Written by: Lauren McKinney

They say marketing is both an art and a science—and at Madison+Main, we believe the magic happens where creativity meets cold, hard data. Think of it like peanut butter and jelly. They’re very different, but together? Pure gold.

Today, we’re diving into how data analytics supercharges creative campaigns, giving you not just a good-looking brand—but one that gets results. Whether you’re building a bold billboard, launching an ad campaign, or just trying to figure out why that Instagram post tanked, data can guide your next big move (and maybe even your next viral moment).

Creativity Is Great—But Metrics Make It Matter

It’s easy to fall in love with a clever headline or eye-catching video. But if nobody’s clicking, sharing, or buying… what’s the point? Enter: data.

When used right, analytics help us answer key questions like:

• Who’s engaging with your content?
• What messaging gets the most traction?
• Which platform performs best for your audience?

And we’re not just talking about likes and views. Deep insights like bounce rate, CTR (Click-Through Rate), session duration, and audience segmentation let us craft campaigns that connect—and convert.

Still not convinced? According to Forbes, marketers who use data-driven strategies are six times more likely to be profitable year over year. Now that’s a stat worth posting about.

Creative Gets Smarter with Segmentation

Would you send the same flirty text to your mom and your crush? We sure hope not. That’s why audience segmentation matters.

By dividing your audience into groups based on behavior, demographics, or interests, you can serve up creative that actually resonates.

• Want to wow Gen Z? Go bold with Reels and TikToks.
• Reaching busy parents? Emphasize value, time-saving, and trust.
• Targeting decision-makers in B2B? Lead with expertise and authority.

Thanks to tools like Google Analytics 4 and Meta Business Suite, we can analyze user paths, conversion funnels, and engagement patterns to fine-tune creative for each slice of your audience pie.

A/B Testing: The Lab Coat of Marketing

One idea is good. Two ideas? Better—because then we get to test them.

A/B testing (aka split testing) is the scientific way to settle creative debates like:

• “Should the button be red or blue?”
• “Is ‘Sign Up’ better than ‘Let’s Go’?”
• “Will the cat meme beat the product shot?” (Spoiler: probably.)

By measuring actual performance metrics, we make creative decisions based on results—not just gut feelings. And when the numbers back you up? That’s the kind of confidence data delivers.

Want proof? HubSpot reports that A/B testing emails alone can improve conversion rates by up to 49%. That’s inbox science, baby.

Data Sparks Better Brainstorms

Data doesn’t stifle creativity—it fuels it. When we dig into the numbers, we spot trends, gaps, and unexpected insights that inspire big, bold ideas.

Example: If your audience always shares your behind-the-scenes content, that’s a sign to lean into authenticity and transparency. If your top-performing emails use emojis in the subject line (), guess what’s making a comeback?

Instead of throwing spaghetti at the wall, we’re crafting the perfect noodle—every time.

At Madison+Main, We Mix Art + Algorithm

We’re not just number nerds or creative wizards—we’re both. Our campaigns blend strategy with sparkle, turning insights into big ideas that make your brand shine.

From data-powered branding to click-worthy content, we believe great marketing isn’t just about looking good—it’s about working smart. So if your brand is ready for a digital glow-up that’s just as strategic as it is stylish, we’ve got the tools, the team, and the talent to make it happen.

Give us a call at (877) 623-6246 or fill out our contact form to start building campaigns backed by science—with a bold and badass twist.

This week, boss man Dave Saunders is working in Texas with the Madison+Main leadership team. They’re doing a branding deep dive deep down in the Lone Star state with our newest client – the City of New Braunfels. I’m Lauren McKinney, and I have staged a hostile takeover of the Weekly Report. As they say, “When the cat’s away, the mice will play.”

That’s not all they say – adages and proverbs (old sayings that are passed down through generations) are a staple of conversation in our world. As a copywriter, like Dave, I too have a fascination with etymology, so I was excited to share some word nerd stuff this week. Let’s run through some popular phrases people use – often incorrectly.

How often have you heard, “Birds of a feather flock together?” This saying highlights that people with like minds and interests often find themselves connected by them. However, there’s a long history of colloquial phrases being shortened in a way that changes their meaning completely. The entire phrase reads: “Birds of a feather flock together, until the cat comes.” Voila! The perspective shifts – similarity can connect us, but it’s in times of difficulty that you find out who your real friends are. 

“Curiosity killed the cat.” My mom said this to me more times than I can count, and I wish I’d known the full phrase then. It finishes with, “but satisfaction brought it back.” Aha! A devastatingly effective comeback, and again, an almost total shift in meaning. Use the full phrase at your own discretion, especially around my mom. 

“The early bird gets the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.” This one is very useful if someone is trying to enforce an early morning activity. I will not go hiking on my weekends until 8 a.m. I am the second mouse. I don’t even like worms. And who doesn’t like cheese?! 

Finally, my very favorite one of these chopped-up phrases: “Blood is thicker than water.” This seems to be used mostly when people are highlighting the importance of family and our expectations of them – after all, we’re related, right? But the full phrase reveals the twist: “The blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb.” Ultimately, we choose our bonds, our community, and our family – and that choice reveals who we are far more than the biological connections we inherit. 

