Category Archives: Featured

Allow us to re-introduce ourselves.

Posted on by

There are moments in life when you realize it’s time to make a change for the better. To update your conscious, if you will, and freshen up a bit. To re-imagine your intentions and update your style that you may grow, evolve, and progress into the unknown future of our ever-changing world. Just as we encourage our clients to do on a regular basis, our small team has been extending the additional time and effort to tend to our brand. We acknowledged that it was time to schedule extra hours away from client work to internally review everything. As a company, we had to ask the essential questions, “Where are we NOW? Where are we heading? How can we improve?”

After countless hours of internal review, brainstorming, meetings, and thoughtful deliberation, we had ironed out an official plan—we formalized a process and procedure to propel us into the future. We decided to schedule internal updates–change– into our daily work routine because, as a small business, we know that there’s plenty of room to grow. We acknowledge that we must spend a little time in front of the mirror everyday to make sure we like what we see; if something isn’t looking right—if we don’t like what we see—let’s make the proper adjustments. It’s an evolving process.

We are applying the changes.  We’ve tidied up our brand, updated the logo, stripped away the clutter, simplified our messaging, and worked over-overtime on what we believe to be one of the most important assets of any company: a beautiful, clean, modern, optimal, original website. We are proud of our work and eager to improve. Click around our site for a while and let us know what you think.  Your comments will let us know what we are doing right, and how we can do better.

Change has never felt this exciting. Thanks to all who have tracked our progress through the years. Keep checking back with us to see what we’re up to and how we’re evolving. The future is looking bright.

We ecstatically welcome Ryan’s Fine Grocer and Delicatessan to the neighborhood.

Posted on by
brittanryan

Brittany Ryan, on her restaurant’s patio.

Community+Functionality. Luxury+Practicality.

These are the main inspirations behind Ryan’s Grocer and Delicatessen.
While training to become chefs together in New York at the French Culinary Institute in New York, siblings Brittany and Hunter Ryan began to miss the Near Southside neighborhood dearly. They missed Magnolia Ave., and watching the walkable, lovable community grow. So they’ve returned and we welcome them with open arms! After taking exhausting round trips to Central Market, the Ryan’s developed the idea of starting a local, specialty-item store and deli as a way to express their high-class training. If the Ryan’s were to have a slogan it would be “For cooks by cooks”. Brittany clarifies the difference between a ‘cook’ and a ‘chef’— there is a very real need among untrained southside-ians to cook and eat.  Their deli/specialty store provides a way to make shopping less of a chore.

Community+Funcionality.

What’s attractive about their brand is the livelihood of their spontaneity—these twenty-somethings are having fun making it up as they go along, and their team is driven by the same passions. While being expected to make some hundred sandwiches an hour they also come back to the deli to hang out.  Definitely a healthy cycle of ‘Work hard, Play hard.’  While the deli is always seemingly busy throughout the day, right now, Brittany and Hunter’s main goal is to expand the grocery store. They currently obtain their produce from all over the world but, with the coming of Spring, they soon hope to buy from more local vendors, like those found at Southside Fort Worth’s Farmer’s Market. Prices fluctuate weekly but, as more prod
uce comes into season, they should decrease significantly. Brittany is also looking forward to do business with some hydroponic farmers in the area. It’s all about serving and boosting ‘the local,’ combining Luxury+Practicality, and giving back to the community they grew up in. We welcome Brittany and Hunter Ryan to the Magnolia Ave. and hope to see them flourish within it! (Try the vegan salami. Omg.)

John Ward– The ultimate graphic designer

Posted on by

john wardFavorite Drink?

Sometimes I’ll splurge on a Knob Creek Manhattan. In terms of non-alcoholic drinks, I prefer sparkling water, like Perrier.

What is your favorite movie?

That’s a tough question. I ‘ve seen so many great movies. Throughout my life, I would say that the original Star Wars movies have the most play time for me. I’ve seen them so many times. In the past year, I would say either Moonrise Kingdom or the Hobbit. I was pleasantly surprised by the Hobbit actually. I wasn’t too sure about them turning such a small book into three movies, but I think it turned out well. I have my fingers crossed for the next two.

