Real Men Only

With hand-rolled cigars, Bulldog gin, gift certificates towards luxury car rentals and complimentary fitness training sessions to offer, Hoboken's manliest of men flocked to Lua Thursday night for the Ultimate Man Experience, an event sponsored by Montclair-based PR firm The Hip Event.

Details magazine was laid out on the bar and the Yankees game played on the plasma TVs, as the men schmoozed over gin and brandy. The open-house style event started at 8:00p.m. and lasted until the gin ran out.

The Hoboken Man, Sky Club and The Smoke Shop were among the Hoboken businesses offering free and reduced services and raffling off gift certificates. Sopranos actor Arthur Nascarella and Hoboken Police Chief Anthony Falco were among the guests.

While most of the guys in the house were reluctant to sit down for a facial in the middle of a crowded bar, Anthony Falco Jr., had no reservations. Falco, a lieutenant sergeant with the Hoboken Police Department, said he already goes for regular manicures and pedicures. Facials are—naturally—next on his list.

"I always wanted to get a facial," he said. "I have no reservations. I'm not shy."

After the five-minute express facial by Kathy Balsamo of The Hoboken Man, Falco was left wanting more.

"It was excellent, it was relaxing," he said, "But it was too short. I'd definitely go for a full one."

He was the only one brave enough to try the facial on Thursday, though several men said they would give it a shot at the salon.

Ian Wilson will have his shot when he redeems a gift certificate for a free haircut, which he won on Thursday. Even before winning the complimentary service, Wilson was enjoying himself.

"I used to work on Wall Street, and saw events like this all the time. I'm surprised to see it here, but I appreciate it," he said. "There's always a market for this."

While the event was catered to men, several women joined their husbands and boyfriends for the evening. Karen Parziale, who says she is not really a big drinker, came back for a second glass of gin.

"I'm not a hard liquor person," Parziale said, "but this is really good."

The Bulldog gin was mixed with homemade lemonade to create a London Lemonade. The taste is unique, says Diane Petix, because there is less juniper and more coriander than in most gins, giving it a citrus undertone.

Fitness trainers from Sky Club were on hand offering complimentary 5-day sessions.

"It's part of everyone's experience, but definitely a big thing for men," Alyssa Valente said. "Men love to swim, love to look good and love to attract women."

"Not to mention," added Des Depass, "when you're in better shape you have a better sex life. Every guy wants a better sex life."

Whether there for the gin, a free workout, a hand-rolled cigar or a facial, it seemed every guy in the house found what he was looking for.

"I appreciate the T.L.C," said Wilson, "especially when it's from pretty girls."