The thing about newsletters
Plus a list of all-time favorites
To keep your mind well-informed, stimulated, and creative, where do you find the best quality content nowadays? I'd say:
On the street, people-watching, talking to people.
Magazines and books.
Newsletters.
Obs.: In my opinion, Instagram and TikTok are reserved for researching abrupt trends.
As traditional media grapples with digital upheavals and social networks become increasingly rigid in dictating what will gain reach, creators are shifting towards subscriber newsletters and independent startups to engage directly with audiences.
This format offers a refreshing alternative, amplifying diverse voices and perspectives. Their direct, intimate, and diverse formats provide a unique space for engaging with content. From in-depth analyses to engaging commentary, they serve as dynamic spaces where compelling narratives thrive.
This is a subject for consumer brands, service providers, independent writers, and even amateurs (read as non-professionals who are extremely passionate and dedicated to a subject).
See, at Sala, this newsletter you are reading, emerged as a way of recording some of the content that was being discussed at Scharf studio, as a way of opening up the conversation, but also of breaking down in detail topics that sometimes we are unable to cover in a client meeting—such as great naming case studies and essential aspects of luxury brand communication.
As I said before, newsletters have also been a rich space for research. The more detailed content, although super curated, is almost like being able to see what goes on behind the doors and for you pages. Now, my current favorites:
The magazine is from 1996, and is surprising in how it manages to reinvent itself and deliver what you want to know today and now. Especially attractive for promoting creative projects from the most diverse areas, from everywhere.
A charming demonstration of chaining references and the creative process. There you will find playlists, thoughts on color theory, meaning behind products and launches.
The newsletter is an extension of the book published by the author: Ana Andjelic is an experienced strategy executive, a specialist in modern luxury brands. Her newsletter is a repository of brief, extremely accurate articles on brand communication topics. Feels like a class.
Speaking of classes, this newsletter written by Jenny Walton is a class in crisp aesthetics (and how to live a visually charming life).
A fascinating collection of prompts and subject fixations. Her comfort with words are something especial and an invitation—stimulates creativity and observance in the best sense possible. Plus, the physical workbook is equally great.
On a personal note, two recommendations: first, the Oema newsletter, a wonderful brand of ceramics and other objects for the home and body. We at Scharf have worked with Oema in the past and the ability to build a brand universe is absolutely admirable, a feast for the eyes.
Second, coming from a personal passion, my other newsletter about jewelry and all related subjects, The Foyer.
I hope this inspires you to read them, or write one!
Enjoy the weekend!
Signing off,
Isis