2020 has been … a year. One we’ll never forget, that’s for sure. While some folks would prefer to hop in a time machine and skip ahead to a post-pandemic time when masks are but a memory, others find themselves reminiscing on holidays past.
For old time’s sake, let’s board that time machine and rewind a decade – or five. That’s right, we’re celebrating Turkey Day in the grooviest of decades: the 1970s!
What’s For Dinner?
In the ‘70s, plates were not only piled high with turkey but trendy foods, like green bean casserole, Stove Top stuffing and ambrosia salad (and anything involving Jello-O, really). Swanson’s Thanksgiving TV dinner was continuing to gain popularity and avocado-hued refrigerators were likely stocked with Cool Whip – another recent invention. Microwaves were appearing in more and more kitchens, much to the delight of late-night snackers.
Festive Fashion
Bellbottoms were all the rage in the ‘70s – although the snug fit didn’t exactly encourage overindulgence. No worries, a quick aerobics class or spinning sesh would have even the most zealous eaters back in their lycra leotards in no time.
Look & Listen
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving made its debut in 1973, but sports lovers likely tuned the tube to football. In fact, this Turkey Day tradition started back in 1934! Many iconic music artists burst onto the scene in the ‘70s, with performers like Bruce Springsteen, Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye and ABBA topping charts – and likely crooning in the background of many gatherings.
A New Age of Advertising
The boost in computer use helped marketers hone their skills, allowing them to gather consumer data and better understand their target demographic. Instead of the straightforward, purely informative messaging that had been the norm for decades, the ‘70s ushered in a more feelings-focused style of messaging. This appeal to consumers’ emotions proved very effective – and still does 50 years later.
Despite the rise of the feminist movement, much marketing was still aggressively sexist. But the tide started to turn in 1975 when TIME magazine granted its “Man of the Year” award to “American women.” Marketers followed suit in the years that followed, slowly shifting away from the overtly chauvinistic ads that today’s consumers would balk at.
Then & Now
While this year’s holiday season will look much different from years past, we still have so much to be thankful for. Here at Motivated Marketing, we’re grateful for our awesome clients – and the team of fellow motivators that we consider family. We’re also grateful for the marketers who came before us, setting the stage for the fast-paced ad world we live in.
Whether you’re remembering the holidays of yore, or finding new ways to celebrate the season, just know that Motivated Marketing is here to help! If you’re ready to talk strategy, email info@motivatedmarketing.com or call 843.856.7322.
Oh, and happy Thanksgiving!