You have been selected as one of our Nexus 22.

Nexus is defined as a connection or series of connections linking two or more things; center/focus.

The 22 Black socialites that we have chosen are the nexus between industry and influence here in KC. This event is intended to celebrate each of you as well as Black History Month. We hope your followers and ours will encounter new and notable Black history facts in the weeks leading up to a truly unique event.

To participate in this event, we ask that you post the Nexus flyer and caption it with your favorite Black historical figure on Tuesday, February 1st as a kickoff to Black History Month. This can be a prominent figure often covered in Black History discussions or a lesser known yet equally impactful individual that you feel should be highlighted. Either way, we hope you select someone that has influenced you enough to share their story with others. Once posted, you will be added to our guest list for this event.

The number 22 represents the year and is a sign of positivity, good luck, and joy; all things we want for the month of February and encompassing Black History Month.

This event will be held on Friday, February 18th at Aura in Midtown. As we are celebrating Black lives, Black influence, Black creatives, and Black intellectuals – Black attire is strongly suggested.

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Tee LeChé is no stranger to other cities, as she is a person seeking growth and opportunity whenever she can. She knows that other cities have a lot of insight to offer and music to incorporate into her sets. After leaving KC in 2018, this female DJ moved to Atlanta and has even toured internationally with Asian Doll. But when tragedy struck her world after losing her beloved cousin and friend lost his life, a return to Kansas City was necessary for her mental health and grieving process. Coping with the loss of a loved one and struggling to find work sent her into a depression that she described as ‘hard to get out of’. That is until she learned she would soon be a mother and her life was in an upswing once again.

While on this journey of highs and lows, DJ Tee LeChé has come to embrace that she is human, doing the best she can, in a city she loves, with her mind set on achieving her goal. Just like her personal odyssey, she understands and extends grace to the progress of the nightlife industry in KC. While she loves that Kansas City has some hidden gems with an upscale aesthetic and vibes to serve her demographic, she feels we still lack the ‘Big City’ experiences of other states, especially when hosting guests from out of town.

As a strong supporter of UpDown, she is of course a participant on the app and notes that her favorite feature is the Hotspot Feature. “I appreciate the effort that has been put forth in letting KC residents know what’s going on every night in every burrow of the city. I used to get stuck when people would ask ‘what is there to do tonight?’. UpDown Nightlife App has made that question easy now! I just tell them to pull out their phones and navigate them through the downloading process. UpDown Nightlife events are amongst the outings I prioritize. I can almost guarantee I’ll have a great time!”, Tee LeChé says.

From the city you have said you love with all your heart, just know that we love you right back. Thank you for supplying us with good vibes and great sounds!

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Since his time at the University of Kansas, AyEl has spent the last 7 years creating music and has contributed a great deal to the recognition of strong local artists. He has opened for noteworthy musicians like Eric Bellinger, Rae Sremmurd, and A Boogie wit da Hoodie and performed at the Flyover KC Music Festival. As a graduate of Sumner Academy, this Kansas City, Kansas native is committed to contributing to his city in conjunction with achieving his personal goals, an admirable aspiration.

Music goes hand in hand with the nightlife industry, so it is fair to say AyEl can often be seen around town. There have been a handful of times that our crowd was fortunate enough to get a quick showcase of his work when our very own DJ Q dropped one of his songs. But his favorite thing about Updown events is that the crowd is full of young professionals. “You can go have fun, but also learn something from anybody you have a conversation with.”, AyEl says. Speaking on the nature of KC nightlife, he noted that for such a small city, there is something for everyone in different areas and you can find the best fit for you by using his favorite feature on the Updown App, the Hotspot Feature. In pure AyEl fashion, he had nothing negative to mention about the nightlife scene but simply stated that becoming familiar with the community will bring forth more progress and we couldn’t agree more!

With a new EP on the way and more merchandise dropping soon from his brand Seventeen Summers, we look forward to seeing this impressive member of our crowd flourish for years to come! Thank you, AyEl, for being so remarkable and adding value to our events!

Download Now!

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As someone that enjoys traveling, Edwin has also experienced what other big-name cities have to offer when it comes to nightlife. From an industry standpoint, it is her opinion that KC still has a lot of work to do when it comes to living up to big city standards. However, the growth and diversity efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. On the partygoer side of things, lackluster events and the inadequacy to accommodate different crowds deters her from various places.

When asked why she prefers Updown events, Edwin spoke of the upscale atmosphere and focus on the customer experience. “Updown provides a big city experience paired with down home customer service. The combination of the two make makes for a great end user experience for both new and regular customers, as well as the staff.” she said. As an app participant, the Hotspot feature is currently her favorite because it helps users find the right spot for them without having to jump from place to place.

It is because of loyal followers like Shenelle that Updown has prospered the way that it has. From the support she has shown for all that we do, to the kind words she shared when interviewed for this article, we are truly humbled to have her on our side. Thank you Shenelle for being a praiseworthy member of our crowd!

