Emily's Theories
//on PR, branding, creativity, and life in general//
Image from https://magnolia.com/about/ Chip and Joanna Gaines are famous for their hit HGTV show Fixer Upper, but their work began years before their efforts came to light. Their construction business, Magnolia Homes, has been expanded to include Magnolia Market, Magnolia Table, and written works, Magnolia Journal, Capital Gaines, and Magnolia Story- all based in their hometown of Waco, TX. The Gaines duo is not just the cutest couple our generation has ever seen. I'll be the first to admit, I am truly inspired by their marriage and the reputation they have created. For real, where is the Chip to my Joanna?? What's really brought their dream to fruition and propelled them into fame, though, is the image they have created and maintained. It sticks. In such vast expansion, the Gaines' brand is one of the most distinct, recognizable, and consistent in popular culture today. From the tv show to the magazine and even their newest business addition, a breakfast joint, we can clearly see the importance of branding for the dream behind Magnolia. Let's apply their tactics to ourselves and our professions. Who knows, maybe one of us could fall in their marketing-guru footsteps. Image from https://giphy.com/gifs/texas-longhorns-CkeSY8Ls6vsc What we can take away from the Magnolia brand: Values. Values. Values. Chip and Joanna based all action on the value of home, the idea of family, attention to detail, and seeing the potential in "fixer uppers". Image from https://www.pinterest.com/pin/120260252532236324/?lp=true What are your values? If you've never taken a seat, grabbed a pen, and written down your most important beliefs and values, NOW IS THE TIME. Before you can decide your morals, ethics, and career moves, it is essential to know yourself. Writing down those values makes them concrete and tangible. Trust me, it may sound silly, but it'll definitely help with the tough decisions down the road. Honesty & Transparency The key to carrying out your personal brand into your professional life is that you are open about it. It's like your granny's crystal collection: polished and clear. Nothing can harm your reputation like others' perception that you have something to hide. Once you decide those core values, make them visible. Stick to your guns. In every endeavor, stay true to the self you have decided to be. The only proof others have of the truth in your values is in your action to protect them. The things you do and the choices you make decide your life. Persevere. Follow those passions. Search for truth. Strive for the best out of life. In all these things, just remember: stay consistent. An inconsistent brand is one with a fast-approaching expiration date. I finally believed it was actually a beautiful thing to be unique and to be different. Whatever your brand may be, and wherever that brand may lead you, take it from the Gaines family. You are important. Your skills and abilities are valuable. Match your brand with the legacy you wish to leave.
The Gaines actually have some great news! They are expecting an addition to their family soon. Unfortunately, for all of us avid Fixer Upper fans, this season of their show will be the last. However, this fact alone proves their dedication to the brand they have created. They still believe family is #1 and that values are the backbone of one's image. They announced on both personal social media accounts their news and what it meant for their fan base, taking the extra step to show their appreciation for those who believed in them. And lastly, they followed through. The brand still lives. It marks their enterprise, even though Fixer Upper, the main reason for their professional fame, is coming to a close. The Gaines show us that your brand is the very thing that shows the world what you have to offer. It is the way people remember you, what you have done, and the impact you have made. Make sure it does you justice. Until next time, my fellow PR dreamers. Emily R. Smith
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Emily R. SmithI've learned that you have to take life one step at a time- and document your process- so you can look back and see how far you've come. ArchivesCategories |