The “coming out” party for the Lords South Beach hotel opening brought back memories of years ago, when the beach was in its campy heyday of throw-cautionto- the-wind fun, glitter and glam. The launch of the first gay boutique hotel brand in the U.S. — the brainchild of very snazzy New Yorker Brian Gorman — attracted about 500 stylish guests from Miami and other cities, despite record-setting snowstorms in the Northeast. Joining Gorman were the party’s official hosts, New York fashion plate/socialite Tinsley Mortimer and fashion designer Richie Rich.
There were gorgeous blondes in sequined mini-dresses, chandelier earrings and redcarpet- ready-makeup… and those were just the drag queens. But when you see the over the top décor – sparkling gold-leaf mosaic walls in the bar and shimmery floor length beaded curtains, you understand the pressure of not being outdone by the décor. Speaking of which, you have to smile. The lobby has bright sunny yellow walls with a 10-foot tall white polar bear statue as its centerpiece. We said it was campy, people.
Like at any fabulous gay party – not a stereotype, a fact — the music was spectacular. Singer/songwriter artist Justin Bond performed live in the gold-plated Cha Cha Lobby Bar, the iconic Lady Bunny played in the Cha Cha Rooster restaurant and celebrity DJ Tracy Young did her spinning thing in the penthouse for the VIPs. Absolut Vodka and bubbly flowed.
Miami Beach Commissioner Michael Gongora hosted the ribbon cutting ceremony and presented Gorman with a proclamation from the City of Miami Beach. Superstar drag queen Elaine Lancaster emceed the ceremony in her unique, witty way.
“We are thrilled to bring this exciting hospitality concept to South Beach; our goal is to provide a liberal, proud, playful experience for guests,” said Gorman. “We hope that Lords South Beach will raise the bar for what the discerning gay traveler can expect from a hotel.”
For more information, go online at www.lordssouthbeach.com.
