
Hot Takes
If Your Brand Were a Person, Would It Be Invited to the Party?
Discover how Good Robot Brewing Co. turned personality into brand power—creating one of Atlantic Canada’s most iconic breweries by living their values at every touchpoint. Learn how we helped capture that energy.
What the Heck Is Fractional Marketing? (AKA the Smartest Way to Market Without Hiring In-House)
Tired of juggling freelancers or doing your own marketing? Charcoal Marketing offers fractional marketing services—your own part-time team of experts without the full-time cost. Based in Halifax, serving small to mid-sized businesses across Nova Scotia.
Halifax Marketing Agencies vs. Boutique Firms: Why the Right Fit Matters More Than the Flash
Exploring Halifax marketing agencies like Wunder and Trampoline? Learn why a boutique firm like Charcoal Marketing might be the better choice for small and mid-sized businesses.
Fast Builds, Bold Branding: The SmartCasa Launch
SmartCasa’s new show home wasn’t just a display of architecture—it was a turning point for the brand. It needed to attract buyers, spark conversation, and prove that modular builds weren’t just for cabins or cottages—they were a real solution for everyday living. So our job was to make sure the rollout matched the product: sharp, sustainable, and undeniably smart.
How to Market in an Uncertain Economy (Yes, Even This One)
Let’s just say it: the economy feels like it’s being held together by duct tape and vibes right now. Trump’s back, Canada’s heading to the polls, and the economy’s doing its best impression of a wobbly picnic table. Trade wars flare up, interest rates fluctuate, and suddenly everything from lumber to lettuce costs 20% more. And yet - business goes on.
Running a Business Without Marketing? That’s Like Fishing Without Bait
Picture this: You wake up early, grab your fishing rod, head to the lake, and cast your line—without bait. You sit there, waiting… and waiting… but the fish aren’t biting. Why?
Do You Really Need a Marketing Agency in Halifax? Here’s the Better Alternative
Looking for a marketing agency in Halifax? You might not need one. Discover why small and medium-sized businesses choose Charcoal Marketing—a boutique firm offering big-brand expertise without the agency red tape.
Stop Wasting Sponsorship Dollars—Make Them Work for You
Sponsorships can be a powerful marketing tool for small businesses—when done right. Too often, businesses write a check, slap a logo on an event banner, and hope for the best. But thoughtful sponsorship is more than a donation with your name attached.
What the Super Bowl Taught Us About Storytelling in Marketing
The Philadelphia Eagles crushed the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 in Super Bowl LIX. But the night wasn’t just about football. It was about storytelling—on the field, in commercials, and in Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show. The big takeaway? Marketing isn’t just content.
What Businesses Can Learn From Shaboozey’s Red Carpet Moment
The 2025 Grammys weren’t just a celebration of music; they were a reminder of how powerful media moments can be. During a red carpet interview on E!’s Live From the Grammys, Zuri Hall casually dropped a fascinating detail while speaking to five-time nominee Shaboozey: Googling his name causes the screen to tilt.
The Firemaking Strategy - How to Build a Marketing Plan That Actually Works
Marketing is a lot like building a fire. It takes a spark to get things started, the right fuel to keep it burning, and a little oxygen to make it roar. And, much like an actual fire, marketing without a plan is just a sad pile of unlit logs—full of potential, but going nowhere fast.
What to expect for 2025?
Having just recently attended the Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2025), you’d think I would know. CES is kind of a new consumer products play land, with all the big brands you know, like Sony, LG, Nikon, Nvidia, Google…shall I go on? The main message from the conference — AI will take over everything.
Is Your Content Like Fast Food? Tasty, but Nobody’s Coming Back for More
Let’s be honest: fast food has its moments. It’s quick, it’s convenient, and it’s satisfyingly greasy when you’re in a pinch. But does anyone leave a drive-thru thinking, “Wow, that was life-changing. I can’t wait to tell my friends about this burger that tasted exactly like every other burger I’ve ever had”? Probably not.
What Do a Marketing Company and a Spaghetti Dinner Have in Common?
At first glance, marketing and spaghetti might not seem to have much overlap (except for the occasional saucy ad campaign). But dig a little deeper, and you’ll see they’re surprisingly similar. Both can look like chaos at first, involve a mix of ingredients, and, when done right, leave you totally satisfied.
Creating High-Converting Landing Pages That Actually Work
Struggling to turn visitors into customers? A well-designed landing page could be the missing link in your marketing strategy. Learn how to craft a landing page that grabs attention, builds trust, and drives action—without the fluff or confusion. Small changes can lead to big results, and we’re here to show you how.
Helping Dartmouth Yacht Club Set a Clear Marketing Course
Charcoal Marketing partnered with a local nonprofit to overhaul their outdated marketing approach. From revamping a clunky website to creating a cohesive brand identity, we worked alongside their team to modernize their digital presence. Our efforts included launching a Facebook community group, promoting events with consistent branding, and using lead magnets to boost membership. By the end of the year, the organization was better connected with its community and positioned for long-term growth. Ready to elevate your marketing strategy? Let’s make it happen.
How to Campaign Like a Marketer (Because Politics Isn’t Working)
With Nova Scotia's election season rolling in, there’s a lot to unpack—promises, missed promises, and let’s face it, probably more promises to come. But here’s the thing: beyond the typical campaign slogans and policy chatter, there’s a glaring missed opportunity, one that, as a marketing agency, we just can’t ignore.
Celebrating Small Business Week… Because Who Else Will?
Ah, Small Business Week—an annual reminder that while big corporations may have fancy office towers and gourmet coffee machines, small businesses are the real backbone of our economy. They’re like the unsung heroes of the business world, valiantly fighting for their place in the marketplace armed with nothing but determination and a questionable number of coffee cups.
Why Marketing Never Takes a Break for Nova Scotia’s Seasonal Businesses
Nova Scotia in the summer is an absolute dream—sunshine glinting off the Atlantic, crowded beaches, bustling festivals, and tourists flocking to quaint coastal towns. But as the chill of autumn creeps in and the tourists pack up their SUVs, it’s easy for small businesses to fall into the trap of seasonal hibernation.
iPhone vs. Pro Camera — do I really have to ask?
I get it. Budgets are tight, especially for small businesses. You’ve probably thought, “I’ve got an iPhone. Can’t I just take the photos myself?” And sure, you can. But should you?