Week Nie EOC: Chapter Nine Questions

1.) What makes the Brini Maxwell television personality unique? How does it benefit the brand?

Brini Maxwell is unique, because of the visual milieu that was created. “ Milieu is a French term that means an individual’s physical or social environment.” (Brand Story, Joseph Hancock, page 144) Maxwell created a visual milieu that combined reto 20^th century and contemporary designs that where popular during the 1950’s and 1970’s. These themes are not only incorporated in to her fashions, but also in to the show’s setting and theme.

2.) What were the steps taken by Ben Sander to develop his character, Brini Maxwell? Was he successful? Why or why not?

One of the first steps was using “Sander’s collection of cookbooks, magazines, furnishings, and other mid-century delights would be used in every episode.” (Brand Story, Joseph Hancock, page 146) The whole show was even filmed in his small Chelsea apartment. Sanders also had to do a lot of research on the decade since he was born after the time period that he was going after. The show was a great success in New York in which the audience waited in suspense for each episode.

3.) Why do you think Brini Maxwell made it into the national spotlight on television? What was her brand’s message?

“On Saturday, January 8, 200, Brini Maxwell was featured as “Part Martha Stewart, Part RuPaul in The New York Times.” (Brand Story, Joseph Hancock, page 147) Since The New York Times is such a big publication this is what helped to launch Brini Maxwell on to the national spotlight. The article broke down the inner workings of how the came together and who Sanders was when not playing Brini Maxwell. After the article the show was showed on the Style Network from 1998 to 2003. The brand message was that of the earlier shows that it was modeled off of it is a that of a lifestyle that we all achieve to reach “the perfect family.”  

4.) What do you think Brini Maxwell’s target market is today? Why would baby boomers be drawn to watching Brini Maxwell?

I feel that the baby-boomers would still be attracted to Brini Maxwell since they did grow up in that generation. It brings back memories of how they grew up, which many people like to be reminded of their younger years even more so when they age.  A market that was not originally included in to their market I think would be stay at home moms, since they are the market that has daily shows in which they like to enjoy in.