The marketing landscape is evolving at a dizzying pace. After decades of helping businesses navigate these changes, we've learned that while nobody can predict the future with certainty, we can identify the key marketing trends for 2025 that will shape where the industry is heading.

In this article, we'll explore the top marketing trends for 2025. Rather than chasing fleeting tactics, we'll focus on sustainable approaches that can transform your marketing and drive lasting growth.

The Rise of Authentic, AI-Enhanced Personalization

The conversation around AI in marketing is shifting from automation to amplification. While AI tools are becoming more sophisticated at analyzing customer data and predicting behavior, the real breakthrough is how brands are using this technology to create more genuine, human connections.

Successful companies in 2025 won't just use AI to automate their marketing—they'll use it to understand their customers more deeply and deliver truly personalized experiences that feel authentic rather than automated. This means moving beyond basic demographic targeting to consider the full context of customer interactions, preferences, and needs.

The key difference between current personalization efforts and what we'll see in 2025 is the sophistication of the underlying systems. Instead of simple "if-then" rules, AI will help create dynamic content experiences that evolve with each customer interaction. However, the most successful brands will be those that use this technology to enhance rather than replace human creativity and strategic thinking.

What this means for your business:

The Evolution of Video Marketing

Short-form video isn't just trending—it's transforming how brands connect with their audiences. But the real story isn't about video length; it's about creating meaningful moments that resonate with viewers, regardless of format.

We're seeing businesses succeed by developing video strategies that balance quick, engaging content for platforms like TikTok and Instagram with longer, more detailed pieces that showcase their expertise and build trust. The key is understanding which format serves your message best.

By 2025, we expect to see a more sophisticated approach to video marketing that includes:

How to adapt:

The Shift to Position-less Marketing

Traditional marketing roles are evolving into more fluid positions that require a broader skill set. This isn't just about wearing multiple hats—it's about understanding how different marketing functions work together to create cohesive customer experiences.

Smart businesses are building marketing frameworks that allow their teams to adapt quickly while maintaining consistent brand standards and messaging. This approach creates more resilient marketing systems that can evolve with changing technology and customer needs.

The successful marketing team of 2025 will:

Trust as a Cornerstone of Marketing Success

In an era of AI-generated content and virtual experiences, authentic human connections are becoming more valuable than ever. Brands that build trust through transparent communication and consistent delivery of value will stand out in an increasingly crowded digital landscape.

This trend goes beyond surface-level authenticity—it's about creating genuine connections with your audience through:

Building trust in 2025 will require:

The Integration of Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Environmental consciousness and social responsibility are no longer optional—they're essential components of successful marketing strategies. However, the focus is shifting from performative activism to genuine, sustainable business practices that create positive impact.

Successful brands in 2025 will:

This shift requires:

The Rise of AI-Powered Search

The search landscape is undergoing a fundamental transformation. Traditional search engines are evolving to incorporate AI-generated overviews and summaries, while new AI-powered search platforms are emerging to challenge the status quo. This shift is changing not just how people search, but how they consume and interact with content.

By 2025, we expect to see:

This evolution requires a fresh approach to search optimization:

The Growth of Retail Media and New Marketing Channels

As traditional advertising channels become more saturated, retail media networks are emerging as powerful platforms for reaching engaged audiences. These networks offer precise targeting and rich data insights, but the real opportunity lies in creating seamless customer experiences across multiple touchpoints.

The retail media landscape in 2025 will feature:

Preparing for Emerging Technologies

While quantum computing and other advanced technologies promise to revolutionize marketing, understanding the marketing trends for 2025 isn't enough. The key to success is building flexible marketing systems that can integrate new technologies while maintaining focus on your core business objectives.

This means:

Key Marketing Trends for 2025: Building Sustainable Success

As we look toward 2025, the most successful marketing strategies will be those that balance innovation with proven fundamentals. This means:

As we analyze the marketing trends for 2025, it's clear that success isn't about predicting every trend—it's about building resilient systems that can evolve with your business and your customers' needs. By focusing on these fundamentals while staying open to new opportunities, you can create marketing strategies that drive lasting success.

Remember, the goal isn't to chase every new trend, but to build marketing frameworks that unite brand, reach, and relationships in ways that create enduring value for your business and your customers.

Need help navigating these changes and building a marketing strategy that stands the test of time? Let's talk about how we can help your business thrive in 2025 and beyond.

Sometimes the best surprises come when you're just focused on doing great work for great people. That's exactly what happened with our recent Vega Digital Award for web design, recognizing our work on the Chaney Windows and Doors website.

Beyond Beautiful Web Design: Creating a Digital Home for Chaney

Chaney Windows and Doors is a St. Louis fixture, helping homeowners transform their houses into dream homes. When they approached us for a new web design project, we knew we needed to create something special – not to win awards, but to truly serve their customers.

The goal was simple: design a website that would make it incredibly easy for homeowners to explore Chaney's incredible selection of windows and doors, while capturing the craftsmanship and attention to detail that makes Chaney different from the competition.

