Inflatable Mascots Make for a Great Grand Opening Idea

Ashley Furniture Wellness Center "Big Guy"

When Ashley Furniture called and requested we make a smiley-faced doctor for their grand opening, we were a little confused. A doctor for a furniture store? Once they explained, it all made sense.

Ashley Furniture, in conjunction with a local medical facility, opened an on-campus clinic for employees and covered family members. To help announce the new clinic, they created a friendly cartoon doctor to serve as their mascot. Used in all communications and marketing about the new facility, Ashley decided the doc would make a wonderful grand opening idea. They contacted Landmark Creations to design a 15-foot-tall inflatable mascot.

They were hoping that the addition of the inflatable version of the mascot would provide big benefits at the grand opening and also press conferences. What results did they get? Improved foot traffic, more recognition, positive comments from everyone and press coverage on TV, radio and in the newspaper.

Shannon Duha, Creative Director for Ashley commented, "The inflatable exceeded our expectations of use. Everyone immediately sought an answer for 'what he was doing there' - it was PERFECT!"

Featured in Landmarketing Issue 27

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What Others Say About Landmark Creations

"This year’s event was the highest attended in some time, and the [inflatable] astronaut, front and center on our Portico, was a great visible draw from all over the area."

- Dennis Bateman, Carnegie Science Center

"Our tunnel was also a great addition to our pre-game tradition: the Wildcat walk. Our city shuts down three blocks of downtown, and we have hundreds of fans lining the streets with a police escort, while we walk to the stadium."

- Sam Baker, Head Football Coach at Waconia High School

"Since they were purchased, these Sonic areas have attracted a great deal of attention when using the cup at the store or at special events in the community. [...] You have been excellent to do business with, always letting us know about any special deals and shipping the items quickly so we can start putting them to work. I appreciate your attention to our group of Sonics and for handling your business in a very professional manner, always delivering any information I need when making a decision. Here is a special thanks, with a "cherry on top."

- Mason-Harrison, Jarrard Enterprises

"[There was] fun, excitement, and encouragement for everyone to actually walk under/through [the arch] and it worked. We have cheerleaders and small children at the finish line by the arch handing out stickers, saying ‘I did it.’ Before we had the arch, [people] would straggle in anywhere."

- Jackie Allen, March of Dimes

“The likeness to our company mascot was amazing. We used the balloon at the Winn Dixie Home & Garden show ... and we have had rave reviews.”

- Christy Bernard, Tony Chachere’s

"Give our races a 'big event' feel. They look cool in photos and videos, and they help us establish the look and feel of our brand."

- Sam Abbitt, Savage Race