In our office we have a coffee mug with the picture, name, and slogan of a singer-songwriter we knew years ago. She left the business awhile back, but if she ever turns up in our orbit again, it's fair to say that the presence of that mug will have some effect on the interest we'll take.
I thought of this when I learned of a high-class twist on the time-tested concept of the promotional mug. In conjunction with the release of Pedro Almodóvar's latest film, Los Abrazos Rotos, the illy coffee company has created an arty cup-and-saucer collection featuring emblematic scenes from the director's most famous movies.
Now, much as I adore Penélope Cruz, I'm not about to spend $60 for the privilege of sipping espresso from a cup with her face on it. But that's not the point. Just the fact that I've learned about this promotion (via a Twitter post) has incrementally increased the likelihood that I'll see the film.
Why? Because the film's promoters did something just a little bit new, a little bit different, and hence a little bit worth tweeting about.
When I saw Rock of Ages on Broadway a couple of months ago, every audience member was handed an LED "cigarette lighter" to wave during the show's classic hair-band songs. It was a great promotional gimmick, because the darn thing's actually useful as a small flashlight, so I've held on to it. 
Although I loved Rock of Ages, I'm sure that tiny piece of swag has increased the number of people I've recommended the show to, because carrying the little light around in my bag has kept the musical closer to top-of-mind.
Article comments
1 - tink
In the way back days, as Director of Artist Developement for an indy label, one of the most fun parts of my job was coming up with inexpensive out-of-the-norm promos.
A band with a song about candy kisses got chocolate kisses with their name on the little silver ribbons. This was back in the 80's before the time when candy companies offered personalized versions of their product. For another band, which featured the lead singer's picture on a tv screen for the album art, I had plastic tv's made up. Looking thru the view finder would score the user nine exclusive pictures of said band, shuttled by a button on the tv.
I loved that I had the ability to look outside the box. The fact that I never had much money to spend was one of the best parts about it.
Thanks for reminding me of those good ole days! I think I'll continue on my trip down memory lane and dig through my treasure chest of goodies.