One of the certain highlights of the Pink Shoe calendar was this truly fabulous evening in aid of Save the Children Fund. Helene Martin Gee was event Chairman for the STC Kensington event, so of course she combined the fundraiser with a party for many of the marvelous Pink Shoe Ambassadors, who so kindly supported the charity.
At the Royal Garden Hotel we kicked off with cocktails, Champagne and Mohitos, and mingled with Kensington society in the Palace Suite, listening to jazz piano courtesy of Robin Phillips.
Helene welcomed guests, thanking them for coming to support and enjoy the evening, especially the volunteers and generous donors, including those who provided the fantastic silent auction lots. She thanked Event Patron Jeffrey Archer, whom she told us has raised over £41m for charity alongside his prolifically successful writing career, currently No 1 in the Best Seller lists of 11 countries!
Then it was over to Jeffrey who gave a rousing speech, thanking all the generous sponsors, the Royal Garden Hotel and especially its staff who have worked hard throughout the year, having chosen Save the Children as their charity.
After also thanking Pierre Hermes Chocolates, Fifi Bijoux Jewellery and the other kind sponsors. Jeffrey inspired guests to generously donate, even as he was closing there began a stampede to place auction bids, sponsor health worker training and buy raffle chocolates!
Shahnaz Guivi presided over the Silent Auction which was a massive success, due to her hard work and the team of STC volunteers who were a perfect mix of friendly persistence and charm. Victoria Lyon Dean, STC regional manager was everywhere, ensuring things went without a hitch; with the charity team on hand to let people know about the vital work the charity does.
After a short film on Save the Children’s work we heard a little about how the monies raised would be spent. Our gallant MC for the evening was Lyndon Gee, who kept things running smoothly and further encouraged us all to keep giving, also auctioning off signed copies of Jeffrey’s latest book, generously donated and newly signed by the author.
Over a sumptuous mezze at our tables, we enjoyed brilliant jazz from 'The Bright Young Band' during the tasting supper from head chef Steve Munkley and his brigade –rounded off with a pudding buffet to die for, we were spoiled for choice from the breathtaking array. So good was the food we persuaded the kitchen team to take a bow! Whilst Martin Myers and his banqueting team ensured we were looked after royally.
Along with Julia Bowles and her party, Pink Shoe tables were hosted by Pauline Crawford, Atiti Sosimi and Diane Shawe, with their gracious guests. Helene sent huge thanks to everyone who gave so much, to the donors and buyers of the wonderful auction lots, to the hotel and staff for their magnificent sponsorship and for the excellent food and superlative service, and to the tireless event committee for pulling it all together.
Most importantly, the event has now raised £20,000! This will train 200 health workers around the world. Each health worker will go on to treat 5,000 children in a year, so this event has literally helped save the lives of 1,000,000 children worldwide. Thank you!!
