The recent change in ownership of St. Barts Island House is heading towards the fulfillment of their private club plans. First, we want to make some things clear: not all of St. Barts will be a private club - only the house on the east end of the property. A planned initial membership meeting in Mid October was not held. This club is not for everyone.

We recently met with Philip Glassman, the managing partner for the club. Chateau Prive is planned with CUSTOMIZATION to the max. Custom made furniture in the 18th century French theme with colors of burgundy, gold, and deep browns will probably be additionally emphasized with employee dress and uniforms. Custom glass ware and accessories. Members will receive a locker where they can keep their private bottles of wine or liquor or cigars or whatever. The $5,000 annual membership fee will also provide you with a $2,000 food and beverage credit, priority seating, no line, no cover charge, special private events, and a Black Titanium Membership card. $500 of your membership fee will go to the Childrens Dream Fund with an additional $500 matched by Chateau Prive. Philip indicates that "lots more benefits" will be provided that will please club members, but that can't be announced at this time. A concierge service is also planned.

Work is still underway with plans for a butterfly garden on the west side of the restaurant and a billiard room in the upstairs room at the east end of the property where Chateau Prive is to be located. Already in the St. Bart's lounge area is a large aquarium with several sharks that seem to be asleep most of the time. The fascination for sea creatures continues with plans for a 12,000 gallon jelly fish tank. A 2,900 bottle wine cellar has already been added along with a walk in humidor.

A private invitation event is planned for December 6 to officially launch the club. NO memberships have actually been sold at this time. Philip indicated that over 25 professional athletes have expressed interest in becoming members.

In our meeting, several catch phrases and themes stood out: customization, values in exclusivity, aesthetics, service, and entertainment.

When you hear the excitement and details from Philip, you can't help but think of a showman like P.T. Barnum giving you great shows of extravagant entertainment and thrills - and in this case of exclusivity.

Philip was an original partner in another private club in Ocala, Florida. This club was not as pricey as the plans for Chateau Prive. The original membership plan transformed to a designated private area with a few select private events and no cover charge for members.

If you are looking for total customization and exclusivity, this might be the place. What do you think ?