When I saw Golden Hour at Le’Meridian was coming back for Summer 2026 I knew I wouldn’t miss it again this year. A summer evening spent poolside was an evening worthy of planning.
Golden Hour is a highly anticipated seasonal event on Thursdays hosted by Le’Meridian Hotel in Clayton, Missouri that leaves guests making it their Thursday routine. Located on the 3rd floor of the hotel, Golden Hour is an evening spent with curated drinks, a DJ that keeps the vibes going, and a relaxing environment where you can soak away the stress and worries if only for a little while.
As I arrived on the 3rd floor of the hotel I was met with check-in and a fresh yellow striped towel that screamed Summertime by Will Smith and DJ Jazzy Time. Walking on to the deck I looked around and noticed bae dates, girl dates, birthday celebrations, and people who stopped to let their hair down after a long days work. As the music blared off the nearby buildings, I found a seat to start reflecting on why I was there: A self care date. As I adjusted in my seat unpacking my poolside essentials, wishing it was one of the lounge chairs, I took a deep exhale and turned my face to the sun, after all Golden Hour was the vibe being curated, so I leaned in with ease.
Some people might ask “Why a solo date at the pool?” and I’d answer without hesitation: most environments are worth exploring in the name of self care, pool included.
We often associate self care with spa appointments, massages, and quiet mornings at home, but self care also includes trying new things, sitting poolside with a mocktail, and giving yourself permission to enjoy your own company. Self care sometimes involves a sense of rebellion and audacity, daring to go against the societal norm of showing up with a group, and being completely comfortable with your own company. For many self care solo dates have become a goal to etch into the busy schedules to leave room for self without apology, myself included. There’s something about refilling my cup that always leaves me refreshed and ready to take on yet anther day no matter what it entails.
After slowly indulging in a refreshing mocktail that was accompanied by a personalized yellow cup for the occasion, I made my way to the edge of the pool. Dipping my toes into what felt like the only answer to a humid Midwest summertime day, I found myself exhaling again. Gathered around the edges of the pool were quiet conversations, selfie takers, and the DJ’s music drifting everyone into a musical space that felt like Good Vibes Only. What I appreciated most was that Golden Hour felt welcoming whether you arrived with a group or arrived alone.
This welcoming vibe felt intentional.
An unspoken invitation to just BE.
Choosing Le’Meridien’s Golden Hour for a Thursday evening well spent would be great for a Girls Day, A celebratory occasion, a place to let down your hair, or a self care date. No matter the reasoning for your arrival, this atmosphere meets you where you are. From signature pool drinks to thoughtful menu options, a lively DJ bringing the vibes, and scenery that becomes even more breathtaking as the sun sets.
Self care is giving yourself permission to show up somewhere alone and enjoying it anyway. Self care sometimes also looks like grabbing your girls and meeting in a place that just feels right. That infamous yet truthful statement “you can’t pour from an empty cup” should always be a reminder to show up for yourself.
Indulge often, unapologetically and purposefully.
RESERVE YOUR GOLDEN HOUR SPOT HERE