Favorite band?

I listen to all kinds of stuff: rock, country, bluegrass, electronic, folk. Lately I’ve been listening to a lot of Kraftwerk and Old Crow Medicine Show.

What graphic designer do you look up to?

Milton Glaser. I can’t get enough of that iconic Bob Dylan poster he did way back when. It’s pretty amazing. He’s a great speaker too. I like to watch his videos on Youtube. They’re full of wisdom.

Why did you choose Creative Magma?

It’s great to work with a company that is ingrained in the same community that I live in. I love Fort Worth, and so does Creative Magma. The fact that Creative Magma focuses a lot on interactive design is a definite bonus. Interactivity intrigues me. It’s the wave of the future.

What made you want to be a graphic designer?

I like to create, and I always have. Designing obviously allows one to do that. The reason I chose design over something like fine arts? Well, I guess I felt that there is more consistent money to be made in the field.

Who would win in a fight: Jared or Brian?

I plead the 5th.

What superpower would you want?

I want to be able to fly. It’s so cool when you have those dreams where you fly around. It’s so weird. I definitely wish I could do that in real life. Plus I could travel anywhere I wanted to, which would be amazing!

Tips for Service Marketing

Posted on by

 Business always requires transactions between buyers and sellers. The process of generating high transaction rates, however, becomes more difficult in the highly competitive market during an industry or economic slowdown. Consumers evaluate purchasing decisions more closely to determine whether products or services are worth their listed values or not–that is to say, if they are willing to spend the money.

Many consumers initially Google what they’re looking for before making purchasing decisions and can even spend hours researching competitors and past reviews to make sure that they are proceeding in the most sensible manner. Because service is intangible, purchasing decisions usually take longer because there are higher risk levels and anxieties about going with something new–something more immediate, or different.

So, what makes one company’s service become more valuable than the next?

Here are five key elements that differentiate companies from their competitors:

1.     Reliability – This is the core competence that services offer based on the consumer needs. For example, when a client wants advice on how to increase traffic to his/her website, does the service succeed in driving visitors? Is the service generating more revenue?

2.     Responsiveness – This includes the time it takes for a service to respond to client inquiries, answering phone calls, maintaining 24/7 online support, and the proper maintenance other communication based services. Responsiveness allows the service to be more visible to potential clients. Staying up to date with the latest trends and events also helps the firm adapt to the appropriate business environment.

3.     Empathy – The positive attitude of service providers, sincere greetings, and effective problem solving behaviors keep clients around longer.

4.     Assurance – Service providers should be knowledgeable of their expertise and provide top quality service with confidence and guarantee.  Feelings of assurance inspire trust and solidify long-term relationships with clients.

5.     Tangibility – Companies should display immediate visible incentives through their website with a clear mission statement and demonstrate the effectiveness of previous works. The consistency of branding elements and office décor help establish a stronger foundation of your company’s structure to outsider perspectives.

Overall, the quality, environment, and presentation of a service is just as important as the service itself.  Once these five elements are in focus, companies should never lose sight of their importance.

Wanted: Web Developer Intern

Posted on by

Job Description

Creative Magma is looking for a Web Developer Intern that’s looking to build quality client work for his/her portfolio.  If your innovative mind is curious about the interactive work experience, you’ll fit right in. Even more so if you’re talented, or at least familiar, with custom JavaScript, HTML, CSS and PHP or asp.Net.

You’ll work closely with our small team and founder in a highly skilled agency whose clients demand quality on time and within budget.

Send your resume, relevant samples of your work, and any additional questions to [email protected]

While you’re at it, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

The Environment– Deceptively laid back, fun, informal, small agency with an intense work ethic. You’ll be working on great equipment with current software in comfortable surroundings.  Creative environment overall.

Desired Skills & Experience

The Candidate – Our ideal web developer intern is on the road to becoming pro.  He/she intuitively maintains a passion for web design and marketing.  They are enthusiastic and knowledgeable about good work in the industry. Detail oriented, organized, efficient—remaining friendly and positive while working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.  Confident and progressive, etc..

