Blog posts of '2023' 'November'

Organizing a grand opening event in Manhattan, one of the busiest and most vibrant areas in New York City, requires careful planning and attention to detail. CeremonialSupplies.com, the best one-stop-shop on the web for all your groundbreaking ceremonies, grand opening events, ribbon-cutting ceremonies, and corporate and military functions is proud to serve the growing online market. Here are essentials to consider for a successful grand opening in Manhattan:

Strategic Location:

Choose a central and easily accessible location for your Grand Opening or Product/Service launch in Manhattan to ensure a strong turnout. If your shop or business requires the Grand Opening to be on site, you may need to make parking and transportation arrangements for guests. If not, consider popular areas or venues that align with your brand or business. The launch of a product or brand can be held in a location or venue that is not the shop, or office. It can be a location best suited, or connected to the overall message. The location is important to consider for the drop-off and pick-up of deliveries, and for transportation accessibility and parking. Decorate, decorate, decorate! Make sure your grand opening is prominently merchandised with banners, giant bows, grand opening balloons, signs! There's nothing more disappointing than showing up at a grand opening where you can't see where it is!

Invitations and Promotion:

Develop a comprehensive marketing and publicity strategy. Use a mix of digital marketing, social media, and traditional advertising to create buzz and attract attendees. It is best to start with a media list you can create by listing local newspapers such as The New York Times, New York Daily News, The New York Post, The Wall Street Journal (NY Edition), Newsday, and AM New York and contacting their local office to invite newspaper coverage and publicity. Reach out to local radio stations (yes, they are still around and can create quite a buzz!) Reach out to local media outlets, bloggers, and influencers to secure coverage for your grand opening. A positive media presence can significantly boost your event's visibility. Keep in mind the media follows celebrities. Having high-profile celebrities at your event will guarantee media coverage.

Event Branding:

Ensure that your event is visually appealing and consistent with your brand. Use signage, banners, and branded materials to create a cohesive and memorable atmosphere. At CeremonialSupplies.com we have everything you need to create a well-branded, organized, and visually aesthetic Grand Opening event. From personalized ceremonial ribbons in various widths and sizes and giant, ribbon-cutting scissors, to groundbreaking ceremonial shovels, hard hats, signs, display cases, corporate wearables, plaques, awards, and military flags and medals, can all be personalized with your own logo, or commemorative date and message. The name of the business or store should be branded on the grand opening ribbon, on tablecloths, step and repeat backdrop, on the ceremonial scissors, and more, especially if there will be photos and videos of the event.

Entertainment and Activities:

Include engaging and relevant entertainment or activities that align with your brand. Consider live music, performances, or interactive elements to keep attendees busy having fun! To throw a good party, you will need music, food, and drinks. For a successful grand opening, you will need the same. Whether it’s soft music playing in the background or a live band, make sure both are in line and appropriate for your brand and your guests. Food trays and buffets are the best styles for large groups, and serving trays are preferred because the area can be set up with high cocktail tables instead of formal round tables. However, the style decision depends on the product or brand that is being inaugurated but the basics are the same: music, food, refreshments, entertainment. Some entertainment activities can include a caricature artist, or a magician working the crowd.

Event Staff:

It’s important to include a well-trained and professional event staff to manage registrations, or to welcome attendees, and handle any guest issue that may arise. There are professional event staff companies that can be hired. However, as a rule of thumb, involving local business personnel is the best bet. This not only creates a bonding team, it is also a great opportunity for the staff to mingle with the guests. CeremonialSupplies.com has a great selection of business branded wearables to provide a classic, uniform look that will set the staff apart from everyone. From long-sleeve traditional collar branded Oxford shirt to branded short-sleeve polos, branded tee shirts, and branded construction safety vests. Remember, the staff should be easily distinguished so choose wearable colors that stand out!

Technology Setup:

Ensure that all necessary technology, including sound systems, projectors, and Wi-Fi, is set up and functioning properly for presentations or demonstrations. Once the AV set up has been completed, do a dry run and leave equipment ready for an additional rehearsal if necessary. Test everything. Rehearse everything. Preparation is the most important half of any project.

