"The Wisdom of Elevationism"

The game-changing, recently opened Atlantic City resort, Revel, has a few words of wisdom for its guests. They are as follows:
1. Jump into the Deep End of Everything.
2. 24 Hours is a Night Well Spent.
3. Bonfires & Bellinis: Mix Responsibly.
4. Manners Apply Only After You Finish Licking The Plate.
5. Sleep On Monday. 

Revel Resorts, a 20-acre beachfront destination, is changing AC. Rather than luring mainstream gamblers on an overnight jaunt, the resort is targeting the "beautiful crowd" through its innovative luxury, relaxing waterfront environment, varied entertainment... and yes, its spectacular casino. Revel was clearly developed through a unique and very un-AC concept. The main attraction is NOT the casino, though it does not at all lack in that department. It is more of a beach resort, highlighted by its 1,800 ocean view rooms, cabanas, fire pits, floor to ceiling windows, InOut pool, SkyGarden, and much more. The building's design was inspired by and resembles the curves of the ocean. It crosses boundaries and distinguishes itself from the other "resorts" (AKA casinos) on the boardwalk. Did I happen to mention that the casino has windows? Yes, windows, which is unheard of in traditional casino design and layout. They're not trying to lock gamblers in by disorienting their sense of time, but rather let them enjoy the casino while still reminding them of the resort's other offerings. 

Scéno Plus, the Montreal firm responsible for Cirque du Soleil's sets, designed the Casino.

The resort rocks options for everyone, with over a dozen restaurants, two nightclubs, a beach club, retail shops, a spa, two theaters, and various other amenities, some of which I mentioned above. Revel's three signature restaurants, Amada, Azure by Allegretti, and American Cut by Forgiorne, look onto the Atlantic Ocean, while the other foodie-attracting hot spots surround the casino. Two of these, the James Beard Award-winning Central from Michel Richard and Belgian gastro-pub Mussel Bar from Robert Wiedmaier, deserve mention... they look delicious.

Ivan Kane's Royal Jelly Burlesque Nightclub--a Revel spin on traditional burlesque.
Offers burlesque lessons for the adventurous guest--WOO!

InOut Pool

Bask Spa, developed by Exhale Mind Body Spa
Integrated approach to wellbeing, blending spa, fitness, healing, relaxation, and fun. 

Tapas at Amada:
White Sangria, Charcuterie, Salad with blue cheese and spicy almonds, Tortilla 

Mussel Bar 

Garlic Fries at Mussel Bar -- drooling...

The idea behind Revel is exciting, innovative, and fresh. Atlantic City definitely needed an extra something to boost the atmosphere and drive business--many believe the resort will be AC's "savior". It just opened, so hopefully this dream will turn into a reality. Until then, the witty, quirky, and semi-knockoff of another advertisement (for the Las Vegas Cosmopolitan Hotel) should keep you all entertained. You'll totally see what I mean by knockoff if you check out my other blog post, "Just The Right Amount Of Wrong". 

I don't really understand why Revel's advertising team decided not to showcase anything the resort has to offer. It's visually appealing and has a lot of fun aspects. The building itself is a work of art! Cosmopolitan took the same path (and they did it first). I guess I've come to the conclusion that this ad sparked my interest and prompted me to research and blog about Revel... SO their marketing staff can pat themselves on the back. Weird and non-traditional gets the people talking!


POGS,
AKtually Ashley

Collect Moments

Hello. Hello. I apologize for the lack of posts this month. It has been crazy with my final, final exams and senior week! I just graduated from Boston College on Monday, May 21st, and now it is time for me to take my place in the "real world" outside of the BC bubble. Am I ready? I think so! Eagle on the warpath!

I'll commence (Get it? Like "commencement"? Fitting...) my regular posting soon, but for now, here's a relevant quote!

POGS,

AKtually Ashley

Good Thinking, Miller

College students across the country should bow down to MillerCoors for the company's creation and launch of the Punch Top Can. The innovative Miller Lite cans, which provide a smoother pour than a standard can, were made available in national retailers last week. Have you ever heard of shotgunning? If not, please attend a college party or tailgate and get that out of your system. So much effort is put into finding a key, locating the air bubble, and creating the perfect hole. Now, shotgunners can simply punch the extra tab of their Miller Lite and chug accordingly. Apparently, you can use almost anything to punch the second tab: a house key, golf tee, or even a dollar bill. MillerCoors' Director of Innovation and Activation, Amy Breeze, revealed that consumers "prefer the Punch Top Can three-to-one over the standard beer can because it's more like drinking from a pilsner glass."

To accompany the Punch Top Can's launch, the brand is introducing a new advertising campaign. The new commercials will run through mid-August and highlight creative ways to punch the can and enjoy the flowing beer. The launch is also supported by print, radio, out-of-home and digital advertising, as well as point-of-sale and PR. 

I, for one, am glad someone has come out with a better way to shotgun... especially before I graduate from college. It's about time! I just wish it was a different brand of beer-- I'm not particularly a fan of Miller Lite. On the other hand, the new Punch Top Can might be just the thing to switch me.


