August 19, 2016 Capital A List – Celebrity club news

Clubbing is an integral part of modern culture: an irreplaceable segment of the entertainment industry. But why did it become such a popular sector and what is it in nightclubs that draws so many people? It interesting to understand why do the same night clubs regularly attract the same people for what is essentially the same experience. Read on and you will discover why people go to nightclubs – from a psychological perspective.

 

There are many psychological reasons behind the appeal of nightclubs some even involving evolution and the impact of our ancestors. Although nightclubs are a seemingly new concept the power behind their pull is as old as society itself – and so if a club wishes to be successful it is important for its managers to understand the strength of the psychological impact nightclubs have. With the most popular clubs already managing to establish the precise atmosphere which exploits psychological attraction of the venues through the usage of multiple techniques.

 

One of the primary and most basic reasons why people go to nightclubs is dance culture. Humans have an inherent enjoyment of dance and many societies incorporate dance as a large aspect of entertainment, socialisation and progression. It has therefore been hypothesised that dance is used as one of the techniques in which people create chemistry towards each other as women dance in order to encourage men to dance as they want to learn more about them and see if there is a mutual connection. There is also a link between male dancing and male fighting ability which would explain why a woman would wish to observe a man dancing before deciding whether he is a good match for her. She would like to know whether he would be capable of defending her and her children but without actually seeing him fight as this would result in numerous damages. If we assume that this is true then dance is a key feature of the mating ritual and consequently a designated area where people can dance such as a nightclub which  becomes an important location.

 

This links into the next point: ‘It has been argued that consumer behaviour, such as the attendance of nightclubs, is a form of ‘lekking behaviour’. (A lek is a physical space where males of a species congregate in order to impress females). A 2009 study by Hendrie et al. showed that women who demonstrated the most vigorous combination in sexual signalling elicited over 50% of all male attention and that the number of couples who left a nightclub over the period of several nights was significantly greater than the number of couples who had entered the nightclub. Men were more likely to approach women employing suggestive dancing as a sexual signalling mechanism. Essentially the study found that the nightclub can be viewed as a lek as there are many observed forms of sexual signalling and many ways for the sexes to approach each other based on this signalling. From this it can be suggested that one of the reasons why people go to nightclubs is because these are venues which make it easy to find a partner (Even if it is just temporarily). Therefore you may be drawn to nightclubs even subconsciously as from an evolutionary perspective they are an optimal place to find a partner.  

 

A further potential reason behind why people go to nightclubs has been suggested to be the expression of oneself. When a person goes on a night out it is highly likely that they will dress up and make sure that they look their best. Given this intention and given that most people going to a nightclub are likely to be aware of the need for a dress code and code of conduct it is not surprising that a lot of scrutiny of others occurs. For this reason people who know that they are attending a place where appearance plays a high role are likely to take this as an opportunity to express themselves – both as individuals and as part of a group. People find it important to express their personality and character through the way they dress and style themselves but also generally wish to remain as part of a community. This community can be expressed as the people attending a certain venue with most clubs having some kind of theme or target audience. It is natural that visitors would have something in common and therefore form a type of temporary community in these clubs. Therefore people may go to nightclubs to pronounce their style and personality.

 

Studies have also shown that some people view nightclubs and going out as a form of escapism from everyday life. A nightclub is a place where temporary communities are formed where people can act out fantasies, pretend to be someone they are not and for a certain period of time essentially escape their everyday lives. People therefore view the clubbing experience as a method of enjoying themselves in a form which is separate to the rest of their lives and this is another reason for why people go to nightclubs.

 

Celebrating and partying with friends is also a very powerful cause of enjoyment and why people go to nightclubs. This is due to the release of oxytocin (love hormone) which is produced when one takes part in bonding activities such as dancing with a group of friends. This oxytocin reduces fear and anxiety leading to feelings of contentment and peace. It is therefore no surprise that people may enjoy going to nightclubs purely given the production of this hormone which comes about as a result of the social bonding that occurs so naturally in such environments.