Decor and Atmosphere:

Enhance the ambiance with stylish decor and lighting. Create an atmosphere that aligns with your brand and makes a positive impression on attendees. Consider interactive elements like product or service demonstrations. CeremonialSupplies.com has an extensive selection of ceremonial ribbons for grand opening ceremonies. These can be printed across, repeated throughout, with your logo and commemorative message, or using the 12” wide ribbons, your message can be customized vertically, in order to create hanging banners. We have all the tools, you have the creative gene!

Gift Bags or Swag:

This is where your invitation and guest list comes in super handy! For a totally unforgettable experience, prepare gift bags or swag for attendees, containing branded merchandise or promotional items that will leave a lasting impressions. The gifts can include a photo from the event, which will make the gift bags a more personal present. CeremonialSupplies.com has a selection of items for a gift bag, such as accessory pins, small plaques, or small display cases with mini scissors and ribbon. It’s better to gift than to not gift!

Security Measures:

Implement appropriate security measures to ensure the safety of attendees and protect your assets during the event. Consider insuring items of high value.

Follow-Up Strategy:

The single most overlooked step in all events, is probably one of the most important ones. Two words: Follow Up. Don’t expect the phone ringing off the hook the day after the event. Plan a follow-up strategy to maintain the momentum after the grand opening. This could include post-event communications, promotions, or exclusive offers for attendees.

Remember that Manhattan is a dynamic and diverse environment, so tailor your grand opening to resonate with the local audience and you’ll be sure to make a lasting impact. Shop CeremonialSupplies.com for all your grand opening products and enjoy our friendly prices, our knowledgeable customer consultants, and our prompt shipping wherever you are, and we will make you look like your competitors wished you never looked! Click here for a quote.

The Groundbreaking Ceremony of The Smith Tower in Seattle took place on April 13, 1910, over 120 years ago! CeremonialSupplies.com would like to salute and honor historical groundbreaking ceremonies by providing the notable story of the construction of The Smith Tower. CeremonialSupplies.com is the most complete one-stop-shop on the net for groundbreaking shovels, grand opening ceremonial ribbons, ribbon-cutting scissors, event carpets and mats, and many more ceremonial items, all customized with your logo and artwork, to make your groundbreaking ceremony or grand opening event as momentous as any historical landmark!

The Smith Tower was built and initially owned by Lyman Cornelius Smith, a prominent businessman and founder of L.C. Smith & Bros. Typewriter Company. Lyman Smith envisioned the tower as a symbol of Seattle's growth and prosperity and he hired the architectural firm Gaggin & Gaggin, to design the Smith Tower. The primary architects responsible for the design were George Willis Lawton and his son-in-law, Brandon Clifford. The groundbreaking for the Smith Tower in Seattle took place on April 13, 1910 and the construction of the tower commenced on that date. The building was completed and officially opened on July 4, 1914 as part of the Independence Day celebration in Seattle. The Smith Tower was an ambitious project and, at the time of its completion, it was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River, and held this distinction until the Space Needle was built for the World’s Fair in 1962.

Lyman C. Smith's company occupied a portion of the building, and the tower included both office space and the Chinese Room, a decorative space used for entertaining clients. Over the years, ownership of the Smith Tower changed hands multiple times. Today, the building is owned by Unico Properties, a real estate investment and operating company based in Seattle. The building is home to a local museum that displays the original elevator, as well as the many gifts received from dignitaries all around the world, commemorating and celebrating the building of the Smith Tower. The grand opening of The Smith Tower on July 4, 1914 marked a historic occasion of the completion of the tower, and its opening ceremony was part of the Independence Day celebrations in Seattle. The Smith Tower received a substantial number of gifts and congratulatory messages for its grand opening. The tower's developer and owner, Lyman Cornelius Smith, received over 3,000 telegrams and letters of congratulations from well-wishers around the world. The gifts ranged from artwork and decorative items to more practical items like silverware and office equipment. All the gifts are displayed today at the Smith Tower museum located inside the building.

