I had the opportunity to zip down to Calgary to attend the Nordstrom VIP Stampede Social on July 2 and was warmly greeted by the event hosts.

custom coasters at the event, nice branding

 The purpose of the evening was to bring together social media influencers to celebrate the start of Calgary’s biggest outdoor show – the Stampede. For me, however, it illustrated how genuinely Nordstrom is embracing its first Canadian home. For its grand opening (more on that, below) Nordstrom is holding a Gala event in support of Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation and the United Way of Calgary and Area. That event sold out quickly – and the store’s not even open yet.

During the evening I had a chance to meet store manager Shelia Wooldridge, such a warm and inspiring person. She’s been with Nordstrom for many years and is eager to begin her post in Calgary.

“We just arrived in Calgary and we’re excited to experience everything the city has to offer – starting with this fabulous, fun-filled week of Stampede! I’m also looking forward to working with and developing a great team of people who are committed to bringing our Nordstrom service of culture alive in Calgary,” said Shelia.

Shelia Wooldridge, Nordstrom Calgary store manager

She is, I believe, entirely reflective of the sincerity and genuineness of the Nordstrom brand. It’s isn’t just the stuff of legends; it is in fact how Nordstrom employees conduct themselves. And that’s what makes shopping at Nordstrom such a treat.

I’m told that all the Calgary store management team members are in place and hiring is underway for more than 400 positions. (If you’re interested, here’s a link http://about.nordstrom.com/careers/?origin=footer#/international-careers/canada)

If you’re as excited as I am about the store’s opening on September 19, here is the scoop on grand opening activities:

• On Friday, September 19 from 7:30-9:30 be sure to queue up before the doors open. Nordstrom beauty experts will provide demonstrations and consultations to those in line.
• At 9:30, Nordstrom opens the doors to its first Canadian store. You won’t want to miss it!

Watch for future posts on Nordstrom’s progress and exciting news to come.

NOTE: I paid all my own expenses for this trip.