This year has posed many different challenges our way, and it isn’t giving us a break either as we near the end of the year.
In these times of uncertainty and nervousness, creativity and communities are what is still keeping people sane.
Marketing and advertising to an audience during a pandemic is a creative challenge of its own. So this holiday season, brands are storytelling and focusing on the importance of family and communities to spread the spirit of the holidays.
Here is a roundup of Christmas 2020 adverts that caught my attention!
1. Waitrose & John Lewis - “Give a Little Love”
Description:
We believe that the world would be a better place if we all gave a little more love. So this year we're celebrating kindness, whether large or small, showing how each and every act of love has a positive impact on the world around us, as we pass them on to others.
Together with Waitrose & Partners we're hoping to raise £4m for our charities plus £1m for local charities. FareShare, helps those facing food poverty, and Home-Start, which works with parents who need support ❤️. The charities will use these donations to provide food, comfort, emotional support and advice to families who need support this Christmas.
My thoughts: John Lewis never disappoints when it comes to Christmas adverts and this year’s is no exception. They really do know how to tug at your heartstrings through heartwarming storytelling and beautiful animations.
2. Disney UK - “From Our Family to Yours”
Description:
While times change and people grow, beloved family traditions make lifelong memories that cross generations and hold us together, especially over the festive period. Lola and her granddaughter share a love of Disney and Christmas crafting, but over time their yearly ritual of making star lanterns begins to fade away. Looking back into Lola’s past and seeing her grandmother’s much-loved Mickey Mouse inspires her granddaughter to create a festive surprise that lights up her Christmas morning and renews their special bond. We hope you enjoy this special Christmas video, From Our Family To Yours.
My thoughts: This one’s a tear jerker for sure, but incredibly heartwarming as it reminded me of my own grandparents and my family. I was so touched that the story focused on a Filipino family, as it meant more Asian representation is being recognized in the media.
3. LEGO - “And I Think to Myself…”
Description:
A blue horse. A hotdog tree. A Hulkbuster, uh… “redesigning” your living-room. Sounds like the beginning of something awesome!
My thoughts: A light hearted advert that speaks to the kid in all of us and our endless imagination. Its play on nostalgia created a rush of childhood memories of when I was a little and how my imagination was my playground.
4. Coca-Cola - Christmas Commercial 2020
Description:
This Christmas, give something only you can give.
Be it in person, over an awkward video call, or just a quick message, making time for the ones you love is what makes Christmas truly the most special time of year, no matter how you do it.
Wherever you are, we hope you have a good one.
Merry Christmas
My thoughts: Once again, another heartwarming tear jerker. Coca-Cola’s advert embodies what is most dear to us this season and this year, our family and loved ones. In a time of distance, being able to be with your loved ones is a gift of its own.
5. Amazon - “The Show Must Go On”
Description:
This is the story of a young dancer whose spirit and tenacity triumphs through the challenges of 2020. All with a little help from her family and community.
My thoughts: The storytelling in this advert was really well done, I got goosebumps when I first watched it. The story’s focus on dedication, personal growth, and community warms your heart and leaves you feeling empowered after watching it.
Holiday adverts to me are a special category when it comes to marketing and advertising. It is when marketers and creatives can focus on true storytelling without all of the hard selling, being on trend, or need for humor. Maybe I’m just a sucker for heartwarming stories, but year after year, holiday adverts always hit the right notes when it comes to sharing about human connection, love, and kindness.