Verve Creative Studio

10/08/2024

Woah! Well, this snuck up on me! 🌜Market After Dark in Cedar Rapids is just a couple weeks away and the art studio is a vendor. ✨

Aug. 24, 2024 from 6:30 – 11:00 p.m. in Downtown Cedar Rapids

It's one of downtown's biggest outdoor celebrations. This night owl🦉 is super excited, and feeling like a giveaway is in order. More details to come on where to find the Verve booth and enter to win. Will it be art prints, framed art, a t-shirt, or all of the above??? Stay tuned to my socials for the info. 😎

Hope to see you there! Got verve? Get it. 💃🏿💃🏿💃🏿

30/07/2024

Targeting everyone is like trying to be everyone's best friend at a party—it's exhausting and doesn't work! 🎉 Instead of spreading yourself too thin, focus on those who really vibe with your brand. When you know and understand your target audience you can:

✅ Communicate effectively: Knowing your audience helps you tailor your message to resonate with them, using the language, tone, and style they relate to best.

✅ Optimize your resources: By allocating your marketing resources more efficiently, you can ensure that you're reaching the people most likely to engage with your brand.

✅ Improve Product Development: Insight into your audience's preferences, needs, and pain points can guide the development of products or services that better meet their expectations.

✅ Increase Engagement: When your content speaks directly to the interests and concerns of your target audience, they're more likely to engage with it.

✅ Improve Conversion Rates: A focused marketing strategy is more likely to convert leads into customers, increasing your sales and ROI.

✅ Gain Competitive Advantage: Knowing your audience better than your competitors allows you to differentiate your brand, offering unique value propositions that appeal specifically to them.

✅ Refine Marketing Strategies: Detailed knowledge of your target audience helps create more precise marketing strategies, including choosing the right platforms and crafting messages that resonate.

✅ Reduce Wasted Efforts: Focusing on a defined audience minimizes wasted marketing efforts and avoids spreading your message too thin, which can happen when trying to appeal to everyone.

When you speak to your ideal audience, you build stronger connections, and they know it's for them. Plus, not everyone's gonna love what you do, and that's okay! Trust your struggle, but if you need a simple and sustainable social media strategy that produces results, I got you. 🎯🎤

18/07/2024

Harry Frankfurt, the American philosopher who presented a theory on bu****it in 1986, sadly passed away on July 16, 2023 almost exactly a year ago.

In prepping for the brand and awareness campaigns for I dove into his book "On Bu****it." The whole "bu****it" concept really hit home, especially in today's world of misinformation and surface-level chatter.

Bu****it is a kind of dishonesty he found worse than lying. Liars know the truth but bu****itters are indifferent to the truth which is a deeper threat to the integrity of communication and society as a whole.

During strategy sessions, we use word clouds to pinpoint key themes and then brainstorm solo (Word clouds are a brand strategy gem!). The word "bu****it" (and its buddies nonsense and runaround) kept popping up in the Twenty40 team talks and in consumer feedback about the real estate industry.

Twenty40 Real Estate and Development is all about honesty and transparency. The "No Bu****it" campaign is crafted to be straightforward, cutting through the noise with core values that stand out in the competitive real estate world. Their mission? To make real estate simpler and more trustworthy for everyone involved. Plus, their team knows their stuff – no fluff, just facts. 💯

Brand Design Highlights:

Bold Typography: Clean, assertive fonts scream strength and confidence.

Minimalist Aesthetics: Simple, impactful visuals keep the focus where it belongs.

Clear Messaging: Direct and honest language to build trust and connect with the audience.

In addition to defining and transforming the Twenty40 brand, Verve continues to manage their online presence with much success. 

What do you think? Drop some comments below! 👇🏾

12/07/2024

Dynamic is the heartbeat of creativity, y’all! It’s what drives innovation and fuels our passion.