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How it works:

Updown will be partnering with a number of bars and restaurants throughout the Kansas City area that will offer food/drink specials throughout the week. These promotional rates will only be redeemable through the Updown App so consumers will need to download to enjoy savings.  The purpose of this campaign is to drive downloads and encourage user participation while being mutually beneficial for the establishments offering said specials and those looking to save a little on an evening out Because let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good deal?

The launch event will be Thursday, October 28^th at Sweet Combforts located in the Westport district. As our first official partner for Hackmeals, the restaurant will be unveiling new menu items and cocktails to be enjoyed by our users at a discounted rate. These limited items will be unique to the Updown brand and we are so excited for our loyal followers to experience these tasty treats. When taking advantage of these offers, we would love to see any pictures or videos posted on our User Feed.

Download the app now to hack into your favorite deals!

More establishments will be partnering with us soon, so be on the lookout for more chances to save!

Download Here!

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Any Day Now – Day party

As a Kansas City native, Davis did not stray too far from home when he attended the University of Missouri-Columbia to earn a degree in Journalism. After years of private school – and the uniforms that came with it – undergrad gave the man we know today to be impeccably dressed his first taste of expression via fashion. But in his heart of hearts, Mathew has always known exactly who he is, has embraced that person, and shares himself so eloquently with those privileged enough to speak with him.

Sleek & stylish

Entering the workforce, Davis was vehement that he wanted his work to matter. Currently, he works as Manager of Communications and Events with the Veterans Community Project, a nonprofit most known for its village of tiny homes that provides veterans experiencing homelessness with transitional housing and support services. Mathew spoke of the privilege he feels to share the powerful stories recounted to him by the residents, emphasizing how important he feels it is to elevate the voices of people without the agency to speak for themselves. He does this with intention and significance every day.

Mathew at VCP

This is just a snapshot of the amazing qualities this man possesses which is why he is a favorite among our crowd. When asked why he likes our events, his statement was a powerful one. “When it comes to Updown events, I don’t feel like I’m just being tolerated as a token, but, rather, embraced as a whole person.” He elaborated on the gravity that holds for a Black, gay man, expressing that he has never felt unsafe or threatened. Instead he feels a sense of acceptance and love from the crowd we have curated.

It was all a blur – Letter 2 U event

Mathew, we highlight you for being a role model in our community and an overall incredible human being.  You are one of our most welcome guests!

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In fact, in this weird post-COVID world we are all just winging it until normalcy feels familiar. Whether that be Mask Off like Future in ’17 or that lowkey chic 4inch piece of fabric becomes part of the wardrobe, it’s late spring! For most of us spring-early summer babies, it’s time to double down on the celebration and make up for the one we didn’t get last year.

RIGHT? Fine, even if it’s just me, your girl is saying goodbye 20’s & Hello 30 so I’m celebrating Gemini Season as long as I want to ‘cause that’s my business. Join me!

In the spirit of socially safe fun, The Ship serves up free shows in the alley every Friday and Saturday night, featuring some of KC’s favorite musicians and DJs!

All summer long, you can grab an order of their fried green beans or if you’re feeling hungry, Po’boys or red beans & rice. They have something for every palate. Head out early in the evening and dance the night away while constantly rehydrating from delicious choices from their drinks service! How can you go wrong two-stepping into the night with their seasonal blackberry jalapeño margarita in hand on their beautiful tropical courtyard? You can’t, sis. Doors open at 7, and they wrap at 10, making this spot the ideal intimate gathering, perfect for a single mommy like myself, people that like to kick it but also get a solid 7 hours of sleep, or a pair of heels that were too cute to pass on, but your feet can only stand in for 2-3 hours. You know the pair ladies, this is the spot for them!

Kansas City is here to welcome us with open arms and a special, well-earned drink! Patios across the US are available, curfews lifted, and just like that it’s warm, sunny, and I’m sipping mimosas like water.

Here are a few of my favorite outdoor places to sip, serve a look, and eat something tasty!

Pigwich: Nestled inside the city market, this spot is known for its fresh, local, and artisan butcher-style meats. Their resident chef puts together a menu that rotates a weekly special featuring items from some of the best farms and small businesses across Missouri and Kansas. Pigwich is the perfect place to sit with the kids on their large patio and enjoy a casual post-market lunch.

True Food Kitchen: This is a little gem I stumbled upon after realizing that the quarantine 15 is real!

Not only does this place boost a beautiful, breezy covered patio on the plaza’s best corner for people watching, but they also make a killer dragon fruit margarita!

Looking for a bit of kid-friendly day fun? Or even just a fun time for your inner child? The Nelson Art Gallery has a dope mini-golf exhibit! From May 23 to September 6, Art Course is open regular museum hours every day (Thursday – Monday weekly). The Art Course at the Nelson-Atkins is an artist-designed, mini-golf experience! It’s 9-holes with a creative interpretation of a work of art in the museum’s collection at every swing! Complete with picturesque views on the lawn, this is the perfect place to have a picnic, play around and enjoy the day. I could see this being a good date spot; we are doing that again, RIGHT?