In a world undergoing a lot of change, it’s increasingly important to nurture that connection to your community and your people, many of whom probably ARE your biological family! At Madison+Main, I have found a second family full of lovable goofballs and incredible creatives, and I’m proud to be a part. Take some time today, if you can, to connect with your people and give back to your community. And don’t eat any worms. Or do…it’s your life!

Your regularly scheduled programming returns next week – as does Dave! – but feel free to email us your thoughts, upcoming events, or any favorite phrases! I’m adding to my lexicon.

MONDAY:

TEXAS ROADTRIP

The Leadership Team headed west to visit our newest client, the City of New Braunfels, in the great state of Texas. We explored, ate, drank, and of course, were merry. We can’t wait to show everyone what this not-so-hidden gem of a destination has to offer. And hey, if you’re looking for somewhere new to travel to this summer, New Braunfels might be the perfect place for you.

TUESDAY:

HAPPY EARTH DAY TO YOU

Think globally, act locally. This Earth Day, we’re proud to support our client, Virginia Energy Sense, and their mission to help Virginians save energy, money, and the planet—one kilowatt at a time. Learn how you can save green in more ways than one when you visit ValueYourPower.org.

WEDNESDAY:

BLAST CRIME AWAY

We are proud to be a beverage sponsor at the third annual Blast Crime Away: Sporting Clays Tournament hosted by Richmond Crime Stoppers on Monday, May 19, at Old Forge Sporting Clays. Support reducing crime in our Commonwealth while enjoying lunch, raffle prizes, and other fun activities. Registration starts at 9:00 a.m., the event starts at 10:00 a.m.

THURSDAY:

BUT FIRST, COFFEE (SLEEVES)

The only thing that should be stronger than your court case is your coffee. Our Creative Team designed custom coffee sleeves for River City Trial Solutions, perfectly suited for their swagger and presence at the 2025 VADA Conference. 

FRIDAY:

ON THE AIR

On the air, again. I just can’t wait to get on the air again! Another Friday morning means another chance to chat with my good friend Rich Herrera on WRVA’s Richmond Morning News. Here’s what’s happening in good ole RVA this weekend, ICYMI.

I don’t remember much from my four years of Latin, but a few short phrases have stayed with me through the years. I have committed many age-old adages to memory as reminders of purpose and personal mantras. To sound smart, I will drop them into conversations once in a while.

“Tempus fugit” means time flies. I can hardly believe that we’ll be celebrating our 1st birthday of the Texas Inn in Richmond on Monday, 4/21. (We actually opened on 4/20, but will be closed for Easter — we give our folks a day off for all major holidays.) These 365 days have flown by fast. There have been more ups than downs, and we seem to have found our niche among a very discerning RVA dining scene. We’re the exact opposite of the RVA dining scene.

We’re not New American Cuisine. We’re an old-school diner. 
We’re not expensive. We’re cheap.
We’re not complicated. We’re simple.
We’re not vegan. We’re meatatarian.

“Carpe Diem” means seize the day. We signed a lease on 4/1 and opened 19 days later. It was a lot of work, but we got it done. 

“Bona Fide” means in good faith. Just like all of our Texas Inn locations, we really tried to connect to the community in Richmond this last year. We’ve held fundraising events for Make-A-Wish, Real Life, Caritas, and supported other great organizations through donations to RAL (Richmond Animal League), Fox Elementary PTA, Richmond Education Foundation, and HumanKind. We’ve tried to be a good neighbor.

“Audaces Fortuna Juvat” means fortune favors the bold. If you know me, this Latin phrase is in my mantra. Is it bold to open an old-school diner when so many classic spots are closing? Yes. Now you know where I got the idea I’ve been telling clients, friends, and colleagues for 20 years at Madison+Main. Bold brands win.

MONDAY:

SWEETIE BOY GOES TO CALIFORNIA

Our client, Sweetie Boy Delivers, hit the road (or maybe the air) to the Finished Vehicle Logistics Conference this past weekend in Huntington Beach, CA. Our friends were in gear, networking with industry leaders, exploring the future of auto transport, and showcasing how they’re driving innovation in vehicle delivery. We’re proud to see them representing with style, smarts, and that signature Sweetie Boy hustle.

TUESDAY:

1ST BIRTHDAY FOR TEXAS INN RICHMOND

We’re preparing for Texas Inn’s first birthday in RVA! We’ve been making plenty of relish, laying out lots of merch, and plan to serve a truckload of Cheesies. Save the date, join us for the festivities, and get a free koozie with any purchase on Monday, April 21. RSVP here!

WEDNESDAY:

THE HILLS ARE ALIVE

Our new client, McCormick Hill Farms, hosted some of the Madison+Main-iacs to check out their beautiful grounds, and of course, the real stars of the show, the cows and horses. Memories were made, snoots were booped, and the whole crew had an a-moo-zing time.

Big thanks to McCormick Hills for the warm welcome and the chance to see where premium quality truly begins! Be on the lookout for some exciting news from them soon!