At Verve Creative Studio, dynamic means we’re always evolving, pushing boundaries, and bringing those bold ideas to life. It’s that magic spark that turns visions into vibrant realities. 🌟✨

11/07/2024

Meet our Garden Banners, your new favorite conversation starter. 😊

This banner isn't just any old decoration—it's a whole vibe reminding everyone to bee kind and protect our pollinators. The birds will be flocking, the bees will be buzzing, and your neighbors? They'll be 😂 and maybe even a little bit curious.

Made with lightweight yet durable poly poplin-canvas fabric, these banners are 12” × 18” and feature a top sleeve for easy placement on poles (Pole is not included).

Each banner has a QR code with tips for protecting our pollinator friends in your own yard and we'll be adding more resources for making your backyard a 5-star hotel for them. 🐝🐞🦋

Which one's your favorite? Get it in the online shop! 🦋

10/07/2024

Art is our lifeline, our shield against the harsh truths of our world. 🌍✨

As Nietzsche said, 'We have art in order to not die of the truth.' In today's political climate, with power plays and policies that often seem to strip away our humanity, art reminds us of our core essence. 🎨📚 Nietzsche’s 'Will to Power' speaks volumes about our drive for meaning in a world that can feel chaotic and unforgiving. Art gives us hope, lets us breathe, and offers perspective when the world feels backwards. 💪🏾❤️

What do you think?

W A N N E T T E 🦋

20/06/2024

Ope! Forgot to mention Verve is vending at Market After Dark in Downtown Cedar Rapids on Saturday, August 24th 6:30pm - 11pm. Come out, support the art studio and numerous amazing local vendors. This market is 🔥 and you know I'm bringing a vibe. 💯 Shop art, merch and more! Got verve?

W A N N E T T E 🦋

19/06/2024

Acknowledge our history. Keep pushing for progress.

Powered by the courage, strength and hope of my ancestors...

W A N N E T T E 🦋

12/06/2024

Painted with such meticulous detail you’ll swear it’s about to flutter off the canvas. 😉 Due to its nocturnal nature and rare sightings, the Luna Moth embodies the mystical aspects of life, encouraging us to embrace the unknown and find beauty in the unexpected.

Hang them as a focal point in your living room, adorn your bedroom walls or a shelf with their serene presence, or gift them to a loved one. Available now in the online shop!

Framed Wall Art, Prints, Merch and more from the Art Studio

08/06/2024

Come Find & Flourish y'all! So many amazing vendors (ahem including Verve 😊). We're here until 3pm!

Are you joining us today? We're open 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Saturday, June 8!

We have art, plants, fresh flowers, macrame, cross stitch, fabric arts, home decor, romance books, rugs, baked goods, wine, coffee...you're bound to find some treasures to take home!

23/05/2024

In the AI era, brand photography is still a powerful tool that goes beyond aesthetics. It is a key in conveying the essence of your brand. Read more on the blog!

🔗 in the comments 🤓

21/05/2024

So, you know how Reading Rainbow 📖 🌈 made reading cool and fun for kids, even the ones who didn't have books at home? And remember Geordi La Forge from "Star Trek: The Next Generation"—the blind engineer with the high-tech visor? He was such a badass, showing us technology's potential for changing lives for the better and helping us overcome serious challenges.

Technology did the same for storytelling. Everyone and their grandma can share their stories, thanks to the digital revolution. Love it or hate it, social media is a powerful tool.

In the world of creativity and social media marketing, the democratization of storytelling is still a game-changer. Brands that get on board can tap into diverse stories that resonate with the people they want to reach. 

Long gone are the days when storytelling was just for the few with the means and access. It's for everyone to participate and explore. 🌌 Welcome. These are the voyages of the starship Enterprise. Its continuing mission: to explore strange new worlds; to seek out new connections and new communities; to boldly go where no brand has gone before! 🚀

14/05/2024

Naw - Don't answer that it's and if you're new here, welcome to the sermon! 😁

Updating your social media profile pic and calling it a rebrand is like putting a fresh coat of paint on a house that has foundation and structural issues. It's purely cosmetic. A rebrand is when you dig deep and renovate from the foundation up.  It involves redefining the brand's strategy, core values, mission, visual identity, and overall messaging to better align with its goals, market position, and audience.

