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January 06, 2006
The Apple Store...more than consuming, but an experience.
There is something amazing about going into an Apple Store, and I don't mean this online one, but going to one in person. I don't know if it's the clean, slick look. If it's thek customer service. I don't know if it's all the gadgets that consume me, and make me envy like no other. Yes, walking into an Apple Store is a quick step to breaking a commandment, and coveting those things that others have. I'm not saying it's a good thing, but that's what happens when I go in there.
I went in last night to the Apple Store in Pasadena, CA, on Colorado Blvd. in Old Town, and it was so packed. So packed that I wasn't able to get an appointment last night to get a new key for my computer. So I went back in today. And it is quite an experience. It's more than just a store, but it is an event. You don't go in just to purchase something, but rather to browse, to talk with others, to learn from a seminary about i-Tunes, or podcasts, etc.
I walked out after about 30 minutes after getting a new key, and talking with some help. I just had the feeling that there is a lot of community in that store, and that a lot of people go in there beyond just wanting to buy things. But rather to talk with others, learn in a group environment, etc.
I'm rambling, but there is just something about that store. Am I the only one who feels this way, or do you have the same experience when you go in?
Posted by rhett at January 6, 2006 04:15 PM
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Comments
Rhett,
That's one of the reasons I use a Mac--the incredible experience! The Apple store is amazing. The only problem I have is that I am tempted to buy stuff I don't need (and can't afford!) every time I go in. Actually, I feel that way everytime I go online to the Apple store, too!
Wade
Posted by: Wade at January 6, 2006 04:31 PM
Rhett- The attraction to the Apple store is something deep inside you that connects with the architecture and design of that place. In particular they focus so much on the asthetics that it has a sense of order. I want to plant a church that has the same sense of order, beauty and motion. I think Mars Hill Church in Seattle has a similar vibe.
The Rood (macaddict)
Posted by: Lars Rood at January 6, 2006 10:41 PM
If you get a chance to, visit the Apple store in Chicago. This is Apple's flagship store and with the most traffic. http://www.apple.com/retail/northmichiganavenue/gallery1.html
I love the glass stairs there, I guess the Grove has a smaller version.
There is a whole page on their design here: http://www.ifoapplestore.com/stores/glass_staircase.html
Posted by: Aaron at January 7, 2006 02:44 AM
I love the Apple Store, unfortunately I am 2 hours away. This communal experience reminds me of a friends kayak shop here in town...they just go and hang out..and buy boats, talk shop. I wonder if this was like the street markets long ago. It seems we are hungry to connect in our transient society, so a common love of coffee, boats or computers might be what it takes to even connect outside of the office cubicle.
Posted by: RIch Kirkpatrick at January 7, 2006 10:18 AM
I also break the 10th commandment whenever I step into an Apple store.
Posted by: clave at January 7, 2006 10:35 AM
yeah i have to agree with you there... there is just something about the apple store that makes it rather unique for a technology retail shop. oh but i do love going in there...
Posted by: ashley at January 8, 2006 10:45 PM
what if your ministry had that feel. i am not saying it doesn't but what if it did.
Posted by: josh at January 9, 2006 12:47 PM
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