What We Actually Did

We rolled up our sleeves and focused on what makes web design truly effective:

The result? A website that works as hard as the Chaney team does – which, if you know them, is saying something.

About That Award

The Vega Digital Award recognizes the best in digital design from around the world. While we're honestly thrilled (and a bit humbled) by the recognition, what makes us proudest is how well the site is working for Chaney and their customers. It's proof that thoughtful web design can make a real difference for local businesses.

The Real Win

Here's the thing about good web design: it's not just about looking pretty. It's about creating genuine connections between businesses and the people they serve. That's what we aimed for with Chaney's site, and that's what we'll keep focusing on with every project we tackle.

Ready to Transform Your Website?

If you're wondering whether your website could be working harder for your business, let's talk. Whether you need a complete web design overhaul or strategic improvements to your existing site, we promise to bring the same care, attention to detail, and focus on results to your project that we brought to Chaney's. We promise our absolute best effort to help you connect with your ideal customers.

Get in touch – we'd love to hear about your business and explore how we can help.

A smiling woman in a beanie and scarf holds a gold trophy while standing next to a man in glasses and a cap, wearing a plaid shirt. They are indoors with framed pictures on the wall behind them.

December 2024 Marketing News & Happenings:

  1. AI-Driven Marketing Success Stories: Major brands like Yum Brands report significant improvements in consumer engagement and reduced customer churn through AI-powered marketing campaigns.
  2. Purpose-Driven Marketing Gains Ground: Brands increasingly align marketing strategies with social causes and ethical practices, responding to growing consumer demand for corporate responsibility.
  3. Influencer Marketing Evolution: Brand-influencer collaborations remain crucial for authentic audience connections, with effectiveness metrics driving partnership decisions.
  4. Privacy-First Marketing Approach: Growing data privacy concerns push marketers toward transparent practices and stricter data protection protocols.
  5. AI Customer Engagement Tools: Implementation of AI-powered chatbots and personalized recommendations shows significant impact across retail and hospitality sectors.
  6. Sustainable Marketing Integration: Environmental responsibility becomes central to marketing strategies, from eco-friendly product promotion to reducing campaign environmental impact.
  7. Digital Channel Diversification: Marketers expand their digital presence across emerging platforms, emphasizing social media, podcasts, and virtual events.
  8. Customer Experience Priority: Brands invest heavily in creating seamless, personalized interactions across all customer touchpoints.
  9. Omnichannel Strategy Development: E-commerce growth drives cohesive online and offline marketing approaches.
  10. Data Analytics Leadership: Strategic decisions increasingly rely on comprehensive data analysis for campaign optimization and ROI measurement.
  11. Content Marketing Evolution: Storytelling and value-driven content remain fundamental to engagement strategies.
  12. Scaled Personalization: Technology advances enable mass personalization while maintaining message relevance.
  13. Agile Marketing Adoption: Brands embrace flexible marketing practices to respond quickly to market changes.
  14. Video Content Investment: Increased focus on video marketing across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram platforms.
  15. Employee Advocacy Programs: Organizations leverage employee authenticity for brand messaging and ambassador programs.

Our Take:

As we conclude 2024, the marketing landscape reflects both technological sophistication and enduring fundamentals. AI-driven marketing campaigns are delivering measurable results, as demonstrated by Yum Brands' success in increasing engagement and reducing customer churn. However, the technology serves best when it enhances rather than replaces strategic thinking.

The industry-wide shift toward purpose-driven marketing and social responsibility marks a maturation in how brands connect with audiences. Similarly, the evolution of privacy-first practices shows a deeper understanding of the value exchange between companies and consumers.

Omnichannel marketing and heightened customer experience focus reflect the complexity of modern consumer journeys. The ability to create seamless interactions while maintaining consistency across touchpoints has become a key differentiator for successful brands.

Video content, employee advocacy, and agile marketing practices continue gaining momentum. These trends underscore the importance of authentic connections and rapid adaptation to market changes.

Looking toward 2025, we anticipate continued innovation in brand-audience connections. The most successful strategies will likely be those that balance technological advancement with genuine human connection.

December 2024 Marketing Events:

United States:

  1. Adweek X
    • When: December 3-4, 2024
    • Where: New York, NY
    • Focus: Latest trends and strategies in marketing
  2. Digiday Programmatic Marketing Summit
    • When: December 3-4, 2024
    • Where: Nashville, TN
    • Focus: Programmatic marketing strategies and innovations
  3. Digital Summit Dallas
    • When: December 4-5, 2024
    • Where: Dallas, TX
    • Focus: Digital marketing, content strategy, SEO
  4. Legal SEO Conference
    • When: December 6, 2024
    • Where: Miami, FL
    • Focus: SEO strategies for legal industry
  5. eCommerce Summit
    • When: December 10, 2024
    • Where: Nashville, TN
    • Focus: Online retail trends and strategies
  6. Digital Summit Portland
    • When: December 11-12, 2024
    • Where: Portland, OR
    • Focus: Digital marketing tactics and expert insights

International:

  1. Affiliate World: Bangkok
    • When: December 4-5, 2024
    • Where: Bangkok, Thailand
    • Focus: Affiliate marketing and eCommerce entrepreneurship
  2. App Promotion Summit: Berlin
    • When: December 5, 2024
    • Where: Berlin, Germany
    • Focus: App marketing and growth strategies
  3. DMWF Europe
    • When: November 26-27, 2024
    • Where: Amsterdam, Netherlands
    • Focus: Digital marketing trends and technologies

For more insights and updates, follow Seafoam on LinkedIn. Contact us to discuss how we can help you navigate the evolving marketing landscape and achieve your growth goals.

