Happy Holidays Bo, the Obama Dog!

Generally, I'm not fond of email marketing.

With all the ease of personalization online, nobody still seems to have gotten the message that emails should be customized for the client, and not just one standard email blast to everybody on the mailing list. (I'm looking at you American Eagle; I don't care men's jeans are on sale; don't email me!)

But the White House emails have it right, without even having to customize.

• They send it only about once a month or so.
• The messages are general enough to apply to everyone. Mostly "universal" values like family, healthy lifestyles, hard work, helping each other are presented, and political agendas (where differences arise) as well as issues relating to particular groups (race agendas, senior's issues etc) are avoided.
• They are always personally signed by Mr. or Mrs. Obama or Biden, depending on the topic. Sure, I know the President isn't sitting there, writing me an email, but it's nice to have "Barack Obama" under "Sender" in my inbox.

A nice example of this is the holiday greeting I got from them this morning:

Good morning,

The holiday season is one of my favorite times of year at the White House. The White House truly feels like the “People’s House,” as folks of all ages from across the country pass through the halls enjoying the beautiful décor and celebrating the history here at every turn. More than 100,000 visitors will come to the White House this holiday season, and we wanted to give everyone a chance to share in the magic of the White House during the holidays. This year’s White House theme, Simple Gifts, is a celebration of the simple things that bring joy during the holidays, like spending time with family and friends and serving those in need in our communities.  And it’s a reminder to us all, particularly in these trying times, that some of the greatest gifts in our lives are those that don’t cost a thing. On behalf of Barack, Malia, Sasha, and Bo, I wish you and your family a very happy and healthy holiday season. 

Sincerely,
Michelle Obama
First Lady of the United States 

Aw! Happy Holidays to you too Bo and the Obamas! And my readers of course! =)