Digesting glamour
In our modern every day life, we are constantly surrounded by beauty and glamour, and everything seems so ordinary to us. As much as I feel lucky to be living in so much comfort and luxury, sometimes I resent it all. This fine life leaves my sense of excitement completely blunt. I refer to less and less as "Special" and often disregard otherwise remarkable moments. I am not sure if it's the good life, my age, experience or lack of shallow interests, but these days I am not at all easily impressed.
Recently, a very special client of mine invited me to a wonderful lunch and afternoon date and managed to induce quite a lasting memory on me. What left me in awe though, was slightly different that what one would imagine.
He took me to the Royal Automobile Club, Pall Mall. One of the foremost private members’ clubs in the world, this prestigious place was founded in 1897 with the purpose of "promoting the automobile's place in society".
With it's monumental architecture and ornate interior decoration- Impressive would simply be an understatement for this Grand Neoclassical building.
As an absolute 'sucker for' vintage cars and elaborate interiors, needless to say I was experiencing an extremely intense "visual orgasm".
In the club's main rotunda, a different vintage beauty is displayed every week. From the mesmerising classy 1955 Jaguar XK140 to the stunning 1912 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost and Sebastian Vettle's Red Bull RB5, apparently there is always a special treat for the Car-lover's eyes.
In the imposing RCA's library, you can also admire pictures and information of every winning vintage car out there, . This atheneum holds an extensive collection of publications and magazines on automobilia and motor sports.
Voluminous high ceilings with ornate cornicing, beautiful winding staircases and balconies ,dazzling chandeliers and Roman Doric - this extraordinary architectural composition plays the "humble lobby" of the club, and makes you admire the human talent, imagination and riches.
This house of grand glamour has many more sensational areas that are totally "gasp worthy".
The Grecian-inspired pool with its intricate mosaics and South Italian marble columns, it's said to be one of the Top 3 most luxurious swimming pools in London, and even The Queen may have swam there as a child.
The stunning selection of restaurants and bars are not only going to satisfy the most fussy "couture cuisine" taste buds, but are a real visual reward for every person who enjoys interior details and art.
Art Deco and Louise XV inspired interior fixtures, extravagant furniture, lush fabrics, ambient lighting, lavish accessories, murals by Catherine Lovegrove and hand-blocked wooden floors inspired by Pavlovsk Palace in Russia - all this under one roof, is more than every Decor Aficionado hopes for.
However, what impressed me actually, was not all the "fluff" I've just described. As bold as it may sound, that was not my first encounter with opulence. What impressed me was that, the Spot-on choice of place was really a result of the evident attention he had paid to our previous conversations. Of course, the way he made me feel throughout the entire date, even topped that special choice.
The thought is often so much more important than the gesture. Trying to bring happiness to someone through gifting them with what they love is more important than trying to impress them with what pleases you... and at the end the result will be, without a doubt Impressive.
He made sure I'll experience everything, I enjoy and value, by overseen every little detail of our date.
Choosing a place of elegance, where dress code and no phone policies are strictly applied, place with so much architectural and interior substance, tradition and style, was simply amazing.
As a true gentleman he has already mentioned to the porter he is expecting a guest prior to my arrival, waited for me at the entrance to avoid me feeling uncomfortable while wondering around.
After greeting me with the biggest smile and kindly organising a skirt for me with the House Manager, ( I've showed up in smart casual outfit, which apparently was not the appropriate attire), he took me to the Ladies's quarters to change, leave my coat and refresh. He had booked the best table on the terrace, and carefully suggested to the restaurant waiter to look well after me, as I am vegan and a special guest. He asked questions with caution and finesse, and listened to every word I had to say.
Guided me around and taught me a little of the club's history, members and dynamics.
All and all, made me feel special in every single way and in every second we've spent together... that is truly impressive to me.
I am impressed like that - by selfless thinking, immaculate manners and gentlemanly behaviour, which are so rare to find these days. I am impressed when a man of high social stature treat his inferiors with much respect and dignity, this subtle display of great character is admirable. I am impressed by how making me feel special, he brought me much more value, substance and joy, than any material luxury on Earth can possibly do.
Be impressive...and don't forget to smile!
Nicole xxx