 

It comes as no surprise that successful establishments are well informed on the reasons behind why people go to nightclubs and play on these reasons in order to increase their revenue. This can be seen through dancefloor arrangements, alcohol sales etc. This is particularly seen at exclusive theme clubs through the skilful creation of what could be seen by those in an inebriated state as an alternate reality. For example Cirque le Soir creates an atmosphere so full of unusual things and creatures that it becomes actually difficult to remember you are still in central London. (A further fact that goblins, clowns and so on present in Cirque increase the levels of fear in customers which leads to increased alcohol consumption). Another example is the Box in Soho which positions itself as ‘the theatre of varieties’ and which often stages daring performances that make it difficult to focus on much else. Yet more escapism can be practiced at Mahiki with the Tiki decor providing a welcome tropical escape from the sometimes dreary English settings. For this reason such clubs maintain popularity as they do best in attracting those who are tired of their day-to-day lives.  

 

There is also a similar explanation behind why music is so important in popular clubs and another reason why people go to nightclubs. As good music leads to increased dancing which promotes both oxytocin release and lekking behaviour. This detail is therefore crucial to creating a prosperous nightclub.

 

Having read this article hopefully you can see that there are many psychological factors behind why people go to nightclubs. These reasons range from finding a partner to simply experiencing happiness from oxytocin release. However all of these reasons are powerful and should be used with care by nightclubs wishing to increase their profits in order to make themselves more attractive to potential customers.

July 29, 2016 Capital A List – Celebrity club news

Experimental Cocktail Club

Our next recommendation would be the Experimental Cocktail Club in Chinatown, Soho. In this bar you don’t have to worry about the start of the conversation, considering that they have a huge menu with a lot of different drinks and cocktails you and your date might want to explore together. The location itself is incredibly suitable for a first date. The lightning is dimmed there is calm background music and the seating areas are very comfortable- so it is a perfect place to get to know each other. The staff are very pleasant and the interior and the menu have a Parisian touch which makes the place even more cosy. If the date works well you might want to extend the casual drinks to a more committed dinner on the floor upstairs which has a very romantic feeling through its lighting and the clandestine atmosphere. There’s even a piano! You can sit back and relax as the bar has a 3 am license. You can plan your date for any day of the week although you might want to book a table in advance as it is one of the best exclusive London bars for a first date.

Soho Sky Terrace

The Soho Sky Terrace would be a great place for a date between April and September at the Courthouse Hotel you can enjoy the view and the amazing cocktails during the day or watch the stars together at night.  Can you imagine something more romantic? Whilst enjoying your drinks and snacks you can listen to some Mellow groove which ensures a quiet but relaxed atmosphere and still gives you the opportunity to talk one on one. It is open between Tuesday and Saturday from 3 pm until 10:30 pm and is located right by Oxford Circus station so it should be a venue everyone can agree on. The white furniture creates a modern feel and every group or couple has its own little area which gives you a lot of privacy meaning you should be able to communicate without any awkwardness. One advantage of this bar is that you can expect exclusive drinks but also normal drinks such as beers or ciders at appropriate prices. It is one of the best exclusive London bars to go to if you like going on your dates during the daytime, watching the stars at night or just prefer a lot of privacy during the first date.

Purple Bar

The Purple Bar is also located at the heart of Oxford Circus and lives up to its name as everything in this bar shines in a nuance of purple. Including violet silk opera curtains, lavender Queen Anne chairs, purple etched Venetian mirrors and a bar which looks like a meteorite that just fell from the sky. Everyone knows that the colour purple stands for luxury, sophistication and especially romance which makes it perfect for a first date. The bar is very cosy and intimate allowing only 20 people. So you should consider making a reservation for your dream date in purple! The lighting which is very low also suits the atmosphere. The bartenders specialise on Martinis, champagnes and the most expensive cocktails in town. If the date goes extremely well ( like truly well) they offer a drink which is called “The Proposal” and includes a diamond ring. So if your date’s favourite colour is purple then you have already won them over but even if it’s not you can still impress her/him with this intimate and cosy bar and evidently your good taste. The purple bar must definitely not be missed in our guide for the best exclusive London bars for a first date.