The generosity and attention that the Smith Tower received during its grand opening reflected its significance as a major architectural and engineering achievement at the time. The tower was also an important symbol of Seattle's growth and prosperity in the early 20th century. As for specific attendees, the grand opening was a public event, and various local dignitaries and community members likely participated. However, detailed records of individual attendees are not as extensively documented for this event.

The Smith Tower, at the time of its completion, was the tallest building west of the Mississippi River and played a significant role in shaping Seattle's skyline. The grand opening would have been a momentous occasion, reflecting the city's growth and prosperity during that period. Over the years, the Smith Tower has become an iconic part of Seattle's architectural and historical heritage. The construction of the Smith Tower during Seattle's early 20th-century boom period contributed to the city's economic growth. It was a symbol of progress and prosperity. The tower was known for its innovative design, featuring setbacks and a pyramid-shaped, copper-clad roof. The architectural design was distinctive for its time and contributed to the skyline's uniqueness.

The Smith Tower originally housed office space, and its unique office layout featured "observatories" on the 35th floor, which were used for entertaining clients. The tower's mix of commercial and decorative features made it stand out. The building has survived economic downturns, changes in Seattle's economy, and the construction of taller buildings. Its enduring presence symbolizes the city's resilience and ability to adapt to changing times. As one of Seattle's oldest skyscrapers, the Smith Tower has been recognized for its historical and architectural significance. Efforts have been made to preserve its character and maintain its place in the city's history. Today, the Smith Tower continues to be a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can enjoy the historical exhibits, take in panoramic views of the city from the observation deck, and experience the charm of this iconic building.

For groundbreaking shovels, and groundbreaking ceremony accessories like hard hats, construction vests and other personalized custom printed first-sod cutting items, CeremonialSupplies.com is the best one-stop online shop on the web. Grand Openings and ribbon-cutting ceremonies will find CeremonialSupplies.com has the best quality ceremonial ribbons and giant grand opening scissors at friendly, affordable prices. Our shipping is swift and prompt, and our customer service is knowledgeable and helpful. Shop CeremonialSupplies.com for your groundbreaking ceremony or grand opening event items! Click here for a quote.

The Grand Opening of The Statue of Liberty in NY Harbor, was dedicated on October 28, 1886, in a ceremony known as its official inauguration. The event marked the completion of the statue's construction and its opening to the public. The Statue of Liberty is the only symbol of its kind in the world, representing freedom and democracy. CeremonialSupplies.com, the best one-stop-shop on the net for all your groundbreakings, grand openings, and other corporate and military functions and events, is pleased to highlight this bit of history about our industry and hope it inspires event planners and corporate function organizers when working on a launch or grand opening event.

The grand opening ceremony of the Statue of Liberty was held on Liberty Island (formerly known as Bedloe’s Island), where the statue is situated in New York Harbor. The historic ceremony was attended by various dignitaries from both France and the United States. French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, who designed the statue, and Gustave Eiffel, the engineer responsible for the statue's internal structure, were among the French attendees. Former President of the United States and Civil War general, Ulysses S. Grant, also attended the ceremony as did Emma Lazarus, the American poet who wrote the famous sonnet “The New Colossus,” which is inscribed on a plaque inside the pedestal of the statue. Red, white, and blue, the national colors of the American and the French flags spotted every space where the onlookers had gathered for the momentous occasion. For a magnificent dedication ceremony, or grand opening ceremony, view our choices of pre-printed grand opening ceremonial ribbons in widths perfect for your occasion, or shop our custom printed ceremonial ribbons personalized and available in widths up to 12” and up o 25 yards.

The dedication ceremony at the grand opening of the Statue of Liberty included the unveiling of the statue's face, which had been covered by an enormous French flag. The formal dedication involved speeches, music, and a 21-gun salute. As part of the ceremony, the American poet Emma Lazarus recited her famous poem "The New Colossus," which includes the iconic lines, "Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free." The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France to the United States and was intended to symbolize the enduring friendship between the two nations and the shared values of liberty and freedom. The dedication ceremony was a significant historical event, and the Statue of Liberty has since become one of the most recognizable and enduring symbols of the United States.

