12 Days of Vintage Christmas Ads

Jell-O had about 20 years of market success under its belt at the time of this ad. It’s minimal, Seuss inspired and confident. It’s from the mid 1950s when Jell-O was under the care of Young and Rubicam. The ad is part of a larger series with the same minimal feel and writing style.

Jell-O made use of many illustrators over the years from Norman Rockwell, to the illustrator responsible for this ad — Jack Welch. Welch was born in Texas and at the time these illustrations were produced was living in New York. He produced a wonderful series of whimsical illustrations featuring a wide variety of animals.

The ad is light and fun — targeted at moms and children alike. It’s bright and attention grabbing, and suggests making Jell-O for Santa instead of going to the trouble of making cookies.