Welcome to the first issue of Australasian Sophisticate, a newsletter for members of the Sophisticates of (so far) the ACT and NSW.

The Sophisticates is an informal society of people who appreciate the good life, and all of the charm and sophistication that goes along with it. Sophisticates endeavour to dress well for every occasion; enjoy good company; appreciate good art, music and pleasant activities, and food and beverage; treat each other with good manners and respect; and seek out opportunities to surround themselves with grace and beauty.

The Sophisticates was created in 2008 by the Darling Sisters, Darla and Blossom. The formation of the Sophisticates was actually inspired by a very special person who tragically passed away recently, and we would like to dedicate this first issue to B, of whom you will shortly read more. She was a lady who enhanced the world with her presence and we shall not forget her.

Darla Darling, inspired by B, initially decided that the Sophisticates should come to life, and was enthusiastically supported by Blossom (who was becoming rather weary of people wearing dirty old sneakers to cocktail bars). We have been honoured and thrilled by the gorgeous, charming people who have joined us.

In 2009 we hope to build on this success by scheduling at least one major event each season, with other events slipped in between to keep us all busy. We have a team of wonderful people who are organising seasonal and other events - and you will meet a couple of them in this first issue.

If you have anything to contribute to future issues of Australasian Sophisticate, please send your articles and ideas to Blossom at thedarlingsisters@live.com.

In this issue