While specific details about the exact pieces of music played are not as well-documented, it is known that music was an integral part of the event. During ceremonies of this magnitude, it was customary to include patriotic and celebratory music. John Phillip Souza Marches, anthems, and other classical compositions that conveyed a sense of national pride and unity were likely performed. One notable aspect of the musical program at the dedication was the involvement of the French composer Charles Gounod, who also attended the NY grand opening ceremony. Gounod composed a special cantata, titled "La Liberté éclairant le monde" (Liberty Enlightening the World), for the occasion. This cantata was performed as part of the festivities. In addition to Gounod's composition, it is reasonable to assume that other patriotic tunes from both French and American traditions were included in the musical program, and that same must have included a full orchestra and brass band, for an outstanding and enduring moment in time. The precise details of the musical selections played during the dedication ceremony might be challenging to ascertain due to limited historical documentation, but it can be inferred that the music was carefully chosen to complement the significance of the event and to convey a spirit of liberty and international friendship.

Shop CeremonialSupplies.com for fine crafted and customizable groundbreaking ceremonial shovels and groundbreaking shovel accessories such as matching personalized hard hat and construction vest, shovel display stands, or check out our Grand Opening ceremonial ribbons, and our giant ribbon-cutting scissors and consider your choices of pre-printed Grand Opening messages, or custom print your own logo and message on the ceremonial grand-opening ribbon. Look for our fine fiber quality event carpets, and personalized custom printed mats and conference tablecloths in rectangular registration style size, or round tablecloth, for gala dinner or display. CeremonialSupplies.com has everything you need to help you create a memorable, grand opening or groundbreaking event. Click here for a quote.

Chicago has a rich history, and cornerstone laying ceremonies have been an important tradition for many significant buildings in the city. One notable example is the cornerstone laying ceremony for Chicago’s Water Tower and Pumping Station on historic North Michigan Avenue. CeremonialSupplies.com, the best one-stop-shop on the net for all items related to groundbreaking ceremonies, grand opening events, corporate and military functions, such as ceremonial groundbreaking shovels, grand opening ribbon and giant ceremonial scissors, with customized printing on mats, event carpets, tablecloths and more, is proud to celebrate the cornerstone laying ceremony of Chicago’s historic Water Tower.

The cornerstone laying ceremony for the Chicago Water Tower took place on September 9, 1867. The Water Tower, designed by architect William W. Boyington, was part of a larger project that included a pumping station to address the city's water supply needs. The ceremony marked the beginning of construction for the Water Tower and Pumping Station, and it was attended by various dignitaries and officials. Prominent figures in Chicago at the time of the groundbreaking ceremony were such notables like Cyrus McCormick, no relation to the spice family, the inventor and businessman behind the McCormick reaper. Cyrus McCormick had a significant impact on agriculture and played an important role in Chicago’s industrial growth. Industrialist and inventor of the “pullman” cart that revolutionized travel, George M. Pullman, and Marshall Field, businessman and leading retail industry personality, were all high-profile personalities who would have been included to the grand opening, or rather “dedication”, of the Chicago Water Tower and Pumping Station. Grand Opening ceremonies or Dedication ceremonies usually involve speeches and a ribbon cutting. CeremonialSupplies.com is a proud online provider of personalized custom printed grand opening ribbons of sizes ranging from 4" wide to 10" and 12" wide, and 25 yards long.

The Chicago Water Tower and Pumping Station was completed in 1869, and had its dedication during the term of Mayor John B. Rice. However the project was initiated and overseen by Ellis S. Chesbrough, the city's first Commissioner of Public Works, who was responsible for the development of the city's early water supply and sewage systems. Ellis S. Chesbrough served in his role from 1856 to 1873, spanning various mayoral administrations. While Mayor John B. Rice was in office during the completion of the Water Tower and Pumping Station, it's essential to note that Chesbrough played an important role in the development and implementation of Chicago's early infrastructure projects. What makes the Water Tower particularly notable is its survival of the Great Chicago Fire in 1871. While much of the city was destroyed by the fire, the Water Tower, built from Joliet limestone, withstood the flames. It became a symbol of Chicago's resilience and determination to rebuild. Today, the Chicago Water Tower is one of the few remaining structures from the pre-fire era. It stands as a historic landmark on North Michigan Avenue and is known for its distinctive castle-like appearance, which was used as the model for the White Castle, castle logo. The Water Tower and Pumping Station was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