THURSDAY:

FOREWARD

HR Guru and fellow Rotarian Rich Salon is writing another book, and he gave me an advance copy a few weeks ago. On Thursday, I finished up the foreword he invited me to write. Edited. Emailed. Fingers crossed he likes it.

You can contact Rich for HR needs or get on the pre-order list for his new book by emailing him: rich@RichtheHRGuy.com.

FRIDAY:

ON THE AIR

“Friday, Friday. Gotta get down on Friday. Everybody’s looking forward to the weekend.” – Rebecca Black, Friday. That song is 14 years old now. Wow.

At 9:05 am this morning, I jumped on the airwaves with Rich Herera on WRVA 1140 AM/96.1 FM to give my weekly event update. Highlights included:

Tonight: No BS! Brass Band at The Broadberry. With special guest Sidechick. Show starts at 7:00 p.m. $15

Saturday: Dominion Energy Family Easter at Maymont: Enjoy Easter Bunny photos, games, and food trucks. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Carriage House Lawn.

Sunday: Easter on Parade: This beloved tradition returns to Monument Avenue from 1:00-5:00 p.m.

Written by: Lauren McKinney

April Fool’s Day is a golden opportunity for brands to flex their funny bone, surprise audiences, and create viral moments. And the fun isn’t limited to once every April–a brand that brings the laughs can win hearts and minds throughout the year.

Let’s be real—some brands struggle to knock it out of the park with prank marketing (remember Google’s “Mic Drop” disaster? Yikes.), while others successfully turn their jokes into pure marketing gold (like Taco Bell “buying” the Liberty Bell).

So, how do you get the giggles without the groans? Let’s break down the dos and don’ts of humor-forward marketing magic—because when done right, a little fun can go a long way in boosting engagement, brand love, and even sales.

1. Know Your Audience—Will They Laugh or Leave?

The first rule of comedy (and marketing)? Know your audience. Not every brand can get away with a snarky prank or an over-the-top joke. Before rolling out your campaign, ask yourself:

• Does this align with our brand’s personality?
• Will our audience find this funny—or frustrating?
• Are we staying lighthearted and inclusive?

According to Harvard Business Review, humor can boost brand likability and recall—but only if it feels authentic to your audience. If your brand is all about professionalism, a joke about firing your CEO might not land well. (Looking at you, Volkswagen’s fake “Voltswagen” stunt!)

2. Keep It Light—Nobody Likes a Mean Prank

The best brand jokes leave audiences smiling, not steaming. Even April Fool’s isn’t the time for pranks that annoy, inconvenience, or mislead customers too much. 

A winning example: In 2018, LEGO introduced a “Brick Sorting Vacuum” that had every parent of a LEGO-loving kid desperately hoping it was real. Of course, it was fake, but also funny, clever, and totally on-brand.

A fail to remember: In 2019, Google rolled out that aforementioned “Mic Drop” button on Gmail allowing users to end an email thread with an animated Minion GIF—except people accidentally hit it on important emails. The backlash was so bad, Google had to remove it within hours.

Pro tip: If your joke could cause confusion, frustration, or make people feel tricked, rethink it.

3. Play with Products: Fake Launches = Real Laughs

Some of the best prank marketing comes in the form of fake product launches—especially when they’re just believable enough to make people wish they were real.

• Burger King’s “Left-Handed Whopper” (1998) – The fast-food giant announced a Whopper designed specifically for lefties, with ingredients rotated 180 degrees. Customers actually requested it!
• Tinder’s “Height Verification” (2019) – The dating app joked about rolling out a feature that would confirm users’ actual height. It sparked hilarious debates (and a lot of nervous short kings).
• McDonald’s “Milkshake Sauce Pots” (2021) – The idea of dipping fries in milkshakes wasn’t so far-fetched—which is why it went viral.

Want to go this route? Keep it light, brand-relevant, and fun enough that even when customers realize it’s fake, they’ll still be entertained.

4. Use Social Media to Go Viral

April Fool’s is prime time for social media engagement–but a great joke is timeless. A well-executed gag can rack up likes, shares, and media coverage—but only if it’s snappy, visual, and shareable. Recently, Duolingo’s Owl mascot was announced as dead – and then resurrected just a week or so ago. This isn’t the first sign of shenanigans from the brand, and their reputation as the internet’s class clown has served them well in terms of brand awareness–and app users. 

Want your brand’s joke to go viral? Make it visually engaging, easily shareable, and meme-worthy. GIFs, funny polls, and interactive elements increase engagement and make your prank more fun for followers.

5. Tie It Back to Your Brand—Because Marketing Still Matters

A good humor-focused campaign isn’t just funny—it’s strategic. The best pranks reinforce your brand’s personality, products, or values while getting people talking. If you can tie your joke back to what you actually offer, it boosts brand awareness while making people laugh—a win-win!

Final Thoughts: Fun Done Right

When done well, pro-level prank marketing can be hilarious, engaging, and even boost sales. The key? Keep it light, brand-relevant, and audience-friendly—and never make customers feel like the joke’s on them. 

