gleamed issue no. 10
Announcing grotto, a lesbian-queer cocktail bar concept coming to New York.
Hi friends! Welcome to the tenth issue of gleamed.
This issue is the most special to date, because you’re all the first to hear about a something I’ve had been in the works for over a year now: grotto. One of the first of its kind, grotto is a queer womxn’s cocktail bar concept, dreamed up as a stylish hub for female-identifying and non-binary members of the community, though it is welcome to all.
Since my partner and I first started dating in 2019, we’ve been seeking out ways to connect with other womxn in the queer community—ones that didn’t always necessarily involve waiting thirty minutes in line, just to shout to each other over loud music whilst waiting for rail drinks at a sweaty bar. Don’t get me wrong: I love a good night out at a dive, or dancing (especially dancing), but the good queers of New York City need a date night spot.
Out of over 60,000 bars in the U.S., only around 23 of them are self-described “lesbian bars,” and from that small number, just a small handful are located in New York: the city with the largest LGBTQ+ population in the country.
My goal for grotto is to create a safe space that feels inclusive, cozy, beautiful, and sensual, with delicious cocktails and zero ABV beverages that invite guests to settle in for an evening filled with great conversation and immaculate vibes.
Keep your eyes peeled on our Instagram for upcoming events and pop ups, like our inaugural Spooky, Sapphic Halloween Soirée, taking place on October 28th in collaboration with Soho House.
If you’re interested in attending, covering grotto, or collaborating, please don’t shoot us a DM. We would love to work with you.
xx,
Austa
I’m feeling…the witching hour
Halloween has always been one of my favorite holidays—an opportunity to shirk socially constructed norms and dress however, and be whomever, you desire. So, it only makes sense to kick off grotto with a Halloweekend event. The evening’s theme is inspired by all things sapphic, sensual, and witchy, with an atmosphere that evokes the romantically eerie vibes of Savannah, Georgia.
The same vibe also works really well for Halloween home decor that doesn’t feel tacky or too on the nose. It’s essentially Victorian Gothic meshed with elements of Savannah or New Orleans spookiness, and can be achieved with items you find at thrift shops or even on Amazon (I’ve created a shopping list to make things even easier.)
For instance, rather than drape your apartment or front yard in spider webs, try dangling Spanish moss and placing a few faux crows. Stacks of well worn books and taper candles in brass candelabras easily create a classy, haunting vibe, especially when paired with a veiled bust.
A recent story round up…
This Spirits Brand is Making a Stand For the Bees With Spirits Made From Raw Honey for Men’s Journal
A Hotels-Focused Guide to Washington, DC for Hotels Above Par
The Best Cardigan Sweaters for the Coziest Flight for Travel & Leisure
Mushrooms Are Popping Up in Our Cocktails for Thrillist
The Best Boutique Hotel Stays Upstate for Leaf Peeping for InsideHook
Where I’m traveling next…Mykonos and Santorini
I’ll report back soon on the best to-dos and tips for visiting the Greek islands during shoulder season.
So excited for Grotto!!