Downtown Fayetteville has experienced both its good and bad days. Its evolution can be heard in the stories of residents who have seen decades pass, the businesses come and go, and the “glow up” of the Downtown area. The storefronts along Person and Hay streets are slowly being occupied by new and unique businesses looking to be a part of Downtown’s next chapter. One of those businesses looking to elevate the landscape is The Clubhouse Member’s Lounge. The lounge is a sophisticated, refined lounge for members and their guests, inconspicuously located in the historic Market Square Business Center at 100 Hay St. on the sixth floor.
While the lounge has already hosted some private events for its current membership, the Grand Opening and the official introduction to the community will be on Friday, Nov. 7, at 8 p.m. Guests who sign up for membership will receive the first two months free. Tickets are free, but registration is required. Those interested in attending can do so online at https://bit.ly/47TcmSL.
The Clubhouse Member’s Lounge is described as “an intimate after-hours space for refined cocktails, conversation, and connection” for Fayetteville’s 30 and up crowd who “appreciate style, connection, and purpose. The vibe is sophisticated. Full-grain leather seating, refined ambiance, upscale décor, and a firm business casual or cocktail attire dress code. Membership to the lounge is not required, but it is highly encouraged, as it unlocks access to exclusive events and specials.”
Eric Washington, a Texas native and founder and CEO of Washington Apparel Company, has been working on bringing the lounge from concept to actualized vision for a while now. The lounge isn’t just a place to unwind and chat with like-minded individuals, but an opportunity to give back.
“The Clubhouse is built on the back of our 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, The INCspire Foundation, whose mission is to connect people to opportunity. This partnership with Washington Apparel Company allows us to operate The Clubhouse as a private club for ABC permitting purposes. That means every time someone becomes a member, makes a purchase, or attends an event, they’re directly supporting a greater cause helping entrepreneurs gain access to mentorship, resources, and professional development opportunities,” Washington said.
There are several membership options to choose from.
Standard Membership: Open to the public and can be applied for directly through the website at washingtonapparel.com/clubhouse or at the door. The cost is $25/month.
Standard members enjoy access to The Clubhouse during regular business hours, discounts on purchases, a subscription to the monthly event newsletter, and discounts on leasing the space for private events and gatherings.
Emerald Membership: You must apply and be selected. Membership includes private invitations to exclusive events, upgraded daily access to The Clubhouse throughout normal store hours (10 a.m. to 7 p.m.), two guest passes per night, and a complimentary membership box. Emerald members also gain access to the Clubhouse Mobile App, where they can connect and network directly with other members, view upcoming events, and engage in their growing online community. The cost if approved is $100/month.
Member Events will include:
• Themes, games, sports, and entertainment nights
• Local authors and conversation
• Group fitness and mindfulness activities
• Curated group trips
• Professional development and networking
• The Supper Club (chefs and mixologists craft intimate five-course dinners once a month).
Washington is excited to bring this experience to Downtown, stating, “The Clubhouse is more than a lounge. It’s a movement centered around connection and community. We’re building something that gives people a place to belong, network, and grow both personally and professionally.”