened the door for exploration on political topics and for listeners to get a better understanding on important current issues. Many popular influencers have been creating podcast such as "IMPAULSIVE" by Logan Paul. This is a very popular podcast for Gen Z where he sometimes brings in high profile figures. On June 13th Logan Paul brought in former President Donald Trump for an interview where it brought a big reach of young people and exposed them to political discussion. Another podcast is “I’ve Had It” hosted by Jennifer Welch and Angie Pumps Sullivan, these ladies invited Vice President Kamala Harris to speak about politics and airplane etiquette.
The long for nature of podcasts allow listeners to resonate with their perspectives and hear directly from those involved in what happening in the real world. What makes podcasts so perfect for young Gen Z is how it fits perfectly with our daily lives. We can be on the go whether that is going to school, working out, driving, or just relaxing we can stay informed and educated anywhere at any time.
This generation is not only now using social media to keep themselves entertained like it used to be. It has also transformed into a place where you can participate freely and learn on what’s going on politically around the world. For LIKEY, we specialize in experiential marketing, and we want to create engaging experiences that foster deep connections. Using social media and experiential can drive awareness and connect Gen Z on a personal level with each other inspiring action towards important topics.
July 11, 2024 — Comments are off for this post.
In the world of social media, anything is possible. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have transformed the music industry, helping new talent go viral and attract industry professionals. Artists like Billie Eilish, The Weeknd, Justin Bieber, and Doja Cat were discovered this way. Social media allows artists to connect directly with fans, build a personal brand, and establish a loyal fanbase. So quickly, likes are transformed into streams. Traditional media channels can still complement these efforts - but the magic of social media hits different.
Streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music pair well with social media by enabling easy sharing and promotion of music. User-generated content and algorithm-based recommendations help new music reach broader audiences. When artists participate in social media marketing, they open up an avenue for themselves to release music independently. Platforms like Bandcamp enable powerful global distribution.
Collaborations with influencers can expand an artist's audience, as behind-the-scenes content, live sessions, and interactive posts maintain engagement. Social media offers monetization options such as ad revenue, fan funding, and sponsored content deals. Artists can also sell merchandise directly through their profiles.
Artists receive immediate feedback from fans on new releases and performances when they have a social media presence. This way, they can adjust and improve accordingly. One artist who exemplifies productive use of this is Dua Lipa. The pop sensation had a rocky start to her career, as online critics mocked her 2017/2018 performances. The phrase, "Go Girl, give us nothing" began trending after an infamous performance of "One Kiss." In spite of this emotional setback, Dua Lipa drastically improved her stage presence by 2020. In interviews, she said the online criticism was emotionally damaging but that it also motivated her to improve.
In addition to providing instant feedback, fans can create and spread trends. One example of this is Taylor Swift's "Bejeweled" dance. The routine began as a trend on TikTok, created by fan Mikael Arellano. Within weeks, the routine was performed by Swift herself at the Eras Tour. User-generated content like dance challenges and covers can boost song popularity.
Social media provides valuable data and analytics, helping artists and labels understand audience demographics and preferences. This data allows for targeted advertising and personalized marketing strategies. Further, social media has facilitated an unprecedented, global presence for genres like K-Pop and non-English songs. Artists from different countries can connect, collaborate, and reach new markets.
Pictured: BLACKPINK, K-Pop Group
At Likey, we believe in prioritizing a special bond between businesses and individuals. Social media has become a powerful tool in making that connection, notably in the music industry. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube offer unprecedented opportunities for independent artists, reshaping marketing strategies and fostering interactive relationships between musicians and their fans. In the world of social media, nothing is unachievable.
June 21, 2024 — Comments are off for this post.
In today’s social media marketing frenzy, brands both big and small are seeking for ways to forge deeper bonds with their target audience. Here’s a little secret, a golden ticket that could help leverage your brands reach, engagement, and more can be a micro influencer! These social media mavericks have been shifting the marketing landscape for the past few years with their authenticity. Niche audiences trust and care about their opinion on different brands and products that influence purchase consistently.
With followers ranging from 1,000 to 100,000, micro's cultivate a community of people with an impact of genuine connections and innovative content in the digital age. As these influencers grow, the personal touch they maintain with their audience can significantly amplify their reach and influence. This allows them to understand their audience and build a dedicated fanbase that grows organically. It's proven for brands to work with these smaller influencers who are growing, as this high level of interaction which provides the opportunity to build a strong, long-term partnership with the creator.
A prime example of an influencer who has built their own space with dedication and determination is Sami Clarke. She built a loyal following through her genuine passion and workout videos that have helped individuals work on their fitness journey. Her consistent engagement with her audience, fitness tips and her personal wellness journey, fosters a deep sense of community and trust.