Want to add more humor to your marketing—without waiting for April Fool’s 2026? Madison+Main is all about bold branding, creative campaigns, and messaging that sticks. Let’s craft a strategy that makes your audience laugh, engage, and most importantly—remember you.

Call us at (877) 623-6246 or reach out via our contact form—no pranks, we promise!

I am on a boat this week. Sailing Away. What a fool believes. This is it. Ride like the wind. The radio gives a perfect description of everything that’s happening. Sirius has a Yacht Rock Channel. How did I just find out about this?

It’s hard to write a masterpiece when you have one hand on the throttle and one hand on the radio. This week, I am moving my beloved Tug Life from Charleston, South Carolina, to ONIC (Ocracoke Island, North Carolina).

The Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is a very busy place in the Spring: northbound snowbirds, commercial barges, dredging operations, and 3700 small, no-wake signs purchased at the local West Marine. (It’s crazy….I can’t put up a 5 mph sign on a highway, but if you live on the ICW, you can.)

It’s been a great trip so far. We haven’t run aground or hit another vessel, but I did get scolded by a salty old dude at Carolina Beach. It was the radio equivalent of “get off my lawn.”

Special thanks to poorly paid and underfed First Mate Joshua Barber for being just crazy enough to make the journey with me. Do him a favor and check his fine art website (maybe buy a print).

MONDAY:

WOOFSTOCK

Save the date and get ready for one day of peace, love, music, and furry friends! Woofstock, presented by the Richmond Animal League will be held on Saturday, April 26 at 4951 Lake Brook Dr (near the Innsbrook Pavillion) in Glen Allen, Va. Our friends at Holiday Barn Pet Resorts are sponsoring the 2025 Woofstock Pet Parade, so bring your pup and get ready to strut, wag, and wow the crowd—all while supporting Richmond Animal League’s mission to help pets in need.

TUESDAY:

A TOAST TO…TOAST

On Tuesday, our Accounts Team snuck away for a team lunch at Toast at Scott’s Walk. Although my invite must’ve gotten lost in the mail or in a text thread (the FOMO was real), the team reported back that the food was delicious and merry times were had by all. They even took a pic to prove it!

WEDNESDAY:

PUTTING THE “AI” I “FAIL”

In the midst of our Social Team refreshing our social strategy, they experienced firsthand why generative AI is detrimental to authenticity and creativity—because who the heck are these figurines based on?! I know I sure didn’t hire these phonies. One positive: they got Lauren’s corgi right! If you want to see genuine Madison+Main happenings, follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

THURSDAY:

TAKE OUR AD-VICE

Ever wonder what a meeting looks like with us? Well, if it’s in the morning, expect sunny dispositions, a fully prepped team, and mouth-watering donuts (or another delectable treat). Our advice? Take two. There’s plenty of goodness to go around—especially with the Madison+Main-iacs.

FRIDAY:

ON THE AIR

On the air and on a boat…at the same time. This morning, I called into Richmond Morning News on WRVA from my beloved Tug Life to talk about all of the fun events happening around Richmond this weekend. ICYMI, check it out here. Or just scroll down to see the highlights.

As we cruise past the 5th anniversary of Novel Coronavirus Sars-19 aka Covid, I still can’t believe it’s been five years since our lives and businesses were upended and changed forever. 2020 seems like yesterday and so long ago at the same time. Of course, I still think that the 80s were only 20 years ago. I was never good at maths.

A friend of mine challenged me last week. “Name one good thing that came out of Covid.”

I thought long and hard and responded, “Jeep Ducks.”

In the early days of Covid, a lady named Allison Parliament – a Canadian citizen living in Alabama – was visiting friends and family in Ontario. She was accosted at a gas station by an angry man who accused her of spreading Covid to Canadians because of the Alabama license plate on her Jeep. The confrontation shook her deeply and it weighed heavy on the long drive back home. Fearful and sad, she pondered what to do next.

Allison chose kindness. In July 2020, she started placing little yellow rubber ducks on other Jeeps as a “random act of kindness” because she thought people needed a boost during Covid. By 2021, the practice of “Jeep Ducking” spread across social media,a and it is now commonplace to see a Jeep with their ducks in a row. The Facebook group she started has over 200,000 members.

Allison loved her Jeep, and Jeep loved her back. When she passed last year at the young age of 34, Jeep’s Facebook memorial and subsequent events in her honor were touching.

I’m on my third Jeep since 2005. I love them. My screensaver on my phone is my Jeep. I guess you could say that I’m a “Brand Ambassador.” After hearing this story, I decided I could spread a little kindness too….so I ordered 200 little rubber ducks, and I’m giving them away on behalf of another brand I love.

Stop by the Richmond Texas Inn with your Jeep and “get ducked.” We’ll give them away until we run out.

What “random act of kindness” can your brand do? Email me your idea….I’d love to share them with other folks in a future Weekly Report.