Oxo Tower

The Oxo Tower offers you not just one but three locations where you can plan your first date: The Restaurant, the Brasserie and the Bar. So depending on the mood you can decide if you prefer a relaxed lunch on the 250 ft outdoor terrace, drinks in the stylish cocktail bar or a romantic dinner in front of the London skyline at night. From each of these places you can enjoy the panoramic view out of the 8th floor of the iconic Southbank building. Keir Berry and Jeremy Bloor will amaze you and your date with a typical British cuisine on all seven days a week. The terrace is perfect if you want to set your date on a sunny day during daytime as you can enjoy some drinks or a light lunch where you can become acquainted with the person. If you prefer a date at night then Oxo Tower is the best exclusive London bars for a first date with its luxurious interior, amazing cocktails, dimmed lighting, quiet music and of course the view!  You can get to know each other in a really comfortable and relaxed place without any pressure but you will definitely impress your date. 

JuJu

Juju has become the place to be in Chelsea’s bar scene with it being recognized for its elegant and stylish interior, the best and most creative cocktails and a very relaxing atmosphere. So it might be one of the best exclusive London bars for a first date especially if you or your date lives in the South of London. It is open in the evening hours between Tuesday and Saturday and is located in the heart of Chelsea. You can learn a lot about each other whilst enjoying cocktails and a tapas dinner in a very intimate place until the DJ starts at 10 pm. You might want to dance the to the amazing music after drinks or just continue your conversation whilst enjoying the atmosphere. JuJu is one of the favourite cocktail bars in London and has won a lot of awards in the past. The music is commercial, RnB and hip hop but still so quiet that you can talk without screaming at each other. You can share a tapas menu with your date and explore one of the bar’s own cocktail creations like the “Juju Midnight.” This bar is very suitable if you looking for a truly elegant and intimate atmosphere- perfect for a first date. 

Sky Gardens

Watching the sunset together 150 meters above the city must be the most romantic date you can imagine- Sky Garden makes this possible! You might forget to talk whilst enjoying this incredible view but you will definitely impress your date and have a mutual memory forever. After being impressed by the spectacular views you can have a drink at the Sky Pod Bar and finally start your conversation. They have a private area which is available for 10-50 guests with the bar offering you bar snacks and the most exclusive cocktails. It is the perfect place for a little intimacy and sharing each other’s secrets. According to the motto “the more you pay, the worse the view”, the visit to the Sky Gardens is indeed free but it is highly recommended to book a slot in advance. During this time you can join the Sky Pod Bar without booking a table but if you would like to invite your date to dinner as well you should reserve a table in one of the Restaurants. Sky Garden is one the best exclusive London bars for a first date if your looking for a romantic and special experience. 

Sketch

Sketch is located in a 18th century building in Mayfair and was the dream of “Momo” Mazouz who wanted to establish a center which combines art, music and food. This is in fact the most interesting place for a date with so much such variety. There are four different spaces you can choose from and every place is unique. You can either enjoy a relaxed afternoon tea or a European cuisine dinner from the world’s best chefs. Like it was the wish of “Momo”, you have three date opportunities in the same place: First you can have a look at all the rooms and the art that you can find there, and even if you don’t have to go you should have a look in the bathrooms ( You have probably never seen something like this before) Then you can choose a restaurant where you would like to eat and after you have the opportunity to listen to great music in the bar.  This might be not a very romantic date but it is definitely an interesting and exciting one that you and your date will remember. It is recommended to reserve a table and plan your visit in advance as its one of the best exclusive London bars for a first date.

Aqua Shard

This exclusive London bar for a first date is located on the 31st floor of the Shard which is the highest building in Western Europe. Even if your visit to the Shard needs to be planned in advance you don’t have to reserve a table in this stunning atrium bar. If you are not a professional in knowing the different kinds of drinks and cocktails that is no problem because the friendly staff will help to explain all the drinking opportunities that are available. Aqua Shard could be just part of one of the many places to visit within one evening as the prices also include the view. So even if you just stay for one drink you will definitely impress your date as he/she will be very grateful for this amazing pre-drinks idea. The elegant bar, exclusive drinks, dimmed lighting and also incredible view will ensure a good mood during the first date and might increase your chances for a second one! This exclusive bar might be the most impressing and exciting idea for a first date so you should take a very special person.

