Most think of New York City when it comes to fancy marketing agencies, but situated just off the Atlantic City Boardwalk is Masterpiece Advertising--a full service advertising, marketing and public relations firm right here in our own backyard. A creative group of forward thinkers, Masterpiece specializes in an array of services ranging from elaborate direct mail campaigns to upscale celebrity events.
"Whether meeting with clients or stopping in for a visit, people always comment on how they feel like they are on Madison Avenue right here on Montpelier Avenue," explains President Phyllis Lacca. "We have clients all over the country and contacts all over the world, but we have chosen Atlantic City as our home base."
A Women Business Enterprise led by Lacca, the boutique agency with big ideas operates in the heart of Atlantic City on the values of providing a premier product using innovative, thoughtful and creative marketing. Masterpiece offers more than 20 years of experience with specialization in the casino, hotel and resort industries. Comprised of a talented staff from Philadelphia, New York, California and throughout South Jersey, the staff's diversity brings an always-fresh insight. One member of Masterpiece who feels right at home with their Madison Avenue appeal is Director of Account Services, Regina Gerber. She joined Masterpiece after working with the Oxygen Network in New York City, making her feel as if she never left the Big Apple.
"Having worked with some big New York agencies, it is obvious that Masterpiece ranks as one of the most highly regarded agencies in the world," said Gerber. "With a remarkable client list and extraordinary staff, we have everything a big city agency has to offer and then some."
Gerber, along with a first-rate account services staff and talented creative team, comprise this agency's Atlantic City office. With collective backgrounds including entertainment, banking, sports and gaming, it is no surprise that this local agency packs a big punch in the world of marketing.
Masterpiece's talent pool matches their top-name contacts. They operate alongside the biggest names in the nation. From dinners with Vice President Joe Biden to special events with Donald Trump, Masterpiece works with countless celebrities, athletes, politicians and dignitaries across the country.
"Everyone wants to be part of the fun and excitement, which is what makes events so successful if marketed properly. There is so much work behind the scenes. It takes a lot of hours," said Lacca. "We have organized a variety of special events with many celebrities and the buzz begins with pubic relations."
Over the years, Phyllis and her team have launched Saturday Night Live slots at Borgata with Dan Akroyd, worked with Playboy on multiple events and organized several of Donald Trump's birthday celebrations.
Most recently, the Atlantic City agency worked in Palm Springs, CA for two celebrity golf outings. The guest list included top athletes such as Michael Strahan, John Elway, Mario Lemieux, LaDainian Tomlinson, Charles Barkley, Jason Kidd and Ozzie Smith.
Treating each client like a true celebrity, this local agency stops at nothing to exceed expectations. National corporations such as Harrah's Entertainment, The Palm Restaurant, Penn National Gaming, Royal Caribbean and Foxwoods enlist the services of Masterpiece Advertising.
Many of the agency's staff got their start in the gaming industry, which benefits the extensive list of casino clients. With out-of-state competition looming over Atlantic City, state gaming taxes, and expanding casino markets, the industry is always seeking proactive ways to engage consumers. Therefore, Masterpiece gets creative so their clients get results.Casino promotions, outdoor billboards, and in-house signage must have synergy and a unique appeal to be effective. Using cutting-edge technology, provocative imagery and strong copy, Masterpiece develops eye-catching advertising that drives casino revenue. They understand the importance of return on investment and ensure that their clients' objectives are achieved.
"Masterpiece understands casino marketing which is vital when working with a brand like Harrah's," said LuAnn Fetcho, Vice President of Marketing, Harrah's Entertainment Atlantic City Operations. "Masterpiece's campaigns just blow me away. Each creative execution resonates with targeted player segments and result in successful promotions."
Founded in 1994 primarily as an advertising agency, Masterpiece has evolved with the trends in the industry to become a full-service marketing communications firm. They have integrated their services which transcends their campaigns across all media from print to broadcast and online.
The Internet has played a large role in the transformation of the marketing industry. People have access to products 24 hours a day, placing extra emphasis on the demand for web and email campaigns. Combined with the power of personalization and interactivity, the Internet has created a demand for marketing to always be fresh and appealing. This continually expanding media seamlessly merges traditional marketing with new age technology. Keeping up with the most cutting-edge technology and programs puts the agency a step ahead. Masterpiece's graphic designers and flash programmers offer an online approach that is sure to impact its' audience.
The technology-driven world means that Masterpiece can be anywhere at anytime. According to Lacca, they are able to be in three places at once so being based in Atlantic City isn't limited. On a typical day, Masterpiece is creating an ad for a property in Miami, on a phone conference with executives in Los Angeles and designing a billboard to be installed in Chicago, all without leaving the office.
Working with well-known companies isn't limited to their client list. This hometown agency works with numerous local and national charities as well as non-profits to offer their time, expertise and services. Boys & Girls Club, Gilda's Club and South Jersey AIDS Alliance benefit from the agency's philanthropic contributions. Phyllis and her team are currently working with Caroline and Sidney Kimmel to host the Inaugural Ball to benefit the Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson in Philadelphia on June 11, 2009.
With New York style flair, cunning casino experience and incredible spirit, Masterpiece is a prestigious agency with proven success. If you are looking for outstanding public relations or a marketing campaign, look no further than Masterpiece Advertising for Big Apple worthy work. For more information about Masterpiece, log online to www.masterpieceadvertising.com.