Storytelling That Stirs: Our 2025 ADDYs Wins

The ADDYs have come and gone, and we didn’t just show up—we showed out. 

This year, our work pushed boundaries, told unforgettable stories and captured attention in ways that couldn’t be ignored. From helping nonprofits connect with their audiences to creating unforgettable brand experiences, every project was crafted with purpose and impact.

Here’s a look at the award-winning work that set the standard and proved that bold ideas and relentless execution get results.

Arrowmont “What Starts Here” Campaign

• Best Of: Cross Platform
• Gold: Cross Platform, Brand Identity Campaign

The “What Starts Here” campaign was all about showing how Arrowmont makes a real difference in the lives of artists and the Appalachian community. We made a long video with artists, instructors, and staff talking about how donations help support life-changing programs. The campaign also had a cool illustrative mark, social media videos, paid ads, and print stuff – all working together to share stories, inspire donors, and make it super easy to donate.

Knox County Health Department “Empowered by WIC” Campaign

• Bronze: Film, Video, & Sound

The “Empowered by WIC” campaign wanted to change how the people of Knox County think about the Women-Infant-Children (WIC) program. In partnership with the Knox County Health Department, we developed a campaign that used bright visuals and relatable stories to show that WIC is a helpful resource for all families, with modern tools and essential support. 

A standout video used a green screen to mix real people with animated backgrounds, driving home the message that WIC is there to help. The campaign celebrated everyone, making sure all felt welcome. By using inclusive visuals, clear messaging and a friendly tone, “Empowered by WIC” got more people to sign up and learn about the program.

Regal Experiential Activations

• Judge’s Choice Award
• Gold: Out of Home & Ambient Media, Installation

In partnership with Regal, Pepsi and Universal, we tapped Jonathan Douglas and Chris Dotson (some of the best around at creating awe-inspiring movie props and experiences) to help us bring Oz, The Great and Powerful to life in Times Square. 

Featuring a two-story-tall screen with the face of Oz, a live announcer (behind a curtain, obviously) interacted with audience members who came to a microphone to have a chat with the wizard.

Greenwood, S.C. “Love Notes” Campaign

• Silver: Cross Platform, Consumer Campaign

The “Love Notes from Greenwood” campaign wasn’t just a message – it was a celebration of everything that makes Greenwood, South Carolina special. By showing off the community’s natural beauty, local pride, and lively spirit, the campaign shared stories, connections, and special moments that made people feel connected to Greenwood. From outdoor adventures to local culture, the campaign showed why Greenwood is so charming. It was an open invitation for visitors to fall in love and for locals to feel even more connected to their home. Greenwood wasn’t just a place – it was a feeling – and this campaign made sure everyone felt it.

Zoo Knoxville “Predators” Teaser

• Silver: Film, Video, & Sound, TV/Online Video

Zoo Knoxville’s Planet Predators exhibit was home to recreations of all kinds of prehistoric predators, and it needed an intro that was just as epic as the ancient hunters it featured. Using custom 3D renders and motion design, we made a :30 teaser trailer showing the 40-foot-long Titanoboa, the eight-foot-tall Terror Bird, and the iconic Sabertooth Tiger all coming to Knoxville.

Zoo Knoxville “Planet Predator” Campaign

• Best Of: Branding
• Judge’s Choice Award
• Gold: Cross Platform, Consumer Campaign
• Silver: Film, Video, & Sound, TV Single Spot

The “Planet Predator” campaign for Zoo Knoxville introduced a limited-time exhibit about apex predators. The teaser phase got people curious with close-up visuals of prehistoric creatures. The launch phase used cinematic 3D videos and motion ads, putting audiences right into a prehistoric world, while the refresh phase reminded everyone that the exhibit wouldn’t be around forever. This three-phase approach used a cross-platform strategy to make the exhibit unforgettable.

See Rock City Website

• Silver: Online/Interactive, Website

The See Rock City website got a makeover that made it more user-friendly while keeping its charm. The main goal was to get more people to buy tickets, so we made sure it worked seamlessly with Rock City’s seasonal campaigns and third-party ticketing systems. AI helped us update their iconic gnome style, and we used custom illustrations throughout the site to make it easier to navigate and tell Rock City’s story. We also made custom icons and line work inspired by the park’s signs and stories, connecting the website to the actual park experience.

To make the website even more immersive, we added custom video and photography, showing off Rock City’s attractions. The site was designed with a mobile-first approach, so it looks great on any device. Overall, it’s a cohesive and captivating experience that brings together Rock City’s marketing, gets people more engaged, and inspires them to visit.

Buchanan Estate Branding

• Best Of: Elements of Advertising 
• Judge’s Choice Award
• Gold: Elements of Advertising, Logo Design

The rebrand for Buchanan Estate gave the boutique venue a luxurious new identity that was still connected to its history of raising Black Angus cattle and the beautiful Kentucky landscape. We made new visuals and language that highlighted the estate’s fancy architecture, rolling hills and commitment to excellence. The brand now feels sophisticated but still honors its past. This updated identity mixes tradition with modern grandeur, making Buchanan Estate stand out as a top-notch agricultural and event destination.