by Miriam Hara | May 27, 2025 | Branding, Marketing
With 2025 in full swing, we’re taking a moment to catch our breath and revisit some ideas that still have momentum.
At 3H, we believe good thinking doesn’t expire. The articles we’ve shared over the past few years continue to reflect the conversations we’re having now: about marketing that moves, branding that connects, and design that makes impact.
So whether you missed them the first time or are ready for a second pass, we’ve rounded up 5 of our favourite pieces that still feel relevant, timely and maybe even a little ahead of the curve.
Let’s keep the momentum going.
Legacy Brand: Embracing Bold Moves
Having a Legacy Brand is a doubled edge sword. On one side, it has earned its reputation by always being there. There are a few brands come to mind with type of heritage, However, legacy brands have their own unique set of challenges. How do they maintain relevancy with their existing audience all the while trying to reach out to new audiences? Packaging of Legacy brands are a pillar of these brands… and how to navigate changes to packaging is what we explore.
Curiographics: A New Approach to Marketing Segmentation
Demographics, to our way of thinking is passé. The 60 year old today isn’t the same as the 60 year old a decade ago. There is a shift in who and how targets should be identified. Here, we introduce the new concept of ‘Curiographics,’. This is a term we coined to explain the method of segmenting audiences based on curiosity-driven content engagement. It does not define an audience by age, education or income.
Graphic Design: Beyond the Software & Layout
The strategic role of graphic designers in marketing and branding can never be overstated. They are one significant pillar that streamlines and emphasizes the core communication of a brand. With the proliferation of technology, skills beyond technical software proficiency, which is increasingly important in the evolving digital landscape, must also weigh in… perhaps even more so.
Brand Potential: Is it Truly Maximized?
How do you know if your brand has achieved its full potential? Is it about KPIs or does brand success go beyond meeting key performance indicators like market share and sales growth. What else is there to evaluate success… and how does a brand get there?
Brand Loyalty : Taking it for Granted?
Brand Loyalty is a fickle thing. It’s important not to be complacent when you achieve it. As the market evolves, so do the audiences. It’s important for a brand to maintain relevancy and continuously work to earn and keep its loyalty. It’s much harder to re-gain or re-earn loyalty than it is to keep it.
As we look back on these standout pieces, one thing is clear, transformation isn’t a trend, it’s the new normal. We hope these five articles offer not just direction, but a moment to reflect on where you stand and where you’re headed.
Here’s to navigating the rest of 2025 with purpose, perspective, and a little creative edge.
Happy Marketing!
by Miriam Hara | Apr 16, 2025 | Agency, Creative, Design
Constructive Criticism… ugh! That’s all I have to say. In the world of marketing creative the use of the term constructive criticism is as prevalent as the air we breathe! Whether designing a campaign, writing a headline, or capturing the perfect shot, everyone has a say on that creative component. It’s part of the creative process and it is integral in crafting and improving the creative asset. But let’s not sugarcoat it: feedback can sting.
Creativity is personal
Despite me telling my team that feedback, “Is not personal” , I do understand that, innately, it is. It’s difficult not for it to feel personal when you’ve taken the germ of an idea and spent hours perfecting it before you even present it. And then someone comes along, squints at your masterpiece, and says, “Hmm… it’s not quite there.”How can it not feel personal?
But when constructive criticism is given, that is the defining moment. Feedback isn’t just about hearing what needs to change, it’s about how you respond to it.
To my way of thinking, constructive criticism is the way any professional can up their game. Become really, really good at their profession. Seriously good!
Understanding the why behind the what.
Giving feedback is an art. It should, by it’s very nature, be directionally but not specific. Alas, too often that is what feedback looks like….Make this bigger. Change this colour. Tweak that headline.
Turning that feedback into being constructive you need to decode the feedback. It’s not about just doing what is requested, it’s about understanding why the change is being requested.
- Why did they ask for more space?
- What’s the real concern behind this change?
- What outcome are we trying to achieve here?
Start thinking this way, you will become a true professional, a collaborator.
Personal or not? Understanding the distinction.
