Archive for December, 2009

Old Money Doesn’t Have to Mean Old Attitudes

Sunday, December 20th, 2009

Prince Kunle and Princess Keisha Omilana and Diran

Prince Kunle and Princess Keisha Omilana and son Diran

If you take a look at the fashion section of the New York Times, or the society pages of almost any newspaper or blog, and you’re likely to see a lot of old money.  Emphasis on “old”.  Where are all the young, affluent people?  Especially young, affluent, ethnic consumers?  We know they’re out there.  The purchasing power of African American individuals in the U.S. earning at least $75,000 individually is estimated at $87.3 billion alone! African American households with incomes of $200,000 have a median household income of $246,000.

These consumers, philanthropists and business people are out there giving and attending functions and participating in society as much as any Rockefeller, Astor or Vanderbilt. It’s time to start recognizing and acknowledging the changing landscape of our society on all levels, right on up to the top. Media outlets need to realize that one day the “old money” crowd will be the “dead money” crowd, and then what?

Check out Michael Henry Adams recent article for the Huffington Post.

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NYT’s annual Holiday Gift Guide - “Of Color/Stylish Gifts”

Friday, December 11th, 2009

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Huh?

Do you think the New York Times hit the mark with the annual Holiday Gift Guide — called “Of Color/Stylish Gifts?” Or, is it a little off target?

Maybe if the article or content had been powered by Essence Magazine or Sean John it would be less perplexing and more subtle? To assume that African Americans only look for African American content is ridiculous; however, a marketer (and journalists) must not lose sight of their target consumers’ motivators and needs.

It’s understood we’re all becoming more aware (and appreciative?) of our diversity, but putting out an ethnic gift-buying guide as separate content might not really achieve that goal.  It’s very 1980s.

Shouldn’t we be striving to be more inclusive and less exclusive?  How about just getting the overall guide (inclusive of all types of unique gifts) out to a more diversity audience. It’s about the distribution points and content. Not just content.

Would love to hear your thoughts on this.

Also, read this recent commentary from the Newsroom

“New York Times raises eyebrows with gift guide for people ‘of color’.”

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