Profession: Managing Partner of W. Mist/ Phoenicia Le Paon Rouge
Resides: between London and Beirut
How did you end up in this profession?
I was into the fitness industry, but I have always been involved in London’s nightlife. I sold my business about a year ago, so I could fully be involved in W. Mist, and now when the opportunity came to be in Beirut, I came.
What is the original concept of W. Mist London?
It’s an exclusive members club, the idea is to have a mixture of people, from royal families to movie stars to your local fun people, and have them all in the same room.
What is the secret of success behind W. Mist London?
There are a couple of different components; obviously it’s a team effort.
Why does it attract celebrities?
It started with the royal British family hanging out weekly. So we just kept the place very private, we didn’t sell any stories to the press and no one was allowed to take pictures inside.
Why did you choose Beirut as W. Mist’s second venue?
There is my personal romance, my parents met at Le Paon Rouge in the 1970s, and after meeting the owners of Phoenicia Intercontinental, we understood that they also pride themselves on service and quality; they don’t cut back on little things. So it seemed like a perfect fit.
What is different about W. Mist Beirut?
It feels like you are in London, and we are trying very hard, there is staff training every day. I’m more on the floor greeting people. Also Fox Linton designed the lobby here, which made it look like the futuristic version of W. Mist London.
Is the membership exclusive to the Lebanese?
Many other members aren’t Lebanese but residing in Beirut.
How much does it cost to be a member?
About 1,000 USD, but you instantly become an international member of both London and Beirut, and you’ll get the golden key designed by Jade Jagger, Mick Jagger’s daughter.
What are your summer expectations?
We are really excited since tourism picks up massively here.
Who will be handling the music?
By luck I managed to sign DJ Monsieur Cedric, who plays a mixture of house, R&B and commercial tracks.
