Photo credit: Shangri-La

As the Mid-Autumn Festival approaches, Shangri-La is shifting the spotlight from mooncakes to memories, asking guests a deeply personal question: "What makes you feel complete?" The answer, for one of their own, offers a glimpse into the heartfelt connections the luxury brand seeks to foster.

The Umbrella's Whisper

For Yulia Wu, a service associate at The Silk Lakehouse within Shangri-La Hangzhou, completeness isn't found in a grand gesture but in the delicate, transportive fragrance of an oil-paper umbrella.

Growing up in Hangzhou, Yulia’s treasured Mid-Autumn tradition involved slow, peaceful strolls along the iconic West Lake , her mother always by her side. A traditional oil-paper umbrella would often shade them from the evening breeze as they shared mooncakes and quiet moments. It's a cherished memory, framed by the familiar, comforting glow of the Shangri-La hotel in the background.

From Memory to Meaningful Gift

These personal recollections ultimately inspired Yulia’s career path and her contribution to the guest experience. When asked to suggest a meaningful gift for guests last year, she immediately proposed the oil-paper umbrella.

To Yulia, the item is more than just a beautiful keepsake; it’s a powerful symbol. It embodies the elegance of Jiangnan culture, the poetry of Hangzhou, and the deep, abiding warmth of her mother's love. For Shangri-La, it has become a symbol of reunion, heritage, and heartfelt connection—the very "homecoming" experience they aim to give every visitor.

The initiative highlights the brand’s commitment to weaving local culture and personal stories into the luxury experience, encapsulated by their phrase: "Moonlit City, Heartfelt Shangri-La."
As families gather under the harvest moon this year, Shangri-La is reminding everyone that the festival is truly complete when we honor the memories and the connections that bring us back home.