(NEW YORK) If you’re longing for New York nightlife days of yore, the wait is (nearly) over. Premiering tonight with a few private parties for a few name drop-worthy celebs, The Raven will make its debut on the scene. While the nightlife spot won’t be open officially until after fashion week, they’ll be hosting some major runway show after-parties and will be a full-on “It” spot come mid-September. We took some time to chat with the MePa spot’s owner, Henry Stimler, to get the lowdown on what to expect from the new hautespot.
BY DENA SILVER
What can we expect from The Raven? A teaser, please!
It’s a beautiful nightclub located on the edge of the Meatpacking District, in a really sexy basement that has a throwback, old school New York feel. It has low ceilings and is beautifully decorated with nice furniture.
What was in the basement before you took it over?
It was a million places before! It’s been GunBar, Bijoux…just a ton of different places. There have been five or so venues in this location since its inception.
So what’s the vibe like?
I created a space that you can go to have a conversation, but also go to get really f*cking crazy. There are elements of real comfort and real class, elements of real naughtiness and sexiness. I can bring business associates here, or I can take a girlfriend I’m trying to woo here.
When do you open?
I’m doing a couple of parties tonight, one for Rita Ora and the Ronson twins, Charlotte and Sam. I’m also doing an event for Theopholis London. We will be doing a ton of events all the way through fashion week and our grand opening will be right after fashion week.
What kinds of NYFW shindigs will you be hosting?
VFILES afterparty, Katie Gallagher’s show and afterparty, the Rodarte post-party, One PR’s one-year anniversary and many more.
What’s the story behind the Edgar Allen Poe-inspired title?
I am a big fan of the TV show, The Following, which was based on Poe and a big part of my English upbringing. I started reading a bit more about Poe and I came across the “Nevermore” poem. I loved the wantedness; I loved Poe’s longing for something he could never get back. I hate the lack of longevity to anything in New York. Everything is so fleeting; it just comes and goes!
Some other details to expect?! Waitress outfits will be by LaQuan Smith, who has previously done custom work for everyone from Lady Gaga to Tyra Banks plus, Beyonce and Rihanna. Also keep your eyes peeled for knitted artwork from 2 Angry Birds, Ksenya Roz, and Yana Tara with Sonya Kriezman, Bradley Rothenburg chandeliers that pulsate with the music, and other pieces of art by Sky Ferrante and Harif Guzman. Prepare your party dresses ladies, it’s time to hit the town!
