How to create ads your audience will remember? That’s the challenge every business owner faces.
Do you have a brand ad you just can’t forget? Maybe it made you laugh, cry, or stop scrolling because the story pulled you in. These are the kinds of campaigns that go beyond selling; they connect.
The trust in paid advertising is that attention is temporary, but stories that connect last.
When people remember your ad, they remember your brand. When they connect with your message, they’re more likely to trust you. And trust is what turns viewers into loyal customers.
In this blog, we’ll explore why certain ads stay with us, share examples of unforgettable brand campaigns, and break down how to create ads people remember, even if you’re running your business on a small budget.
Why We Remember Certain Brand Ads
Think about it, there are thousands of ads out there every day. But we only remember a handful.
So what makes a brand ad stick?
The most memorable ads are built on one or more of these factors:
- A strong story
- Powerful emotions
- Humour or surprise
- A clear message that feels real
- Something different that stands out from the rest
It is not about being the loudest or the flashiest. It is about making your audience feel something.
5 Ads That Truly Worked and Left a Lasting Mark on Their Audiences
Let’s take a closer look at some real-life brand ads that people still talk about – and why they worked so well.
1. Dumb Ways to Die – Melbourne Metro
Released: 2012
Goal: Promote safety around trains
This quirky cartoon ad showed colourful characters dying in silly ways, like poking a bear or setting their hair on fire, all to a catchy song. The final message? Stay safe around trains.
Why It Worked:
- It used dark humour in a fun, unexpected way
- The song was super catchy – people shared it and sang it
- It spoke to young people who normally ignore safety ads
Takeaway: Even serious messages can be fun if you cleverly present them.
2. I Still Call Australia Home – Qantas
First Aired: 1997
Goal: Connect with Australians, especially those living overseas
This ad showed Australian kids singing “I Still Call Australia Home” in different places around the world. It made Aussies feel proud, emotional, and homesick all at once.
Why It Worked:
- It tapped into national pride
- It made people feel at home
- The music created an emotional connection
Takeaway: Ads that connect with your audience’s identity or values are powerful.
3. Extra Gum – The Story of Sarah & Juan
Released: 2015
Goal: Promote Extra gum in a subtle way
This ad followed a couple from their first meeting to their engagement. Juan captured each moment they shared by drawing it on a gum wrapper. At the end, he uses those wrappers in a surprise proposal.
Why It Worked:
- It told a love story that felt real
- The product was woven into the story, not forced
- The ending was emotional and surprising
Takeaway: You don’t have to push your product. Let it be part of a bigger story.
4. The Man Your Man Could Smell Like – Old Spice
Released: 2010
Goal: Rebrand for younger buyers
This funny ad featured a shirtless man saying strange and over-the-top things to the camera. It was silly, fast-paced, and totally different from normal men’s product ads.
Why It Worked:
- It was funny and unexpected
- Appealing to both men and women
- Stood out from all the “tough guy” cologne ads
Takeaway: A little humour goes a long way, especially if it’s done well.
5. Dream Crazy – Nike (ft. Colin Kaepernick)
Released: 2018
Goal: Inspire and build brand purpose
This ad showed real people overcoming huge challenges. It was narrated by Colin Kaepernick, the NFL player known for kneeling during the national anthem.
Why It Worked:
- It took a bold stand on a social issue
- Told real stories of underdogs chasing dreams
- Matched Nike’s long-time message of empowerment
Takeaway: If your brand stands for something, don’t be afraid to say it.
What Makes These Ads Unforgettable?
These ads were all different; some were emotional, some were funny, some were serious. But they all had a few things in common:
- They told a story
- Connect with real feelings
- They showed, not just told
- They were brave or bold in their message
- Didn’t copy what others were doing
That’s the kind of impact you want for your business, too.
How You Can Create a Brand Ad That Sticks
You might be thinking, “That’s great for big brands. But I’m just a small business.”
Here’s the good news: You don’t need a huge budget to make an impact. You just need to be real, creative, and thoughtful.
Here’s how you can do it:
1. Start with Your Story
Every business has a story.
- Why did you start it?
- What problem do you solve?
- What makes you different?
People love stories – especially when they’re true and personal. Share yours in your ad.
2. Focus on Feelings
Whether it’s happiness, relief, love, laughter, or pride – choose one emotion to guide your ad. Don’t just list features or prices. Show how your product or service makes people feel.
3. Be Different
Avoid the “same old” ads. Don’t just say “best prices” or “high quality” – that’s what everyone says.
Instead:
- Use a funny situation
- Tell a mini story
- Ask a surprising question
- Try a new style or voice
4. Keep It Simple
One clear message is stronger than five small ones. Make sure your ad is easy to follow and understand – even without sound.
5. Think Long-Term
A good ad can do more than get quick sales. It can build your brand, create trust, and help people remember you.
So you need to ask yourself:
“Will people remember this ad in a week?” If not, try again.
Conclusion
Running ads isn’t just about being seen. It’s about being remembered.
Whether you make people laugh, cry, or cheer, a great brand ad leaves an impression. It tells a story that feels true. It builds trust. And most of all, it sticks.
So the next time you plan a campaign, don’t just copy what others are doing. Think about the ads you still remember. Then ask yourself: Why did they stick?
Now go create one that your audience will never forget.