Touring 90th Years of Excellence with GODIVA Media Tour
Official Chocolatier of Belgian Royal Courts, GODIVA Chocolatier steps into its 90th Anniversary in 2016. To celebrate this momentous occasion, GODIVA exclusively invited 20 selected media to visit their home in Brussels. The meeting was a delicious multi-sensory experience, breathtakingly bringing to life the rich history and craftsmanship, featuring GODIVA’s bold collections from past to present; presenting the sweetly nostalgic and cutting edge chocolate designs to astound guests from all over the globe.
Media Tour Day 1 - To kick-start the tour, guests delved into the brand’s rich heritage on the first day with visits to GODIVA’s most iconic stores, at Grand Plaza and Sablon. After a warm welcome drink of rich hot cocoa at the store, they were also treated to taste a few Belgium-exclusive chocolates. They were then taken to visit only one of two Chocolate and Cocoa museums in Belgium, owned by Mrs. Peggy Draps, granddaughter of GODIVA founder, Pierre Draps. The visit to the museum exhibited the history of chocolate, as well as brought to life the story of GODIVA. Peggy Draps gave an insightful tour of the museum, showing original photos of the birth of GODIVA in 1926, she explained how the young Draps family handmade, discussed and lived chocolate. This depicted the growth of GODIVA, and how it counted heavily on the passion, craftsmanship and innovation, inspiring every guest who attended. In the evening, guests were welcomed with a ‘Greater China Night’ with inspirational embracement of China’s culture, marking it a fabulous end of the first day of Brussels’ Immersion.
Media Tour Day 2 - The day started off with an exclusive GODIVA Factory visit. The GODIVA Factory visit was indeed a special treat, as outsiders would not have access to these exclusive areas. The 20 Media from Greater China were invited to learn about the chocolate making process, all the way from preparing raw ingredients, the design process, and the craftsmanship of each piece of chocolate. The media was blown away by the immaculate dedication to the art. The Signature Lait Café is a prime example, this chocolate was created in 1939 to commemorate the feather on Scarlett’s hat in “Gone With the Wind”. The media witnessed workers who have been working at GODIVA for over 20 years, hand paint the feather on each and every piece of chocolate.
After the tour of the factory, Chef Chocolatiers invited the media to a Special Chocolate Making session at the Atelier. Using a variety of ingredients, the 20 guests were guided to create their own masterpieces. At the end of the session, the Chef arranged the 18 pieces together, allowing the media to discover a fascinating surprise, the unveiling of the brand new packaging for the 90th Anniversary Collection, designed by Oli-B. The guests signed their names on the chocolate packaging, creating a unique memorabilia.
On that evening, 135 guests from all over the world were invited to an unforgettable event. The first layer of the event was the priceless exhibition of GODIVA’s Founder, Pierre Draps notebook and chocolate tools; these very pieces are where GODIVA all came together in the 1930s. Then guests migrated to the second layer, which was the epitome of GODIVA’s multi-sensory experience. Using sensory neuro-science, individual taste experiences were designed to showcase the decades of GODIVA’s collection. It featured five pods, which were each dedicated to telling the story and enhancing the flavour profile. When the right visuals, sounds, scent and texture comes together, it becomes incredibly powerful as it heightens are senses, making our experience much more memorable, engaging us emotionally. The highlight of the evening was the third layer, which represents the future. The Rose and Raspberry Sensory meal holds true to its theme, the multi-sensory dining experience positions GODIVA as true culinary artists, pioneering and in line with the latest gastronomic trends. Michelin-star restaurant, Bon Bon’s executive chef, Chef Christophe and the culinary team at GODIVA prepared the impressive dinner.
At the end of the night, all guests had a wonderful night with a valuable and meaningful gift - GODIVA’s Collection Anniversaire, containing eight of GODIVA’s most precious and iconic chocolates, alongside a brand new fresh, fragrant rose and raspberry-flavoured piece, presented to artfully showcase GODIVA’s tradition and innovative journey of GODIVA’s rich heritage. GODIVA’s CEO, Mohammed Elsarky made a note, “GODIVA have been creating beautiful chocolates for the past 90 years, with an emphasis on its craftsmanship. This is an important milestone for us and the Draps family, we hope to carry this tradition for generations to come, bringing GODIVA’s skills and innovation to chocolate lovers worldwide.”