Our comprehensive rebrand and website redesign for Alton & Southern Railway has earned two w3 Awards: Excellence in Transportation Website Design and Best Use of Video/Motion Graphics.

The w3 Awards, overseen by the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts (AIVA), celebrate digital excellence across websites, marketing, video, mobile, social, and podcasts. AIVA's membership includes leaders from organizations like Condé Nast, Disney, Microsoft, and other acclaimed media firms.

For Alton & Southern Railway, we took on the challenge of transforming an outdated website into a dynamic platform that would showcase their 100+ years of expertise. Our approach began with a collaborative brand strategy workshop, leading to a complete overhaul of their visual identity, messaging, and user experience.

This image displays a branding presentation for "alton & southern" featuring color swatches, typeface samples, logo designs on a hat and brochures, and a promotional text with the slogan "we're the experts in freight.

The new website features immersive drone footage of their facility, well-defined user paths, and a crystal-clear brand voice that positions them as the freight experts they are. We balanced their rich heritage with modern design elements, creating an engaging digital presence that serves both potential employees and industry partners.

A webpage for Alton & Southern Railway features a large image of a train. Text highlights reliable rail service connecting St. Louis to the world. Sections include "About A&S," "What We Do," "Who We Work With," "Contact Us," "Request A Lead," and a job search link.

The w3 Awards recognition validates what we already knew – that thoughtful, strategic marketing systems create lasting impact. But more importantly, Alton & Southern Railway now has a digital presence that matches their operational excellence, moving up to 48 trains and 2,100 cars through their yard each day.

Want to see what award-winning digital marketing looks like? Check out our work for Alton & Southern Railway, or get in touch to discuss how we can transform your brand's digital presence.

A man in a black T-shirt and cap is smiling and holding two awards indoors. The background features framed pictures on the wall and a window with a view of a red umbrella outside.

In an era where digital presence can make or break a business, understanding modern web design principles has become crucial for sustainable growth. At Seafoam, we've discovered that creating websites that drive real business results requires more than following basic design rules—it demands a sophisticated blend of proven principles, strategic thinking, and technical expertise. Through our partnerships with organizations like The Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation and Alton & Southern Railway, we've developed a deep understanding of how modern web design principles can transform a simple website into a powerful business asset that drives engagement and delivers measurable results.

The Evolution of Modern Web Design Principles

The web design landscape has transformed dramatically over the past decade. What once was a simple exercise in digital aesthetics has evolved into a complex discipline that combines psychology, technology, and business strategy. Today's successful websites must do more than look good—they need to convert visitors, tell compelling stories, and deliver measurable business results.

Design That Connects with Your Audience

Understanding your audience isn't just about demographics—it's about deep empathy with their needs, preferences, and behaviors. When we partnered with The Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation, we faced a unique challenge: their previous website, characterized by traditional maroon and gold tones, wasn't engaging their young, dynamic audience effectively. By reimagining their digital presence with bold colors and contemporary design elements, we created a platform that resonated with talented young performers while maintaining the gravitas of their prestigious organization.

A MacBook Pro laptop displaying a webpage for the "2025 Teen Talent Competition." The site features a header image with a dancer on stage, a call-to-action button labeled "Register Now," and information about registration. The top menu includes About, What to Expect, Finalists, News, and Contact.

The Foundation of Effective Web Design

1. Strategic Information Architecture

The cornerstone of any successful website is thoughtful information organization. Our work with WorldNet Solutions exemplifies this principle—we transformed dense technical content into clearly structured, easily digestible sections that guide visitors naturally through complex service offerings. This strategic approach to content organization isn't just about making information accessible; it's about creating a journey that leads users toward specific actions.

A flowchart on the left shows a structured website hierarchy with categories such as "Home," "Services," and "Why Workflows." On the right, a style guide displays fonts, colors, buttons, and icons for design consistency.

2. Visual Hierarchy and Purposeful Space

Modern web design understands that visual breathing room is crucial for effective communication. In our redesign for Alton & Southern Railway, we employed strategic spacing and typography to transform their content from overwhelming to engaging. This careful balance of content and space helps visitors process information more effectively while creating a sense of sophistication and professionalism.

A website screenshot featuring Alton & Southern Railway. The header includes a navigation bar and a prominent "Request Rail Service" button. The main sections highlight the company's rail service in St. Louis, with images of trains and workers in safety gear.

