It’s a simple concept (pick two to three spots to “crawl to” for cocktails and desserts) that will turn into an evening of laughter, storytelling, and a reminder of how important it is for women to gather and recharge together. Plus, if your crew is anything like mine, there’s always something to “cheers” about. 

First things first: Pick your locations. I recommend choosing a specific area of town that allows for easy navigation. A perfect place to kick a series like this off is downtown Memphis. The air is always buzzing with energy, many of the places are within walking distance of each other, and there’s just enough menu variety to keep your cocktail and dessert choices interesting. Amelia Gene’s, The Dame (Hotel Pontotoc’s onsite bar), and Felicia Suzanne’s are a great combination!

Stop One: Amelia Gene’s

Kick things off at Amelia Gene’s, a stylish spot that strikes the balance between cozy and elegant.

Their cocktails are crafted with as much artistry as their food, making them a perfect conversation starter.

Paired with shareable desserts, their drinks set a playful, celebratory tone right from the beginning.

Stop Two: The Dame at Hotel Pontotoc

Next up, try The Dame, a new upscale bar tucked inside Hotel Pontotoc.

With its dark and moody interior and an atmosphere that invites lingering, The Dame will quickly become the night’s anchor point.

The desserts are simple, but the cocktail menu is creative and fun, making it easy for the group to lean into the experience while sharing stories and laughs.

Stop Three: Felicia Suzanne’s

The evening can wrap at Felicia Suzanne’s, a downtown staple where dessert feels like an event in itself.

Baked Alaska and Vin D’Orange are a perfect pairing (and proof that a sweet ending can be just as memorable as the start), and the restaurant’s overall aesthetic is just chef’s kiss.

Making time to reconnect, laugh until your face hurts, and pause long enough to enjoy something decadent with your girlfriends will help carry you through the busyness of life, so consider this your sign to plan a Sips + Sweets night of your own! 

Tips for Planning Your Own Sips + Sweets Night 

• Start early if you can. Kick things off around 5 or 6 p.m. so that you can linger at each stop without feeling rushed—and still be in bed by 10 p.m.
• Dress the part. We love a theme, so plan to wear something fun to make the night really feel like an occasion.
• Pick a weeknight. Here me out. In my opinion, it’s easier to head out to hang with friends after work versus trying to fit it in on the weekends. Plus, most bars and restaurants are a little slower during this time, so you can easily get in and out without a long wait time. 
• Order to share. If you want to indulge but still watch your sugar intake—and your wallet—split the desserts so that you can try a little bit of everything without overdoing it.
• Have a cocktail strategy. Pace yourself; try just one signature cocktail at each stop or even go for a mocktail. Be intentional and safe with your choices.
• Capture the night. Each location you visit has its own aesthetic, so don’t forget to snap a few photos to document the night. 

Amelia Gene’s
255 South Front Street
ameliagenes.com

The Dame
69 East Pontotoc Avenue
hotelpontotoc.com/the-dame

Felicia Suzanne’s
383 South Main Street
feliciasuzanne.com

Kim Thomas is a lifestyle blogger and photographer based in Memphis. Launched in September 2010, her blog, KP Fusion, provides of-the-moment fashion, style, and beauty tips and trends with a little Memphis flavor thrown in. @kpfusion