Let's be real- most people don't remember a list of features or a polished sales pitch. But a good story? That sticks. Whether it makes you smile, feel seen, or want to be part of something bigger, storytelling is what turns a brand into something people actually care about. Instead of pitching products or pushing promos, brand story videos dive deeper. They connect with viewers on a personal level, showing what a brand stands for and why it exists in the first place.
Brand story videos have become the go-to way for companies to connect on a human level. This article breaks down some standout brand story video examples and why they work, so you can find inspiration for telling your own.
What Is a Brand Story Video?
Brand story videos are exactly what they sound like- short, compelling videos that tell the story of your brand. It's not a product demo or a flashy sales reel. Think of it as your business biography, brought to life on screen. It's about the who, what, and most importantly, the why behind your business. These videos often dive into the origins of the company, highlight key milestones, and showcase what you've achieved along the way.
But they're not just a recap. They're also an opportunity to spotlight your core values, share client experiences, feature team voices, and give people a glimpse of where you're headed next. It all comes together to tell a story that feels personal and powerful. Done right, it gives people a reason to care, trust, and remember you.
Brand Storytelling vs. Traditional Advertising
Here's the difference: traditional ads scream "Buy now!" Brand stories whisper, "Here's who we are, and here's why we care." Instead of pushing a product, you're pulling people in with a mission, a moment, or a message they relate to. It's marketing without the hard sell. And it works.
Benefits of Visual Storytelling in Video Marketing
People are wired for stories. It's how we learn, connect, and make decisions. That's why brand storytelling works so well in video marketing. It boosts engagement, builds trust, and makes your brand way more shareable. Stanford research shows that people are 22 times more likely to remember a story than a fact, which is why great brand videos tend to stick around in your mind long after the screen fades to black.
10 Creative Brand Story Video Examples That Work
1. Patagonia: "What's Next?"
The Story & Purpose
Patagonia marks its 50th anniversary with a message that's more about the future than the past. The video weaves together powerful visuals of nature and community action, underscoring the urgent need for collective environmental responsibility. The purpose is to reaffirm Patagonia's long-standing commitment to activism while encouraging everyone to play a part in protecting the planet.
Visual & Narrative Style
Sweeping outdoor cinematography is paired with intimate footage of environmental advocates, athletes, and everyday people. It's all brought together with reflective narration from multiple voices, including an applaudable ending from the company's owner.
Why It Works
It's less about nostalgia and more about momentum. Patagonia uses its legacy to fuel a bigger movement- one rooted in purpose, not products. It feels urgent and inspiring without coming off as preachy. It aligns perfectly with what customers already believe about the brand, while reinforcing Patagonia's role as a leader in environmental activism.
2. Diverse: "Who We Are"
The Story & Purpose
This brand video highlights Diverse's mission to provide news, information, and commentary on diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education. The video underscores the publication's history and commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering inclusive academic environments.
Visual & Narrative Style
Motion graphics are combined with compelling visuals, including archival footage and contemporary scenes from various educational settings. A thoughtful voiceover explains the organization's history and impact, complemented by stirring music that enhances the emotional tone.
Why It Works
By weaving together historical context with present-day relevance, the video effectively conveys the organization's longstanding dedication to diversity in academia. The engaging narrative appeals to educators, students, and policymakers alike, reinforcing the publication's role as a trusted resource in higher education.
3. Airbnb: "Wall and Chain"
The Story & Purpose
Based on a true story, this animated video tells the tale of a former Berlin Wall guard who unknowingly hosts a man he once turned away at the border. Years later, they reconnect through Airbnb. The purpose is to show how travel and shared spaces can help heal old divides and foster human connection.
Visual & Narrative Style
Hand-drawn-style animation with muted colors and expressive character design. The story unfolds gradually, using gentle narration, emotional pacing, and cinematic transitions to reveal the powerful connection between the two characters.
Why It Works
This deeply human story brings history to life in a surprisingly personal way. The animation pulls you in, but it's the emotional payoff that really lands. Airbnb isn't just promoting travel here. It's showing how opening your door can change lives, and how Airbnb connects people in meaningful ways.