Must-have characteristics:

  • Gotta be organized
  • Work independently
  • Manage time well, juggle multiple responsibilities, etc..
  • Take constructive criticism well
  • Be willing to learn new skills and tasks
  • Have a passion for the industry

Services Provided:

  • Multimedia Design and Implementation
  • Web Design and Development
  • Internet Application Development
  • Creative Packaging and Advertising Design
  • Persuasive Copywriting
  • Extensive Internet and Print Marketing Development
  • Search Engine Marketing
  • Social Media Management
  • Success Consultants

Additional Information

Type:

Internship – non-paid, but potential for hire

Experience:

Mid-Senior level

Functions:

Art/Creative, Design, Advertising

Industries:

Marketing and Advertising

Wanted: Graphic Designer Intern

Posted on by

Job Description
Creative Magma is looking for a Graphic Designer Intern that’s looking to build quality client work for his/her portfolio. If your innovative mind is curious about the interactive work experience, you’ll fit right in. Even more so if you’re talented, or at least familiar, with custom JavaScript, HTML, CSS and PHP or asp.Net.

You’ll work closely with our small team and founder in a highly skilled agency whose clients demand quality on time and within budget.

Send your resume, relevant samples of your work, and any additional questions to [email protected]

While you’re at it, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

The Environment– Deceptively laid back, fun, informal, small agency with an intense work ethic. You’ll be working on great equipment with current software in comfortable surroundings. Creative environment overall.

Desired Skills & Experience
The Candidate – Our ideal graphic designer intern is on the road to becoming pro. He/she intuitively maintains a passion for web design and marketing. They are enthusiastic and knowledgeable about good work in the industry. Detail oriented, organized, efficient—remaining friendly and positive while working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Confident and progressive, etc..

Must-have characteristics:
• Gotta be organized
• Work independently
• Manage time well, juggle multiple responsibilities, etc..
• Take constructive criticism well
• Be willing to learn new skills and tasks
• Have a passion for the industry

Services Provided:
• Multimedia Design and Implementation
• Web Design and Development
• Internet Application Development
• Creative Packaging and Advertising Design
• Persuasive Copywriting
• Extensive Internet and Print Marketing Development
• Search Engine Marketing
• Social Media Management
• Success Consultants

Additional Information
Type:
Internship – non-paid, but potential for hire
Experience:
Mid-Senior level
Functions:
Art/Creative, Design, Advertising
Industries:
Marketing and Advertising

Super Bowl XLVII sum up!

Posted on by

Each year, Super Bowl season comes with inevitable excitement and eagerness of millions. Though not an official holiday, it sometimes feels like one with millions participating in one  ritual or another–ordering takeout, delivery food, or going to bars to watch the game–often behaving maniacally. Salsa, dips, spread, wings, pizza and all kinds of chips become top sellers exceeding all other sporting events.

During Super Bowl season, people expect more than just  a good game.  Exclusive commercials from some of the top brand names premier at top dollar for millions of dollars and millions of viewers. This year, the average cost of a 30 second spot is around $4 million compared to the $2.7 million in 2008. Despite the skyrocketting cost of advertising, brands relentlessly broadcast creative advertisements. For example, Oreo took a stand with a hilarious commercial that featured a “whispered fight”.  Dodge Ram produced an unexpectedly moving story with the slogan “So God made a farmer.” Doritos’ new ad campaign is wildly hilarious.

 

The event brought a big boost to social media platforms, and I mean BIG. According to Marketing Land , while 50% of Super Bowl commercials mentioned Twitter, only 8% of commercials mentioned Facebook. This modernly smart marketing method utilizes hashtags to make commercials more interactive. Users are easily able discuss events with others in real-time, spreading the word for brands and generating buzz about their messaging. During this season, the most outrageous buzz focused on the blackout.  Twitter chatter of the power outage reached an insane amount of 231,500 tweets per minute with a grand total of 3 millions tweets over the night. Wow. Brands also took advantage of the occurrence and hash tagged away: Oreo first tweeted, “You can still dunk in the dark” ; Tide cleverly responded to the circumstance, “We can’t get your blackout. But we can get your stains out.”