When is a Rebrand Necessary?

🔄Market Repositioning: If a company is targeting a new market segment, a rebrand may be necessary to align the brand with market expectations.

🔄Outdated Image: Brands need to stay relevant. If the visual identity or messaging feels outdated due to changes in consumer preferences or market dynamics, a rebrand can refresh the image.

🔄Company Merger or Acquisition: When companies merge or are acquired, a rebrand might be necessary to unify the companies under a new corporate identity.

🔄Change in Business Strategy: Significant changes in business direction, such as new product lines or new corporate missions, might require a rebrand to reflect the new goals.

Sure, changing the profile picture on social media might feel like a fresh start but a true rebrand involves deep strategic changes. It's a deliberate, planned effort to reposition a brand in the minds of consumers and stakeholders.

Trust your struggle 🐛 but if you're in need of a rebrand, I got you. 🦋

06/05/2024

These shirts are a tall order - And as a tall chic, I'm beyond happy to do it. 😉 Our Bold Statement collection just got bigger and bolder! 🌟 If you've been looking for the perfect tee to match your tall ambitions and XL dreams, the wait is over.

This is not your average t-shirt. It’s taller, fuller, and available in a range of special sizes from LT to 4XLT. Made from 100% cotton, it offers a roomy fit for ultimate comfort.

Available now in the SHOP! 😎 Got verve? Visit the website and Get it.

W A N N E T T E 🦋

06/05/2024

Monty Python and the Holy Grail is one of my favorite movies of all time. It's genius was in the parodying of the movie form which changed it forever. The same is said about Mel Brooks: Blazing Saddles, another favorite. Is there The Princess Bride, Robin Hood: Men in Tights, Shaun of the Dead, Austin Powers, Scary Movie, Deadpool, Borat, Family Guy, Ace Ventura or Anchorman without them?

John Cleese, member of the Monty Python comedy troupe, is essentially saying that it's less about having some kind of mystical, magical talent and more about just doing the thing. This perspective shifts the focus from creativity as something you have to something you do.

This means that creativity can be developed through practice and by adopting certain strategies or habits that foster creative thinking. It can involve setting up the right environment, giving yourself time and space to think, and being open to new experiences. And for me, a Knight of Ni, this most importantly includes silliness and the absurd.
So, I order you to give yourself some creative space this week! And should you fail to do so, Ni! Ni! Ni!

W A N N E T T E 🦋



(Creativity is not a talent. It is a way of operating. - John Cleese)

01/05/2024

🤔 It’s tempting, right? Save some bucks, get a free logo, and Bob's your uncle. But let’s talk about what professional brand design 🏎️ can do for you versus what you get when you go the 'free' 🚶🏾‍♀️ route:

🏁 Expertise: Professional designers don't just create a logo; they craft an identity that embodies the essence of your brand, resonates with your target audience, and stands the test of time.

🏁 Consistency: A brand is more than just a logo. It’s about creating a cohesive experience across all platforms. Without a comprehensive brand identity, you might end up with a logo that looks out of place everywhere but on your page.⁠

🏁 Research and Strategy: Brand Designers spend time researching your market and competitors. They're like brand detectives (minus the trench coat). A logo made on the fly might miss the mark on attracting your ideal customers.⁠

🏁 Customization: Free logos often come from templates. If you want your brand to stand out, ‘unique’ should be your middle name, not ‘recycled’.⁠

🏁 Future-Proofing: A good designer considers where your brand could go in the future. That logo needs to look good on a billboard, a business card, and yes, even on a tiny smartwatch screen.⁠

Listen, brand design isn’t just about slapping a fancy logo on your stuff. Seriously, it’s a solid investment in your brand’s glow-up. And, let's be real. The other route 💥, do you really know what you're getting? 😬

Creative services | Brand metamorphosis | Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.

