Segment 9 - Localization of Colors Around the World – A Business Perspective

In the last article, I discussed the cultural influence of colors and why localization of colors should first be understood from a cultural perspective.  In this segment, I will elaborate on colors and share how the cultural factors have impacted business decisions. 

But before I begin, I want to answer a burning question from the last article: “Can we wear black to the wedding?”  

Segment 8 - Localization of Colors Around the World

Color is serious business.  Countless hours are spent thinking of which colors to decorate one’s home, office, studio, wardrobe, hair, store, business image, etc.  Millions of dollars are spent by advertisers to determine the perfect color or combination of colors for products, brands and images.  Even more millions are spent by the producers of colors (ie. paint manufactures, designers, artists) to develop the perfect color, shade, tint and hue to elicit the perfect emotions.  Color must first be understood as a human factor, and like words in a language, colors have a distinct meaning to different people and cultures... 

Segment 7 - Coffee Talk with International Mommies - Picking French Bones

One thing I’ve learned living here in the expat community in Madrid, is that everyone has a bone to pick about the “proper” way to speak a language.  In Madrid, English is an interesting concept, as discussed in my earlier post. Children are taught British English in school, but American pop culture seems to prevail...

Segment 6 - Coffee Talk with International Mommies 

So when we first moved to Madrid, I found life here very different than in San Francisco.  The people in Madrid are so relaxed, so casual, so interested in family and “non-work” talk. The women dress very nice.  Just to walk in the park with a baby stroller means being decked out in the latest fashion and high heels.  Hair is always styled and make-up always perfect.

When folks find out that I am American, they are excited to practice their English and ask me all sort of questions about the difference between American and British speak – localization of life...

Segment 5 – How to Raise Multilingual Kids

In my last segment I discussed how being multilingual makes one a better multi-tasker, a great problem solver, very creative, emotionally controlled, able to fight the effects of ageing, and more...  The benefits of being multilingual are compelling enough to make parents consider the notion of trying to foster an environment of “multilingualism” for their offspring...