Since “Mad Men” is about the world of advertising, the most appropriate publication was the bible of the ad industry, Advertising Age. The full-color June 23, 2008 edition of Advertising Age flipped to present a 16-page black and white throwback issue that mimicked the look, layout and feel of AdAge back in the day – the first time the industry trade bible had ever partnered in such a way. From the cover page to the content within, the magazine melded fictional stories that dovetailed with events in the series – with period reprints of the mag’s genuine articles. The issue’s biggest “get” was a one-on-one interview with Sterling-Cooper’s star Creative Director “Don Draper,” written by series’ creator Matthew Weiner. Issue included portfolio of Sterling Cooper’s best work, and coverage of the agency’s latest account wins, and industry gossip.

Digital version of publication was placed on AdAge's website, expanding readership significantly.

Blockbuster. The Advertising Age partnership garnered remarkably outsized coverage for a trade magazine partnership, leading to news stories in The New York Times and Chicago Tribune, smaller mentions in TV Guide and elsewhere, and a veritable blogswarm of internet attentions. Sales of the DVD exceeded the client's expectations. Finally, when “Mad Men” returned in late July, it more than doubled the series’ previous ratings high.