Tiiso McGinty of The Imaginarium

Tools of the Trade is a feature to highlight the many tools that help make advertising and marketing successful. Tools can be anything that helps people get in top shape, from a favorite writing table to the best software program to a lucky pen, a vintage typewriter or a pair of headphones.

Next up is Tiiso McGinty, co-founder and director of operations at the Imaginarium in Boston.

What is a tool you use all the time at work, and how does it inspire your work?

My big Telfar shopping bag.

Why is it your favorite?

What initially drew me to the bag, besides the fact that it was cute and trendy, was that it was created by a Black designer. What has kept me using it every day since is how “ridiculously capacious” it is (Succession, anyone?). I’m able to carry a lot back and forth between the office and my apartment – water, coffee (must be hydrated and caffeinated at all times), laptop, notebooks, headphones, yoga gear, snacks, whatever book I’m reading, etc.

How did you get your instrument or hear about it for the first time?

When I got the bag a few years ago, Telfar had a huge moment. Bags were everywhere and almost impossible to get. They had a limited drop model and sold out in minutes. At one point they opened it for a limited pre-order/made to order period, so I actually ordered the bag three or more months before I ended up getting it.

How does it help you succeed?

My whole life goes into this. Regardless of what I went through and what I had to prepare for, I never worried if I could fit it in my bag.

Does it have sentimental value?

For sure. I got it very soon after I started working with my co-founder (before we launched the Imaginarium). It has been with me throughout this journey so far, so I am pretty attached to it. Fortunately, it holds up super well.

Do you think your tool could go viral on TikTok? Why or why not?

I know he could, because he already has.

We want to know what tools you use to make it successful. If you would like to contribute or know someone who would like to be featured in Tools of the Trade, please get in touch kyle.obrien@adweek.com and complete our survey.