Feedback isn’t a reflection of you. It’s a reflection of the work. And that distinction makes all the difference. When feedback is given, and the understanding of the feedback gets crystallized, the outcome is something everyone will get behind. Feedback isn’t an attack, it’s a way to make a creative stronger…better. If a creative concept or asset cannot handle the modifications, perhaps there’s a bigger issue about the creative.
Constructive Criticism: It’s a mindset.
Feedback is the thing that tells you where to focus, where to sharpen your edge, and where to let go of what isn’t working. If you are truly listening. It’s part of the process that continuously stokes the fire of passion… and refines natural.
Here are my key takeaways on turning feedback into an opportunity to grow and become better (yes, even after 40 years!)
- Listen to understand, not to respond.
- Ask smart questions. “What’s not landing here?” or “What’s the bigger goal we’re aiming for?”
- Pause. Take a walk, sleep on it, let your thoughts settle.
- Look for patterns. If you’re hearing the same note over and over, it’s not a coincidence, it’s an indication that you’re not learning from the feedback… but just doing!
The true professional creatives are the ones who know how to use the feedback to make what they’ve initially created, even better.
Don’t just do.
At the end of the day, addressing feedback isn’t about getting the job out the door. It’s always an opportunity for growth. Evolving your craft, sharpening your skills, and building a resilience will serve you long after the project wraps up.
Consider that every critique is; a chance to become better. An opportunity to think deeper, create smarter, and deliver something that doesn’t just work, it wows.
How you handle feedback will determine your professional trajectory… and subsequently your professional opportunities. Contrary to the very iconic Nike slogan, Don’t just do it, learn from it!
by Miriam Hara | Mar 28, 2025 | Business Success, Marketing
Canada Local, buying into it is trending, imagine that! That’s one silver lining in all this chaos and craziness with our southern neighbour. Canadians are finally waking up to the power of buying Canadian. We’ve always had the resources, the talent, and the ingenuity to thrive. But for too long, “buying Canadian” has been more of an afterthought than a movement. That changes now. Because when global forces shake us, we don’t crumble, we double down.
Buy Canada Local: Understanding the various Maple Leaf Labels
In the frenzy of supporting the Canadian economy and Canadian businesses, let’s get clear on what’s actually made in Canada. Those tiny labels on the packaging? They matter. Here’s what they really mean:
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“Product of Canada”: Think more than Maple Syrup Ontario or BC Wines. Any home grown local business falls into this category, artisans, entrepreneurs and that are regionally, provincially or nationally minded, in both in packaged goods and business to business. You can’t get more Canadian than this. This means 98% or more of the product’s total direct costs, including ingredients and processing, originate from Canada. If you want to truly support Canadian farmers, manufacturers, and suppliers, this is the label to look for.
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“Made in Canada”: A little looser. The product was manufactured or processed here, but the ingredients? They could be from anywhere. However, at least 51% of the total direct costs must be Canadian. A step in the right direction, but not quite homegrown.
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“Prepared in Canada”: The most flexible of the claims. The product was assembled or cooked in Canada, but most of its components were sourced globally, including the USA. But it also means that being prepared here… provides and optimizes Canadian jobs.
Bottom line? If you want your dollars to matter and fuel Canadian businesses, “Product of Canada” is your best bet.
The Brain Power Behind the Maple Leaf
Canada can take a page of the hundreds of individual self help and validation books! As a country we really don’t value what we are all about, looking always for validation externally. Our humble-nous has been so ingrained we’ve lost the ability to recognize our true strength and value.
The real problem? We haven’t fully embraced ourselves yet. And that’s where the real identity crisis begins.
We are the first to acknowledge our worth in terms of raw materials and of course, natural beauty. But Canada is a powerhouse of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial grit.
Think Shopify, a homegrown e-commerce titan that’s revolutionizing online retail. Or DeepMind, the AI powerhouse with Canadian researchers driving global advancements. Even Cirque du Soleil, an international entertainment phenomenon, was born out of Canadian creativity.
It goes without saying our sense of humour is second to none, having provided millions of people with the best laughs with the most awesome comedians.