Le French May x GourMay 2016
Just few days away from the biggest May’s festival - Le French May 2016. It is an annual arts and food festival organized by the Consul General France in Hong Kong & Macau and has become a significant and iconic cultural festival in Hong Kong. Themed “Dreams & Wonders” for the 24th edition of Le French May Arts Festival and the region Alsace as the 8th edition of Le French GourMay Food and wine Festival, will be launched different events across Hong Kong.
• 30 April – 2 May: Le French May * Le French GourMay 2016 Opening Celebrations@ PMQ
• 7 May: Le French GourMay 2016: Le Voyage de Musique et Vin @ HMV Flagship Store
• 14 – 15 May: French Traditional Market @ Stanley Plaza
During the whole month of May this year, up to 200 partners (compared to 130 last year) – Michelin-starred chefs, restaurants, as well as food and wine importers, distributors and retailers in Hong Kong and Macau – will join hands to honour Le French GourMay 2016 by dedicated menus to match with Alsatian wines, and various wine tastings, promotions and workshops. An impressive number of 111 restaurants will transport the local food scene to Alsace! With an increase in casual-dining and fine-dining restaurants, especially those serving Asian cuisines (e.g. Cantonese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, etc.), this year’s festival aims at touching not only Francophiles but a larger public with diverse tastes. From your favorite next door deli to your most convenient stores, find all the best delicacies of Alsace in more than 80 retail locations, and learn how to cook them in a variety of workshops.
Wines in Alsace
The vibrancy and purity of the wines of Alsace are closely linked to their origins: a favorable climate, terroirs of exceptional geological diversity and exacting wine-making expertise.
The uniqueness of Alsace’s terroir lies in its distinguished characteristics of the climate and the geological diversity. Alsace’s viticultural zone is located on the eastern slopes of the Vosges Mountains, which creates a natural barrier to shelter the vineyards. The favorable semi-continental climate – sunny, hot and dry – in Alsace contribute to the development of complex aromas, vivid acidity and rich fruit.
Alsace has also witnessed its geological evolution throughout more than 150 million years. Nowadays, most of the viticultural communes in Alsace are situated on four or five different rock formations, all combining to form a mosaic of soils with an unparalleled richness and diversity. There are in total 13 geological configurations deployed across Alsace’s three structural units: the slopes of the mountains, with very varied, fragmented soil types; the foothills of the Vosges, which feature the most complex range of soil structures; and the plains are characterized by more recent, less developed soil structures.
These entire configurations help to create the exceptional variety of Alsace Wines out of 7 main grape varietals,after which Alsace Wines are named (not named after the villages or vineyards):
• Alsace Pinot Blanc: light-bodied wines with subtle fruit and notes of peach and apple, with floral nuances.
• Alsace Sylvaner: refreshing, light-bodied wines with delicate fruit.
• Alsace Riesling: dry and extremely elegant wines with subtle fruity and floral notes.
• Alsace Muscat: crispy wines notable for their vivacious fruit, their intense aromas and their dryness
• Alsace Pinot Gris: opulent and round wines rich in aromatic complexity of dried fruit, apricot, honey, beeswax and gingerbread.
• Alsace Gewurztraminer: powerful and highly aromatic wines with tropical fruit, flowers, citrus and spices.
• Alsace Pinot Noir: Alsace's only red wine - fresh, light and fruity.
For details: http://2016.frenchmay.com/
Exclusive Interview with Michael Petry - Creative Director, TUMI
M: Merci Editor | MP: Michael Petry
M: Can you tell us more about the coming FW collection and the inspiration behind it? What are the highlights?