3. Responsive Design Excellence

With mobile devices generating the majority of web traffic, responsive design has become increasingly sophisticated. Our approach goes beyond basic mobile compatibility—we create experiences that feel native to each device, ensuring that functionality and aesthetics remain consistent whether users are on phones, tablets, or desktops.

4. Performance and Speed Optimization

In today's fast-paced digital environment, performance is paramount. We've developed sophisticated optimization techniques that ensure fast loading times while delivering rich, engaging experiences. This includes:

The Science of User Experience

User experience design is both an art and a science, requiring a deep understanding of human behavior and digital interaction patterns. Here's how we approach it:

Intuitive Navigation Systems

When redesigning WorldNet Solutions' website, we implemented a navigation system that anticipates user needs and provides clear pathways to critical information. This involved:

Brand Experience Integration

Your website should be more than a digital brochure—it should be an extension of your brand's personality and values. For The Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation, we created an experience that balanced youthful energy with institutional prestige, proving that websites can successfully serve multiple audience segments while maintaining brand integrity.

stylized image of the inside of the fox performing arts center

Conversion-Focused Design

Every element on a modern website should serve a purpose in the user's journey toward conversion. This includes:

Technical Excellence as a Foundation

While visual design captures attention, technical excellence ensures sustainable performance:

Security and Stability

Search Engine Optimization

Accessibility Standards

Measuring and Optimizing Success

Modern web design is an iterative process driven by data and user feedback. We track comprehensive metrics including:

Looking to the Future

The web design landscape continues to evolve with emerging technologies and changing user expectations. Key trends we're incorporating include:

Through our work with diverse clients—from railway companies to performing arts organizations—we've learned that successful web design requires a delicate balance of innovation and proven principles. It's about creating experiences that not only catch the eye but capture attention, build trust, and drive meaningful business results.

Your website should be more than just a digital presence—it should be a growth engine for your business. By combining beautiful design with strategic thinking and technical excellence, we create websites that don't just exist online—they perform.

Ready to transform your digital presence into a powerful business asset? Let's create a website that doesn't just meet today's standards but sets tomorrow's.

Well, this feels pretty great. Seafoam just received two Web Excellence Awards for our recent work with Tiny Little Monster and Alton & Southern Railway. These awards recognize outstanding achievement in web design and digital experience on a global scale – which, honestly, has us both thrilled and humbled.

A Tale of Two Transformations

You know what's particularly exciting about these wins? They showcase just how versatile great web design can be across totally different industries.

For Tiny Little Monster, a St. Louis custom printing company that radiates creativity, we got to build a digital experience that matches their innovative spirit. Think of it as translating their natural creative energy into digital form, while making sure customers can easily bring their own ideas to life. The result? A website that shows off their amazing work while making the whole ordering process feel like a breeze.

Screenshot of the Tiny Little Monster website homepage. The header states the business is "Artist Owned and Ferociously Independent." Below is a green monster graphic and an invitation to explore custom apparel printing services, with a "Get a Quote" button.

Then there's Alton & Southern Railway – talk about a different challenge entirely. How do you take a cornerstone of St. Louis transportation infrastructure and give it a modern digital presence without losing an ounce of its historic significance? Turns out, pretty beautifully. The new website bridges their rich heritage with contemporary functionality (pun absolutely intended), giving their stakeholders a platform that just plain works.

A webpage for Alton & Southern Railway features a large image of a train. Text highlights reliable rail service connecting St. Louis to the world. Sections include "About A&S," "What We Do," "Who We Work With," "Contact Us," "Request A Lead," and a job search link.

Beyond the Recognition

Here's what really gets us excited: these websites aren't just pretty faces. They're hard-working marketing systems designed to generate real results. For Tiny Little Monster, that means more customers successfully turning their creative vision into actual merchandise. For Alton & Southern Railway, it means giving their teams and partners a modern, efficient platform that makes their daily operations smoother.

Looking Forward

While these awards are definitely cause for celebration, they really just reinforce what we already knew – that balancing innovative design with practical execution is always the right call. We're going to keep focusing on creating digital experiences that don't just turn heads but actually drive business growth.

Want to see if we can work some of this magic for your business? Let's talk about creating a website that doesn't just look good on awards day, but delivers results every day.