Look, we might not be blowing out candles… but it’s a celebration baby. Where are you headed now that the streets have called?

Written by: Miriam Gray

The post Nobody blows out candles anymore girl appeared first on UpDown NightLife App.

With family cheering on the Chiefs

As a young professional and single mother, finding that work/life balance can be a difficult task but is definitely a priority – especially for such a driven, devoted, family-oriented person like her. Realistically, being out every weekend just isn’t feasible with her schedule. However, her sociable and auspicious personality bode well for her in all settings, and she is certainly a favorite amongst our guests.

A night out in KC

When asked why she chooses our events, McGee expressed it is all about the vibe. “From the venue to the crowd, everything about UpDown events is solid and I know I will have a good time. Every member of the UpDown team is welcoming and it really makes the night worthwhile for me.” Touching on the diversity of our crowd, McGee also mentioned that it is comforting to be in a nightlife setting with likeminded individuals – be that business professionals out for a drink to network or the other moms looking for a moment to decompress in an otherwise chaotic week.

Angel w/ Mayor Quinton Lucas

Angel, we highlight you for being an exemplary member of our crowd and impactful member of our community.

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Dayon playing for UMKC

As a proud, Black, lesbian woman, Dayon entered the world of Human Resources professionally to help companies and her community understand the importance of diversity and inclusion by opening doors for individuals that are often marginalized or discredited. In her words, “While I have not necessarily made professional connections at UpDown events, I have expanded my personal life by linking with people that are doing positive stuff. Your events and the people I’ve met there have introduced me to a number of things that I’m proud to be a part of.” Included in that is a book club with a focus on women empowerment and philanthropy and becoming a mentor to other young women in her football endeavors.

The Letter 2 U event

You may have seen her at one of our events rocking some fly sneakers and exuding a laid back, chill demeanor. But what makes Dayon most special is her ability to connect with everyone. When asked what she enjoys most about Kansas City nightlife, Hall-Jones replied, “I am a loyal attendee of UpDown events. That’s not to say I don’t enjoy or attend other things throughout the city because I definitely do. But from the first event I attended with y’all, it was good vibes. Warm, welcoming, diverse, and inclusive.” As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, those qualities are extremely important to her. She also touched on how our events celebrate this diversity and embrace members of any community as long as they are there to have a good time with good people.

Trapped in the Sun – Day Party

Dayon, we highlight you for being such a loyal supporter and advantageous member of our crowd. We value your patronage more than you know!

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After what feels like years during life in a panorama, the citizens of Kansas City are finally getting a chance to embrace the great outdoors again, even the opportunity to comingle with others IRL. While things aren’t quite life as we knew it, there is a hint of face-to-face familiarity. Now, some of you might need a minute for the awkwardness of not wearing real pants or talking to anyone outside of a screen for the last year to wear off, and trust me; there is no judgment in my voice; it’s been a weird year.

Lemonade Park – Stage View

For a young hip, cool mom, of two I have wasted an astonishingly small amount of time thrusting myself back into the world. I mean…. what mom isn’t ready for the world to open up again because their home now needs the type of deep cleaning that only months of quarentertaining children can leave you with. Grocery runs and trips to Target can only hold a girl for so long. The moment my favorite KC-based IG account put out the list of outdoor concert venues, I was in my wallet and on the ticket purchasing website in less than five minutes. A true feat. With a combo of modern outdoor space, delicious food, and a lineup of dope local artists? 

Say. No. More.

Enter Lemonade Park.

Lemonade Park – Stage

Lemons… Lemonade…  Beyoncé isn’t the only one feeling it. Nestled down in the West Bottoms near the old Kemper Arena, in the up-and-coming stockyards districts is Lemonade Park – a cozy atmospheric outdoor concert venue, complete with grass (okay, so it’s turf, but honestly, it’s better this way) and picnic tables. The brainchild of some cool folks at Voltaire, the Golden Ox, Moxie Catering, and the Record Bar built a new kind of music venue. Lemonade Park introduces itself as a safety-minded outdoor entertainment venue born out of creativity and necessity.

Voltaire offers food & drink options for guests

This venue serves up artisanal cocktails and food as well. Adult fare, while I enjoyed the pomme fries and garlic aioli, it’s the type of venue that even from the budget-friendly bring your chair section, you can see the stage and all corners of the venue. Great for budgets and even better for moms who are determined to give their kids the freedom to roam and enjoy some of the fun for themselves. It’s also the type of venue that has delicious adult cocktails and 21 & over shows booked all summer long for date nights or time with friends. Featuring cool benches and picnic tables safely placed across the lawn, while beautiful bright lights encase the stage in a dreamy IG chic intimate concert type vibe. The lineup features a jam-packed calendar of some of the best up-and-coming local artists and groups. You can expect that as the nights get longer and people start to warm up to the idea of being outside and around people again in a safe, socially distant way, that this will be the place to be. Might even catch me there soaking up starry nights where my baby girl still calls me the cool mom.

Clear nights & live music

Written By : Miriam Gray

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