On October 12th, 2011, New York’s most eligible bachelors attended Gotham Magazine’s Bing sponsored October cover party fêting the launch of the new Range Rover Evoque. Unfortunately, the inclement weather caused a last minute venue change bringing the rooftop party at Land Rover of Manhattan down to the ground floor. Despite not having a picturesque view of the Hudson, the ambience of the event was energetic and hip, with well-dressed VIP partygoers enjoying custom seasonal libations provided by Tequila Avión and Macallan whisky. Luckily, since the party started early in the evening, Jana Water and Crown Imports’ premium beers helped pace the crowd in addition to gourmet hors d’ouevres.

While waiting for fashionably late October cover star and Knicks’ forward Amar’e Stoudemire, guests were entertained by a sneak peek at the stylish new Range Rover Evoque. Luxury sports-car meets SUV, the Evoque’s exterior styling, city-appropriate size, and record fuel efficiency for a Range Rover makes this ride a no-brainer for Manhattanites. While Amar’e’s grand entrance got him a preview of the car’s interior, I can’t wait to test out the new turbocharged engine replacing the signature Range Rover V-8.

The atmosphere was tangibly flirtier once the VIP bachelors arrived in quick succession after Stoudemire’s entrance. Chef and restaurateur Todd English and son Oliver were in attendance, as well as other foodie celebrities including pastry chef Zac Young, and Tasting Table CEO Geoff Bartakovics. Other Manhattan personalities including Good Day Wake Up’s Steve Lacey, comedy writer Lee Ellenberg, RJW Collective’s Matt Rowean, and VP of Mesa, Jeremy Snepar, rounded out the crowd.

Guests were styled at the Conair touch-up station prior to capturing their new look at the SmartPics photo booth. Near the cordoned VIP area, the new Knicks’ Nike Airmax Sweep Thru sneakers were on display next to the Amar’e Stoudemire endorsed pair. As the evening progressed, the VIP area was packed while the rest of the showroom cleared out after Bing macaron party favors were distributed. Overall, it was a very fun night with the only low point being a headache from a sound system malfunction during the event introduction.

Happy Test Driving,

Jenicka