November 2024 Marketing News & Happenings:

  1. Generative AI Reshapes Marketing Operations: As AI technology advances, brands are increasingly adopting generative AI tools like Typeface and Adobe GenStudio for content creation, campaign planning, and customer service, fundamentally changing how marketing teams operate.
  2. Value-Driven Marketing Takes Center Stage: Economic pressures are driving brands to focus on value-based propositions. Success stories like Chili's budget-friendly menu items demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach across various sectors.
  3. Political Ad Spending Impact: Election season is causing significant shifts in ad spend strategies, with many brands exploring alternative platforms like Amazon and TikTok to maintain reach while managing costs in politically saturated markets.
  4. Virtual Commerce Evolution: The rise of virtual and interactive shopping experiences marks a significant shift from traditional e-commerce, with brands leveraging AI, AR, and VR technologies to create immersive customer experiences.
  5. Real-Time Social Media Engagement: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are enabling more immediate brand-audience connections, with luxury brands leading the way in creating exclusive, real-time content experiences.
  6. Multi-Channel Advertising Partnerships: Major players like Adobe are forming strategic partnerships with Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Snap to streamline campaign activation and enhance cross-platform insights.
  7. Privacy-Centric Marketing Strategies: With increasing privacy regulations, brands are pivoting to first-party data collection methods, emphasizing loyalty programs and contextual advertising.
  8. Brand Identity Revitalization: Companies are investing in refreshed brand identities that align with current consumer values, particularly sustainability, inclusivity, and social responsibility.
  9. Evolution of Influencer Marketing: The focus is shifting toward authentic partnerships with creators who align with brand values, with micro and nano influencers gaining prominence for their genuine audience connections.
  10. Customer Experience as Competitive Edge: Brands are prioritizing end-to-end customer experience, focusing on creating loyal customers through exceptional service rather than promotions alone.
  11. Predictive Marketing Through AI: Advanced analytics and machine learning tools are enabling more accurate consumer behavior prediction, allowing for highly targeted campaign optimization.
  12. Responsible Marketing in Regulated Industries: Alcohol and tobacco brands are adapting their marketing approaches to emphasize responsible use and align with social expectations.
  13. Sustainability Message Integration: Environmental responsibility continues to influence brand messaging, with sustainability being woven into overall brand identity rather than treated as a separate initiative.
  14. AI-Driven Customer Support Evolution: Customer service is moving beyond basic chatbots to more sophisticated AI interactions capable of complex problem-solving and personalized recommendations.
  15. Innovative Ad Format Experimentation: Brands are exploring new advertising approaches, from interactive social media ads to immersive VR experiences, to engage increasingly ad-resistant consumers.

Our Take:

As we approach the end of 2024, the marketing landscape continues to be shaped by technological innovation, economic realities, and evolving consumer expectations. At Seafoam, we see these changes as opportunities to create more meaningful and effective marketing strategies.

The widespread adoption of generative AI is transforming how marketing teams operate, but we believe the key to success lies in balancing automation with human creativity and strategic thinking. While AI tools can enhance efficiency and scale, the human element remains crucial in creating authentic connections with audiences.

The shift toward value-driven marketing amid economic pressures aligns with our philosophy of creating genuine value for customers. This isn't just about offering lower prices – it's about demonstrating real value through every interaction and touchpoint.

The evolution of virtual commerce and interactive experiences represents a significant opportunity for brands to engage customers in new ways. However, we advocate for a thoughtful approach that ensures these technologies enhance rather than replace meaningful customer relationships.

Privacy-centric marketing is no longer optional, and we're helping our clients build robust first-party data strategies that respect customer privacy while maintaining marketing effectiveness. This shift requires rethinking traditional approaches to data collection and usage, but ultimately leads to stronger, more trusted brand relationships.

The increasing focus on customer experience as a differentiator resonates strongly with our approach to marketing. We believe that creating seamless, exceptional customer experiences across all touchpoints is crucial for long-term success.

Looking ahead, we expect to see continued innovation in how brands connect with their audiences, particularly through experimental ad formats and immersive experiences. However, the fundamentals of good marketing – understanding your audience, creating genuine value, and building lasting relationships – remain as important as ever.

November 2024 Marketing Events:

United States:

  1. Digital Summit Raleigh
    • When: November 4-5, 2024
    • Where: Raleigh, North Carolina
    • Focus: Comprehensive digital marketing strategies, SEO, emerging technologies
  2. MarketingProfs B2B Marketing Forum
    • When: November 12-14, 2024
    • Where: Boston, Massachusetts
    • Focus: Latest trends and strategies in B2B marketing
  3. Product Marketing Summit Chicago
    • When: November 13-14, 2024
    • Where: Chicago, Illinois
    • Focus: Product marketing best practices and innovations
  4. Digital Summit Los Angeles
    • When: November 14-15, 2024
    • Where: Los Angeles, California
    • Focus: Digital marketing strategies, social media, analytics, UX
  5. ANA Multicultural Marketing & Diversity Conference
    • When: November 18-20, 2024
    • Where: Las Vegas, Nevada
    • Focus: Multicultural marketing strategies and industry diversity
  6. brightonSEO San Diego
    • When: November 19-20, 2024
    • Where: San Diego, California
    • Focus: Search marketing training and expert insights

International:

  1. The Marketing Society Global Conference
    • When: November 13, 2024
    • Where: London, United Kingdom
    • Focus: Global marketing leadership strategies
  2. OMX (Online Marketing Experts)
    • When: November 21, 2024
    • Where: Salzburg, Austria
    • Focus: Online marketing strategies and innovations
  3. DEX24 Conference
    • When: November 20, 2024
    • Where: Zürich, Switzerland
    • Focus: Digital experience and marketing
  4. Digital Marketing World Forum (DMWF) Europe
    • When: November 26-27, 2024
    • Where: Amsterdam, Netherlands
    • Focus: Digital marketing trends and technologies

For more insights and updates, follow Seafoam on LinkedIn. Contact us to discuss how we can help you navigate the evolving marketing landscape and achieve your growth goals.

