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There is never a shortage of things to do in our wonderful city, but even the most active New Yorker doesn’t get to experience everything that’s worthwhile. In turn, opportunities like “The Macallan’s Rare New York Weekend For 2” -– as produced in collaboration between The Macallan and Gilt City -– provide a great service to those looking to experience some local luxury in a unique way. It takes its purchasers all over town in a relaxed manner as they get to do a variety of things that the everyday person doesn’t have the clout for.
Having kicked off earlier this month, “The Macallan’s Rare New York Weekend For 2” package costs a pretty penny at $4,999, yet its activities all total up to $8,816 in retail value. First, there’s the American Express gift card that is valid towards the purchase of two plane tickets. Naturally, there is private car service from the airport to the hotel, which will be The NoMad Hotel for two nights. While the everyday person may be able to get great seats to an MLB game or golf at The Golf Club at Chelsea Piers, there is an “omakase” dinner at Zuma with Macallan pairings. There is also a private suit fitting for two with Heritage by Martin Greenfield, which includes a private tasting with a Macallan brand ambassador. Thus, a weekend of top-notch accommodations, food, drink, sport, fashion, and expert-guided events.
To learn more about the package, I spoke with Steven Schneider, President of Gilt City, Gilt Business Development and International, and Craig Bridger, The Macallan’s National Brand Ambassador. Turns out that Steven and Craig have worked together before, and have plans to collaborate together in the future. Other “Rare Experience” getaways are planned for later this year, including getaways based in Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami and Scotland.
For more information on The Macallan x Gilt City “Rare Experiences” series, click on over to http://www.gilt.com/city/newyork/collection/macallancollection. Steven can be followed on Twitter via @Sschneids, while Craig is on Twitter as @MacallanCraig.
Zuma
How did this partnership between The Macallan and Gilt City come about?
Craig Bridger: The Macallan and Gilt City are both passionate about curating special experiences for their consumers. It’s a natural fit.
Steven Schneider: Gilt first partnered with The Macallan on an event with Scott Conant in 2014 and again in December 2015, curating exceptional holiday gift ideas for Gilt.com inspired by the premium Macallan Rare Cask. Our customer loved these collaborations, so we wanted to build on them. The “Rare Experiences” campaign on Gilt City features luxury, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that incorporate The Macallan and reflect the refined nature of the brand.
How would you describe this “Rare Experiences” package?
CB: As the name suggests, this package is composed of very rare things. New York City is a place chock full of incredible places and experiences, and The Macallan — in partnership with Gilt City — has cherry-picked a few stunners.
SS: The NYC getaway package is the ultimate guys’ weekend, replete with unforgettable activities, such as a private suit fitting for two with Heritage by Martin Greenfield, omakase dinner at Zuma with The Macallan pairings, tickets to an MLB game, and more.
What is your personal favorite part of the package? Is there something that you wish you yourself could be part of?
CB: Well, I certainly wouldn’t say no to a custom tailoring session with the folks at Martin Greenfield. I can pay in bottles of The Macallan. (laughs)
The Macallan’s Craig Bridger
SS: It’s a tough call, but the private suit fitting from Heritage by Martin Greenfield is my favorite part — who can say no to impeccable hand-tailoring from one of the world’s most distinguished tailors? And to enjoy an exclusive tasting of The Macallan led by its brand ambassador, Craig, during the fitting session is a special bonus.
Will anyone from your brand be participating within the “Rare Experiences” package?
CB: I’ll have the pleasure of conducting a rare whisky tasting for attendees.
Might we see your brand be involved in another offering like this in the future?
CB: Yes, we have four other experiences on offer throughout the year taking place in Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles and Scotland.
SS: Absolutely. Gilt regularly partners with the most coveted brands to not only provide exclusive offers and sales, but also to serve as a publishing platform, creating one-of-a-kind, multi-faceted marketing campaigns for these companies.
What’s ahead for your company after this promotion wraps in mid-July?
CB: We are busier than ever, with no less than three major new releases in the chamber, including The Macallan 65 Years Old, one of the oldest expressions ever released by the distillery. It’s an exciting time to be a whisky fan.
SS: Since Hudson’s Bay Company’s acquisition of Gilt, we have opened Gilt’s first-ever physical concept shop in NYC’s new Saks Off 5th store on 57th Street. We are developing exciting programming and events for this store, which features a new, in-person Gilt flash sale every week. We are continuing to build and develop an omnichannel shopping experience for our members.
Gilt City’s Steven Schneider
When not busy with your company, how do you like to spend your free time?
CB: When I can find the time, I’m with my dog in Fort Greene Park, or editing my novel. Usually with a dram of whisky.
SS: I love snowboarding, traveling, cycling and spending quality time with my friends, family, and adorable dog, Lily.
Do you have a favorite restaurant in Manhattan?
CB: It’s Manhattan — I have a million! But here are some current favorites: Gabriel Kruether, The Polo Bar, Eleven Madison Park, Trattoria il Mulino, Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse, and Vinegar Hill House. Gotta have one in Brooklyn!
Any special plans for you this summer? Are you going on vacation anywhere summer?
CB: Well, I’ve set aside some time to help my folks move into a new home. And I’m looking forward to attending Tales Of The Cocktail in July.
Do you have a favorite Gilt City experience in Manhattan?
SS: I use Gilt City to discover all of the best experiences in and around New York City, and lately I can’t enough of spinning. Gilt City offers an array of top-notch spinning classes at insider prices. I also love the homemade guacamole at Rosa Mexicano that I tried when enjoying a Gilt City experience there.
Finally, any last words for the kids?
CB: For all the kids over 21: Be good to your bartender!
Golfing at Chelsea Piers