23/04/2024

On one level, Art is a means for self-expression and introspection, enabling us to connect with and understand ourselves on a deeper level. At the same time, art has the power to transport us beyond ourselves, allowing us to transcend our everyday woes and immerse ourselves in something greater.

In this state, we may experience a sense of connection to something larger than ourselves, whether it's the beauty of the artwork, the emotions it evokes, or the themes it explores.

🦋 This is the dual nature of art: it's a mirror that reflects our inner selves back to us, while also offering a doorway to escape our individuality and connect with the broader human experience.

22/04/2024

Happy Earth Day! 🌎💚 Mother Earth is THE source and my number one muse, so while earth day is everyday over here, it's a good time to remember to get outside, ground yourself, reconnect and honor the earth for the verve she gives every living thing.

Sow her some love today and every day with seeds of gratitude. 🌱

W A N N E T T E 🦋

19/04/2024

Listen. Whether you're all about the nature vibes, an art aficionado, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the world, this Madagascan Sunset Moth watercolor print on Gallery Canvas Wrap with Floater Frame will add a touch of magic to your room that'll have everyone talking. Go on ahead. Treat yourself.

Got verve? Get it. 🦋

18/04/2024

Creative is both a noun and an adjective. It refers to the person who possesses it and it describes someone with imagination and inventiveness. Whether you're chasing ideas like elusive butterflies or attempting to navigate the creative life, just remember: it's all part of the wonderfully wacky ride that is called inspiration.

 

17/04/2024

You think it's a game?! It's not y'all. To follow back or not to follow back? That is the question.

In today's interconnected world, social media platforms offer unparalleled opportunities for networking, engagement, and community building. One common practice is the follow back—a gesture that signifies mutual interest and support between users. However, navigating follow back etiquette can sometimes feel like navigating a mysterious maze, with questions about whom, when and whether to follow back. 🫣 Some things to note:

💑 Reciprocity vs. Selectivity: While reciprocity is often appreciated in follow back etiquette, it's essential to strike a balance between reciprocating follows and being selective about whom you follow back. Don't feel obligated to follow everyone who follows you; instead, prioritize accounts that resonate with you and contribute positively to your social media experience.

🗣️ Engage and Connect: Follow back etiquette goes beyond simply clicking the "follow" button. Take the time to engage with your followers, respond to comments and messages, and actively participate in conversations within your community. Building connections requires ongoing engagement and interaction.

🤜🏾🤛🏾 Focus on Community Building: Ultimately, follow back etiquette is about community building. It's about connecting with like-minded individuals, supporting one another's endeavors, and fostering a positive and inclusive online environment. By prioritizing genuine connections and meaningful interactions, you can cultivate a thriving community on social media.

I ain't no girl but prioritizing engaging with accounts that share similar interests, values, and vibes...That's my ish. 💬✨

W A N N E T T E 🦋

05/04/2024

Like the mysterious figure behind the curtain in Emerald City, social media algorithms operate behind the scenes, hidden from plain view. This begs the question: Is this a good or bad thing? Are social media algorithms bad? Read more on the blog!

🔗 in the comments 🤓

04/04/2024

I had an "art attack" last Saturday. 💡🎨🖌️ Don't worry, I've recovered and am okay today, but on Saturday, brushes were flying, colors exploding, and canvases were trembling with anticipation. That's the thing about inspiration and creativity. It strikes like lightning! ⚡️ Have you had an "art attack" recently? 🌪️🎨

W A N N E T T E 🦋

[Art attack n. - A sudden and intense burst of creative energy or inspiration, often resulting in the rapid creation of artwork.]

02/04/2024

Another Tuesday, another rhetorical question - Going Viral Pros and Cons

Just a reminder that as a creative studio, we are not here to make you go viral. If you want influencer marketing, we ain’t that. Our motto: Don’t be an influenza. 😷 Be the remedy. 😎

Social media marketing can be a game-changer for businesses and if you win the social media lottery and go viral, your brand can skyrocket to new heights, reaching a massive audience, gaining visibility, and sparking incredible opportunities. ✨⚡️

The downside is that the sudden attention can be overwhelming, and it might not always attract your target audience. Keeping the momentum going can also be a challenge.

