NMC class markets creations

Marketing projects include energy drink, Manic Panic cosmetics

By LISA PERKINS
Herald staff writer

Catchy slogans and eye-catching advertisements are just part of what goes into a good marketing plan. Students in Kelly Littlefield's principles of marketing class at Northwestern Michigan College are learning just what it takes to build a successful marketing campaign by creating one of their own.
"They really come up with some creative ideas," Littlefield said. "When they come up with a unique product and try and sell it, you just don't know what to expect."
Last year's presentations included a visit from a three-month-old baby to demonstrate the appeal of Lamaze infant toys and a live demonstration of a disk jockey entertainment system complete with smoke, light and funky music.
"The development of the marketing plan is a semester-long project for each student and integrates knowledge with practical application and creativity. It's one of my favorite activities as an instructor," Littlefield said.
Jennifer Sienkiewicz, whose fictitious "2nd Wind-energy drink" was the topic of her presentation, sighted the desire for a "fruitier tasting" drink as one of the main selling points of her product.
"We also plan to give 10 percent of our profits to local school sports as a hook," Sienkiewicz noted.
Classmate Jessa Yancich chose an existing product, "Manic Panic" cosmetics as the focus of her marketing campaign.
"They don't just sell it, they wear it," said Yancich of Tish and Snooky, sisters who started the business that caters to performers.
Yancich's plan is to market the alternative line of make up, hair dyes and wigs to a broader base by using the postcard mailers she designed. Neon colored flyers, featuring the faces of Tish and Snooky, would offer "Manic Panic" news.
"I would love to really be able to do this, I hope to own a shop and sell just this kind of product someday," Yancich said.