Following the success of FQ’s original sleepover (held in September) the Fashion Quarterly team were out again to celebrate their aptly named ‘Celebrations’ issue and invited some friends of FQ along.
The small but selective cohort of inspiring women was hosted by managing editor Sarah Murray at the ultra sleek Hotel Britomart, in the heart of Auckland’s Britomart. But the experience began before the attendees even reached their rooms. After being picked in a range of Audi vehicles they were chauffeured to the Guerlain counter at Smith and Caughey’s Newmarket where everyone got to be indulged and have their makeup done for the evening ahead. To prep, Guerlain’s ultra luxe Abeille Royale Double R Renew & Repair Advanced Serum was used on the face – this felt as good as it sounds and created the perfect canvas for makeup application. What was interesting to see was that although everyone had different requirements of what they wanted, the Guerlain range was able to work with all the different skin tones, face shapes and makeup tastes providing everyone with their glam for the event.
Next stop: Hotel Britomart, of course. Located just moments away from the waterfront, in the bustling Britomart district, this boutique hotel is one of a kind. From the exquisite timber-lined walls to the well thought-out layout, each room offers a retreat and utter escapism from the buzz of the outside world – not to mention a minibar stocked with locally sourced treats! On each bed lay all the handpicked items selected by the FQ team for the stay. From Dear Dylan boxers and singlet set, to Sultey slippers, and a Guerlain skincare kit (including the prerequisite sleepover face masks). Friends of FQ were encouraged to spritz themselves in the scent of the event which was Prada Paradoxe, and everyone received a beautiful piece of jewellery from Lulu’s Collective to wear to dinner. With so many unique pieces of jewellery to choose from, each bespoke piece was individually selected to suit each of the attendees’ personal style. While there was a little downtime everyone was encouraged to familiarise themselves with an Oppo ipad and earpods – and of course – a copy of the summer issue of Fashion Quarterly.
At 6.30pm drinks commenced in the Rangihoua suite – one of the four penthouse suites at Hotel Britomart. Featuring a spacious lounge, and boasting a beautiful outdoor area with a view, the space felt expansive and grande. It was there, as the sun began to set everyone enjoyed bubbles and canapes. Once sufficiently satiated the group moved from the suite, downstairs to dinner at the well-known and loved Kingi restaurant. It was there flavours were savoured from the Te Matuku Bay oysters, Kina on toast, Green-lipped mussels, and an array of other delectable offerings, with every course paired with matching wine. As the evening drew to a close, everyone slowly peeled away and headed back to their room.
While some considered it a sleep in, others said they were up early at 7.30 to enjoy Yin Yoga by the Studio Red Wellness. The yoga took place in the space known as The Libraries – a breakout space within Hotel Britomart – which was transformed into a meditative place to start the day. With instructor Barbara at the helm she ensured everyone was warm and comfortable (often tucking in women with a blanket) to complete a series of gentle poses which enlivened the mind and body and put us in a good place for the day ahead. After a quick breakfast where the conversation floated from fashion to the plot line of White Lotus season 2 – everyone packed up their belongings, said goodbye to the stunning Hotel Britomart and were chauffeured back home.
