Flight of the Conchords

Albi- The Racist Dragon

Business Time

Marketing Magic

Reservation for one, please.

A fresh copy of the last Harry Potter book has my name on it. At the stroke of midnight, the fate of Harry Potter will be in my hands, but where will I be? Will I be at the Grand Hallows Ball at Borders or the Midnight Magic Party at Barnes & Noble? Or should I overcome my interest in children's literature and hit the bars with my twenty-something peers (though I doubt I'll be the only twenty-something there)?

The marketing geniuses at Borders and Barnes & Noble is making this an interesting decision.

Here's what each store is offering:

Borders- Grand Hallows Ball
- Potter spelling bee
- Great Snape debate
- Costume Contest
- Stupendous giveaways
- Limited edition poster (just announced!)
- And, of course, more!

Barnes and Noble- Midnight Magic Party
- Enchanting activities
- Spellbinding prizes
- Photo opportunities with favorite characters
- Unique items for sale
- And, of course, more!

Which store will score the most sales? Although each store has done their fair share of marketing, no store stands out in their advertising. The price is the same at both places. Both stores offer prizes, people will dress up whether there's a contest or not, and having games is a no brainer. It comes down to, do you want a poster or do you want a photo op with your favorite character. Even at that, I am somewhat indifferent and would be happy to hang a poster in my office or a photo of me standing next to a 16-year-old who resembles Harry. I do admit, Borders wins for crafting up the better party name.

What's a store to do then? I think both stores are missing another major target group: Adults. Children may be the main focus, but the Harry Potter series is a phenomenon that has appealed to everyone in a large range of ages. The stores could incorporate activities that would appeal to all ages to mirror the audience, such as hosting a magic show. I wouldn't mind seeing a rabbit being pulled out of a top hat. For a more focused activity for adults, set up a presentation or display about the "science of Harry Potter" discussing if any of the magic in the books would be possible or parallel Harry's adventures with sighted paranormal events.

Luckily, the Grand Hallows Ball begins at 7 p.m. while the Midnight Magic Party begins at 9 p.m. I may be doing a little party hopping afterall.