Cornerstone laying ceremonies are symbolic rituals that mark the beginning of construction for a new building. They often involve placing a ceremonial stone or block at the building's corner, sometimes with a time capsule containing significant items or documents. These ceremonies are attended by various dignitaries, community members, and construction workers. It is an architectural ritual as old as man. Remember all your celebratory events of historical nature, and remember CeremonialSupplies.com, the best online one-stop-shop for customized ceremonial groundbreaking shovels, shovel stands, and presentation display cases, grand opening custom printed ceremonial ribbons, giant grand opening ribbon-cutting scissors, stanchions and posts with assortment of velvet rope in different colors, custom logo printed mats and event carpets, corporate and military functions, the next time a ceremonial event comes up in your organizational calendar! Count on CeremonialSupplies.com for the best crafted quality items at friendly prices, superb customer service, and prompt and efficient shipping wherever you are! Click here for a quote.

Custom branded tablecloths, mats, and event carpets for 2024 will be excellent tools for marketing and enhancing brand visibility at various events in the coming year. As we continue to see the slow gain in air traffic and the return of annual destination conferences, conventions, and meetings, the need for fast-ready branded tablecloths, mats, and event carpets has become the factor of difference among event planners, and corporate functions organizers. CeremonialSupplies.com, the best online shop on the net for grand openings, groundbreaking ceremonies, corporate functions and events, offers custom printed tablecloths, mats, and event carpets in the most eye-catching colors. Here are some potential uses for these Custom branded items:

Trade Shows and Exhibitions:

Stand out among competitors by using custom printed tablecloths and mats at trade shows. Your booth will look more professional, and the branded items can convey your company's message and logo effectively for eye-catching recognition.

Conferences and Seminars:

Enhance the overall look of your presentation or display area with branded tablecloths. They create a cohesive and professional atmosphere, reinforcing your brand identity to attendees. Custom branded tablecloths are recommended for panel discussions, especially if it will be streamed live, podcast, etc. Custom branded mats can be used at the venue’s entrance for a complete look.

Corporate Events and Meetings:

Use custom-branded tablecloths and mats at corporate events, seminars, or business meetings to reinforce your brand presence. This can include logo placement, taglines, or key messages.

Product Launches:

For product launches or promotional events, branded carpets can be used to guide attendees through a specific path or highlight key areas. This creates a visually appealing and immersive experience.

Retail Spaces and Pop-Up Shops:

If your brand has a retail presence or pop-up shop, branded mats and carpets can be strategically placed to create a branded environment. This helps in creating a cohesive and memorable shopping experience.

Outdoor Events and Festivals:

Branded carpets can be used at outdoor events, such as festivals or community gatherings. They not only provide a designated space but also act as a branding opportunity, especially if you incorporate your logo and key messages.

Red Carpet Events:

For upscale events, custom-branded carpets can serve as a literal red carpet for VIPs, adding a touch of glamour and reinforcing the exclusivity of the occasion.

Weddings and Special Occasions:

Custom-branded tablecloths and carpet runners can be used at special events like weddings. This adds a personalized touch and can be a unique branding opportunity.

Hospitality Industry:

Hotels and restaurants can use custom-branded tablecloths to enhance their brand in dining areas. This subtle branding can contribute to a more memorable guest experience.

Photo Booth Areas:

Create a designated photo booth area at events with a branded backdrop. Attendees can take pictures in front of your branded display, and these photos can be easily shared on social media, extending your brand reach.

When using these branded items, it's essential to ensure that the design is visually appealing, consistent with your brand guidelines, and effectively communicates your message. Additionally, consider the quality of materials for longevity and reusability across multiple events. Shop CeremonialSupplies.com for the best prices, friendliest service, and most varied products for grand openings, groundbreaking ceremonies, corporate functions and special events. Click here for a quote.

