Spectrum Designs commercial scores three Telly Awards

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A new commercial from Port Washington-based Spectrum Designs has scored three international Telly Awards, which are designed to recognize the top commercials within television and video, and across all screens.

Spectrum Designs, a custom apparel and promotional printing business, was recognized for its “Out of the Box” commercial. The commercial, which served as the center for the company’s rebranding campaign, was inspired by the firm’s neurodiverse team. The company’s commercial was one of more than 12,000 entries from six continents, and all 50 states.

The campaign was a Gold Winner in the not-for-profit promotional video category; a Silver Winner in the commercials branded content category and a Bronze Winner in the DEI: Diversity Equity & Inclusion – promotional video category. The awards were announced earlier this week.

At the heart of Spectrum’s rebrand is Kelli Fisher, who joined Spectrum nearly five years ago, and now serves as the organization’s marketing and development specialist. Fisher, who is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, came up with the idea for the commercial.

Fisher worked with Dylan Valic, head of marketing at Spectrum Designs Foundation, the neurodiverse marketing team at Spectrum Designs and the Port Washington-based advertising agency, Second Opinion to develop the commercial. The video features Fisher stepping out from a cardboard box, symbolizing breaking free from societal constraints and emphasizing individual talents and diversity within the autism community.

The Telly Awards recognition was a celebrated win for Spectrum, where more than half of the 76 employees are on the Autism Spectrum. The company achieved a record $5.5 million in sales last year, securing high-profile clients that include Google, J.P. Morgan Chase, and Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation.

“Being lauded alongside industry giants from Microsoft to MTV for our innovative ‘Out of the Box’ commercial is an incredible honor and further underscores the exceptional talent and strength of our neurodiverse team,” Patrick Bardsley, co-founder and CEO of Spectrum Designs, said in a news release about the awards.  “Their unique perspectives not only inspire our campaigns but are the driving force behind our continued success. I could not be prouder of this national acclaim and the proof it offers that the best things can be done when we embrace and harness our differences.”

Chris Cassidy, an Emmy-winning filmmaker, was part of the project.

“Hands down one of the most meaningful and fulfilling jobs I’ve ever had.  Spectrum Design is a top-notch place, with top-notch people,” Cassidy said.  “So glad to have been a part of making their vision come to life.”