Sami launched her own company, FORM, in 2021 which offers personalized fitness and wellness programs. FORM's success is a testament to Sami's ability to connect with her audience on a personal level and maintain that connection that has been there since day one.
Sami's story highlights how starting with a small following and growing organically can transform a passion into a thriving business. By staying true to her roots and authentically sharing her passions with her followers, she has built a successful business from the ground up together with her community. Her journey is a testament to the power of genuine connections, as she continues to grow every single day.
In a world of filters micro influencers keep it all real. Sharing unfiltered glimpses of their daily lives and honest opinions they can be more “authentic and reliable” than traditional advertisements. When they showcase a product or recommend a brand to you it feels much more like a personal suggestion coming from a friend rather than only looking like a sponsored post. People want this kind of connection, and this level of trust is something that you can’t find so easily, making micro-influencers amazing partners for brands.
Micro influencers are creative masterminds, their ability to craft unique and engaging content that resonates with specific niches that sets them apart and “resonates deeply with their followers”. With their fun and captivating visuals and storytelling there is no doubt that your brand will stand out from the social media crowd and become memorable. Not only do they have to be artistic but also strategic in a way where they can grab a specific audience’s attention.
Kai Cenat's journey to fame exemplifies how authenticity and creativity can lead you to redefine the social media market. Starting off as a small content creator, Kai's genuine personality and comedic approach quickly attracted a strong “growing fanbase” shifting the marketing landscape.
His interactive and highly engaging streams resonated with viewers, building a loyal community. Kai's authenticity is always displayed through in his content, making him relatable and trustworthy. His rise reached new heights when he broke multiple records during a live stream with Kevin Hart, showcasing the impact of true connections and creative content in the digital age.
Here at LIKEY, we believe in working with small creators as they have consistently delivered outstanding results for our clients enhancing their marketing strategies and driving success. Micro-influencers can be a golden ticket to leverage your brand's reach, engagement, and more.
In today's shifting marketing landscape, brands of all sizes are looking to create deeper bonds with their target audiences and connect with new ones. Thats why at LIKEY we believe in working with small creators as they have consistently delivered outstanding results for our clients enhancing their marketing strategies and driving success. Partnering with micro-influencers might just be the golden ticket your brand has been looking for all along.
May 1, 2024 — Comments are off for this post.
By Lily Curley
In today's marketing game, understanding each generation's vibe is the golden ticket to success. From Boomers to Gen Z, everyone's got their own flavor, and savvy agencies know how to cater to it. It's all about speaking their language, showing you get them, and giving them what they didn't even know they needed. Time to roll up our sleeves and witness how generational marketing knocks it out of the park!
Generational marketing is like playing to a crowd of all ages at a family reunion. Just as you tailor activities to suit different age groups, in marketing, it's about recognizing that what resonates with Baby Boomers might not strike a chord with Gen Z. It's a balancing act of understanding and speaking the unique language of each generation, ensuring your message lands without causing any generational faux pas.
Let's break it down like we're explaining social media to your grandma:
Baby Boomers (1946-1964): These folks are like fine wine - they've aged well and know what they like. Appeal to their sense of tradition with clear, no-nonsense content, and watch them flock to your brand like moths to a nostalgic flame.
Gen X (1965-1980): Gen Xers are the cool older siblings of the marketing world. They're savvy, skeptical, and looking for value. Show them you're worth it with personalized offers and loyalty
programs that make them feel like they're getting a steal.
Millennials (1981-1996): Millennials are the trendsetters, the ones who brought you hashtags and avocado toast. They're all about authenticity and social consciousness, so keep it real and maybe throw in a meme or two.
Gen Z (1997-2012): Gen Z is the TikTok generation, the ones who can sniff out inauthenticity from a mile away, Want to grab their attention? You better bring your A-game with visual content, influencer partnerships, and a side of authenticity, please.
While it's important to note the differences between the generations, it's also essential to recognize the connections and common ground that tie us all together. Trends have a funny way of cycling back around, proving what's vintage can become vogue once again.
Take a brand like New Balance: their sneakers, a staple for Ohio dads (Gen Xers), have found new popularity among 20-something-year-old supermodels in London (Gen Zers). And let’s not forget the viral success of the Stanley tumbler – a brand with more history than your grandma's cookie jar, suddenly hip and happening among a younger, mostly female crowd.
These examples show us that good taste knows no generation. By tapping into these shared experiences and timeless appeals, marketers can craft strategies that resonate with everyone, regardless of age.
Generational marketing, after all, is about finding the threads that connect us and weaving them into something that speaks to us all.