MP: Each season we visit a new destination and we incorporate graphic patterns and colors important to that location into the collection. The inspiration for the Fall/Winter 2016 season is contemporary Japan, and a rich color palette rooted in nature is the foundation for this collection. We had a lot of fun infusing strong prints and bold colors into silhouettes that are designed with simplicity and functional purposes, giving personality to each piece.
Some highlights include the ever-popular Tegra-Lite® assortment in new seasonal Indigo Floral and Character Print, the select silhouettes in the Tahoe assortment updated in new Forest Print and some new assortment additions: ultra-premium Landon, made from matte pebbled leather and beautifully refined hardware signature to the collection; and Haydon—a new lightweight assortment of soft, relaxed silhouettes that are both fashion-forward and functional.
M: How have you applied your knowledge and expertise on textile from fashion to design to the new collection?
MP: While this role differs from previous positions I’ve held, I believe it is important to bring your prior experiences to the next job in your career. I’ve learned that in any job, it’s imperative to be immersed in the company culture and I encouraged those I worked with to be as well. “Culture” in this case is referring to how we design—allowing an open forum for everyone to speak his or her mind and pushing creativity. It’s important to make the work environment more open and dynamic, thus making the design process more team-oriented and always collaborative.
M: You grew up in the same era as TUMI did. Is there anything in your generation that means something to both you and TUMI and are you intended to incorporate it/ them to TUMI's collections in the future?
MP: We’ve worked very hard to keep the brand’s DNA in every single product we make while updating the silhouettes, the styling and paying particular attention to every little detail and touch point. The brand continues to evolve every season. At TUMI, we are always looking at ways to elevate our product through material innovation—from various leathers, textiles, trims and hardware details.
M: Why did you move from fashion design to product design?
MP: I’ve always done accessories and I have experience in making outerwear. I have 17 years of footwear experience; I’ve probably made every style of shoe possible. Joining TUMI was a great challenge because I’ve been design and creative director for some great brands throughout my career. This was an opportunity to take on a real American brand that has a fantastic reputation. Everywhere I go, people will say “I own a piece of TUMI,” or “I know someone who owns TUMI,” which is really great to hear. My goal has been about how to make the brand cooler and get people to reach it on a daily basis and not just from a travel standpoint.
M: And your reason choose to join TUMI?
MP: I was attracted to the brand because of its reputation for making luxury goods and being known for its superior quality and durability. TUMI has a great collection of classic silhouettes that never go out of style. Those are all things that great brands are built upon. I have been a fan of the brand for a very long time. Anyone who has traveled the world as extensively as I have definitely is a fan of the brand, the quality, the style and the timeless nature of the products.
M: How will you help TUMI stand out from competitors?
MP: The brand is known for superior product quality and durability, and the classic silhouettes never go out of style. Since beginning my role here at TUMI, the goal has been—and will continue to be—to evolve the brand aesthetic by making cool product as well as to elevate the creative of the product and our global marketing appearance. In my opinion, great brands are successful when they challenge themselves to innovate and create.
We will also continue to grow our consumer base to include younger and trend-focused individuals through more casual and tech-oriented product, while ensuring that the iconic and staple features for which clients look to TUMI are left intact and made better than ever.
About Michael Petry
In June 2015, Michael Petry joined TUMI, the leading global travel lifestyle brand, as Creative Director. In this role, Mr. Petry provides the TUMI brand vision and communications, enhancement of product identity, ensuring alignment of all creative disciplines, and set the strategic creative direction for TUMI to achieve business objectives that advance the brands’ strategy. Additionally Michael provides global leadership to marketing, design, public relations, digital and ecommerce platforms, visual merchandising and store design while ensuring that the brand identity, product aesthetic and quality are consistent with the expectations of TUMI’s target customers worldwide.
ghd X CÉ LA VI
ghd adds a taste of the tropics for CÉ LA VI's ladies night this April
Step into April, Hong Kong’s weather is getting warmer finally. Ready to change your outlook and say hello to Spring and Summer? ghd launched its new limited edition styler collection, the Azores. Every Wednesday ladies night, ghd Styling Squad will be ready to transform your hair into the season’s hottest styles with this styler at the Hong Kong’s luxury lounge, Cé La Vi. Catch up with your girlfriends to enjoy the free hairstyling and indulge yourself with the exclusive tropical cocktails. AND you will be one of the lucky girls to get the Azores styler and value of over HK$10,000 ghd products.
