Is your brand ready for TikTok to get banned in the US?

After last week’s court ruling, it’s a real possibility.

Anyone who’s been paying attention knows this has been on the table almost this entire year. So hopefully you’ve used that time to diversify across platforms. And if not, well, there’s no time like the present to kick things into gear (and today we’ve got some tips to help you!).

In today's newsletter:

• A US TikTok ban has been ruled constitutional—so, now what? (find out what this could mean for our industry & culture as a whole)

• Everyone can afford Gucci now, but is that a good thing? (because there are some major pitfalls to this new ‘bite-sized luxury products’ trend)

• Trend plug - This time, on a random day

• Ask the Editor - I’m finally starting a podcast! Any tips?

- Charlotte, Editor ♡

A seismic shift just happened in the digital world.

Last Friday, a panel of judges unanimously ruled that a law banning TikTok in the US would not violate the constitution.

The decision suggests that TikTok could be forced out of the US unless it’s sold by January 19th.

The platform has evaded attempts at a ban or sale for over four years and will continue to do so, allegedly taking its fight to the Supreme court.

But as the deadline quickly approaches, the options seem scarce.

For marketers, this is more than a simple policy decision. It’s a pivotal moment that could reshape how we create, engage, and influence online.

So let's look at exactly what this move could mean for us.

It’s no secret that TikTok has become a cultural powerhouse. It has reshaped everything from music trends to fashion and even political discourse.

The decision to potentially ban TikTok isn’t solely about data privacy concerns, though those are significant. It’s also a reflection of the growing tensions around digital sovereignty and the control of online spaces.

TikTok democratised content creation, allowing anyone with a smartphone to become a creator.

This led to the rapid rise of viral trends, memes, and even entire subcultures. A ban would disrupt this vibrant ecosystem, potentially stifling the creative freedom that made TikTok a unique space.

[Keep reading]

-Sophie, Writer

Everyone Can Afford Gucci Now, but Is That a Good Thing?

Once upon a time, 'luxury' seemed a world away.

Well, for me, anyway.

An aspirational fantasy of private jets, penthouses, Birkin bags and dental care.

But in 2024, luxury comes bite sized. A $40 Dior Lip Oil? Gucci flip-flops? Burberry check socks?

Ah, still no affordable dental care. Coolcoolcool.

This is the rise of snackable luxury. And it’s turning the world of exclusivity on its head.

On one hand, it’s made high-end, highly coveted brands more accessible to mere mortals like me. On the other, it begs the question: is this a brilliant evolution or the beginning of the end for exclusivity?

It’s no secret that high-end brands thrive on mystique.

The allure has always been about what you can’t have—a waiting list for that Hermès Birkin, the whispered exclusivity of a Patek Philippe watch.

But by offering entry-level products, brands tap into a younger, aspirational audience without completely alienating their core base.

It’s genius, like the gateway drug of luxury, a calculated first step into a lifetime of high-end loyalty.

However, there is a catch.

When exclusivity becomes too accessible, it risks losing its magic.

[Keep reading]

-Sophie, Writer

Trend Plug - This Time, On a Random Day

You know when you're scrolling through those videos of your last holiday?

The ones of you relaxing next to the glittering ocean or walking along the coast... And you just wish you could be back there, and you kind of want to share the memory all over again?

Today's trend is for you.

How to jump on this trend:

Find one of those amazing summer moments and upload it to TikTok with this sound—a slowed-down version of SZA's 'Good Days'. Then, add some on-screen text following this format: '3 pm on a random Thursday 6 months ago'.

SO simple (and thank goodness for that, because this week has been HECTIC! just me?)!

Here are a few tips on the types of videos to use:

• Clips that are water-focused—think glittering oceans, lakes, and rivers

• Videos with full sun communicate the summer vibes

• Anything with people doing a relaxing activity—sunbathing, playing beach volleyball, or just lounging around

-Maggie, Copywriter

Unlock new growth with strategic UGC campaigns

Grapevine is the secret weapon for growth stage consumer brands utilizing paid social for acquisition. Our team seamlessly manages the creative ideation through production, delivering authentic UGC that cuts through competitive noise. We help you scale efficiently, reaching new audiences and breaking through performance plateaus. With Grapevine, you'll expand your team's capabilities without increasing headcount, reduce CPAs by 25%, and transform your paid social strategy with powerful, educational content that converts.

Accelerate your growth

Today on the YAP podcast…

Want even more ‘YAP’ing? Check out the full podcast here.

Ask the Editor

Q - I've decided to start a podcast after thinking about it for months. Any tips for me? - Brittany

Hey Brittany!

Here are a few last minute tips for you as you prep for your first episode:

1. Create an outline to guide your conversation. You might deviate from this on the day, but it will help to have talking points you want to hit. Send this to your guest (if applicable). This will give them time to think about what they want to say in relation to each topic. Doing this little bit of prep will save you a lot of editing time later!

2. Listen to a few of your favourite podcasts, paying attention to how they make transitions. How do they introduce their guests? How do they move from one topic to the next? How do they wrap up the conversation in a way that feels natural, and that gives the listener something to take away?

3. When you're reaching out to potential guests, look for people who genuinely align with your values. Then speak to that when getting in touch with them. And by the way, don't assume someone will say 'no' just because your audience is small. Have the audacity to ask them anyway!

4. Nail down your elevator pitch. When you can clearly articulate what your podcast is all about, it's much easier for other people to catch your vision and want to be part of it!

- Charlotte, Editor ♡

For the group chat

😲WTF: Top Google Most Search’s 2024
❤How wholesome: animals are too pure for us
😊Soooo satisfying: Car wheel vs…
🍝What you should make for dinner tonight: One-Pot Orzo

Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up here.

Wondering what the heck we do at The Attention Seeker? Check us out.