Two Wednesdays ago, The Bowery Hotel played host to a very special celebration -- the first season finale of Million Dollar Listing New York. This past season captured three brokers and their intertwining lives as they fought for their share of the market and dealt with demanding clients in order to make a fortune selling the hottest and most expensive real estate in the city. Two of those brokers -- Prudential Douglas Elliman's Michael Lorber, son of Elliman Chairman Howard Lorber, and Fredrik Eklund, also from Elliman -- greeted fellow Bravolebrities Sonja Morgan and Tamra Barney; The Bachelorette's Ashley Hebert; and media types like Gregory Littley and Lifestyle Mirror's David Chines.
When asked about the New York Real Housewives cast shakeup, Morgan confessed that "there were growing pains at first, but once we got going, it was really good." She also acknowledged that the new additions lent a different flavor to the show, "but of course," she quipped, "there are still squabbles. Women act like idiots -- what can I say."
The OC Housewives always bring their own flair wherever they go. Barney took some time out to express her feelings regarding being out of her sunny environment: "I dress warmer here! Although my top tonight is backless, so actually I'm still cold." Comparing the fashion mantras of both coasts, she mused, "it's brighter [back in OC], and it's just a whole different vibe dressing there. But as you can see, I still needed a pop of color with the red pants."
As for Lorber himself, the Beekman Place resident was planning a trip to Palm Beach, but his "ultimate summer destination" is Nantucket. His favorite property that he got to show this season? "The one at 100 11th Avenue, because the windows are different in each apartment."
Soon after our chat, Lorber gave a brief but endearing speech thanking everyone for their support, including Elliman CEO Dottie Herman, the host of the evening. "The joke is that the show makes us seem like we don't get along, and... that's absolutely true," he deadpanned, and the crowd had a good laugh.
But the evening did not end there. Three of the show's stars, including Nest Seekers broker Ryan Serhant, made their way to Bravo's studio at 325 Hudson Street for a live taping of Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, during which a second season of Bravo's newest hit show was announced. For those who need their fix more imminently, Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles will return June 6.