MONDAY:

SHRIMP AND SUDS

On Monday we got a request from some longtime readers of the Weekly Report. “Could you post about our fundraiser?” AYCE SHRIMP? BEER? Count me in! The Hanover Rotary is having its 40th Annual Shrimp & Suds Feast at Kings Dominion on Thursday, May 8th, from 4:30-8:00 p.m.! Shrimp, beer, and live music have been a Hanover Rotary tradition for 40 years—celebrate a relaxed afternoon with co-workers and friends while you enjoy spiced shrimp and a selection of beers, including Hardywood and Center of the Universe, while supporting Richmond area charities. More details and tickets can be found at www.HanoverRotary.org.

TUESDAY:

PUNK’D

By mid-afternoon Tuesday, I had completely forgotten that it was April Fool’s Day. Well, I started off the day by turning on lights in a room full of graphic designers who prefer working in the dark. “Hissssss…turn the light off!” Note to self: big light = bad; natural light = good. Deep in my laptop with 7 screens open, I get an urgent text from Creative Director Carissa Ghaffari, showing my recently detailed Jeep got sideswiped. I rushed downstairs, followed closely by Accounts Director Allison Nida who filmed me getting punk’d. &*^%$

WEDNESDAY:

VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA

What better way to spend National Volunteer Month than to get involved in our community? We’ve always loved partnering up with nonprofit organizations to help spread their message, and with April being National Volunteer Month, now’s the perfect time to give back to the causes that mean the most to us. If you don’t know where to start but want to spend some time doing some good, check out these volunteer opportunities with our some of our clients:

• Lucy Corr Foundation: Looking to donate your time to make a difference? Lucy Corr’s generous volunteers enhance the quality of life of residents and build meaningful relationships. Fill out the volunteer application to give a purpose to your passion.

• Hitting Cancer Below The Belt: spread awareness and join the fight to defeat colorectal cancer by volunteering at one of HCB2’s events. The 12th Annual Boxer Brief 5K is just around the corner.

THURSDAY:

CANINE FITNESS MONTH

There seems to be a month for everything these days! According to Google, April is also Canine Fitness Month. Looking for a way to help channel your pup’s zoomies into something a little less destructive? Or maybe they need to hit the showers after running through what we all hope is mud. Our friends at Holiday Barn Pet Resorts are offering some sweet deals on training and grooming services for first-timers. Give em a call to learn more!

Glen Allen: (804) 672-2200

Midlothian: (804) 794-5400.

FRIDAY:

ON THE AIR

This morning, I joined Rich Herrera bright and early on Richmond’s Morning News to chat about fun stuff to do in RVA this weekend. ICYMI, here’s the link.

In 2011, the United Nations passed Resolution 65/309, which led to the creation of the World Happiness Report. It’s a joint effort by the UN and Oxford University with data from 140 countries collected by Gallup. The data is analyzed by social scientists, and a report is released every March 20th – World Happiness Day.

I’ve just read the 2025 Report “The State of World Happiness,” and it made me sad. Not surprisingly, Afghanistan ranks dead last in happiness, at #140. The United States has dropped from the 11th happiest country in the world to the 24th in the last four years. (During the first year of COVID-19 in 2020, we actually rose on the happiness scale.) We now rank the lowest since the report was first written in 2011. This is an abject failure for a country that was founded on the principles of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” 

I did find some really interesting and amazing information on the root causes of our collective drop in happiness. The reasons are varied but mostly centered around the accelerating trend of social isolation.

• Rise in “deaths of despair” (depression and drug use)
• Decline in social support systems (family & social groups)
• Lack of confidence in public institutions (high crime and distrust of government)

The report cites several factors contributing to our collective unhappiness, but it also has some surprising research on how a few simple behavior changes can boost our individual happiness – and the happiness of friends, family, colleagues and neighbors.

The single biggest thing we can do to be happy is TO BE with our friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors. Americans spend more time alone than almost any other developed nation, and the trend is accelerating. We’re spending less time with family and friends, less time in social settings and more time isolated in our work. 53% of Americans in the Gallup poll reported they ate most of their meals alone the previous day. 

Social scientists say one of the biggest drivers in increasing our happiness is sitting at a table with others and eating a meal. It was such a huge driver to support individual happiness that the authors wrote an entire 92-page chapter on the topic.

Having a bite with Mom. Sitting at the dining room table once a week. Going out with friends for lunch. Date night at the neighborhood restaurant. I’m not saying this cures all of our ills, but if social isolation is the root cause of unhappiness, then why not make one small behavior change and share a meal with others? 

Does anyone want to join me for lunch? I know a great little diner in the Museum District called Texas Inn. I’m serious. Email me. “Let’s do lunch.”

MONDAY:

LUNCH BUNCH

Three Madison+Main-iacs proactively increased their happiness, not knowing this was the topic of this week’s Weekly Report, and went out and enjoyed a lunch together. Account Executive Brandon Segres won a raffle for a gift card to Fogo De Chao in Short Pump. Along with Account Executive Anne Bowers and Sr. Graphic Designer AJ Stuit, the trio got to sit with the Sales Manager, Rachel Boulais, who talked us through the restaurant’s offerings should we ever need an event space for our clients. They reported back saying the food was DELICIOUS, and they all got the meat sweats. Sounds like a great team bonding experience—just look at those smiles!

