Open Forum: Ask Your Burning Questions Here

I looked at the calendar today and realized that I’ll be leaving Campbell Mithun in just three, short weeks (I’ll spare you the sentimental stuff for the last post). I could ramble off a list of what I’ve done thus far, but I figure I can save that for my resume.

Instead, I want to open up the blog to anyone who’s interested in getting into the ad industry at the entry-level. So shoot over a question in the comment section and I’ll do my best either a) answer from experience or b) find an answer for you. If your question is stellar, I may just write a full post about it.

Mood: CM Decor

Agency life wouldn't be complete without a glimpse into the lair. Here's a few pics of Campbell Mithun's innards.

Bike Rides/Bar Flys/TNT: 4th of July in the Twin Cities

As much as I love my fellow interns, I decided that a little break would do me good. So, I decided to take advantage of the 3-Day weekend solo (for the most part). Thursday evening I went bar hopping via mi bicicleta and hit up a few ahhhh-mazing places. Two of which, Jet Set and The Kitty Kat Klub, are worth mentioning. JS is in the North Loop district and by far, serves one of the best vodka-mint gimlets in Minneapolis. I'd definitely recommend the place to anyone who doesn't mind paying a little extra for a well-made drink in a minimalist space. The Kitty is right next to my apartment and had a great crowd, no doubt, there for DJ Bach and Estate. Needless to say I danced all-night, met some fun kids, and managed to fit in a #2 at Micky D's.


Nicollet Island

After serving meals at the House of Charity, I biked over to Nicollet Island for a BBQ. The island had one of the best, undisturbed views of the fireworks and the overall neighborhood atmosphere of the residents was absolutely magical.




Here's some horrendous camera work of the TNT over the Mississippi:


Saturday, I ventured out to the Mill City Farmers Market and bought two incredibly (yet delicious) tarts, and some veggie dumplings. I then rode over to meet with my lovely MAIPers who were dining with Val (a Lucky 13er) in Uptown.

Sunday was a total lazy day filled with naps and mac n' cheese. However, Michele, Karla and I managed to fit in a movie down on the Riverfront.

I have to say, it's been the best weekend in Minneapolis - and now that I seem to have a feel for the city, hopefully, not the last.

The Goods According to Hoffman

Jonathan Hoffman shared a few of his favorite spots with the account team - here's a quick sample of what he likes:

McDonalds - Fresh Salad billboard










Starburst - Berries and Cream



HBO - Voyeur


*By far my favorite one - I actually teared up watching this, it's just that brilliant


HBO - Surprise



Adidas - Impossible is Nothing



Crest - You Can Say Anything with a Smile

The Raddest Guy at the Office I Don't Work With :(

This week's speaker was Lance Saunders - EVP, Director of Account Planning. It's no secret, I want to be a planner - just about everyone in the office I've come in contact with knows it. So you can say that I was way excited when I saw that he would be speaking with The 13.

Lance, just like my favorite professor at San Jose State, is Canadian. He had the unmistakable dialect of our friendly neighbors to the north which definitely brought a smile to my face.

Anyways, before I begin to embarrass myself, I just wanted to leave a list of brands whom Lance thought had great planning behind their campaigns - essential for any aspiring planner.

Innocent
Muji
MINI Cooper
(by Crispin Porter + Bogusky)
Altoids (Curiously Strong)

The Big Shots: Hello Steve, Hello Jonathan

Today, the Lucky 13 were treated to a chit-chat with Steve Wehrenberg, CEO and Jonathan Hoffman, CCO (both of Campbell Mithun). We all brought in our lunches (or whatever we could find lying around) and talked about what the agency is doing and where they want to go.

I was particularly impressed with their candor, and the tattoos Jonathan has on his arms - only in advertising. When all was said and done, I had a good impression of who the two are and can't wait to talk with them while I'm here.

My Wheels: Schwinn Baby

It's hard to be a California boy without a car in a new city. However, I noticed that there is a thriving bike culture in Minneapolis that I wasn't expecting. I'm not going to pretend to front - I don't ride a bike that often back home, but I figured this would be a great way for me to get around town and do a little exploring.

Here she is