How to Survive in 2009 February 25, 2009

2008 gave birth to the most devastating economic collapse in 75 years. For virtually every luxury sector, market demand has diminished or vanished, revenues are down, and consumers are driven by fear and uncertainty. Indications for 2009 are for a worsening situation as the marketplace confronts growing unemployment, continuing credit tightening and lack of consumer confidence (and spending). What’s a marketer to do?

In this hard-hitting seminar, seasoned marketing consultant, author and academic Alf Nucifora, and Greg Winston, author and sales consultant extraordinaire laid out the anticipated realities of the consumer environment in 2009 and presented an ROI-driven remedial plan that will continue to deliver sales in spite of an unreceptive and unresponsive marketplace.

Venue: Gaul Searson

Photograhpy by Simon Fu
Email: simonfu65@yahoo.com.
http://simonfu.shutterfly.com

1. Joel Karr, Group 41 with Joel Robare, JR Studio 2. Elisabeth Yvrot, Richart Chocolates and Kim Roberts, Baccarat
3. Bruce Zuckerman, Zuckerman & Associates with Jim Wood, Marin Magazine 4. Council members and guests wait with anticipation for the presentation to begin
5. Greg Winston, speaker, addresses the crowd

Branding Only Works on Cattle March 18, 2009

The jury's in and the new isn't good: consumers aren't paying more for traditionally branded products or services anymore. No business is finding it possible to withdraw any of the money "invested" in building image, reputation, and attached emotions over the years. Our historic expectations of brands are just no longer valid.

Author, columnist, and self-styled "chief heretic" Jonathan Salem Baskin has seen new life in a new definition of brand, and has tracked its development around the world for the past few years. This new idea -- based on delivering behaviors, not just awareness -- could have dramatic impact on your bottom line, not to mention the efficacy of your branding investment. In this hands-on presentation designed to ensure audience members left with practical advice, Baskin shared his 10 rules for branding in our post-branded world.

Venue: The Julia Morgan Ballroom

Photograhpy by Jay Cellini
Email: jaycellini@sbcglobal.net

6. Dianne Andrews, McGuire Real Estate, Allen Phillips, Lahlouh, with Peggy Hughes, Peggy Hughes Associates 7. Karen Laffey, Alain Pinel Realtors, Leslie Rendall, Zephyr Real Estate and Monica Laiple, Monica Michelle Photography
8. Bronwyn Ney & Ed Curry, Hall Wines with Karen Hartquist, McGuire Real Estate 9. Will Adams & Emily Lloyd, Christopher Peacock Cabinetry with Rick Bonetti, Alain Pinel Realtors
10. Jonathon Marks, Alain Pinel Realtors with Richard Habib, Alexander's Decorative Rugs 11. Celia Shoeman, Showplace East with Pina Fujihara, BTicino USA & Margaret Fearey Walsh, Changing-Places