Decorating a Christmas party using only ceremonial ribbons is easier than you think, especially if you start out with ribbons from CeremonialSupplies.com, the best online vendor for all products ceremonial! CeremonialSupplies.com offers a wide color palette of silky, strong, and easily manageable ceremonial ribbons in width that range from 1.5” up to 12” (1 ft) and up to 25 yards, to help you decorate a Christmas party creating a whimsical and festive touch! Here are some creative ideas for using ribbons to decorate:

Gift Wrap Accents:

Use ribbons as part of your gift wrapping for presents under the Christmas tree. Mix and match different colors and textures to create a cohesive look.

Ribbon Garland:

Create a festive garland by stringing together different lengths of ceremonial ribbons in widths of 2.5, or 4 inches respectively, Intertwined, and Hang the garland across doorways, windows, or along the edge of tables for a colorful touch.

Ribbon Bows:

Tie large bows using ribbons using different width ribbons in 4", 6", and 8" or 10" extra-wide ribbons, and place them strategically around the party space. You can attach them to chairs, hang them on walls, or even use them as centerpieces.

Chair Decor:

Using first a chair cover, Wrap ribbons around the backs of the "dressed" chairs, creating a colorful and festive touch. You can tie bows or simply let the ribbons cascade down for an elegant look.

Table Runner:

Lay Extra-wide ribbons of 8", 10", or 12" (Ft.) across the length of your tables as table runners. These can be custom printed with a message appropriate for your gathering or Christmas party. Mix and match colors of the season like red, or green, and layer with sparkling gold, or sparkling silver ribbons, or use a single color for a more cohesive look.

Hanging Ribbon Strips:

Shop CeremonialSupplies.com, the best one-stop shop on the net for ceremonial grand opening ribbons of all colors and sizes, pre-printed "Grand Opening" standard ribbons, and custom printed ceremonial ribbons. Use these to create ribbons of different widths and varying lengths and hang them from the ceiling for a whimsical effect. This can create a dynamic and visually interesting atmosphere.

Ribbon Wreaths:

Create wreaths of different sizes, from small wreaths to decorate a tree, to large wreaths to decorate doors or doorways. You can use a wire or foam base and weave the ribbons and garlands through for a textured look.

Ribbon Chandelier:

Hang ribbons from a chandelier, or create a makeshift chandelier using a hoop and ribbons. This can serve as a stunning focal point in the room. Depending on the size of the room you can arrange a medium size hoop with up to 6 or 8 ribbons of 4" and 6" combined and designed like a canopy outward, or over a specific area.

Candle Decor:

Wrap ribbons around the base of candles for a simple yet effective decoration. Be cautious with open flames and ensure the ribbons are a safe distance from the flame.

Ribbon Accents on Tableware:

Tie ribbons around napkin rings, cutlery sets, or even wine glasses. It's a small detail that can enhance the overall table setting.

Ribbon Ornaments:

Create ribbon ornaments by tying bows or creating ribbon loops. Hang these on the Christmas tree or use them as additional decorations throughout the space. Remember to consider your color scheme and the overall theme of the party when selecting ribbons. Mixing different widths and textures can add depth and visual interest to your decorations. Shop CeremonialSupplies.com for all your ribbon decorations, grand opening events, groundbreaking ceremonies, corporate functions and enjoy an all-in-one shopping experience. Click here for a quote.

What does a ceremonial cornerstone laying, a Vice President of the US, and a Russian esoteric mystic have in common with NYC? CeremonialSupplies.com, the best one-stop-shop on the net for all your corporate functions and ceremonial events brings you this refreshing tale of rituals performed for, and in the light! The Ceremonial Laying of The Corner Stone of The Master Apt Building in New York City has historical significance due to its connection with the renowned mystic, artist, and philosopher Nicholas Roerich. Roerich, along with his wife Helena Roerich, established their residence in the Master Building, which became the headquarters for their activities in the United States. Nicholas and Helena Roerich were Russian-born, and lived in Russia most of their lives before coming to the United States where they established an organization called the "Ag-Renewal Movement". This movement aimed to promote cultural renewal, spirituality, and a broader understanding of art, science, and human values. These teachings sought to inspire a renaissance in various aspects of human endeavor, emphasizing the unity of cultures and fostering a sense of global unity and peace. The thriving organization met regularly at The Master Apartment Building in NYC, where it was headquartered until 1937.

