We recently ran a contest through Zoopa, the world’s largest source of user-generated advertising, back in October to find our newest holiday TV ad. The winner was “Something for Everyone” by Tim Merlau.
Tim, a 22-year-old freelance writer and director living in Los Angeles, produces videos with a group of close friends from film school. He did a great job in capturing the essence of Zappos holiday gift giving with his catchy 30-second spot.
We thought we’d ask Tim a couple of questions to get to know more about the creative mind behind "Something for Everyone".
Where are you from?
T: I grew up in Tallahassee, Florida.
Where’d you attend school?
T: I graduated from Full Sail University in Orlando in 2009.
What’s your background in video production?
T: I received a Bachelor's of Science degree in film production from Full Sail University, and my friends and I have been making commercials, music videos, and comedy shorts for the past two years.
Are you a customer of Zappos yourself? If so, what initially drew you to the company?
T: I have ordered clothes from Zappos before. I like the variety Zappos offers, and the return policy doesn’t hurt!
How did you come up with the concept for the “Something for Everyone” ad?
T: We wanted to make a classic, lighthearted, Christmas commercial that focused on the range of products Zappos has to offer. I like the idea of seeing characters receiving gifts "in their element" without actually seeing their faces- and of course the catchy melody is sure to be stuck in your head for hours.
What's your favorite and least favorite thing about the holidays?
T: My favorite thing about the holidays: the cold weather. I love the change in the seasons. My least favorite thing: travel. I do not like the crowded airports.
Be on the lookout for Tim's winning video ad on cable networks such as TBS, E!, ABC Family, ESPN, The Weather Channel and more!
