All ads can be located here under this post: https://contentfuel.co/famous-print-ads/
Snowbird – One Star Review
I love this marketing. I snowboard Snowbird almost yearly. So, these ads truly resonate with me, because the several one-star reviews have been hysterical and are clearly known. I think it’s a wise campaign to broadcast their one-star reviews from what I could only assume is an unexpected ignorant patron.
- Describing the Ad and Its Appeal:
This ad is visually driven by showcasing a breathtaking, high angle shot of a skier carving through pristine, powdery snow on a steep slope with large mountains in the background. The “Too Advanced” with a one-star review, immediately catches your attention! It makes those that are aware of this mountain laugh at the outrageous review. Obviously, Snowbird is calling light to their wretched reviews and embracing them by marketing a myriad of one-star reviews. This ad evokes a lifestyle of adventure, skill, and enjoyment.
- Objectives of the Ad Campaign:
I feel the objective of this ad is no matter how good your mountain is or how many options you provide for novice skiers, people will still complain. The provocative tagline and stunning visuals are designed to create buzz and generate interest in Snowbird, encouraging viewers to learn more.
- Target Market:
This ad is likely directed to affluent individuals; Snowbird is a premium ski destination in Utah. Additionally, the ad is likely targeting either locals or travelers that want to experience what Snowbird has to offer. I don’t really see gender or age range differentiation, as skiers are of all age, genders, and ethnic backgrounds.
- Action and Benefits:
The ad subtly encourages viewers to learn more about Snowbird and potentially book a trip. The website address (snowbird.com) and phone number are provided at the bottom. Anyone that
5. Value Proposition:
Snowbird’s value proposition, as presented in this ad, is that it offers an unparalleled skiing experience for expert skiers seeking the ultimate challenge and access to exclusive terrain. The ad emphasizes the exclusivity, adventure, and high-quality snow conditions that make Snowbird a unique and desirable destination for its target market.
1. Describing the Ad and Its Appeal:
The ad centers on a stack of smartphones placed on a bar counter. The phones are stacked unevenly, with 14 black phones and two silver phones on top. This draws the image to look like a glass of a Guinness made from cell phones. The lighting is dim, creating a moody and intimate atmosphere reminiscent of a pub. The tagline “ENJOY RESPONSIBLY. PHONES DOWN. PLEASE.” is prominently displayed at the bottom of the cellphone Guiness. The ad appeals to a sense of authenticity and social connection. It taps into the current cultural conversation about excessive phone use and encourages viewers to disconnect and engage with their surroundings. The dark, pub-like setting evokes a sense of warmth and camaraderie, suggesting that Guinness is a drink best enjoyed in good company, away from digital distractions.
2. Objectives of the Ad Campaign:
The “ENJOY RESPONSIBLY” tagline emphasizes the brand’s commitment to responsible alcohol consumption but in this in a multi-faceted domain (consumption and presence). The ad aims to reinforce Guinness’s brand image as a classic, authentic beer that is best enjoyed in a relaxed and social atmosphere.
3. Target Market:
The ad targets individuals who enjoy socializing in pubs and bars and those that of course, are over the legal drinking age. I think this ad also speaks to individuals that are concerned with phones taking over our daily lives. The message resonates with adults who are aware of the negative impact of excessive phone use on social interaction.
4. Action and Benefits:
The ad subtly encourages viewers to put down their phones and engage with their surroundings while enjoying a Guinness. Doing so will allow those enjoying Guiness to enjoy their environment and social experience. As mentioned before the “ENJOY RESPONSIBLY” is multi-faceted in this ad – the tagline encourages mindful alcohol consumption and mindful phone use.
5. Value Proposition:
Guinness’s value proposition, as presented in this ad, is that it offers an authentic and enjoyable social experience that is enhanced by disconnecting from digital distractions. The ad encourages consumers to prioritize real-life interactions over digital engagement.
1. Describing the Ad and Its Appeal:
The ad presents a striking visual contrast by placing a high-heeled shoe on a golf course fairway. This unexpected juxtaposition immediately grabs attention and sparks curiosity. Not only is it a women’s high heel, but the image is also developed in a way that it appears to be a golf ball on top of a tee. The high-heeled shoe is a symbol of femininity and elegance, while the golf course represents sport and competition. The ad features a clean and minimalist design, focusing on the central image and the text. The bright blue sky and green grass create a visually appealing backdrop. The tagline “priceless,” associated with Mastercard’s long-running advertising campaign, is used to emphasize the value and significance of the event. The appeal here is Women’s sports and the professional stage they’re performing on.
