We Asked 6 Brisbane Socialites How They Like To Party
THE PARTY PEOPLE
Six Brisbanites. Six ways to own party season. How do some of Brisbane’s biggest names nail a night out? Celebrate in style with our party pack – the hottest looks, the most happening venues, and tried-and-true tips for surviving a big night, drink in hand.
Ashleigh D’Amico
Founder, Green Wardrobe – Runs a curated consignment boutique specialising in pre-loved luxury fashion.
Pre-party season ritual
A closet edit – I always go through my wardrobe and rotate in the pieces I actually want to wear. A fresh blow-dry and tan never hurt either.
Signature drink
Lychee martini
One rule for a good night out
Wear something you feel incredible in and leave before the lights come on.
Best spot to celebrate in Brisbane or GC right now
Rothwell’s for martinis, then SK Steak & Oyster for a late dinner.
Where you take interstate visitors to impress them
Howard Smith Wharves – dinner, drinks, and river views.
Party outfit formula
I usually go for something fitted and fun since my day-to-day style is pretty relaxed. Party season’s the time to ditch comfort and wear the extra high heels.
Go-to karaoke song
Kylie Minogue, Can’t Get You Out of My Head. Or anything Madonna!
Survival tip for party season
Book your beauty appointments early and block out recovery days between events.
Tyron Simon
Co-Owner, Anyday – One of the clever minds behind one of Brisbane’s thriving hospitality groups.
Pre-party season ritual
A long walk in the morning and a strong Cocchi Americano and ice before leaving!
Signature drink
Cocchi Americano, ice, splash of soda and lemon.
Best spot to celebrate right now
Brisbane: Gum Bistro
Gold Coast: Norté
Where you take interstate visitors to prove this city slaps
Supernormal or Stanley
Party outfit
Lucy Folk
Go-to karaoke song
My Way by Frank Sinatra or Country Road by John Denver
Survival tip for party season
If you’re hosting, always have more drinks available than needed. Good music is essential to set the scene. Also, don’t plan any early meetings the day after!
Bradley Ratajczek
Queensland Business Development Manager, Great Dane Furniture & Hästens and owner of furniture design studio, BRD – Specialising in intimate, bespoke furniture.
Pre-party season ritual
Some things that I always do before the party season are hitting the gym before a big night out – while listening to music to get me pumped.
Signature drink
Tanqueray 10 and Fever Tree Indian tonic.
One rule for a good night out
Know your limits. Enjoy the night, but don’t let the night consume you. No one wants to wake up with regrets – especially me, I’m too old for that.
Best spot to celebrate in Brisbane or GC right now
Winnifred’s on Arthur St, Fortitude Valley. It’s got some seriously cool architecture by Tim Stewart and furniture from Tom Fereday. Immaculate vibes.
Where you take interstate visitors to impress them
If not Winnifred’s, then it’d be Rodd & Gunn, The Lodge Bar and Dining, on James St. It’s a New Zealand-based culinary experience with stylish decor. It’s guaranteed to blow your mind.
Party outfit formula
For me, it’s a good pair of jeans, a trendy top piece, and designer sneakers. Right now, it’s my black Nudie jeans, Off-White T-shirt, and Autry shoes. If the party requires more of a dress-up, it’s my velvet Takeshy Kurosawa jacket. I love Japanese fashion fusions.
Go-to karaoke song
I’ve got a few on my playlist at the moment: The Feels by Labyrinth, Summer’s Ending Soon by the Midnight, and my all-time favourite, Crazy by Seal.
Survival tip for party season
Stay hydrated, and wear a high-quality, long-lasting cologne. My all-time favourite is Penhaligon’s Portraits, the Tragedy of Lord George (I just love the bottle).
Kate Middleton
Marketing and Brand Director at Brisbane Powerhouse – you’ll typically find her at a gig, a gallery or at the city’s best new restaurant.
Pre-party season ritual
A killer manicure and pedicure plus an unbeatable getting-ready playlist to set the mood while I take my time getting dressed and doing hair and makeup.
Signature drink
Dirty gin martini. Extra olives.
One rule for a good night out
Think ahead, but stay loose, have a rough plan in case you need to call the shots, but keep an open mind – the best nights usually come from a little spontaneity.
Best spot to celebrate in Brisbane or GC right now
I love Dark Red Wine Bar and Golden Avenue.
Where you take interstate visitors to impress them
If Night Feast was on, that’s my first stop. It’s the perfect mix of Brisbane’s best food, art and atmosphere. Otherwise, depending on the vibe, a fun cocktail bar like Saville Row, or catch a DJ set at Quivr. Riverside dining in the city or on the wharves always has the wow factor… to be honest, there are a lot of options, you can’t go wrong.
Party outfit formula
At least one piece that is fun, bright, or sparkly. A conversation starter if you will.
Go-to karaoke song
A Thousand Miles by Vanessa Carlton
Survival tip for party season
A GP once told me the best hangover cure is a Mars Bar and a can of Coke. I know, it sounds disgusting, but honestly, it works every time.
Sean Waters
Marketing and Comms Manager, DAP & Co. – Comms for some of Brisbane’s favourite party venues, Naldham House and Walter’s
My birthday is on the first day of summer, and I feel this means my birth chart is directly linked to summer festivities – namaste.
Pre-party season ritual
A visit to the gym/run prior to the debauchery (balance is key, right?) Shower, and a few outfit changes.
Signature drink?
I’m believe in inclusivity – nothing is off limits. If I had to pick ONE, an ice-cold Soave…
Best spot to celebrate right now
Aside from our lovely venues, Bar Miette, Bar Brutus, Hello Please, La Lune
Where you take interstate visitors to prove this city slaps
I bring them to my hood – Fish Lane. The cultural heart of Brisbane, and the bridge between the city and the eclectic West End. Also reduces my Uber costs…
Party outfit formula
Ability to move (Gotta make sure I can do high kicks on the d-floor) – big fan of shorts (slightly longer than daisy dukes, La Haute are my favs at the moment) … and a nice singlet coming into summer. If it’s a bit more of a formal affair, some chinos, a Ralph top – must include a pop of colour. Mind you, I have been known to pair a blazer with a short – I’m sure it will catch on…
One rule for a good night out
Invite me…
Karaoke song
I’m a B*tch by Meredith Brooks
Survival tip for party season
Stay hydrated and be selective about what you say yes to.
Mary Dickinson
Retired Retailer & Freelance Social Media – I have a lot of energy, I love the arts, gardening, painting, reading, cooking, eating, & life in general.
Pre-party season ritual
Making sure my hair & nails are looking their best
Signature drink
Sloe Gin & Tonic
One rule for a good night out
Circulate & talk to everyone, often meeting new people.
Best spot to celebrate in Brisbane or GC right now
I am keen to check out the newly opened Above Rooftop Pool & Bar at the Ovolo Hotel at 1000 Ann
Where you take interstate visitors to impress them
The Calile Hotel & James Street shops
Party outfit formula
Dressing to theme & adding accessories like a flower in my hair
Go-to karaoke song
Dancing Queen by ABBA
Survival tip for party season
Don’t drink too much & don’t stay too late!
Imagery: @ashleighdamico / Tyron Simon