Dandelyan

This is our last but a very extraordinary and exotic recommendation for one of the best exclusive London bars for a first date. Invite your date to a journey through all the tastes and unexpected combinations of the award winning cocktails by Mr. Lyan. Whilst you enjoy your cocktails you can relax on the dark purple velvet and candy purple leather sofas in front of the all- chromes bar, which was designed by Tom Dixon. If you take a look outside you can see the Thames and also the St. Paul’s Cathedral! Try one of the world famous cocktail menu’s which are fresh and full of botanical’s and even comes with suggestions as to what time of the day you should drink them. If your date does not want to drink alcohol on your first date there is also a non-alcoholic section which includes cocktails, Chai, and cold brewed coffee. After you have enjoyed your evening together at Dandelyan, you should see the lift for and take a picture with Queen Victoria, male models or an astronaut – it could be the first of many pictures you take together.

These are the ten best exclusive bars for a first date specially selected as they offer something unique and special, so you and your date can share an unforgettable experience together. These exclusive bars are working together with the world’s best chefs or bartenders have a creative and luxurious interior or just offer you an amazing view above our loving city. So don’t miss out on going to one of these exclusive and high-end bars today! 

July 14, 2016 Capital A List – Celebrity club news

London is an extremely multicultural city as it attracts more than twenty million visitors each year. The city is famous for its exclusive nightlife as it has everything to suit everyone’s needs with a great selection of VIP clubs. Capital A List works with the most luxurious boutique nightclubs including the famous celebrity hotspots- Cirque Du Soir, Project and The Box and offers you the best guest list experience.

As these are the top exclusive clubs in London it is extremely important that the crowd matches the image of these high-end venues. Therefore when its comes to the London club dress codes it is known for being rather strict. London clubs dress codes is defined as the expected type of clothing to be worn by people and is usually set by the management of a specific club. In contrast to New York City VIP nightclubs, guests in London may face refusal for ignoring the London clubs dress codes stated on the website of a venue. However less exclusive and well known clubs such as Fabric, Ministry Of Sound and Heaven are not focused too much on what people wear. Therefore the dress code is more casual even allowing guys to wear jeans, T-shirts and trainers. Despite that girls often dress up anyway to show off their newest outfits and to keep up with the latest trends.

It seems thats West End clubs have stricter rules in terms of London club dress codes as most of the exclusive high-end nightclubs suggest a smart casual dress code or a smart sexy dress code. Smart casual being smart jeans, T-shirts and trainers are allowed. Whereas a smart sexy London clubs dress code usually means ‘dress to impress’ as you choose your best outfit for a night out. It is interesting to highlight that some clubs actually use the image of their crowds in order to brand themselves. For instance, a huge part of the allure of NYC nightclubs is the crowd that they attract. NYC VIP clubs such as Le Baron, Red Egg or Le Bain are very selective about who is allowed in, especially where A-list celebrities and stars love hanging out. Even though NYC’S most exclusive nightlife spots do not have a definitive London clubs dress code everyone is aware that dressing up is a must in order to gain entry. High heels is a must for girls for entry purposes.

In contrast, the doorman/door girl has a discerning eye for guys’ taste for fashion and therefore it has a huge impact for them getting in. For example button down shirts and smart leather shoes is a perfect combination to be part of the elite crowd. The aim of London’s top clubs doorman/door girl is to tailor the look of the venue, get the right crowd in and keep big spenders happy. High-end venues such as The Box and Tape are two of the most exclusive clubs in London which are often chosen by celebrities as favourite establishments for a night out. For example, The Box is beloved by Kate Moss and Prince Harry and Tape is often attended by Rihanna and Drake. Therefore bouncers must be very strict in terms of the London club dress codes and often face the challenge on deciding who can enter the venue. Their aim is not to just recognise people who are likely to misbehave inside the venue but to also judge guests’ dress code as it often reveals their likely behaviour. Therefore the way a person presents herself/ himself is very important. According to thetrendspotter.net (2016), above-the-knee dress and high heels is the standard girls’ dress code for London clubs parties, however elegance and appropriate appearance should be involved to the overall look.

With reference to the London club dress code for guys it is worth knowing that many top clubs in London take on different approaches about wearing T-shirts. Therefore is its advised to wear blazers, leather jackets and smart long sleeve shirts. Denim is also allowed as long as its very smart and classy.