TUESDAY:

PRESIDENT MOLLY TOUR

M+M Madame President Molly Whitfield flew into town this week to spend face-to-face time with the team. On Tuesday, she got a guided tour of the new and improved office environs at 101 E. Cary St.

Afterwards, she spent most of the day in the Ocean Conference Room holding court as a steady parade of colleagues lined up for meetings and meals!

WEDNESDAY:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LEANNE

It’s always sunny in Richmond, especially when VP Leanne Pillow is around. We were able to celebrate her birthday all week, and rightly so. Leanne is the kind of person who lights up a room with her smile and hugs. Happy 21st birthday to the merriest Madison+Main-iac. Disclaimer: She started working here as a freshman in high school.

THURSDAY:

MARCH SADNESS

Apparently, the odds of getting a perfect March Madness Bracket is 1 in 9.2 quadrillion. Yet I created six different brackets (3 for charity, 2 for money, and one for Madison+Main). Nevertheless, I’m sad that five of my six brackets are totally busted. The only bracket I have that’s doing well is the one against my fellow Madison+Main-iacs. This year’s strategy was simple. I found VP Leanne Pillow’s bracket on the copier at work, and I copied most of her picks. If she does poorly, I could blame her. If she does well, I can ride her coattails to victory. Leanne and I are currently tied for 2nd behind the incomparable Carissa Ghaffari, who has Kentucky winning it all.

FRIDAY:

ON THE AIR

It’s official, officially. Rich Herrera is the new host of Richmond’s Morning News on WRVA, and after making an epic cross-country trip from Arizona to Virginia this week, he is now in Richmond. This morning, I joined him to chat about fun stuff to do in RVA this weekend. ICYMI, here’s the link.

Highlights include: Rebecca Black, who is playing at the Broadberry tomorrow night (Saturday, March 29).

Written by: Lauren McKinney

In the digital world, your website is your storefront, your handshake, and your best salesperson—all rolled into one. And just like an outdated, dusty brick-and-mortar shop wouldn’t attract customers, an outdated, clunky website won’t do your brand any favors.

A wow-worthy website is more than just a pretty homepage; it’s a powerful business tool that boosts credibility, attracts customers, and—most importantly—converts. So, let’s break down the must-haves for a website that wows, works, and wins.

1. First Impressions Matter – Make Them Count

You have 0.05 seconds to make an impression on a visitor (yes, you read that right!). According to Forbes, first impressions are 94% design-related, meaning your visuals, layout, and branding are the first things that determine whether visitors stay—or bounce faster than a bad Tinder date.

Use a clean, modern design
Keep branding consistent (colors, fonts, and logo placement)
Ensure intuitive navigation—users shouldn’t have to go on a scavenger hunt to find your services

And please, ditch the clutter—if your homepage looks like a yard sale of competing CTAs (calls to action), your visitors won’t know where to go next.

2. Make It Mobile-Friendly – or Risk Losing Half Your Visitors

Let’s be real—no one wants to pinch and zoom their way through a website that wasn’t designed for mobile. According to Google, over 60% of searches come from mobile devices, and 57% of users say they won’t recommend a business with a poorly designed mobile site.

Your site should adapt seamlessly to every screen size, whether your audience is browsing on a phone, tablet, or oversized desktop monitor. Not sure if your site makes the cut? Run it through an Online Mobile-Friendly Test to see if your UX needs a little TLC.

3. Speed Matters – Because No One Likes to Wait

If your website loads slower than grandma’s Wi-Fi, your visitors will leave—and fast. A delay of just one second can reduce conversions by 7%, according to HubSpot.

Compress images and files
Minimize unnecessary plug-ins
Upgrade to a faster hosting provider

Still slow? Might be time to talk to the experts–-and we’re proud to be partners our clients can count on to help them maximize their marketing, and minimize your loading time.

4. SEO: Because a Gorgeous Website is Useless if No One Can Find It

Having a sleek, professional website is great—but if it’s buried on page two of Google, it’s not working for you. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is what helps your website rank higher in search results, bringing more eyes (and potential customers) to your business.

Quick SEO wins:

Use relevant keywords naturally throughout your site (but don’t overstuff!)
Optimize meta titles and descriptions to boost click-through rates
Add alt text to images (Google likes accessible content!)
Publish fresh content regularly—blogs, updates, or case studies

Pro tip: Google loves websites that provide value. HubSpot reports that companies that blog get 55% more website visitors than those that don’t—so keep your content fresh!

5. Strong Calls to Action – Because Visitors Need a Nudge

If your website isn’t guiding visitors toward action, you’re missing out on valuable conversions. Whether you want people to book a call, sign up for a newsletter, or make a purchase, your Call to Action (CTA) needs to be:

Clear & concise (“Get a Free Quote” > “Learn More”)
Eye-catching (contrast colors help!)
Placed above the fold (don’t make visitors scroll to find it)

And let’s talk about button copy: “Submit” is boring. “Let’s Get Started!” sounds way more inviting, don’t you think?

6. Security & Trust – Because Customers Are Cautious

Would you enter your credit card details into a sketchy-looking website? Nope. And neither will your customers. A secure site builds trust and ensures your visitors feel safe browsing (and buying!)