Super Bowl XLVII is behind us now, but its heat remains for the next few days as people continue to generate buzz about the event, searching for their favorite commercials, or tracking the ridiculous amount of money involved. Whether your team won or lost–whether you enjoy football or not–one thing is clear: the Super Bowl is a large enough event to bring people together in the fast world of today, stimulating the market place and a collective culture in ways that are oh so interesting to observe

Wanted: full-time Graphic Designer

Posted on by

 Job Description

Creative Magma is looking for a bad ass Graphic Designer with industry experience.  If you’ve got interactive work experience and an innovative mind, you’ll fit right in. Even better if you’re talented, or at least familiar, with custom JavaScript, HTML, CSS and PHP or asp.Net.a

You’ll work closely with our small team and founder in a highly skilled agency whose clients demand quality on time and within budget.

And we will test your skills! If you know you’ll ace the test, we just might be the home you’re looking for. Visit our website to see what we do. When you’re ready, respond to this listing with a cover letter, resume, online portfolio link, and salary expectations to [email protected]

While you’re at it, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

The Environment– Deceptively laid back, fun, informal, small agency with an intense work ethic. You’ll be working on great equipment with current software in comfortable surroundings.  Creative environment overall.

Desired Skills & Experience

The Candidate – Our ideal graphic designer is the definition of “pro”.  He/she intuitively understands web design and marketing.  They are enthusiastic and knowledgeable about what good work is in this industry. Detail oriented, organized, efficient—remaining friendly and positive while working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.  Confident and progressive, etc..

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Interactive Design or related subject, Computer Science/Web Development or equivalent experience, 5+ year’s professional industry experience preferred.

Required:

  • Impressive creative portfolio
  • Basic understanding of at least one of the following Content Management Systems: WordPress, Drupal, Joomla, Sitefinity and Umbraco

Must-have characteristics:

  • Gotta be organized
  • Work independently
  • Manage time well, juggle multiple responsibilities, etc..
  • Take constructive criticism well
  • Be willing to learn new skills and tasks
  • Have a passion for the industry

Services Provided:

  • Multimedia Design and Implementation
  • Web Design and Development
  • Internet Application Development
  • Creative Packaging and Advertising Design
  • Persuasive Copywriting
  • Extensive Internet and Print Marketing Development
  • Search Engine Marketing
  • Social Media Management
  • Success Consultants

Additional Information

Type: Full-time

Experience: Mid-Senior level

Functions: Art/Creative, Design, Advertising

Industries: Marketing and Advertising

Veteran Commitment

Marketing Trends 2013

Posted on by

1. Integrated social media marketing
This is one of the new trends in 2013. Companies will build their brand using different social media platforms to offer real-time interaction with prospects and customers. Integrated social media includes the firm’s website and email while social sites like Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and LinkedIn continue their march to main webpages in order to increase more sale leads.

2. Brands will be defined by content, not titles.
With the ever-expanding growth of mobile devices, consumers more than ever demand personal interaction. Marketing becomes significant in generating leads by using personalized content. Brands have to create relevant information that speaks to the wants and needs of their target audience. Smart content should deliver the right messaging to the right customers in the right time.

 

3. Brand data
Google Analytics has been the first step in branding data and it will become more popular with more competitive analysis data, consumer data, and metrics that generate more detailed insight from customers. Data will carry out a more effective plan within firms’ product development, business strategy, and marketing function.

4. Go mobile or fall behind
More than half of all American customers own a smartphone with different social media apps like Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, etc.. For this reason, 9 in 10 marketers have mobile sites or mobile applications while 1 in 5 run mobile marketing tactics as part of their integrated marketing strategy. This trend is becoming more significant in keeping the loyal customers in touch with brands on a personal level.

5. Pictures are worth 1000 words
Images usher in the new era of fast-pace working with large amounts of information. Newer trends such as infographics, photos, picture boards, video, and other forms of rich media will increase since it saves consumers’ time to process overloads of information. Pinterest is one of the newer social media platforms emphasizing facts through pictures–users can pin their favorites on their own personal boards. Pinterest is considered the potential mainstream social media platform in 2013 that may challenge Youtube as the second leading social network site.