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Christmas Ads Start Early: Behind the Festive Scenes
15 Nov
Summary
- Festive ad campaigns for Christmas begin development in February.
- Advertisements are often filmed during the summer months.
- Creative directors aim to make ads entertaining, not intrusive.
Although November signals the start of Christmas advert season, the creative journey for these festive campaigns commences as early as February. Executive Creative Director Jack Croft notes that the extensive planning and production process is necessary to create compelling content.
Filming for the majority of these holiday commercials takes place during the summer. This presents unique challenges, such as making sun-drenched locations appear wintry and seasonal for the final broadcast. The aim is to produce content that feels like entertainment, rather than an intrusive advertisement.
Brands compete for audience attention against a vast array of other media. Croft highlights the importance of engaging viewers effectively, drawing on his experience with Wonderhood Studios producing Waitrose's festive ads. His career trajectory, originating from Leeds Arts University and a strong partnership with creative director Stacey Bird, underscores the collaborative nature of this industry.
While London has historically been the hub for advertising, there is a growing creative scene in the North of England. Croft expresses hope for more opportunities in Yorkshire's creative industries for younger talents. His personal journey also reflects a balance between career ambition and family life, attributing some success to "Yorkshire grit."
