From country music and line dancing to European-inspired parties, Perth residents looking for something different from the traditional nightclub experience have plenty of options.
Among those looking to bring something different to the scene are siblings Karissa and Brandon Condo, who are preparing to launch a series of European-themed events.
Their first event, inspired by the Greek island of Mykonos, is scheduled for November 13 at Si Paradiso.
Inspired by the atmosphere of a European summer holiday, the event will feature house music, dance tracks and Euro anthems. Guests are encouraged to dress in “Euro summer” attire, with organisers aiming to recreate the energy and social atmosphere associated with the Greek island destination.
“My brother and I were going to this other Italian event and we were like, ‘Oh, we could do this but do a different European summer vibe,’” Karissa said.
Unlike events centred around one country or culture, Destination Events plans to take inspiration from a different European destination for each event.
Karissa said the goal was to create events that welcomed people from a range of backgrounds.
“It’s for different ethnicities, different cultures and different backgrounds.”
Destination Events is one example of the different experiences available to young people looking for a night out in Perth.
For Sophia Schmiedte, a frequent face in Perth’s country music scene, finding a different social experience led her to line dancing.
“I used to think a night out was going out to the clubs, having pres beforehand, whereas my night out now is going to Honky Tonk and line dancing and seeing my friends and listening to country music.”
For Schmiedte, the appeal goes beyond music and dancing.
“I’ve met a lot of great people through line dancing, whereas at a traditional nightclub you can’t really socialise, it’s just dancing.”
Schmiedte said she has become comfortable attending Honky Tonk on her own after building friendships through the line-dancing community.
While the activities are different, the sense of connection is also something Karissa and Brandon Condo hope to create through Destination Events. Their Mykonos themed event is designed to bring together people from different cultures and backgrounds through a shared experience.
Schmiedte said she is always open to trying something new, a mindset that Destination Events is hoping will appeal to others looking for a different way to spend a night out.
While the activities may differ, the appeal is often the same: meeting new people, sharing experiences and feeling part of a community.