Remember, while going viral is a fantastic boost, a sustainable strategy tailored to your business goals and audience is the key to long-term success. 💼🎯

01/04/2024

Oh, my close friends know how much I love Poe. ALAS, my admiration for the master of macabre knows no bounds, extending even to those who may oppose me! Harken, dear online friends, foes and near foes to the genius of Poe! 😁

For many, Poe immediately invokes the dark and eerie. I love that part too, but you miss his ironic sense of humor if you focus only on that. This quote by Edgar Allen Poe is from the preface to a story collection called "Marginalia." I always remind creatives of the importance of journaling, sketching, or doodling to work those creative muscles. "Marginalia" is just that. It means notes, comments, or scribbles without limitations made in the margins of a book or manuscript. The content of "Marginalia" ranges from Poe's literary criticism to musings on philosophical subjects, personal reflections, and commentary on the writings of others. He reflects on beauty, truth, the role of the artist, and the processes of creativity and invention. The fragmentary nature of "Marginalia" is a testament to Poe's belief in the power of suggestiveness and the incomplete. 🫀 For me, this quote demonstrates:

🧐 Self-awareness - It's a clever way of saying that he is aware of his limitations without considering the potential folly in his actions and choosing to proceed with confidence anyway.
🧠 Human nature - Humans exhibit a kind of foolish self-confidence, acting with certainty even without considering reason or evidence to support their beliefs and actions.
💡 The value of foolishness - With creativity, innovation, and exploration, having the audacity to pursue one's ideas, even when they seem foolish to others, can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and creations.
👁️ Perception - What one person views as foolish self-confidence, another might consider admirable self-assurance.

Poe wryly suggests that there is a thin line between genius and folly and that perhaps our most significant acts of courage and innovation arrive when we embrace our foolishness. 😊

W A N N E T T E 🦋

28/03/2024

In today's fast-paced world where conformity reigns supreme, the bohemian way of being has had a special allure and intrigue. A simple google image search will attempt to showcase characteristics of who/what is and isn't. But it is not a particular style of dress. It began as a cultural movement of creatives (artists, writers, journalists, musicians, and actors) in Europe. And instead of evolving, as bohemianism grew in popularity it became a stereotype. How do I define it?

✨Living life on your terms, embracing creativity, freedom, and individuality. Whether you're an artist, a dreamer, or simply someone who values self-expression, there's a little bit of bohemian spirit in all of us. You just gotta get out of your own way and let it out.

W A N N E T T E 🦋

20/03/2024

Spring has sprung at the creative studio! 🌸✨ Welcoming the equinox and good vibrations. Let your creativity bloom! 💡🌓🦋

08/03/2024

The art studio is vending at the Find & Flourish Market in the Amana Colonies at the RV Park and Event Center on June 7th and 8th. Shop new creations from the art studio! Got verve? Get it. Hope to see you there!

W A N N E T T E 🦋

19/02/2024

Renowned poet, essayist, and activist, Audre Lorde, often spoke about creativity, empowerment, and self-expression.

Creativity was not just a skill or talent but a means of expressing something deep and meaningful—her soul. The act of sharing is not just about communication but about forging connections and fostering empathy. In this way, creativity becomes a transformative force, capable of influencing individuals and society as a whole. 🌎

Remember, it's the power of art and expression that connects, inspires, and transforms both creators and audiences alike. ✨

16/02/2024

Creating a script for short form video lays a solid foundation for producing polished, effective, and memorable video content. [⬇️Example short form video script and a FREE DOWNLOADABLE TEMPLATE included] 🦋

In this guide, we'll explore the essential elements and tips on how to write a marketing script tailored for short-form videos.