As we herald the official arrival of the celebration season, it was time to be whisked away for another FQ Sleepover to honour the launch of our new summer issue. Held at the recently refurbished ( and might we add, lavish) Pullman Hotel in central Auckland, we were hosted by editor-in-chief Sarah Murray and joined by an intimate cohort of inspiring women who helped make it an evening to remember. Read on to discover how the night unfolded…
2:00pm-5:00pm
After making our way to the hotel, we checked into our stylish and spacious junior suites where a plethora of goodies awaited. On each bed lay a copy of our summer ‘Authenticity’ issue for our guests to pore over, and a range of luxurious gifts from our partners to celebrate the occasion. There was a Saben bag of each guest’s choosing, a selection of sparkly adornments from Pandora, a PJ set from Dear Dylan, plus treats from La Prairie, Glasshouse Fragrances, Paume, and The Beauty Chef.
After a spot of unpacking and a leisurely unboxing of the gifts, we made our way down to the Pullman’s exquisite Luxe Spa for a bit of pampering before dinner. There, we were treated to a restorative 45-minute aromatic massage, followed by a tea and sweet treat in the spa lounge.
Some decided to head straight back to their rooms to further unwind and prep for the night ahead, while others made the most of the Pullman’s array of wellness facilities, including the pool, sauna, steam room, spa pool and fitness centre.
5:00pm-6:30pm
Once everyone was back in their rooms, it was time to get glam for drinks and dinner in the penthouse. After hand picking our outfits and putting the final touches on our hair and make-up, each guest elevated their ensemble with new goodies from Saben and Pandora.
6:30pm-9:00pm
The skies may have been grey when we arrived in the Pullman penthouse but the atmosphere was anything but. Buzzing with excitement and anticipation, the festivities kicked off with a celebratory toast on the balcony as everyone took in the stunning harbour views. Our champagne flutes remained ever full (thanks to the attentive Pullman staff) as we grazed on a selection of moreish canapés, before sitting down to indulge in three courses of sharing plates.
Among the offerings, we feasted on decadent dishes such as Clevedon oysters, slow cooked lamb shoulder, potato pavé fries and Shirazi salad — all accompanied by divine drops from Rockburn Wines. Between courses the clouds cleared and we were treated to an incredible sunset as we waited for more food to arrive. Though most of us were more than satiated by the time dessert arrived, those who saved room for something sweet helped themselves to tiramisu, cheese and fruit platters and spent the remainder of the evening chatting, sipping, and enjoying one another’s company.
9:15pm
Feeling full and grateful, we bid farewell to the penthouse and headed back to our rooms to get ready for bed. We cleansed the day away with a selection of luxurious La Prairie skincare before slipping into our Dear Dylan pyjama sets for what felt like a much-needed slumber.
8:30am-9:30am
The next morning, we made our way down to the Pullman’s Tapestry Restaurant for breakfast where yet another decadent spread awaited. Situated on a private table away from the main restaurant, the Pullman had curated an elegant citrus-themed tablescape that featured every tempting breakfast food imaginable. Reminiscing over last night’s events, we bid farewell to yet another FQ sleepover and savoured the last of our coffees and croissants before check out.
Words: Amberley Colby.
Images: Supplied.