Venue: CÉ LA VI - 25/F California Tower, 32 D’Aguilar Street, Central
Time: 9pm until late on every Wednesday in April 2016
The contemporary loft-style and décor - Wildfire – Soho East
Situated along the harbor promenade at Lei King Wan, Wildfire celebrates the arrival of the Year of the Monkey with the re-launch of its Soho East outlet and a new menu on 6 February. The new restaurant occupies a nearly 3,000 sq.ft. venue in a trendy loft-style design which can section into different dining and drinking zones greatly suitable for dining in groups of large and small, intimate dating at the corner booths and private parties.
The contemporary loft-style furnishing and décor emit a comfortable and hip ambience for guests who are here for the food and stay for the drinks. The warm vintage incandescent lighting, rough bare concrete walls, dark leather sofas and champagne metal bar tables also create a uniquely decadent tone for the restaurant, contrasting to the semi-outdoor seats at the side where people may enjoy the 180-degree view of the brightly lit Victoria Harbour.
Gourmet Pizza: Napoletana-inspired pizza crust which uses powder-fine doppio zero (00) flour, olive oil and is known for being puffy on the edges, moist and soft in the middle for texture.
Marinara pizza (HK$148) – homemade garlic, oregano and tomato sauce base, top with mozzarella di bufala campano DOP (Denominazione di Origine Controllata), a buffalo mozzarella produced under a controlled designation of origin in Campana, Italy.
Pear and Gorgonzola pizza (HK$138) – both a savory and sweet delight for guests who want to jump out of the usual pizza routine.
Superfood Salad: "Superfood" such as barley and quinoa contain higher concentrations of nutrients than most other foods and with greater health benefits. These new salads are excellent choices for foodies who love eating healthy.
Barley Mango Salad (HK$98) – refreshingly sweet and tart. The fresh mango mix flawlessly with barley, edamame, baby spinach and red wine vinaigrette dressing.
Sous Vide Salmon Quinoa Salad (HK$108) – “sous vide” helps retain the white protein within the salmon during cooking and keeps the flesh silky smooth. Combining with quinoa, fresh green apple and lemon dressing, this salad is nutritious and super-satisfying.
Pasta & Grill: Sicilian Red Shrimp Spaghetti (HK$288) – a wonderful pasta dish with exceptionally sweet red shrimp that brings out the freshness of the Sicilian ocean.
U.S. Hanger Steak (HK$188) – an 8oz beefy choice for steak lovers. Hanger steak is characterised by its muscular texture yet juicy and tender when prepared medium-rare. Best savored in slices after grilling.
Dessert: Affogato (HK$68) – a classic drinkable dessert in Italian recipe.
Strawberry Eton Mess (HK$68) –strawberry meringue with fresh whipped cream that will be adored by the ladies.
Wildfire at Soho East hosts semi-buffet lunch with 5 entrée options from HK$128 up, Monday through Saturday. Also come chill and enjoy a satisfying Holiday Brunch from HK$128 up every Sunday and public holiday from 11am till 2:30pm; the set menu include slow oven-baked frittata among other selections and with a glass of house or sparkling wine. Special Late Night and Happy Hour drinks offer is great news to everyone - house wine and Carlsberg at half price! Special Late Night is on every Sunday to Thursday from 10pm till 12am; Happy Hour is on Monday to Thursday from 12nn till 7pm.
