How to be a socialite

By weeklyvolcano on August 25, 2006

Natasha_30 I’d like to provide some valuable insights on a fun little nightlife topic that many of you might benefit from: how to become a socialite.
As most of my devoted readers understand, I moved here from the Emerald City.  Rocking the Seattle nightlife was a full-time job for me, and I was a card-carrying socialite. My drink was often poured and on the house before I could even ask for one.
Three years ago, I moved to Tacoma to retire from the nightlife, but I had no idea the South Sound would be this much fun.
I’m now semi-retired.
As you might imagine, I’ve learned a thing or two along the way. So, my fancy people, let me make you even more fantastic than you already are and introduce you to the wonderful world of a socialite.
One of the first steps you’ll want to take is to get to know your bartender, and as many as possible. I hardly knew anyone in this town when I moved here, but after establishing myself as a regular at the Swiss, I was pretty much set. Those beautiful bartending boys have introduced me to so many wonderful people.  Not to mention the fact that bartenders typically know everyone else in a city’s restaurant industry.  But more than that, most of ’em are just plain fun.  Arrested development â€" just my style.
This brings me to the next piece of advice: Sit at the bar. I prefer to sit there anyway because I like being close to the action and the source of booze, but you can also get valuable insights this way by interacting with your barkeeps.  They can provide direction on what’s going on with the scene.  Remember to respect their time, though, and they’ll think you’re magic.
Here’s a very important word: TIP, and do so generously.
Be sure to check out as many nightlife hot spots as possible, making note of the uniqueness of each.  Socialites who can provide good, educated referrals are automatic celebrities.
Conversation skills are crucial. The more well-rounded you are the better. The ability to make people laugh should be one of your core assets also.
Outside of those wonderful bartenders, you’ll need a clear majority of the people around you to think you’re fantastic, too. Work any room that you’re in and introduce yourself to expand your network. Treat every person like they're the most important in the world, because for all intents and purposes, most of them are. But don’t be surprised if you run across some jealous ones along the way. Silently scoff at their inadequacies and ramble on.
It probably goes without saying, but clothing is key. Make sure you’re always presentable and polished.
Never, ever expect anyone to buy you a drink, but be gracious if they choose to do so.  If you inadvertently drink too much, keep yourself in the spirit of a good time, not a train wreck.
One minor detail that’s often overlooked is posture. Standing up tall shows that you’re confident in who you are. Make an entrance into every restaurant, bar or club.  Treat the pathway to the bathroom like it’s your runway.  Smile like you have a secret that everyone needs to be in on.
Really, though, your top priority in becoming a socialite is quite easily the simplest: have fun.
Cheers! â€" Natasha