Just two weeks from the grand opening of the region's first Nordstrom store, officials at the Seattle retailer said they're hoping for a good reception even as the financial markets send shivers through consumers.

"It's a tough time for everybody," said Nordstrom spokeswoman Brooke White, who was in town to help present a media preview this morning of the 138,000-square-foot store on the site of the former Lazarus store at Ross Park Mall.

Just down the mall hallway, another upscale retailer was holding its grand opening. Tiffany's held a breakfast in its 5,700-square-foot jewelry emporium.

"We actually think this is a great spot to be in," said Ms. White, as she noted the retailer began looking at real estate in the Pittsburgh area at least 10 years ago.

The store has already had a strong reception for a bra fitting event tomorrow that benefits charity. She said officials had hoped to draw at least 300 women but about 400 have signed up. "We basically sold that out."

Just a week ago -- the same day that the U.S. House was voting for the second time on the bailout package -- Nordstrom opened a new store in Tacoma, Wash. Ms. White said the staff wasn't sure what to expect but 2,000 people turned out.

The new Nordstrom in Ross will officially open Oct. 24.