Short Order, Big Ideas
At Palmer Jarvis, McDonald’s was the client that never slept. Promotions, product launches, full campaigns—served with a side of “can we have it by Tuesday?” I was both art director and writer on every piece featured here: a one-man team moving fast. We hustled. We pitched. We pitched while hustling. And once in a while, a little genius slipped through the drive-thru window.
Every project shown on this page earned an award for creative excellence. Because McDonald’s, for all its global reach, was willing to take risks—if the idea was smart, simple, and stayed on brand.
Fry 2K
No brief, no problem. As a young art director, I pitched this Y2K scare-inspired, fry-hoarding concept on my own. The agency brought it forward, McDonald’s bought it—and it went on to win awards.
ClientMcDonald’s RestaurantsProjectFry 2K OutdoorYear1999
Toybox
Can’t show the toy? Sell the box.
ClientMcDonald’s RestaurantsProjectHappy Meal OutdoorYear2001
6am Drive-Thru Launch
“Just show an Egg McMuffin,” they said. So I did—through barely-open morning eyes.
ClientMcDonald’s RestaurantsProjectMorning Eyes OutdoorYear2000
Over The Counter Relief
Approved faster than you can say indigestion.
ClientMcDonald’s RestaurantsProjectFries OutdoorYear2001
Sponsorship, served with a twist
For the 1999 Pan Am Games, McDonald’s needed a sponsorship campaign with local flavour. Since we’d already designed the Games identity and sports icons, I knew the territory—and pitched a soft-serve tie-in that felt right for summer.
Pan Am GamesCampaign
Official sponsor of cheering with your mouth full.
ClientMcDonald’s RestaurantsProject Pan Am Games Campaign Year1999