We're excited to announce our new partnership with Trailnet as a Premium Business Member, deepening our roots in the St. Louis community we call home.

For over three decades, Trailnet has been transforming St. Louis through their advocacy for walking and biking infrastructure. Their work connects neighborhoods, promotes healthy living, and enhances the vibrancy of our region. Their vision for a more connected, accessible St. Louis resonates deeply with our team and mirrors our own belief that positive actions create lasting ripples of change throughout our community.

Our relationship with Trailnet began earlier this year when we collaborated on their Drive the Change: Buckle Up Phone Down campaign, supported by General Motors. Working closely with their team, we helped shape the campaign's messaging and visual identity, creating a framework that would resonate with St. Louis residents and inspire real behavioral change. The initiative encourages community members to pledge to drive phone-free and challenges them to spread this commitment to safety throughout their networks.

Bold white text on a dark blue background reads, "Drive THE CHANGE." Above, it says "BUCKLE UP | PHONE DOWN" in smaller yellow and red text. Yellow upward and red downward arrows are on the left side.

"Supporting Trailnet felt like a natural extension of who we are," says Nikki Bisel, Seafoam's founder and CEO. "Their work in making St. Louis more walkable and bikeable strengthens the fabric of our community. When neighborhoods are better connected, everyone benefits."

Through this partnership, we're supporting initiatives that include:

Small actions can lead to meaningful change. By joining Trailnet as a Premium Business Member, we're investing in the future of our region—creating a more connected, sustainable, and vibrant St. Louis for everyone who calls it home.

We invite other local businesses to explore partnership opportunities with Trailnet. Together, we can help build a stronger St. Louis—one trail, one sidewalk, and one community at a time.

To learn more about Trailnet and their impact on our community, visit Trailnet's website. You can also join the Drive the Change movement by taking the pledge at trailnet.org/take-the-pledge.

In the dynamic world of marketing, standing out requires more than just following trends. It demands a commitment to timeless principles and a focus on genuine results. Today, we're proud to announce that this approach has earned Seafoam recognition as one of the "Best Marketing Agencies" in St. Louis by Small Business Monthly.

This accolade isn't just an acknowledgment of our past work—it's a testament to our ongoing commitment to building marketing frameworks that drive sustainable results and long-term success for our clients. In an industry often swayed by fleeting tactics, we've remained steadfast in our philosophy of uniting brand, reach, and relationships to create enduring growth.

What does this recognition signify for Seafoam? It's validation that our approach of blending time-honored marketing principles with innovative strategies resonates not just with our clients, but with the broader business community. It reinforces our belief that by focusing on simplicity, clarity, and genuine connections, we can help businesses navigate the complex landscape of modern marketing.

To our clients: this honor is as much yours as it is ours. Your trust in our vision, your willingness to engage in deep strategic thinking, and your partnership in creating positive change—these are the true markers of our success. This award reflects the growth and impact we've achieved together.

As we celebrate this milestone, we're reminded of our core mission: to elevate businesses through the design of timeless marketing systems. This recognition from Small Business Monthly tells us we're on the right path, but we know the journey is far from over.

To our fellow honorees: congratulations on your well-deserved recognition. Together, we're showcasing St. Louis as a hub of marketing excellence, a place where businesses can find partners who truly understand how to drive growth and create lasting impact.

Looking ahead, this award isn't a finish line—it's a new starting point. We're more committed than ever to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in marketing, to creating strategies that not only drive business success but also strengthen our community.

To everyone who's been part of the Seafoam journey so far: thank you. Your support, trust, and collaboration have been instrumental in getting us to where we are today. Here's to the next chapter of our story—to greater achievements, broader horizons, and even more significant impact for the businesses and communities we serve.

Stay tuned for more news as we continue to build on this success. The best is yet to come!

October 2024 Marketing News & Happenings:

