People  are calling Starbucks new Via Instant Coffee a “down-market” drink. I think the drink and its rollout embody all that a company should in a time of recession – change and development. It may not be the same as a freshly brewed cup of Breakfast Blend, but it’s most certainly a step up from home- (or office-)brewed Folgers!

Those of you who know me, know that I preach renewal, change, adaptation, and perseverance during these hard times. Starbucks closed around 600 stores in 2008. They had to make changes to stay afloat. Tapping into a market that desires fast services for a smaller fee may help pull them through the recession.

The company hopes to tap into the huge market of instant coffee, while simultaneously boosting the not-so-popular beverage’s image. Their new product boasts a delicious cup of Joe for less than the cost of buying a brewed cup in-store. Buyers have been reportedly using the powder to bake with (I’d like to try this, as coffee greatly enhances the flavor of chocolate), as well as using it for its intended purpose – a fast cup of coffee during a busy work day.

I think they have a real shot at boosting sales and grabbing their share of the market. They’re providing a quality product that people can afford. I can’t wait to taste it!

Think they can pull this one off? I do. After all, they are the ‘Bucks!

Please share your thoughts on this!

The wonderful Erika Meiser of Diamond Virtual Services wanted an elegant and professional logo and website that included her chosen colors. Erika’s eggplant and cocoa color combo is a sure-fire winner! Erika’s site also includes some cool features like live chat and embedded video!Also, be sure to check out her blog!

Thanks for a fun project, Erika! We look forward to seeing your success in 2009!

Kathy’s logo and site have been an absolute joy to develop. Her style and and personality truly show through in her unique logo design.

Kathy asked me to use some special lettering to develop a font for her logo. It’s the Kathy Font! If you haven’t read her About Page to hear the story of her logo, you definitely should!

Kathy’s site is WordPress-based, and includes a blog section. It’s bright, uplifting, and truly unique!

Thanks, Kathy! It’s been a pleasure!

HaloSecretarialServices.com is an awesome VA specializing in virtual legal assistance. Laurie Mapp of Halo asked Mad Hatter to give her site and blog a fresh, new color scheme and to revamp her logo with the new color choices.

We’re so proud of how it came out! Check out Laurie’s website and blog!