From AI and biotech to sustainable manufacturing and entertainment, we have been at the forefront of some of the most groundbreaking industries in the world. But unlike other nations that shout about their accomplishments, Canada tends to shrug it off and blush.
It’s time to change that.
When Buy Canada Local… Really isn’t
Think about it. Some of our most iconic brands we’ve all grew up with, aren’t actually Canadian-owned anymore.
Hudson’s Bay Company: A Historical Past owned by the USA
Founded in 1670, Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) is North America’s oldest company. It practically wrote the book on Canadian commerce. But in 2006, American businessman Jerry Zucker acquired HBC for $1.1 billion. Two years later, NRDC Equity Partners, another American firm, took over. It may still feels Canadian. But its ownership says otherwise.
Tim Hortons: More American Than You Think
Tim Hortons—the brand that fuels our hockey rinks and morning commutes hasn’t been fully Canadian for years. In 2014, it merged with Burger King under Restaurant Brands International (RBI), a Canadian-American multinational. Yes, RBI is headquartered in Toronto, but its corporate roots run deep into American soil.
So, next time you grab that double-double, know that while the nostalgia is ours, the ownership isn’t.
Buy Canada Local Your Purchase Statement
Every dollar spent on Canadian products is a direct investment in our economy. It creates jobs. It sustains industries. It ensures that the families who grow, manufacture, and innovate here continue to thrive. And in a time when economic uncertainty looms large, that kind of impact matters.
This isn’t about waving flags or blind patriotism. It’s about making choices that keep our economy strong, our communities thriving, and our identity intact.
The Silver Lining
Trump’s tariffs may have set off alarm bells, but they also sparked something else: realization. We don’t need to rely so heavily on imports. We don’t need to play by the rules of an unpredictable trade partner.
What we do need? To recognize that Canada has its own rhythm, its own strength, its own identity. We’re not just an add-on in the global economy. We’re a force.
So, Elbows Up. Choose Canadian. We all have a part in making this time a turning point in Canada’s history.
by Miriam Hara | Mar 11, 2025 | Advertising, Agency, Marketing
Test Marketing Needs a Great Concept
It’s always exciting being part of something new. To have a brand venture into a new territory. Reaching out to new audiences with a brand is bold. Often, media costs and full outreach takes dollars… and that’s where test marketing comes in. Suddenly everyone’s talking numbers, timelines, and geographic reach. SO what about the creative?
If you’re rolling out a test market without fully investing in the creative, you’re not testing your brand’s true impact. You’re just guessing. And guesswork has no place in serious strategy.
The Pitfall of Ignoring Creative
When implementing a test market, the focus is often on logistics: which channels, which regions, and what budget. Those things matter, for sure.
But here’s the thing: they only matter if your creative concept is strong enough to deliver
We all know this: creative isn’t just a pretty picture or window dressing. It’s the most essential element in any campaign. Creative is the core of your brand message. It’s what your audience will see, feel, and remember. Skipping over creative development, whether to test a channel or save budget, is a costly mistake.
Think of it this way: placing a “meh” ad in prime real estate is like putting up a billboard with a dense paragraph of unreadable copy. Sure, your brand is in the right place, but without compelling creative, it’s not going to grab attention or make an impact.
“Good Enough” Isn’t Good Enough
Think of it this way. You’re trying a new channel, like TV, radio or digital, to reach new audiences. These are people who may not be familiar with your brand. What kind of impression do you think a lack lustre ad will make?
Test marketing is about seeing if your idea can resonate, but resonance starts with a strong, compelling message, and that’s all about the creative, not the media. (albeit, they need to go hand in hand).
Half-hearted creative efforts lead to muddled results. Instead of testing the potential of your idea, you’re testing a watered-down version of it. So when that version fails to connect, you might assume the whole idea doesn’t work, when the real issue is that you didn’t give it the chance to shine.
Test Marketing isn’t Tactical
It’s tempting to think of test marketing as a purely tactical exercise. You’re testing TV vs. radio, or digital vs. print. But here’s the truth: channels don’t sell ideas, creative does. The channel is just the stage. The performance rests on your creative concept and execution.
