My 5 Favorite Things: Alex Merrell
A globetrotting DJ, the world is Alex Merrell's oyster. Raised in Vancouver, Paris and New York by artist parents, it's no surprise Merrell has creativity in her blood. Her passion for music has had her spinning for festivals like Lollapalooza and for high-profile clients like Mercedes Benz, W Hotels and Universal Music. After years of having seen the best nightclubs, hotels, lounges worldwide, we asked this DJ to share her five favorite things and she gave us glimpse into her exciting life.
1. Adventure. One of the best things about my job is that it allows me to travel regularly to incredible places. Some DJs will keep partying through the morning and spend the next day sleeping, but I’m always out the door hunting for culture and new experiences. Rather than simply having a resume of places I’ve DJed this year, I can look back at scuba diving and racing sailboats in St Barth, climbing pyramids in Mexico City, seeing Vienna from the back of a horse drawn carriage, and sipping cocktails while watching the opera at the Italian Embassy in Paris.
2. Peonies. If the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, then the way to mine is fresh flowers.
3. Speakeasies. Since I have a career in nightlife and events I’m very discerning when it comes to going out with friends on a night off. The vibe of a Prohibition-style bar with great ambiance, delicious cocktails, and a killer soundtrack is as sexy as it gets. I love the idea of seeking out an unmarked door in the back of a divey taco spot (Candelaria in Paris) or through a wardrobe (La Descarga in L.A.) and being transported to the Golden Age of sophisticated debauchery.
4. Vintage Shopping. I’m admittedly addicted to shopping at little vintage boutiques when I travel because I always find really interesting pieces. Somehow despite being 5’11 vintage dresses fit me like a glove most of the time and I love a good statement necklace or cocktail ring. I found an orange 1960s Aquascutum for Harrods wool coat that’s going to be a go-to through the holidays in London.
5. Calvin and Hobbes. The best way to stop taking life too seriously.