The Symbolism of Colors for Groundbreaking Ceremonies

Roerich was a multifaceted individual known for his contributions to art, spirituality, and philosophy through his own interpretations of lofty ideals. He was involved in the Theosophical Society and was a proponent of Eastern philosophy and spiritual thought. Roerich was also an influential figure in the esoteric and mystic movements during the early 20th century. In other words, he was well known in the growing circles of students, discovering ancient, Eastern Philosophy. The vibration of colors such as lavender, lilac, and purples adorned some of his elegant Russian style garments. The color of consciousness is lavender, other spiritually significant colors are shades of blue, which have to do with the heart, and the soul.

That Which is Alike, Attracts

Henry Agard Wallace, the former 33rd Vice President of the United States from 1941 – 1945, under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Secretary of Agriculture from 1921 – 1924, and the nominee of the new Progressive Party in the 1948 presidential election, met Nicholas Roerich through common interests in spiritual and cultural matters. Wallace was an open-minded individual interested in philosophy, spirituality, and the arts, and he was particularly drawn to Roerich's philosophical and spiritual teachings, especially as it pertained to the supposed travels of Jesus in India.

The first meeting between Wallace and Roerich took place in Washington DC, in 1926 when Roerich was in the United States, and Wallace, who was then the Secretary of Agriculture, became aware of Roerich's work. Roerich's efforts in promoting cultural exchange, his artistic endeavors, and his spiritual teachings, especially related to the philosophy of Agni Yoga, aligned with Wallace's own interests. Wallace was intrigued by Roerich's vision of fostering global cultural understanding and the promotion of peace. Their connection led to a correspondence and friendship that continued over the years. Wallace admired Roerich's philosophical and spiritual views, and they shared correspondence discussing various ideas and concepts related to spirituality, culture, and global unity. This initial meeting led to Wallace's support and acknowledgment of Roerich's contributions to culture and spirituality, even incorporating some of Roerich's ideas into his own speeches and writings, and brought these tenets with him into the office of the VP, directly working with President Franklin Roosevelt.

Groundbreaking Ceremony Essentials

In architecture, the laying of the cornerstone and the first sod-cutting are part of the same groundbreaking ceremony. Items such as the ceremonial groundbreaking shovel, or shovels, depending on the number of people who will be cutting first ground in the ceremony, are essential in a Cornerstone Laying and a Groundbreaking Ceremony. Display cases holding the various items used, including the full size 42” groundbreaking ceremonial shovel, photos, etc., can be ordered and even placed inside a vault for a cornerstone. Ceremonial groundbreaking shovels can be customized at the stem, the blade, or the handle, or all three!

Master Apartments held its groundbreaking ceremony and laying of the cornerstone on March 24, 1929 and the ceremony may have been attended by VP Henry Wallace and perhaps other dignitaries and personalities who promoted cultural and artistic endeavors. The contents of the vault within the cornerstone are of historical and symbolic significance, as they were placed there during a secret ceremony conducted by Nicholas Roerich and his associates. The vault in the cornerstone of The Master Apartment Building is known to contain several items that are associated with Roerich's philosophical and spiritual beliefs and may include Copies of Roerich's "Agni Yoga" teachings; a spiritual and philosophical doctrine developed by Nicholas and Helena Roerich. It includes a series of writings and teachings on various aspects of spirituality and the evolution of consciousness. The vault may contain various documents, manuscripts, and symbolic objects related to Roerich’s research, and work. One of Roerich’s beliefs include the travel of Jesus to India, where Roerich is said to have been shown evidence. The keepers of this knowledge refuse to provide outsiders with details to avoid onslaught of attention. It is often speculated that such a document or photo evidence may be in the vault. Roerich established the village of Naggar, in India in 1923 and in 1929 bought an estate that is still in the hands of the family. Whilst a fancy groundbreaking shovel, or a commemorative display plaque, or other ceremonial grand openings and groundbreaking items may not have been as easy to acquire as filling out an order form, CeremonialSupplies.com wants to make it just that easy for you! Click here for a quote.