From the time we gain consciousness as human beings, we’re aware of marketing. Everyone has a handful of ads that they just can’t forget. For marketers, those ads might make an even more lasting impression: they might shape our career ambitions long-term.
Anyone who works in marketing or advertising has one ad they’ve always wanted to emulate in some way. As Walk West’s new business manager and resident pop culture aficionado, I have five.
We’ve all got those ads that stick with us — the ones that make you laugh, get a jingle stuck in your head or even make you a little emotional. For me, certain ads are more than just commercials — they’re moments that shaped how I think about marketing.
Britney Spears and “The Joy of Pepsi”
Let’s be real: Britney was everywhere in the early 2000s, and when she teamed up with Pepsi, it was one word: iconic. The “Joy of Pepsi” ad had everything: a catchy song, dancing, and Britney in her full queen of pop mode. Pepsi’s always been good at pairing the biggest celebrities with their brand, and this one was no different. If you didn’t feel like grabbing a Pepsi after that, were you even watching?
Why It’s Memorable: Britney + catchy song = magic
M&M’s and Santa in “I Do Exist”
You know the one. It’s Christmas Eve, and Santa bumps into the M&M’s, and both sides are shocked: “I do exist!” Cue Santa fainting. It’s been a holiday staple for as long as I can remember. It’s the perfect blend of humor and holiday cheer, and it’s one of those ads that makes you smile no matter how many times you’ve seen it.
Why It’s Memorable: Humor + holiday nostalgia = timeless
Got Milk?
Who can forget the milk mustache? The “Got Milk?” campaign was everywhere. From athletes to actors, anyone who was anyone had a milk mustache at some point in the 90s and 00s. And that tagline? You just couldn’t forget it. Simple, to the point, and it worked.
Why It’s Memorable: Simple tagline + celebrities = memorable
Betty White and Snickers in “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry”
Betty White playing football? Instant classic. The Snickers ad featuring Betty getting tackled in a game is so funny and memorable because it was so unexpected. It’s part of their “You’re Not You When You’re Hungry” campaign, and pairing our favorite Golden Girls sweetness with a rough football scene made it all the better. It was quirky and unexpected — and who doesn’t love Betty White?
Why It’s Memorable: Humor + Betty White = hilarious
Budweiser Super Bowl XLVIII Commercial “Puppy Love”
Okay, if you didn’t get emotional during this one, are you even human? The “Puppy Love” commercial from Budweiser’s 2014 Super Bowl spot had everything: an adorable puppy, a Clydesdale horse, and the cutest friendship #BestBuds. The moment the Clydesdales chased down the car to bring their puppy friend home? Cue tears. Budweiser has always been great at tugging on heartstrings, and this ad nailed it.
Why It’s Memorable: Emotional storytelling + adorable animals = heartwarming
Ads That Impact Us
Each of these ads has something that makes it stick, whether it’s humor, nostalgia, or just an awesome jingle. They aren’t just about selling products — they’re about creating moments that you’ll remember year after year.