Even though most of the exclusive London clubs have a separate section on their websites for advice about a specific London club dress codes – it is standardised and often does not mention details. In those cases guys and especially girls can use their imagination and creativity in terms of designing their look. Most girls want to feel glamorous and sophisticated on a night out whilst keeping up with the latest fashion trends. Therefore the major influencer for annual fashion and style in London is London Fashion Shows. According to Hall (2015), London Fashion Week is a crucial element in fashion sector which affects the following trends and dictates fashion designs until the next show. It is not an exception for the celebrities either. Recently Rihanna has been noticed at Tape nightclub wearing a flirty cut-out blush pink dress. Cut-out dresses have been in demand season after season, however this year it has reached its peak and became as popular as ever (today.com, 2016). Another hot trend in fashion world is crop tops which became a chic fashion staple beloved by model Abbey Lee (picture below) and by singer Rihanna. It can be worn literally on any occasion and creates a sexy yet sophisticated centric-look.

With such a variety of high-end clubs in London its seems that their management have different preferences on what crowd they would like inside their establishments. London clubs dress codes is one of the ways on how to attract the right elite crowd and maintain the concept and high standard of a club. Not everyone is fashion-inclined about what is expected in terms of the London clubs dress codes at these exclusive clubs. Therefore in it is important to do a quick research especially if there are any doubts in regards to proper attire. Alternatively contacting the concierge where you have booked a guest list such as Capital A list will erase any uncertainty as they will advise you on the correct dress code.

May 16, 2016 Capital A List – Celebrity club news

Rumpus Room

Looking to continue a relaxed evening after dinner within City of London? Make your way to the other side of the river close to Southwark station to Mondrian Hotel; where you will find Rumpus Room bar. Rumpus Room is not just an ordinary rooftop bar, it is located up high within the revolutionary boutique Mondrian Hotel, which is entirely the visual outcome of iconic design genius Tom Dixon. Rumpus Room bar in particular offers luxury cocktails at its best with a panoramic touch of London.

Rumpus Room bar and Mondrian Hotel holds the future of urban hotel culture, combining the needs of corporate commuters and hip travellers. The hotel’s carefully branded venues and facilities cater to every mood. Rumpus Room bar on the top floor of the hotel is for those who appreciate traditional glamour with a modern twist.

You enter a dark rectangular room with windows portraying the most spectacular views of city of London’s skyline. Inspired by 1920’s modernism, the signature look of this venue includes off-red leather seats throughout the venue with ‘firework’ chandeliers scattered on the tall ceiling. With the oak floors, it brings in a balance of a relaxed atmosphere, as the views tell the statement of the feel of this venue. Rumpus Roof bar is not just a typical rooftop bar, as their menus beholds as much quirkiness of swinging glamour as the atmosphere.

The grand, yet fresh interpretations of classic cocktails of pomegranate mojitos and elderflower cucumber champagne presentations stand strong and distinguished with the branding of Rumpus Room bar. An impeccable selection of legendary whiskeys, extensive list of champagnes for every taste and experimental variety of wines cross-continentally makes Rumpus Room bar the perfect hot-spot for an ideal sophisticated evening in style. Rumpus Room bar also offers a great variety of savory snacks as well, inspired by French and American dining culture.

Capital A List’s personal favourites include Billecart Salmon Rosé champagne and American Noah’s Mill whiskey. The Russian Spring Punch cocktail and Rumpus Mojitos are great examples of their fresh intakes of classic cocktails.

Rumpus Room bar is a rooftop bar located in Mondrian Hotel (which also is home to the Sea Containers restaurant), 5 minutes from Southwark station. Alongside with the breathtaking skyline and view of the river, local landmarks include Tate Modern and Tate Britain contemporary art museums, the Design Museum and London Television Centre.

Rumpus Room bar is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5pm to 1am and from Thursdays to Sundays from 5pm to 1:30 AM.

Rumpus Room Dress Code & Address

Dress Code: Smart Casual

Area: Southbank

Address: 20 Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PD

Website:  https://www.rumpusroomlondon.com/

Capital A List offers a personal VIP concierge as part of the Gold Membership, where we offer bar recommendations and arrange priority bookings for our members in addition to our other services. For more information please visit Capital A List Membership.

May 3, 2016 Capital A List – Celebrity club news