Author:
Publication: Federated-fds.com
Date: March 1, 2007
URL: http://www.federated-fds.com/pressroom/macys/macyswest/media_kits.asp?mediakit=119&item=2
Union Square, San Francisco March 30 - April
14, 2007
Macy's 61st Annual Flower Show invites visitors
to "Imagine India" and celebrate the country's vibrant colors, distinctive
style, seductive sounds, delicious food and amazing flowers. From the opulence
and grandeur of India's golden palaces, to the excitement of Mumbai's (Bombay)
nightlife, to the intoxicating beauty of the spice markets, India is a country
on the cutting edge that has maintained a strong connection to its rich history.
For two weeks, Macy's Union Square will showcase
the art, architecture and history of Indian culture amid lush greens and thousands
of blooms, including the famed Gomes Snowbird azaleas, which have been a part
of Macy's Flower Show since 1946.
Upon entering the women's store from O'Farrell
Street, admirers step on to a patterned floor beneath a gilded ceiling. Traditional
Indian arches adorned with colorful hanging lanterns span the aisles. Flowers
in all colors, shapes and sizes - including chrysanthemums, marigolds, roses,
zinnias, dahlias, and peonies - spill over the ledges. Large palm trees, sculpted
hedging, etched brass planters, and sparkling fountains add to the elegance
of this palace-inspired scene. The fragrance and watch rooms feature mannequins
wearing authentic Indian saris on an elevated runway flanked by two elephant
statues. A stunning floral mural fills one wall. In the jewelry department,
a statue of Parvati (goddess of love and devotion, divine mother of Ganesha,
and wife of Lord Shiva) sits amid a garden setting of random plantings.
The beauty of India lies in its connection
to the past, commitment to the present, and investment in the future, and
these connections are portrayed throughout the store. Gardens with classic
English influences such as hedging and sculpture are softened by abundant
floral displays in a variety of colors and textures; geometric color-coordinated
gardens are complemented by cascading rows of lanterns, the delicate curves
of traditional Indian arches, and Indian goddess statuary.
Vignettes evoking the modernity of Mumbai's
(Bombay) exciting and futuristic nightlife mingle with traditional Indian
graphics and artwork, including paintings of the country's maharajas (great
kings). The Cellar highlights the rich, spice market-inspired hues of an Indian
bazaar, while the Swim department depicts the tranquil Goa beach resort life.
In a salute to India's rich spiritual heritage,
visitors are greeted by a 30-foot tall statue of Ganesh (Hindu representation
of god) above the Geary Street entrance. A 75-foot curtain of lights serves
as the backdrop to the beloved figure and puts on an impressive five-minute
light show of color and blooms.
The store's exterior windows feature two very
different scenes that illustrate India's diversity: one, a peaceful courtyard,
complete with a pond, gazebo, lilies and lotus flowers, inspired by India's
summer palaces; the other, a raucous tribute to the bright lights and celluloid
culture of Bollywood.
This year, Macy's offers its customers the
opportunity to purchase authentic Indian textiles, jewelry, furniture and
antiques from two specialty shops in the store. Berkeley's ZEBA Home store
will provide a range of goods like exotic throws and decorative pillows, gold
and silver jewelry, tunics, sari prints, painted tables, and Western-fusion
Ready-to-Wear clothing from Nikasha, a renowned Mumbai designer. Exquisite
home furnishings hand-selected by Macy's buyers on a visit to India will be
tagged for resale throughout the store for shoppers who want to incorporate
a bit of Indian grandeur into their own homes. Visitors to the store can also
purchase limited edition "Imagine India" jute bags featuring Indian
iconography and embellished with sequins for $15 each.
Macy's presents two weeks of events in the
men's and women's buildings including demonstrations by top florists, artisans
and chefs, fashion presentations, and entertainment amid Indian-inspired beauty.
From handbags to hosiery and swimwear to sandals, the store showcases the
latest spring trends and looks. Special guest appearances and events continue
to entertain Flower Show visitors.