If you’re exploring a new medium, your creative has to adapt without losing the core essence. TV needs visuals that captivate. Radio requires messaging that paints pictures with words. Digital demands agility and interactivity. Print needs to speak volumes. Regardless of the channel, all creative adaptations must be remarkable and memorable. The best campaigns understand the nuances of each channel and craft creative that works within them while staying true to the brand.
Test Marketing: Show Up Like You Mean It
Your test market audience doesn’t know they’re part of a test market. For the audience, this is the first impression of your brand. And if you show up with “just good enough” creative, that’s the impression they’ll walk away with. Think of test marketing as opening night for a smaller crowd. You’re not rehearsing; you’re performing. Show up like you mean it.
Creative Is the Test
So the next time the you’re working on a test market initiative, pause and ask: is the creative ready? Is it compelling? Does it reflect the brand’s essence and true personality? Without great creative, you’re not testing your campaign’s potential. You’re testing what happens when you don’t take your own idea seriously.
Test marketing is a chance to learn, refine, and validate. But to get real insights, you need real effort. Don’t just dip your toes in the water. Commit full on. Dive in with creative that makes waves!
by Miriam Hara | Feb 4, 2025 | Branding, Communications, Content, Creative, Marketing
The marketing space is totally immersed with buzzwords that seem to dominate the collective thinking for a few years and then eventually fade away. Over the past decade, “authentic” has been that word—a term so pervasive that its over use has now made it obsolete and un-authentic.
‘Authentic’ in Marketing
I can distinctly remember that I first came across the Authentic word, in 2015, while working on a re-branding project. I also distinctly remember thinking that if something is authentic, then why do we need state it? But that was just me, remembering one of the creative writers telling me that ‘ if we have to say we are cool, maybe we aren’t?’
All musing aside, pinpointing the exact moment when the marketing world collectively embraced “authentic” as the new buzzword is difficult. Suffice to say, the rise of ‘authentic’ coincides with emerging consumers‘ growing desire for genuine, transparent interactions with brands. Forbes cited in a 2017 article, that consumers didn’t just want a product; they wanted a story, a purpose, and a brand they could believe in.
The Emergence of the Generational Shift
Brand marketers recognized that the up and coming consumers, Millennials and Gen Z, valued transparency and honesty. This word encapsulated the direction and the winds of change of how brands needed to evolved to maintain relevance (another buzzword).This shift led to marketing strategies that showcased behind-the-scenes content, user-generated stories, and missions aligned with social causes. The term “authentic” became synonymous with trustworthiness and relatability.
The Word of the Year 2023
Authentic. I remember writing an article on Merriam-Webster declaring “authentic” as the Word of the Year in 2023. And not only an article, but vlogs as well. The dictionary noted a substantial increase in searches for the word, driven by discussions around AI, celebrity culture, identity, and social media. That same year, Harvard stated “rizz” was the word the year 2023, but that word never gained the notoriety of Authentic.
The Kill of the Buzz
As every brand jumped on the ‘authentic’ bandwagon, the term began to lose its impact. When “authentic” is used to describe everything, it starts to mean nothing. When the emerging consumers no longer are emerging, but becoming the generation with biggest consumer power, reflection and change is natural. As Millennials and Gen Z take leader ownership, questioning the sincerity behind brands’ claims of its ‘authentic state’ was bound to happen.
After all, actions always speak louder than words.
The very essence of being authentic—being true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character—was overshadowed by a promotional approach to appear genuine.
Beyond this Buzzword and the Next
So, what’s beyond this buzzword and the next? It’s to recognize that saying a word doesn’t it make it so. There’s work to do behind any word that becomes the next coined term. In reflecting over the last year, I do believe that there is a shift. Many brands have done the heavy lifting and are really embracing the actions that are synonymous with the concept of authentic. From sustainable packaging to embracing causes that reflect the values of consumers.
The Buzz Kill of Authentic
Although the word may have reached its saturation point in the marketing space, the principles it represents remain vital. It’s time to let go of the jargon and embrace the real essence of the next buzzword in practice, not just in jest. After all… if you are cool, do you need to say you are?