SSL Certificate (if your site isn’t HTTPS, Google will penalize you)
Trust badges (especially if you handle payments)
Privacy policy (transparency matters!)

According to Cybersecurity Ventures, cybercrime is expected to cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, so securing your site isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a necessity.

7. Keep It Fresh – Regular Updates Are Key

A website that hasn’t been updated in years looks outdated and untrustworthy. Keep things fresh by:

Updating images and banners to reflect current promotions
Refreshing your About and Team pages—people love knowing who’s behind the brand
Removing broken links and outdated information

Think of your website like a storefront window—if it’s dusty and hasn’t changed in years, people will assume your business is out of date too.

Ready to wow? It’s as easy as point and click:

Your website isn’t just a digital placeholder—it’s a powerful business tool that should work just as hard as you do. Whether you need better branding, faster loading speeds, or stronger calls to action, a little TLC can turn your site from “meh” to “WOW!”

If your website could use a refresh (or a complete overhaul), Madison+Main is here to help! From stunning web design to SEO strategies that put you on the map, we know what it takes to build wow-worthy websites that drive results.

Ready to upgrade your site? Reach out today! We’d love to chat and help your business stand out online – just call us at (877) 623-6246 or fill out our contact form to get started!

My generation, Gen X, was the “latchkey generation.” We walked home from school and let ourselves in the house. We turned on MTV and then turned into “Couch Potatoes.” We were born between 1965 and 1980-ish. We grew up with parachute pants, Members Only jackets, and really, really, really great music.

We then got married and had Millenial and Gen Z babies. We walked them to the bus stop, handed them a phone or tablet to pacify them, and dressed them in flannel shirts and leggings. Musically, they listen to literally every genre of music… sometimes 80s pop. 

Every generation has its differences and similarities, but Gen X and Gen Z are miles apart in one respect. Only 29% of Gen Xers took the entrepreneurial route. 60% of Gen Z plans to start a business and that’s the highest number ever polled in a generation. Gen X is statistically only half of a generation population-wise, which means folks my age who are business owners are few and far between.

And lately it seems the ages of business owners I meet are increasingly younger.

This week I met a 12-year-old Girl Scout who sold me some cookies. I didn’t catch her name, so I’ll call her Emily (the most popular girl’s name for Z, btw). Emily was smiling and confident as I approached the table in front of Kroger. 

“I need a box of Thin Mints…for a friend,” I said. “Yes sir. But don’t you need some cookies for yourself?” Emily replied. It was the best upsell I’ve ever had. Emily had me hooked. I bought 4 boxes. The 12-year-old said she was going to open her own bakery one day. Wow.

On Wednesday I met a 19-year-old recent high school grad who started his own car detailing service. I hired him to make my Jeep sparkle. Wesley has a mobile detail service called Pristine Finish Pros that officially opened in January. He was kind, courteous, helpful, and did a great job.

I found the Girl Scout Cookie sale on Facebook. Wesley is running ads through Instagram. They both got this customer through targeted ads on my social media. I guess the algorithms told them I’m a fat guy with a dirty Jeep. #truth

For Gen Z the digital world is the world they were born into. They’ve already mastered the art of advertising on social media. To the next generation, I would say congrats and “go for it.” Do not let your fears hold you back from achieving great success as business owners.

MONDAY:

ST. PADDY’S DAY

After all of the shenanigans from St. Paddy’s Day weekend, the team signed on to our Monday Morning Meeting alive, awake, alert, and enthusiastic — most of us even wore green! If we had pics, I’d prove it. But we don’t, so you’ll just have to take my word for it. Senior Copywriting Manager Derek Fair and I scheduled a meeting at Rosie Connelly’s at 3 p.m. Monday. The meeting lasted 4 hours and was very productive. (Question: can I expense the bar tab?)

TUESDAY:

MNI @ M+M

This week’s edition of Team Tuesday was even bigger and better than the last two. We sat down with our partners at MNI to talk shop—discussing client updates, business goals, and how their capabilities can help us level up. One big takeaway? With MNI in our corner, we’ve got some of the most advanced targeting tools at our fingertips, allowing us to reach the right audiences both digitally and in the wild. Their cutting-edge tech keeps us ahead of the curve, ensuring our clients’ messages land exactly where they need to. That, and lunch from Little Mexico is always a crowd-pleaser. Big things ahead!

WEDNESDAY:

MOLLY W.’S BIRTHDAY/SEVEN YEARS WITH CARISSA

Wednesday was a HUGE day for celebrations at Madison+Main. Put on your party hats and join us in celebrating the birthday of our beloved President, Molly Whitfield, AND the seventh anniversary of Creative Director Carissa Ghaffari joining the Madison+Main crew. These women are two of the smartest, most capable women I’ve had the pleasure of knowing, and they deserve to be celebrated every day. From the bottom of the hearts of everyone at M+M, thank you for everything you both do!

THURSDAY:

ON THE PANEL

On Thursday morning I had a lot of work to do before noon. I’ve entered five March Madness Brackets. (1 for fun, 2 for fund$ and 2 for charity). After studiously entering my picks into ESPN, CBS Sports, and X, I raced over to University of Richmond for the Virginia Council of CEOs March Luncheon. 

