Retail: Yankee Candle
Fostering joy and connection during the holiday season amidst the challenges of a global pandemic.
During my time at Newell Brands, I worked with a team to strategize and design the customer experience for the Holiday 2020 campaign. This presented a unique challenge, as the world was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. For a brand that thrives on connection and home gatherings, this was a significant challenge. We recognized the importance of keeping the holiday spirit alive during such difficult times, but we needed a plan.
Traditionally, Yankee Candle customers could book visits with Santa Claus at the flagship store in Deerfield, MA – a beloved part of the holiday experience. As part of that in-store experience, children were able to meet and chat with Santa, in addition to having photos taken. However, with the pandemic in full effect, this was not feasible in 2020.
To adapt, we launched Yankee Candle’s first virtual customer experience, Santa Cam. This innovative approach aimed to bring joy and foster connection during the holiday season, even amidst the challenges of a pandemic.
Company
Yankee Candle; subsidiary of Newell Brands
Role
Designer
Year
2020
Team Credits
Jillian Lizotte, Chris Roth, Tiffany Wrobel, Kristin Roy, Deirdre Smith, Meghan Morin, Anna Whitton
Introducing: Santa Cam
With families unable to visit Santa at the YC flagship store, we brainstormed other ways we could get people involved―virtually, from the safety of their homes. Partnering with TMA, we landed on launching something we called Santa Cam―the first ever for Yankee Candle and Newell Brands.
Our Santa Cam offered families a way to interact with Santa Claus so they could continue to celebrate their traditions, and provide a sense of familiarity and comfort during the difficult 2020 holiday season.