POGS,
AKtually Ashley

An Unlikely Investment

As you already know, I am a big fan of electronic dance music. It turns out, I'm not the only one. I'm not talking about the millions of EDM fans around the world. I'm talking about investors. For years the EDM industry has consisted of up-and-coming DJs, veteran artists, and weekend-long festivals. These festivals are all around the world; some are annual, like Tomorrowland, and others are traveling acts, like Sensation White. These festivals have become valuable brands, which are able to sell tickets on their name alone... though headlining DJs help to amp up the crowd. For example, for the Electric Daisy Carnival, which just expanded to the New York area (it's usually in Las Vegas), 60,000 tickets at $100 sold out in three hours. That was before the headliners had even been announced. It's not only about the incredible lineup, but it is also the expectations of the audio-visual performance that makes these festivals epic. They are (without fail) absurd, breathtaking, etc., etc. They're indescribable.

Sensation White

This music genre has shifted from being a marginal part of the music business to a fundamental segment of the mainstream. It's appealing due to a frequent flow of fresh stars and its huge youth following. "If you're 15 to 25 years old now, this is your rock 'n' roll," said Michael Rapino, the executive of Live Nation Entertainment. The success and profit margins of these festival promoters has attracted various potential investors from the music industry and Wall Street. Though no official offers have been made, this rush to invest can be likened to the dot-com era. It's growing in the US... fast. Investors want to be the first, and know they need to act before the bubble pops.

These festivals are also a great opportunity for corporate and brand sponsorships. Especially those targeting the EDM-loving youth. Though an association with these rave-like festivals could be risky, I think it provides a great opportunity. But the EDM industry's potential is being recognized quickly, so marketers (and investors) should act fast!

Armin at Electric Dance Carnival

POGS,

AKtually Ashley

A Picture Is Worth... $1 Billion

Facebook has made some moves, very expensive moves, to better compete in the social media market. In my past Pinterest post, I mentioned the realtively new site is an incredibly fast growing social platform. It's actually the 3rd most popular social media network (after Twitter and Facebook), and is particularly popular among the female population. In fact, 97% of the sites users are women--hint, hint, to marketers trying to reach this audience. Women tend to trust Pinterest recommendations over Facebook recommendations. This could be due to the quality of the photos, the relaxing "pinning" process, and the site's simplicity.

Pinterest is clearly creeping up on Facebook and Twitter, but Facebook isn't going to sit back and watch that happen. The company's strategic purchase of Instagram, a photo-sharing mobile app, for $1 billion is step one in ensuring Facebook maintains its position in the social media market. Any photo taken with Instagram somehow becomes gorgeous and perfect. The app has various filters that can be applied to the photo you take, and then you can post your professional looking picture to your social sites. The Facebook team would never admit they are threatened by Pinterest, but in the press release announcing the acquisition they position themselves in a very Pinterest-like manner. “For years, we've focused on building the best experience for sharing photos with your friends and family. Now, we'll be able to work even more closely with the Instagram team to also offer the best experiences for sharing beautiful mobile photos with people based on your interests.” Hmm... what a clever and unique way to state their mission. 

As of now, I don't see how Facebook and Instagram will develop an offering to its users that is even close to being as seamlessly integrated as Pinterest's platform. Even Facebook and Instagram agree it will be a while until anything is really changed by this buyout. So, for now, Pinterest is safe. Facebook is putting its Instagram weapon on the back burner. Will it ever be able to truly compete with Pinterest in regards to photo sharing or motivating consumer purchases through insider recommendations? Probably not. Facebook owns its position as the social network that connects people, brands, and events. Maybe they should focus on making Timeline less annoying so I don't completely switch over to Twitter and Pinterest. Just a thought. 

POGS,

AKtually Ashley

Quotation Rotation 4/7/12

True about life... and too true about my future profession. Words can help, but they can also hurt. Word choice is everything.

POGS,

AKtually Ashley

Final Post

April Fools!

I thought I'd share with you a few great pranks from some extremely successful technology brands. These tricksters have embraced their April Fools duties and have successfully connected light-hearted humor to their overall brand personality. I always admire marketers who understand the importance of sincerely and fully humanizing a brand... fun and harmless shenanigans and all. 

Today, Google announced they will soon be offering Gmail Tap... the new alternative to smart phone keyboards. By substituting the current "complex" keyboard for morse code keys (2), Gmail Tap allows users to revolutionize their lives and text messages/e-mails. They've also included a program for multi-tasking... by allowing users to type two different messages... AT THE SAME TIME! They're bringing morse code back and making the world a lot more productive through this new (but old) technology. 

YouTube is offering the entire YouTube collection on DVD! Now you can watch viral videos, makeup tutorials, and your favorite dubstep remixes in the comfort of your own home... and conveniently on your TV! You can ditch the Internet and watch videos the way they were intended to be watched. You can also add video feedback via snail mail... so convenient. 

Since throwback, low-tech solutions are so hot now, Skype has developed a new product offering called Skype for String. It makes communicating super easy... just like when we were kids! Similarly, you need two cups and a piece of string (any brand will do). As we all know, trying to find the perfect Internet connection  can be difficult, but that is all in the past now thanks to this new innovative offering!

POGS,

AKtually Ashley