SOHO EAST
Shop 2B-07, G/F, 45 Tai Hong Street, Lei King Wan, Sai Wan Ho, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2261 2999
Business hours:
Monday - Saturday & Public Holiday Eve— from 12nn till 1am
Sunday & Public Holiday — from 11am till 1am
Website: Wildifire.com.hk | Facebook: Facebook.com/wildfirehk
Other Wildfire Branches:
Causeway Bay
59-65 Paterson Street, Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay
Tel: 2352 0198
The Peak
Shop 102, The Peak Tower, 128 Peak Road, The Peak
Tel: 2849 5123
Tsim Sha Tsui
2 Knutsford Terrace, Tsim Sha Tsui
Tel: 3690 1598
Simply the Rest: Proudly Presenting the Innovative Nap Lounge, an Urban Oasis Concept and a Haven of Easy Rejuvenation
Picture this everyday scene: You’re between meetings with an hour to spare. It’s a busy week (as usual), and all you really want before your next engagement is a place to unwind for an hour. The local coffee shop is always packed, but even when it isn’t, how can you truly relax in a bustling coffee house with cups clinking all around you as other customers eye up your seat? Welcome to the innovative, original Nap Lounge concept, a modern oasis of relaxation and escape from city life with private cabins available for easy rental in 15-minute increments. Simultaneously launched in three commerce-centric locations – on Des Voeux Road in the heart of Central, on Wan Chai’s Gloucester Road near the Hong Kong Convention Centre and in Tsim Sha Tsui East – Nap Lounge is never too far away from executives that need a fast recharge. After all, a 15 to 30-minute rest could make all the difference in how the rest of your day goes!
Retreat:
Housed within Nap Lounge are highly comfortable individual rooms. In keeping with Nap Lounge’s emphasis on tranquillity and total escape, each room can only accommodate a single guest at any time and features ergonomically designed recliners, fresh sheets and blankets, refreshments on-call and chargers for your electronics. Most importantly, Nap Lounge cabins are in a noise-free, phone-free zone so you are assured of a peaceful, short-term space to recharge your mind and body. An airport lounge is a welcome sight for weary travellers; Nap Lounge is a welcome sight for weary, on-the-go executives, perfect for visiting businessmen (especially during convention season in Wan Chai), travelling executives and freelance professionals who are between meetings. Nap Lounge is also a perfect tonic for special situations such as a personal staging point for an evening event you’re attending (like a wedding). How lovely would it be to have a convenient, peaceful place to change into your eveningwear while taking a much-needed moment to relax?
Recharge:
We recharge all manner of gadgets, electronics and tools everyday. Arguably the biggest tools we neglect to recharge are our minds and bodies. Nap Lounge was created for that very purpose, channelling the restorative powers of a quick afternoon break in restoring your mind space and getting your power bar back up to full.
Relax:
Here’s how it works: our stress-free cabins can be reserved on our user-friendly online booking platform, available for short-term rental in 15-minute increments so you can enjoy everything from a quick quarter-hour retreat to a slightly extended hour-long rejuvenation. Only one guest is allowed in Nap Lounge cabins, and you can be assured that each room is turned over completely after every guest, no matter how short their stay.
Classed as either Business Cabins or First Class Cabins, each Nap Lounge cabin comes with a hugely relaxing ergonomic recliner, chosen specifically to accentuate a quick and efficient recharge in blissful comfort. Free Wi-Fi, newspapers and magazines, chargers, slippers and toothbrush sets are available along with calm mood lighting, soothing scents and special in-room headsets with a selection of calming music. The more spacious First Class cabins also feature on-call refreshment service delivered straight to the cabin, while other guests can make use of the complimentary coffee, tea, selected beverages and snacks at the communal refreshment stations.
Designed with busy professionals in mind, Nap Lounge also features capabilities in printing, fax, copying, scanning and other business services available on site. A concierge service is also on hand with helpful information to help you get to your next stop with stress-free ease.
Reassurance:
Nap Lounge is the inspiration of hotelier David Lau, owner of Tsim Sha Tsui’s successful Popway Hotel, which he personally developed from the ground up. As such, you are assured of hotel-quality service at Nap Lounge with highly efficient room turnarounds and hotel-standard hospitality at every step of the way.
For details: http://www.naplounge.com.hk