I was honored to sit next to Eddie O’Leary (Co-Lab), Ilsa Loeser (Letter Press Communications), TJ Ronayne (Gropen) and moderator Bryant Harrison (7th Wall). We each shared stories about what it’s like to replace yourself with a CEO. I had glowing things to say about M+M Chief Molly Whitfield.

FRIDAY:

NEW CLIENT(S) ANNOUNCEMENT

We are thrilled to welcome two new clients to the Madison+Main family! Sweetie Boy Transportation, a nationwide vehicle transport company specializing in safe, reliable, and hassle-free car shipping for dealers and consumers based in Richmond. And McCormick Hill Farms is a historic, family-owned pasture-to-plate farm in Somerset, Virginia that provides high-quality beef with no hormones or antibiotics. 

We began work this week on brand vision, marketing strategy, and of course, and met their office dog, Hannah. #whatasweetie

Be on the lookout for some bada$$ new billboards and other sweet things coming your way. 

Longtime readers of the Weekly Report will know I have stated “98% of all business is small business” on many occasions: in 2013, 2016, 2017, 2021, and last year, the phrase popped into two blogs I wrote.

The SBA says that 99.9% of companies have less than 1,000 employees. 98% of all businesses have less than 100 employees. They employ almost half of all US workers. Last year, 70% of all new jobs created in the US were by companies with 100 or fewer employees.

Separately, these businesses, dotted through each and every community, do not have any political clout. They can’t get preferential treatment from local, state, or federal organizations because they don’t have lobbyists. They are subject to the same regulations as much larger companies despite having much smaller resources. As a result, they pay a disproportionate amount of tax and face greater regulatory hurdles than their big top 2% counterparts. 

Shopping at small businesses one day a year, the day after Black Friday, is not enough. They rely on your support every day of the year.

I spent time talking with business leaders at the US Chamber of Commerce and NFIB (National Federation of Independent Businesses) earlier this week. These organizations collectively provide a voice for small business owners. You may not have the ability to hire a lobbyist to meet with members of Congress or petition the state legislature to change a law or regulation, but they do. NFIB has a top 10 list of things they are working on behalf of small business owners.

Memberships in local chambers of commerce and other business organizations have declined precipitously over the last years. Between COVID-19 and the sluggish economy, many small businesses have decided to pull back on memberships. And that’s a shame. My advice is re-engage your local chamber and join NFIB if you’re not already a member.

Small businesses need to have a larger voice. Together, we can do that.

MONDAY:

KIEBS IS BACK!

Raise an espresso martini in the air, because Super-Star Account Manager Leigh Ann “Kiebs” Kiebler is back in the saddle at Madison+Main. After a long year without her, Kiebs has rejoined the Madison+Main-iacs and we’re so excited to have her, and so are our clients. Leigh Ann is never allowed to leave us again. 

TUESDAY:

TEAM TUESDAY TAKE TWO

Team Tuesday, part two! We gathered to knock out meetings and collaborate on projects for our clients, both familiar and new. Connecting in-office will give us the opportunity to feature our amazing team more and jump on some fun trends for our socials, so stay tuned to see what the Madison+Main-iacs come up with. You won’t want to miss it. Follow us here!

WEDNESDAY:

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL FUNDRAISER

I was able to re-connect with a very special person in my son Jack’s life, his 3rd grade teacher Suzanne Cousins. Suzanne, now retired, is on the board of the Children’s Hospital of Richmond, and she dropped by to let me know about a cool event coming up. “Words & Wisdom,” featuring rock and roll legendary drummer Mark Schulman, will be held Thursday, April 24th at Dewey Gottwald Center (2301 Leigh St, Richmond). Schulman has performed with Pink, Billy Idol, Stevie Nicks, Foreigner, Cheryl Crow, and Cher. As a cancer survivor, he has a lot to share. Learn more about this fundraiser at chfwisdom.org.

THURSDAY:

PAGING FUTURE DR. MRS. BENSON, D.D.S.

W“Don’t worry, guys, I’m NOT getting engaged.” –Account Executive, Anne Bowers before taking vacation days last week.

Well, Anne, it’s safe to say you’d be out of a job if you were a fortune teller. A HUGE congratulations to our very own Anne Bowers on her engagement, and an equally big congratulations to her fiancé Zach Benson on being able to COMPLETELY surprise her with his proposal. Her nickname since joining us has been “Anne with an E,” and now we know the “E” stands for Engagement. Happy forever, you two!

FRIDAY:

PI DAY

Celebrate Pi Day (3.14) today with a slice of pie for only $3.14 at Texas Inn. 100% of the proceeds are donated to public school non-profits in Lynchburg, Richmond, and Harrisonburg. Pie sales in Richmond will benefit the RPS Education Foundation. Drop by, buy some pie, and help kids— #winwinwin!

Just head to Texas Inn Richmond, at

2901 Park Ave. Richmond, VA.

I was on WRVA this morning with all the St. Paddy’s Weekend events, too. ICYMI.