  1. Google's August 2024 Core Update Impact: Google's significant update, which finished rolling out in early September, aims to promote higher-quality content from smaller publishers. Marketers are reassessing their SEO strategies in response.
  2. AI-Powered SEO Changes: Google has increased the overlap between AI-generated search results and traditional search rankings, pushing brands to optimize for both types of listings.
  3. Meta's New AI-Powered Ad Tools: Meta has released new AI-powered ad formats ahead of the holiday season, including features for first-time purchase offers and reminder ads to drive engagement through Reels.
  4. Third-Party Cookies Phaseout: Both Google and Apple continue to phase out third-party cookies, driving marketers to focus on first-party data collection and explore alternative tracking methods.
  5. AI-Driven Personalization: While 96% of marketers acknowledge AI's role in fostering repeat business, many brands still struggle to deliver truly personalized experiences.
  6. AI in Retail: AI is reshaping retail marketing, providing new opportunities for personalized shopping experiences and predictive analytics, as highlighted during events like Paris Retail Week.
  7. Google's Transition to Demand Gen Campaigns: Google will fully replace Video Action campaigns with Demand Gen campaigns in 2025, offering a more multi-format approach to advertising.
  8. Meta's New Data Restrictions: Meta has introduced tighter restrictions on data available for advertisers, particularly URL parameters and UTM tags, potentially complicating ad targeting and reporting strategies.
  9. Focus on Community Building: Brands are increasingly prioritizing the building of authentic communities as a key strategy to foster customer loyalty and trust.
  10. Investments in Editorial Content: Quality blog posts, podcasts, and case studies remain central to content marketing strategies, with more marketers increasing their investment in these areas.
  11. Google Ads Target Pacing Insights: Google introduced new pacing insights to help advertisers better understand underperformance in CPA and ROAS targets.
  12. Generative AI for Content Creation: Marketers are leveraging AI not just for efficiency but to create more emotional and authentic connections with audiences.
  13. Meta's Multi-Landing Page Ads: Facebook Ads now allows multiple landing pages within a single ad, increasing campaign relevance by catering to different audience segments.

Our Take:

As we move into October 2024, the digital marketing landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace, driven by advancements in AI, changes in data privacy regulations, and shifting consumer behaviors. At Seafoam, we see these developments as both challenges and opportunities for brands to create more meaningful connections with their audiences.

The impact of Google's August core update underscores the importance of producing high-quality, valuable content. This aligns perfectly with our long-standing belief that authentic, user-focused content is the cornerstone of effective digital marketing. As smaller publishers gain more visibility, we're excited about the potential for diverse voices to reach wider audiences.

The increasing integration of AI in search results and advertising platforms is reshaping how we approach SEO and ad campaigns. While this requires adapting our strategies, it also opens up new possibilities for creating more targeted, relevant experiences for users. We're particularly intrigued by Meta's new AI-powered ad formats and their potential to drive engagement during the crucial holiday season.

The ongoing phaseout of third-party cookies presents a significant shift in how we track and target audiences. At Seafoam, we've been preparing for this transition by focusing on first-party data strategies and exploring innovative ways to understand and engage with our clients' audiences while respecting their privacy.

Personalization remains a key focus, but as the data shows, many brands are still struggling to implement it effectively. We believe the key lies in combining AI-driven insights with a deep understanding of human behavior and preferences. Our approach is to use AI as a tool to enhance, rather than replace, human creativity and intuition in crafting personalized experiences.

The trend towards community building aligns perfectly with our philosophy of creating lasting relationships between brands and their customers. We're excited to help our clients foster authentic communities that not only drive loyalty but also provide valuable insights and feedback.

As we navigate these changes, our focus remains on delivering holistic marketing strategies that unite brand, reach, and relationships. We're committed to staying at the forefront of these technological advancements while ensuring that our approach always prioritizes genuine human connections and long-term value creation for our clients.

October 2024 Marketing Events:

  1. DigiMarCon Middle East
    • When: October 9-10, 2024
    • Where: Dubai
    • Focus: Digital marketing best practices, trends, and innovative technology in the Middle Eastern digital landscape
  2. Product Marketing Summit Boston
    • When: October 16-17, 2024
    • Where: Boston
    • Focus: Networking and knowledge-sharing among product marketing professionals
  3. ad:tech Tokyo
    • When: October 17-18, 2024
    • Where: Tokyo, Japan
    • Focus: Asia's largest marketing conference, covering latest trends, innovations, and technologies
  4. Content Marketing World
    • When: October 21-23, 2024
    • Where: San Diego
    • Focus: Comprehensive event for content marketing professionals
  5. ANA Masters of Marketing Conference
    • When: October 22-24, 2024
    • Where: Orlando
    • Focus: Showcasing creative thinking and strategies from top CMOs and leading brands
  6. DigiMarCon Mid-South 2024
    • When: October 31-November 1, 2024
    • Where: Nashville
    • Focus: Latest digital marketing strategies and trends in the Mid-South United States

For more insights and updates, follow Seafoam on LinkedIn. Contact us to discuss how we can help you navigate the evolving marketing landscape and achieve your growth goals.

In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, true success is measured not just by flashy designs or temporary spikes in traffic, but by the lasting impact we create for our clients. At Seafoam, we've always believed in digging deeper, in creating marketing strategies that resonate on multiple levels. Today, we're thrilled to announce that this approach has been recognized on the global stage.

A Prestigious Honor

Seafoam has been awarded a MUSE Creative Award for our work on the Alton & Southern Railway website in the category of Best Transportation Website. The MUSE Creative Awards is an international platform celebrating excellence and innovation in creative design, advertising, and digital media. This recognition places us among leading creative professionals and agencies, acknowledging our commitment to crafting digital experiences that truly make a difference.