4. Google: "Loretta"
The Story & Purpose
An elderly man uses Google Assistant to remember details about his late wife, Loretta, from her favorite activities to the little quirks that made her who she was. The video serves as a tender reminder that technology can help us in very personal ways, like holding on to the memories that matter most.
Visual & Narrative Style
The video is simple and stripped down: a black screen with text and images as if you're inside the Google interface. But the narrative is anything but simple. Authentic and emotional voice recordings of the elderly gentleman guide the viewer through a heartfelt, highly personal journey.
Why It Works
It's incredibly moving without trying too hard. By grounding the product in real and raw human emotion, Google shows its tech as helpful and empathetic. You're not just watching an ad- you're witnessing a love story. And the outcome is an understanding of Google's goal to connect people.
5. Nike: "You Can't Stop Us"
The Story & Purpose
Nike's 2020 "You Can't Stop Us" celebrates unity and resilience in sports during times of adversity. The ad showcases athletes from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing the unifying power of sport. It was created to inspire hope and demonstrate how sports can bring people together, even in challenging times.
Visual & Narrative Style
A dynamic split-screen montage of athletes performing similar movements, seamlessly edited to highlight synchronicity and connection. Narrated by Megan Rapinoe, it combines powerful visuals with compelling storytelling.
Why It Works
By focusing on shared experiences and collective strength, the ad resonates emotionally with viewers. Its innovative editing and inclusive message reinforce Nike's commitment to social unity and perseverance. It's visually jaw-dropping, emotionally stirring, and 100% on brand.
6. Mailchimp: "Big Change Starts Small"
The Story & Purpose
Mailchimp's video showcases how the company empowers the underdog- small organizations and local changemakers with big ideas. It highlights how betting on these small companies has created meaningful impact in communities that often get overlooked. The video reflects Mailchimp's core purpose: supporting grassroots efforts that transform the world in big ways.
Visual & Narrative Style
The video uses colorful, engaging animation that flows smoothly from scene to scene, creating a bright and optimistic story of the company's values. The fresh style matches Mailchimp's playful brand personality, while the clear narration keeps the focus on community impact and empowerment.
Why It Works
The animation brings to life the story of celebrating small organizations making big changes. The messaging stays clear and focused on Mailchimp's unique mission to support underdogs, making the brand feel genuinely invested in meaningful social impact. It's both inspiring and memorable without ever feeling preachy.
7. Warby Parker: "Buy A Pair- Give A Pair"
The Story & Purpose
This company started with a simple mission: to serve people by offering affordable eyewear. The video highlights a commitment to social impact through "Buy a Pair, Give a Pair," which ensures that for every pair of glasses you buy, another is distributed to someone in need. The purpose is to show how they empower people by improving access to better eyesight and offering opportunities to customers and underprivileged communities alike.
Visual & Narrative Style
The video features a warm, human-centered approach with images of a real community benefitting from (and wearing) their glasses. The founders create an authentic, approachable vibe by narrating their journey with touching stories and genuine moments.
Why It Works
By focusing on real stories and the founder's vision, it builds trust and connection without being salesy. The simple, direct style keeps the message clear. Warby Parker is about more than just glasses; it's also about making a positive difference. It's memorable because it feels personal and sincere, inviting viewers to be part of the mission.
8. Netflix: "The Story of Netflix"
The Story & Purpose
Created for its 25th anniversary, "The Story of Netflix" is a heartfelt journey through the company's evolution- from DVD mailers to global streaming giant. But rather than just listing milestones, the video leans into nostalgia, creativity, and a sense of play. It shows how far Netflix has come while celebrating the people and ideas that fueled its rise. Its job is to inspire loyalty, reminding viewers of the emotional connection they've built with Netflix over the years.
Visual & Narrative Style
A mixed-media style that blends stop motion, collage, still photography, and 2D animation. This scrapbook-like approach gives the story a personal, handmade feel, setting it apart from the typical aesthetic of most corporate videos. The narrator speaks directly to the viewer with warmth and humility, which adds to the human tone.
Why It Works
It feels like a love letter rather than a corporate retrospective. The creative and memorable format keeps things visually engaging while underscoring Netflix's reputation for bold storytelling. It's also a great example of how a brand can reflect on its journey in a way that inspires both customers and internal teams.