2. Objectives of the Ad Campaign:
The primary objective is to raise awareness and generate interest in the event. While this ad in particular aims to reinforce Mastercard’s brand image as a supporter of women’s sports and empowerment. Finally, the ad likely aims to drive (pun intended) attendance at the event and encourage engagement with the Mastercard brand.
3. Target Market:
The ad targets all golf enthusiast but more importantly, women who are passionate about golf and follow women’s professional golf. Golfing is typically a sport for those with expendable money, so I’d assess this ad is targeting those individuals of affluence.
4. Action and Benefits:
The ad encourages viewers to learn more about the Mastercard Women’s Golf Classic and potentially attend the event. The consumer benefits from this ad as it highlights the opportunity to support women’s sports. Having a high-end reputable brand name as a primary sponsor reinforces this will be a well-established and designed event.
5. Value Proposition:
Mastercard’s value proposition, as presented in this ad, is that it offers access to a unique and sophisticated sporting event that celebrates women’s excellence and empowerment. The ad positions the Mastercard Women’s Golf Classic as a “priceless” experience that goes beyond the ordinary, offering a blend of sport, elegance, and social significance.
1. Describing the Ad and Its Appeal:
The ad is visually very simple, focusing on the word “ME” with a dotted line around it and a scissors icon suggesting it should be cut out. The ad provides simple instructions: “1. Cut on dotted line. 2. Rotate 180 degrees.” This turns “ME” into “WE,” which is the core message. It’s a clever ad the turns a singular into a multiple. The ad includes the tagline “HOW TO BUILD A LASTING RELATIONSHIP” and the call to action “IF YOU WANT A STRONGER MARRIAGE, WORK ON IT TOGETHER.” The appeal is the desire for a stronger relationship. It uses a clever visual trick to illustrate a fundamental concept in marriage, making it memorable and thought-provoking. The direct call to action and website address provides clear steps for those seeking help.
2. Objectives of the Ad Campaign:
The primary objective is to drive traffic to the website and raise awareness of the resources it offers and to encourage couples to seek help. They want to ensure everyone is aware there are resources for couples to save their marriages. The “ME” to “WE” transformation reinforces the importance of working together in a relationship.
3. Target Market:
The ad directly addresses couples who are seeking ways to improve their marriage (or relationship). The directness and simplicity of the ad’s message may resonate well with an older demographic who values the sanctuary of marriage and communication.
4. Action and Benefits:
The ad encourages viewers to visit StrongerMarriage.org for tips, resources, and support. This website offers information and tools to improve relationships. This ad promotes a stronger marriage through the website’s resources.
5. Value Proposition:
StrongerMarriage.org’s value proposition, as presented in this ad, is that it offers practical and accessible resources to help couples build stronger and more lasting relationships. The ad uses a simple and memorable visual to illustrate the importance of partnership and encourages viewers to act by visiting the website.
1. Describing the Ad and Its Appeal:
The ad features two worn and slightly torn luggage tags, one labeled “GRY” for Grimsey, Iceland, and the other “SKY” for Sandusky, United States. Putting these two together plays on the phrase “Gray Skies.” The ad includes Expedia.co.uk logo and a small stamp that reads “SAVE SOMEONE FROM BAD WEATHER.” The design is minimalist, focusing solely on the luggage tags against a plain background. The ad appeals to a sense of adventure, spontaneity, and escape. It suggests that Expedia can help you find unique and unexpected travel destinations, removing yourself from your bad weather location.
2. Objectives of the Ad Campaign:
The primary objective is to increase brand awareness and drive traffic to the Expedia.co.uk website. Additionally, this ad showcases the wide range of destinations available through Expedia, including unique and off-the-beaten-path locations. The ad subtly positions Expedia as having the ability to get you to any destination you desire.
3. Target Market:
The ad appeals to individuals who are interested in exploring the world with new and unique destinations. This ad may resonate with a traveler of any age, whether they’re traveling solo or with a partner. Not only is this ad a play on words with baggage tags, but it also targets individuals who are looking for more than just typical tourist destinations.
4. Action and Benefits:
This ad encourages viewers to visit Expedia.co.uk to explore travel options and book trips. Expedia offers a wide range of destinations, including those that are off the beaten path. Finally, Expedia provides a platform for easy booking and travel planning.
