In just 30 seconds, the video sprints from one unlikely scenario to another: a pot-bellied partier cradles a Chihuahua; a bride flees police on a golf cart; a farmer luxuriates in a pool full of eggs.

Short-form video ads must be creative and entertaining to capture attention, but prioritizing creator-led content and leading with brand assets—like jingles, mascots and logos—is most effective for ...