Greetings From Miami / by Johnny Michael

Greetings From Miami is a short little 1-minute 25-second video filmed over a period of the past 5 or 6 years. I was recently inspired to film some fresh wave videos to share with Work Your World, a program within my employer Publicis Groupe, which encourages employees to pick up and work from another location wherever there’s a Publicis Office… which are in most major cities around the world.

I wanted to do this in hopes that it would bring some exposure to the project for the past 6 years of my life. It’s also a fun opportunity to share and showcase this idea. Of the many reasons why it’s wonderful to travel, one of them for me is so I can continue this series in other locations. But create these in a slllighty short time frame. :)

Taking the project beyond me, the format could also be a great idea for travel or tourism clients too. I imagine I could even create short reels and series to show off resorts, destinations, etc... For example, if I partnered with Pure Michigan I could do a series showing off scenic places and adventurous activities around the state. Also that in particular would be a great idea because the state of Michigan looks like a hand. I could even wear a Michigan mitten! The series wouldn’t even necessarily have to feature me… you can plan group waves and all sorts of entertaining bits with famous faces and friendly locals.

Another hope… I’d also love for WYW to give out the merch as gifts to people going on trips. Like some sort of package that could be paired with other travel goodies for their venture.

This project helps me explore my own city and share fun places and good energy through a positive video. I hope it inspires other people to get out and explore their city and see some new things.

As for the shirts, right now the designs are super simple text, but I hope to partner with other graphic designers from different geo locations to grow the brand and create new designs that reflect their culture. I know there are a lot of talented designers with Publicis and I’d love to find a way to partner with them on the designs.

Starting the shop Happyinteractions.co has been an interesting way to learn about e-commerce and digital advertising. My advertising strategy is also based on people traveling…Right now I’m working with Pinterest and looking to reach folks planning trips, presenting them with a pin/ad that features a greeting that coordinates with the destination of their upcoming trip. Ciao for Italy etc…

Lastly, it’s my hope that this video becomes something bigger than myself waving and wandering around. I’ve always fantasized about starting some sort of movement, like a dance craze that sweeps the nation… It would be awesome to see friendly people celebrating their locations and sharing the positive energy of waves. 👋

Movements and positive energy are things that get me going.