9. IKEA: "What If?"
The Story & Purpose
IKEA asks a series of thought-provoking questions that go beyond furniture: "What if we designed new behaviors, not just products?" It's an intro to the brand's deeper mission and beliefs that challenge conventional norms and inspire innovation. It's an invitation to rethink how design can shape a better world.
Visual & Narrative Style
Beautiful and diverse visuals, powerful music, and a poetic voiceover guide viewers through people-centered moments. Its inclusive and personal tone feels more like a film than a commercial, reflecting various aspects of everyday life and the global community IKEA serves.
Why It Works
Instead of selling, this video invites viewers into a conversation. By inspiring self-reflection, IKEA effectively positions itself as a brand that thinks bigger and cares more. Presenting purpose instead of a product lets the message connect emotionally with viewers. It strengthens brand loyalty and encourages them to envision a better future through collective action and thoughtful design.
10. Apttus: "Roots"
The Story & Purpose
Narrated by the company's founder, this brand story pulls back the curtain on the personal journey that led to Apttus. Through emotional reflections on childhood tragedy, grit, and passion, we learn how his early challenges and hard work motivated him to create something different. The goal here isn't to sell a product- it's to humanize the brand by showing the drive, purpose, and experience that built the company.
Visual & Narrative Style
This longer form video employs a mix of personal home movie footage, candid interviews, and behind-the-scenes workplace footage. The narrative is driven by personal anecdotes and testimonials, creating an authentic and relatable portrayal of the company's culture and impact.
Why It Works
Focusing on real stories and experiences, the video helps build trust and credibility with viewers. The combination of technical insights and human elements makes the content appeal to a broad audience, from potential clients to prospective employees. This approach effectively communicates Apttus's commitment to innovation and success.
4 Top Tips for Creating an Effective Brand Story Video
1. Know Your Core Message and Values
Before you hit record, get crystal clear on what your brand stands for. This is the foundation for everything else- from visuals to voiceover.
When your message is aligned from the start, it's much easier to tell a story that feels authentic and cohesive.
2. Focus on Emotion and Relatability
If it doesn't make people feel something, it's just noise. Emotional storytelling is what separates memorable brand story videos from forgettable ones. Research shows that customers with an emotional connection to a brand are twice as likely to spend more on that brand.
Tap into shared experiences or challenges your audience understands, and you'll build a connection that sticks.
3. Use Real People and Real Stories
Whether it's your founder, a longtime customer, or a passionate employee, authenticity is key. People connect with people, not polished brand scripts.
Real voices and real experiences create the kind of trust and credibility no staged performance can match.
4. Prioritize Quality & Authenticity Over Length
You don't need a 10-minute epic. Most people believe videos between 30 seconds and 2 minutes are most effective, but context matters. Homepage videos might run a little longer, while social videos should be tighter.
Keep it real, and keep it focused- long enough to build emotion, short enough to hold attention.
Brand Storytelling Across Different Formats
Short-Form Social Media Videos
Think Reels, TikToks, and YouTube Shorts. These social media videos are quick-hit, personality-driven clips that tease your story or highlight a single moment.
Website Homepage Brand Videos
A website video is often a visitor's first impression. Make it count with a polished, welcoming piece that introduces your brand's purpose.
Campaign-Based Commercial Storytelling
These are your big moments- a launch, rebrand, or mission push. They're often cinematic, emotional, and part of a larger content strategy.
How Levitate Media Helps You Tell Your Brand Story
At Levitate Media, we specialize in crafting brand story videos that actually mean something. We're not just here to make things look good. We dive into your values, your message, and the emotion behind your brand to create content that resonates.
From concept to scripting, filming, editing, and final delivery, our team helps bring your story to life in a way that feels authentic, intentional, and beautifully produced. Whether you're launching a brand, highlighting your culture, or sharing your journey, we've got your back. Want a deeper look? Check out our brand story video production services to learn more.
Tell Stories That Connect, Not Just Sell
At the end of the day, people remember stories, not slogans. Brand story videos give your audience a reason to care, and in a crowded marketplace, that's everything. They build trust, stir emotion, and move people to action. When done well, a story doesn't just introduce your brand, it makes people feel like they're part of it.
So if you're looking to grow a brand people believe in, start by telling a story they'll never forget!
Ready to bring your brand story to life? Contact Levitate Media to start your next video project.
