Running a small business can be unpredictable, and Payton’s party planning business is no exception. Her attempts to throw the perfect event for every client inevitably go awry—guests arrive too early, supplies run out, and there’s no backup plan when things go sideways. Sound familiar?
In this ad, Progressive cleverly illustrates how their business insurance can help small businesses like Payton’s stay afloat during the chaos of day-to-day operations. They may not be able to help with everything that goes wrong at Payton’s parties, but with the right coverage, they make sure your business is protected when unexpected bumps occur.
The Formula (That Works at Any Budget):
Relatable Business Struggles = Instant Engagement – Every small business owner has had a Payton moment, where things go off-script.
→ Lesson: Identify real business pain points that your audience instantly recognizes.
Smart Visual Metaphors – Payton’s party disasters serve as a perfect analogy for what can go wrong without the right coverage.
→ Lesson: Use creative storytelling to drive home your product’s value without listing features.
Subtle Product Integration – Progressive’s insurance doesn’t take center stage—it supports the story of how Payton can keep her business running smoothly despite the chaos.
→ Lesson: Let the solution come naturally through the narrative, not the hard sell.
Real Business, Real Solutions – Payton may not always get the party right, but with Progressive, she can get her business back on track.
→ Lesson: Show how your brand supports small businesses through the unpredictability of day-to-day life.
Final Verdict:
An engaging, clever take on the unpredictable nature of small business ownership. Progressive uses Payton’s event planning chaos to highlight how reliable insurance can save the day, making this ad both memorable and relatable for small business owners.
Brave-o-meter score:
B-8 | R-9 | A-8 | V-9 | E-9
BRAVE – 8.6/10
Watch the full ad & learn more:
Website: Progressive.com
LinkedIn: Progressive LinkedIn Page