The Alton & Southern Railway Project: A Story of Transformation

Alton & Southern Railway, a vital transportation artery handling massive daily traffic, came to us with a challenge that many established companies face: their digital presence wasn't keeping pace with their real-world operations. Their website and brand messaging weren't effectively showcasing their true value or connecting with potential customers.

Our approach went beyond surface-level changes. We kicked off the project with an in-depth Brand Strategy Workshop, bringing together key stakeholders from Alton & Southern. This collaborative session allowed us to dive deep into the company's history, values, and aspirations. Through targeted questions and exercises, we uncovered insights that would shape not just their website, but their entire brand strategy.

Following the workshop, we conducted a comprehensive audit of Alton & Southern's visual identity assets. This thorough review helped us understand how to evolve their brand while respecting its heritage. Armed with these insights, we developed a holistic strategy that addressed every aspect of their digital presence.

The result? A completely reimagined online presence that truly represents Alton & Southern's legacy and future potential. The new website design features:

More Than Just a Website

This project exemplifies what happens when we look at marketing as an ecosystem rather than a series of isolated tactics. For Alton & Southern, this meant:

Brand Identity

This image displays a branding presentation for "alton & southern" featuring color swatches, typeface samples, logo designs on a hat and brochures, and a promotional text with the slogan "we're the experts in freight.

Website Design

A Ripple Effect of Success

Winning the MUSE Creative Award is exciting, but what truly matters is the impact this project has had for Alton & Southern. A well-crafted digital presence does more than just look good – it opens doors, facilitates connections, and ultimately contributes to the growth and success of the business.

This award also serves as a reminder of why we do what we do. It's about creating digital experiences that not only serve our clients but also provide genuine value to their customers and partners.

Looking Forward

As we celebrate this achievement, we're already looking ahead to the next challenge, the next opportunity to create meaningful change through smart, strategic marketing. This award fuels our passion for what we do and reinforces our belief in the power of thoughtful, purpose-driven digital experiences.

To our friends at Alton & Southern and the rest of the Seafoam team: thank you for being part of this journey. This recognition belongs to all of us. It's a reminder that when we approach marketing with depth, intention, and a focus on lasting impact, we can truly transform businesses and the experiences they provide.

Here's to creating more waves of positive change, one project at a time.

A bearded man in a black and white plaid shirt, wearing glasses and a black cap, proudly holds up a decorative bottle with an intricate pattern and figure on top. He's standing in a room with a tiled ceiling and wooden floor, celebrating as Seafoam wins the MUSE Creative Award.
A decorative bottle featuring intricate, artistic designs stands on a table. Above it is a blue chandelier with lit bulbs. In the background, there's a wall covered in green foliage and a window letting in natural light. The bottle's label proudly reads "Seafoam Wins MUSE Creative Award.

We're thrilled to introduce the newest addition to our design team, Cenna Mawhinney. With her impressive background and creative flair, Cenna is set to make waves in our agency and for our clients.

Cenna joins Seafoam with several years of experience as a designer in both agency and senior in-house roles, bringing a wealth of expertise in brand identity and print design. Her portfolio showcases a knack for translating complex ideas into clear, visually compelling designs that resonate with audiences and drive results.

Her journey in the design world is as diverse as it is impressive. Cenna honed her skills at Webster University's renowned graphic design program before expanding her horizons internationally. She recently returned from Barcelona, where she studied at the prestigious Elisava School of Design and Engineering, learning from some of the industry's most influential minds.

This blend of local roots and global perspective gives Cenna a unique edge. She brings fresh, innovative ideas to the table while maintaining a grounded approach to solving design challenges. It's this balance that caught our eye and made her a perfect fit for our team.

Cenna's expertise spans the full spectrum of design disciplines. From crafting cohesive brand identities to developing eye-catching website designs, her versatility and attention to detail shine through in every project. Her years of senior-level work have honed her ability to not just create beautiful designs, but to develop strategic visual solutions that drive meaningful results for clients.

When she's not in the studio, you might find Cenna exploring her creative side through pottery, enjoying the great outdoors on a camping trip, or simply immersing herself in nature. These diverse interests fuel her creativity and bring a fresh perspective to her work.

We're excited to see how Cenna's talents and experience will enhance our ability to deliver exceptional work for our clients. Her knack for distilling complex ideas into clear, impactful visuals is sure to elevate our projects and push our creative boundaries.

As we welcome Cenna to the Seafoam family, we're looking forward to the fresh energy and seasoned expertise she brings to our team. Her addition strengthens our capability to create powerful, effective design solutions that make a real difference for the brands we work with.

If you see Cenna around, be sure to give her a warm welcome! And stay tuned – we can't wait to share the amazing work she'll be producing as part of our team.

Welcome aboard, Cenna – we're thrilled to have you with us!

Contact Us 

We love doing good things here. All it takes to get your business 'on the map' is a conversation with Seafoam.
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