5. Value Proposition:
Expedia.co.uk’s value proposition, as presented in this ad, is that it offers access to a diverse range of travel destinations, including unique and unexpected locations, and helps travelers escape the ordinary (or bad weather).
6 responses to “Greatest Marketing Ads – Magazine”
Hi Adam,
This was such an insightful breakdown—I really like how you unpacked the humor and confidence behind the campaign. What stood out to me most is how Snowbird flips a negative review into a badge of honor. It’s such a bold move that says, “Yeah, it’s tough. That’s the point.” That kind of self-aware marketing is rare and super effective, especially in an industry where many brands try to please everyone.
What I particularly love about the ad is how it invites a very specific audience without excluding others. It’s a kind of “if you know, you know” nod to experienced skiers who crave a real challenge. The one-star review isn’t just funny—it filters the audience in a clever way. Your point about the visual appeal was spot-on too. That wide-angle shot against the backdrop of untouched snow and massive peaks—it doesn’t just advertise skiing, it sells the dream of conquering the mountain.
A couple of questions came to mind while reading your analysis:
– How might Snowbird follow up on this campaign to keep the momentum going—maybe with a video series or customer stories that lean into the same humor?
– And do you think other luxury or niche destinations could borrow this “own the criticism” strategy effectively, or does it only work in a place as iconic as Snowbird?
Really great read—this ad is a perfect example of how leaning into authenticity can actually elevate a brand’s status.
Hey Freddy,
I personally love the one-star campaign. I recall seeing it in person while snowboarding there and couldn’t stop laughing. They actually have a tab on their website specifically for all their one-star review marketing ads. You had asked what they could do to follow-up on this ad campaign? They continue to build upon it. Making all their one-star ads into stellar marketing images.
To answer your follow-on question, Snowbird is owned by Epic Mountains, which has huge resorts all over the world and I’m not aware of them using this campaign in any other spot. I think they don’t want to over saturate the market with this campaign type. I think it could work in other places, but I’m not sure other mountains would like to call light to their negative reviews.
Thanks for sharing this collection of standout print ads—each one highlights how creativity, humor, and clever messaging can make a lasting impression. The Snowbird ad is a favorite of mine too; using a one-star review to celebrate how challenging the mountain is was such a smart, self-aware move. It turns criticism into a badge of honor and speaks directly to thrill-seeking skiers.
The Guinness phone-stack ad is another gem—it nails the cultural critique of screen obsession while reinforcing their classic “enjoy responsibly” message in a fresh, relatable way. And the Mastercard golf ad? That visual metaphor of the heel as a golf tee was simple but powerful—such a great nod to women’s sports and elegance in a traditionally male-dominated space.
A great read!
Casey,
I really tried to find ads that called to me as I searched the internet. I’ve seen some, others I hadn’t – I did however, appreciate all the ones that I analyzed.
The one-star review campaign was truly a remarkably successful stunt! It makes you wonder how many other businesses would be able to benefit from calling their negative reviews out in the manner in which they did.
Thank you for taking the time to read my analysis
Hi Adam!
I really gravitated towards the ad by strongermarriage.org and I appreciated your
breakdown of the ad’s message. This ad has a simple yet powerful visual, and that
transformation from “ME” to “WE” perfectly captures what it takes to build a strong
marriage.
My husband and I regularly counsel a few couples including one that’s newly married and
another that’s been married for almost eight years, and this message is something we
come back to often. A phrase we commonly share with them is, “Marriage is two selfish
people coming together and learning how to operate as one.” Marriage is not always easy,
and it’s definitely not always what we expect it to be. We all bring our own baggage,
expectations, and past experiences into the relationship, and that can make things messy.
But as we tell the couples we walk with, marriage is a journey of sharing both the highest
highs and the lowest lows. Our spouses see the very best and the very worst of us, and the
only way it works is if we approach it as a team, exactly like the ad suggests.
Have you come across other campaigns or messages that communicate the value of
mutual sacrifice in relationships as effectively as this one?
Samantha,
I really enjoy your message of “…two selfish people, coming together to make one.” I’ve never heard this adage before, but I can certainly relate. I’ll be sure to share this with my wife (who, honestly, has probably heard this before.) I cannot recall any relationship campaigns that created a successful message like this one. It’s catchy and it’s prolific! I’d say they did their job with this campaign, if people remember it.