Ad for Nissan Murano hits target

Discovered this 300x250 banner for Nissan's 2009 Murano recently on Yahoo. The design and color combination are powerful. Eyes are drawn instantly to the 0% APR. The sporty SUV is the center of attention. The flash file delivers the message swiftly and clearly... if you want one, click here.

Ads like this one are designed to brand the product and generate click thrus. But some will call and others will visit the local showroom.

New look after Lasik

Considering Lasik? You may find it hard to resist this message for Florida Vision in the Stuart (Fla) News.

First thing you see in the word LASIK, then you can't help but look at her face and imagine life without glasses. Wow, how life would be different!

The ad is artfully designed though a bit busy with a few too many copy points. Better to cause readers to call or click to the website.

Here's a case where less is more.

Time for Tiger

This week is Tiger Week on the Golf Channel. Ben Bridge Jewelers may have timed this right with this striking ad in The Denver Post. How many golfers would like to play like Tiger? Or to wear a TAG Heuer time piece that Tiger endorses? Many fans wait anxiously for Tiger's return in 2009. The Golf Channel programing this week feeds that frenzy. Ads like this one that tap that national exposure are well timed, brilliant.

As for the ad itself--- winner written all over it. The layout is simple, the photography stunning, the signal crystal clear, the benefits bold and the proof in the ad copy.

Bravo.

Only way to fly to Dubai

Serious international travelers to Dubai are highly likely to be lured by this ad for Emirates Airlines in the San Jose Mercury News.

The wide angle view of this fellow relaxing in his first class suite captures your curiosity. The benefit-- Non-stop sanctuary-- prompts you to read the ad copy which is well written and instantly appeals to your wants for the finer things in life.

This ad speaks to the few who can afford and justify such luxury. Weigh that against the lifetime value of each new customer.

Jewelry ad begs for benefits

Expect to Be Impressed is the promise in this ad for Doris McLendon's Fine Jewelry in the Memphis Commercial Appeal. Her pretty face, that gorgeous red top and and fine gold jewelry combine for a powerful signal. It's all so Christmasy. The subtle benefits are tucked in to the crimson ornament, leaving the sell too soft and absent any tangible proof of savings. Give designers high marks for layout and branding but the results are sure to be disappointing in today's retail economy.

Layout works for Smart car

Shopping for a high mpg commuter car?

Then you'll probably stop and look at this ad from Smart Centre Calgary Hyatt now showing in the Calgary Herald. Designers offer three views (my favorite is the larger one that's "coming at ya."

The benefits are strong-- the perfect commuter-- plus $2000 back. Ad copy gives you more reasons to consider Smart over the other makes available.

Forget about waiting, the countdown for the final 14 begins.

Simply irresistible two-seater for those with an open mind.

Eye see

Your eyes are drawn to her extreme eyelashes in this small space ad for Infusion in the Northwest Herald (Crystal Lake, IL).

A simpler layout, less ad copy and more feminine font will make this one easier on the eyes and cause more women to "Say Eye Do."

Infusion sports a snappy slogan...where makeup, artistry and beauty meet. And the offer-- buy 2, get 2 free-- may be compelling, if not lost in the message.