Throwback to THE 90S: How Coastal Copy's Ads Shaped Santa Barbara's Business Scene
At Coastal Copy, we’ve always been proud to be a part of the Santa Barbara business community. From our humble beginnings to becoming a trusted local staple, we’ve had the privilege of watching this beautiful city grow and evolve. But while our journey has been full of progress and innovation, we also like to take a moment to reflect on our roots—especially when it comes to the good old days of local advertising.
Let’s take a trip back to the 90s, when Coastal Copy was making waves in Santa Barbara with a series of unforgettable ads. Back then, everyone knew the jingle. It was catchy, it was fun, and it was everywhere. If you were around at the time, you probably remember humming along to it while running errands or grabbing coffee. That jingle became the soundtrack of the community, and it wasn’t just a jingle—it was a part of the fabric of Santa Barbara’s business scene.
But the nostalgia doesn’t stop there. One of the standout moments in our advertising history was when sportscaster Jim Rome, yes, the Jim Rome of "Rome is Burning" fame, lent his voice to a Coastal Copy ad. It was a moment that put us on the map in a way we never expected. Who would have thought that a local copy machine dealer could get a spot in a commercial voiced by someone who would go on to become a household name? But that’s exactly what happened, and it made Coastal Copy a name you couldn’t forget.
We’ve got some real gems from back in the day, and we’re excited to share them with you. In the video clips below, you’ll see the old ads that helped us connect with Santa Barbara businesses and residents. You’ll hear that jingle again, and you might even find yourself humming along like it’s the 90s all over again.
The Legacy of Coastal Copy’s Local Advertising
What makes these ads so special isn’t just the catchy jingle or the surprise of hearing Jim Rome’s voice. It’s the fact that these ads were more than just marketing—they were a reflection of our deep connection to the Santa Barbara community. We weren’t just selling office equipment; we were building relationships with the people and businesses that made this city so vibrant.
We’ve seen businesses come and go over the years, but Coastal Copy has remained a constant. We’ve stayed true to our mission of providing top-notch service and quality products, and we’ve done so while staying rooted in the community that helped us grow. The ads from 1986 were just one small piece of that journey, but they’ve remained a symbol of our commitment to Santa Barbara.
The Impact of Local Advertising in Santa Barbara
Looking back at those ads, we can’t help but smile at how they helped shape the local business landscape. In a time before social media and digital marketing, local ads like ours were the heartbeat of small businesses in Santa Barbara. They brought people together, they kept businesses top of mind, and they helped foster a sense of community.
For us, it wasn’t just about selling copiers—it was about being a part of something bigger. It was about connecting with local businesses, nonprofits, and schools, and helping them thrive with the right tools and support. That’s still our focus today, and it’s something we’re incredibly proud of.
A Nod to the Past, a Look to the Future
As we celebrate the legacy of our ads, we’re reminded of how far we’ve come and how much we’ve changed. Technology has evolved, and so have we. But one thing that’s remained the same is our commitment to providing the best service possible to our customers. Whether you’re a small local business or a large organization, Coastal Copy is here to support you with the latest in office technology, backed by the same personal service we’ve always been known for.
We’ve come a long way since the 80s and 90s, but we’re still that same locally-owned business that’s been serving Santa Barbara for decades. And while the ads may have changed, our values haven’t. We’re still here to help your business succeed, just as we were in the 80s—only now, we’ve got even more ways to do it.
We’re proud of our history, and we’re excited for what’s ahead. Whether you’ve been with us for years or are just getting to know us, we’re here to help your business thrive with the best in office equipment and customer service. Stay tuned for more throwbacks and updates as we continue to serve the Santa Barbara community!
Check Out the Throwback Ads
Check out the old ads below and relive the magic of the good old days. We hope they bring a smile to your face and remind you of the special connection we’ve always had with this community.