Loudlife is spending the season in Ibiza. An island where music, energy, creativity, and people from all over the world come together and that’s exactly what we want to capture. We’re launching a new series, “People of Ibiza” conversations with individuals who shape the island, define its vibe, and push its culture forward. First up: Shirley van Rijn. The woman behind SHIBIZANIGHTS | Dining & Club Experience — a concept where gastronomy, music, and nightlife merge into one unforgettable experience and an Ibiza VIP Concierge, curating bespoke experiences on the island. Let’s talk.
How did Ibiza first enter your life and what made you stay?
12 years ago I came to Ibiza for love… and I ended up staying because I fell in love with the island itself. It’s hard to explain, but Ibiza gives you a certain freedom and feeling that’s difficult to find anywhere else. From the very beginning, it just became home.
What has shaped your approach to hospitality and creating experiences?
It really started during Covid, when everything slowed down. I began hosting small, intimate villa nights with friends, just creating moments together. From there it grew organically — first the W Hotel, then Cova Santa. That was a big moment for me, doing such a project on my own.
It taught me that for me, it’s never just about an event.. it’s about how people feel during it and what they take with them afterwards.
How did the idea for SHIBIZANIGHTS come to life, and what sets it apart from a typical Ibiza night out? Can you tell us more about the concept?
A big part of it came from seeing my girlfriends in the industry. I saw how hard it can be for female DJs to really get opportunities. When I got mine, it felt natural to create something that would let us grow together and support each other. SHIBIZANIGHTS is really about connection. It feels more personal, more intimate – not just another night out.
When is the next SHIBIZANIGHTS event and who can we expect behind the decks?
Wednesday at ROTO.
Upstairs, we have my two Dutch girls, singer Nikki Milou and DJ Chelsea Domenica, and this week in the bunker we have Babe Julya taking over. Every week has its own energy.
How do you choose your DJs? With so many artists wanting to play in Ibiza, is your Instagram constantly flooded with requests?
Yes… my Instagram is definitely full 😅 But I’ve learned to really trust my feeling. I love to have resident dj’s from ibiza, or headliners from outside. As I book only female dj’s, it’s easy for me to say no to guys that reach out to me. lol.
What does a DJ need to have or bring to be part of SHIBIZANIGHTS?
For me, it starts with energy and attitude. I really appreciate it when someone takes the time to meet me in person. If there’s a genuine connection and I feel the right vibe, I’ll always remember that and try to create an opportunity when it fits.
What kind of crowd are you curating these nights for?
I love a crowd that is open, positive, and really there for the music and the experience.
I do try to attract more women, because I think it changes the whole energy of a night. But in the end it’s about balance — people who respect the vibe and each other.
What has been your most memorable night so far?
Definitely the first edition at Cova Santa. I remember walking around the island and seeing my flyers everywhere, and then arriving there and seeing my name… it was a very emotional moment.
It reminded me of why I started and how far things can grow if you keep going.
As an Ibiza VIP Concierge, what does a “perfect Ibiza experience” look like through your eyes?
For me, it’s when everything feels effortless. I love making people feel comfortable and welcome, and making the experience more personal.
Ibiza is often seen as pure paradise, but what’s the darker side people don’t usually talk about?
It can be very intense. Everything moves fast, and not everything is always real.
If you’re not grounded, it’s easy to get lost in the lifestyle. I think that’s something you really have to learn here.
One word that describes Ibiza for you?
Energy. It’s something you feel the moment you arrive.
