Happy New Year !
I was busy getting my hair, nails and toes done, picking up a new cocktail dress and 3" heels and climbing in a rented limo - destination Manhattan. I checked into the Radisson for the night, along with 10 of my closest friends. It was New Year's Eve (1987 that is).
Yep . . . that would be about right . . . when I lived in Connecticut. I think I probably did that a time or two . . . But here in Charlotte, Keith, Kate, Lucy and I had a few steaks on the grill and some sparklers. I made it to midnight, but barely. It was a movie, big dog getting to know little dog (our 8 year old, 50 lb bulldog and new 8 lb dachshund puppy), laughing on the big green sofa and a little dancing. An eventful night to be sure. Being home with family was all the excitement I needed, but . . .venturing into the City back when was something I will always remember and I can officially say "been there - done that," when my 14 year old calls me boring.
So, as I recall, a big night out - dresser and coiffed - requires a venue of grandiose. I have pulled a few images of my idea of the perfect New Years Eve venue - NYC style. Big, shinny, opulent, over-the-top, sparkly and noisy. This January 1st morning, loving the lack of hangover, I wonder just what went on last night at various hot spots - bet there are stories to be heard and I am sure I will hear a few. I can live vicariously through you Mekenzie in your big high heals.
The C A P I T A L E . . 130 Bowery, 65 foot ceilings and 40,000 square feet. It can be booked for splashy weddings, private parties - big ones. It's the kind of place you just pause and say . . yowza when you walk in. Built in 1893, it's grandeur is amazing !
The Gansevoort in the Meatpacking District . . a little more intimate, but still full of glitz.
How about The Waldorf Astoria . . . glamorous for sure in a much more classic way. Can you just hear the high heels clicking down that hallway !
The lobby of The Carlton, a favorite haunt of mine. I hear the jazz in my head.
How about the sleek The London on 54th. I loved the suites when I stayed there for Market. Big rooms, gorgeous lobby, and the penthouse - I'll take that with an abundance of candles.
Or maybe a little bohemian vibe . . The Mondrain Soho.
Not your style - this space, elegant in a lighter, brighter way. I can just picture the sun going down and the chandeliers glowing . .
Tao, one of my favorite restaurants in the City. Wondering why I have not run into DiCaprio running amok in there . . . I hear he frequents.
And lastly - loving this lobby at the Empire Hotel with it's floors, lighting and major drape drama. Beautiful.
Loud or quite, glitzy or cozy . . . bring on 2014 and let it be as memorable as 2013!
