Donn Beach, also known as the "God of Tiki," was a legendary figure in the world of mixology and tiki culture. Born Ernest Raymond Beaumont Gantt in 1907 in Texas, Beach had a lifelong fascination with the South Pacific and its exotic cultures. He traveled extensively throughout the region, immersing himself in the local customs and traditions.
In the 1930s, Beach opened a small bar in Hollywood called Don the Beachcomber. It quickly became a popular hangout for celebrities and socialites, who were drawn to the bar's tropical decor and inventive cocktails. Beach's drinks, which he called "rum rhapsodies," were unlike anything that had been seen before. They were complex and layered, with a mix of exotic ingredients that included fresh juices, spices, and rare liquors.
One of Beach's most famous creations was the Zombie, a potent cocktail made with multiple types of rum and fruit juices. Legend has it that Beach created the drink for a hungover customer who needed a pick-me-up and that it was so strong that he limited customers to two per visit. The Zombie quickly became a sensation, and other bars around the country began to copy Beach's recipe.
Beach was known for his showmanship as well as his drinks. He often wore elaborate costumes and performed fire dances for his customers. He also developed a number of secret recipes and techniques, which he guarded closely and passed down only to a select few.
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Despite his success, Beach was a restless soul and spent much of his life traveling the world. He opened other bars in places like Hawaii and Chicago, but none ever achieved the same level of fame as Don the Beachcomber. Beach passed away in 1989, but his legacy lives on in the world of tiki culture. His drinks and recipes are still celebrated by mixologists and enthusiasts around the world, and his influence can be seen in everything from bar decor to fashion.
It's fair to say, Donn Beach was a true pioneer in the world of mixology and tiki culture. His exotic way of life helped to create a unique and enduring subculture that continues to captivate people today. While he may have been known as the "God of Tiki," his influence extends far beyond the world of cocktails and into the realm of pop culture. Beach's legacy is one of creativity, innovation, and a lifelong passion for adventure and exploration.
With that being said, our Honolulu print is heavily inspired by the 'Golden Age' of Aloha in the 1950s. The exotic cultures and looks were desired by many and there for a giant roar in the fashion industry. Pulling in leaves and the hibiscus flower to create a beautiful complexion of nature onto our Garments such as the Charlene Shirtwaister Dress...
With Tiki in our hearts, we just felt we had to take the look a whole lot further with our bamboo accessories as it allows us to really indulge and get that effortless 50s look.
For the celebrations of our Honolulu Print's 3rd Birthday, we thought it was only right to add to the Tiki collection by designing our New Tahiti Print coming in the Summer of 2023!!
For us here at RocknRomance, our love for Tiki and our 'Golden Age' of Aloha started 9 years ago when we released our Hawaiian print, in the colours; Teal, Black, Red, Mustard, Pink, and our beloved Natural... What a blast from the past! We fell in love with the collection and hope you did too!
Yours Truly,
Kiah-Marie and the RocknRomance Team xx
