Throwback to SXSW 2017: Designing Kendra Scott's Pedi-Cab Activation for the Launch of Their Nail Polish Line
At Rachel Landers Creative Studio, we love looking back at some of our most creative and fun projects, and today, we’re throwing it back to one of our favorites: the Kendra Scott Pedi-Cab Activation at SXSW 2017! This project was truly a unique experience, combining the energy of Austin’s iconic South by Southwest (SXSW) festival with the launch of Kendra Scott’s highly-anticipated nail polish line.
Our studio had the pleasure of helping bring this playful, on-the-move activation to life by designing custom elements for the pedi-cab, creating fun bumper stickers, and even adding a branded canopy to keep the riders shaded in style. This activation was one-of-a-kind, offering guests the chance to hop on a pedi-cab for a ride around town—and get a fresh manicure while they were at it!
The SXSW Buzz: Announcing Kendra Scott’s New Nail Polish Line
2017 marked the launch of Kendra Scott’s nail polish collection, and the brand wanted to make a big splash during SXSW—an event known for its mix of creativity, technology, music, and experiential marketing. The goal was to introduce the new nail polish line to both locals and festival-goers in a fun, hands-on way that would reflect Kendra Scott’s signature blend of elegance and playfulness.
Enter the pedi-cab activation! What better way to navigate the streets of Austin than with a mobile manicure station? The pedi-cabs offered a relaxing, unexpected retreat from the SXSW hustle, allowing guests to get pampered while traveling through the city and experiencing the festival buzz.
Designing the Kendra Scott Pedi-Cabs
For this activation, our studio was tasked with creating custom designs that would make the pedi-cabs not only functional but also on-brand, eye-catching, and fun. We wanted every detail to reflect the vibrancy and energy of Kendra Scott’s new nail polish line, while also making sure the design stood out as it moved through the streets of Austin.
1. The Pedi-Cab Design
The pedi-cabs were designed to be bright and engaging, with the iconic Kendra Scott yellow.
The branding was also front and center, with the Kendra Scott logo icon prominently displayed on the hub caps of the pedi-cabs, making sure that festival-goers and onlookers knew exactly who was behind this stylish mobile activation. The pedi-cabs were designed to feel fun and approachable, encouraging festival-goers to hop on for a ride—and a mini-manicure!
Original Bumper Sticker Concept
Alternate Concept
2. Custom Bumper Stickers
To add an extra layer of fun, we designed a set of custom bumper stickers for the pedi-cabs. These stickers were a playful nod to Austin’s quirky vibe, with phrases like “Nailed It!” across the back of the pedi-cabs. The stickers weren’t just decorative—they served as conversation starters and social media-worthy moments for riders and pedestrians alike.
These fun, cheeky messages helped spread the word about Kendra Scott’s new nail polish line in a way that felt natural and playful, while also adding an element of humor to the activation.
3. Colorful Canopy
Since SXSW takes place under the bright Texas sun, we made sure the riders were shaded in style by adding a canopy to the pedi-cabs. The canopy wasn’t just functional—it was another opportunity to extend Kendra Scott’s branding. We designed the canopy with the classic striped canopy that reflected the brand’s signature aesthetic, ensuring the pedi-cabs stood out, even from a distance.
A Manicure on the Move: The Ultimate SXSW Experience
The real magic of this activation wasn’t just in the design, but in the experience it provided. Riders got the chance to escape the chaos of SXSW for a moment, sit back in a pedi-cab, and get a professional manicure while cruising through the streets of downtown Austin. It was a truly unique experience that combined beauty and adventure—a perfect reflection of Kendra Scott’s innovative, yet approachable brand.
This activation wasn’t just about introducing a product—it was about creating an immersive, memorable experience that festival-goers would talk about long after the event ended. The pedi-cabs became a moving advertisement for Kendra Scott’s new line, sparking conversations and drawing attention all over town.
The Impact: Making a Splash at SXSW
The Kendra Scott Pedi-Cab Activation was a huge hit at SXSW 2017. Festival-goers loved the concept of getting pampered on the go, and the pedi-cabs quickly became one of the most talked-about activations at the event. The vibrant designs, combined with the unique mobile manicure concept, created the perfect buzz around the launch of Kendra Scott’s nail polish line.
Our team at Rachel Landers Creative Studio was thrilled to be part of this exciting project, and we’re incredibly proud of how everything came together. This activation was a great example of how creative design can elevate an experiential marketing event, turning it into something unforgettable.
Reflecting on the Kendra Scott Pedi-Cab Activation from SXSW 2017 reminds us of why we love what we do at Rachel Landers Creative Studio. We’re passionate about bringing brands to life in creative and impactful ways, whether that’s through immersive experiences, packaging, or branding design.
As we continue to work on new and exciting projects, we’re grateful for opportunities like this one that let us combine our love for design with the thrill of creating memorable experiences. If you’re looking for a creative partner to help with your next big activation or campaign, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d love to help bring your vision to life!
