:-)

The obsession for sparkling smiles has come to Dublin. Smile is a brand spanking new store on South Anne Street where you can now have a mouth full of glow like Tom Cruise. The teeth whitening specialists are already booking up fast, so get your choppers down there quick.

The well attended launch party took place on Thursday night, and, luckily, the popular restaurant Spacos is located next door where the assembled guests spilled into (as well as the street itself).

Smiling like the proverbial Cheshire cat on the night were pretty in pink TV presenter Amanda Brunker, IT boy Gavin Lambe - Murphy and model agent John Compton with Tara O'Connor. The buzz at the moment is what O'Connor is planning with Valerie Roe and Elaine Roddy, since the trio departed Lillies last month. Valerie has been quoted saying she is going to open the best night club the country has seen. That'll get the party people really smiling.

Loyd Grossman OBE


Loyd Grossman has invited me to join him for lunch in the Cellar Restaurant in the Merrion Hotel next week. Unfortunately I'll be in London. :-/

St. Patrick's Festival

The rather Italian-esque Rotunda Room in City Hall was the venue for the launch of this year's St. Patrick's Festival. As I chatted to Paul Trainer over a glass of bubbly, we were shushed by a grumpy old woman. Just as I was about to challenge her rudeness we realised that Minister John O'Donoghue TD was in full flow of his speech. Such were the poor acoustics in this cavernous space that we couldn't hear a word the man was saying.

The festival this year runs from March 16th to 20th and is expected to attract over 1 million people (including 250,000 visitors) with an exciting and festive programme that includes theatre, music, visual arts, comedy, dance family events and Europe's largest annual fireworks display. FM104 will also host a big day as part of the fun. Phew.

While there, I met up with my good friend Deborah Allen and we retired to The Market Bar for dinner and a catch up. She was just back from New York and full of news. I listened attentively, despite the odd pang of jealousy.

The Best of Irish

London fashion week is in full swing. I attended a few years ago and didn't have much time to enjoy. If you are reporting then it's not much fun as you are constantly rushing from venue to venue to catch the next show. I'd say the majority of my daytime was spent in the back of a black cab stuck in traffic.

Irish international designer Paul Costello shows his SS05 collection this evening at the Irish Embassy, in fashionable Belgravia. A plethora of Irish supporters are expected to attend. The last time I met Paul, he was launching his latest glassware line for Newbridge Silverware. Publicist Orla Doyle told me he had been sketching for them earlier, so I brazenly asked him if he would do one for me. A down to earth and gracious man, he replied that he'd be delighted to. We were chatting away for a few minutes when he suddenly asked me how I spelt my name and subsequently produced this amazing drawing of a dress from his next collection.

I've since had the picture framed, but still can't decide which room deserves it.

Magee SS05

Another fashion preview today, this time the wonderful designs of the Magee label. Made in Ireland, that's where it's at. Founded in Donegal in 1866, Magee has become synoymous with menswear in Ireland and are continuing to deliver. The latest collection represents Magee's progressive design and styling whilst retaining the eclectic spirit of the company's traditional tailoring and weaving expertise.

The beautiful surrounds of 10 Ormond Quay (Dublin's most exclusive private venue) were the setting for today's show, with immpecably dressed Magee chairman Lynn Temple, fashion writer Ciara Elliott and social diarist Sarah McInerney among those attending.

Lee Bradshaw, Justin Manville and Alex Fitzgerald were among the models who wore key items in linens, soft corduroys and stone washed cottons in colours as diverse as Limeade, Coral Reef and Blue Crush.

Sister Act: Olivia & Caroline Morahan cooking up a storm yesterday.
Pictured with the Nokia 7610.

Sunday lunch

After a particularly quiet weekend, it was lovely to relax on Sunday and enjoy lunch with good friends Olivia Morahan and Fergal Noonan (despite the fact they married in 2003, I never know the correct combination of surnames, so leave them as they were before).

Also in the luncheon party, which included their beautiful baby daughter Ella, were Olivia's sister Caroline (who presents RTE's Off The Rails) and her boyfriend, actor Jordan Lee McGrath, choreographer Brendan Scully and entertainment agent Sean Montague.

The banter, fun and gossip was in full flow all afternoon, with Caroline and Brendan hatching plans for the design of a new glitzy outfit (she has been nominated for the prestigious VIP Style Award) and Jordan Lee full of news about his latest project. He is currently starring in a production of A Streetcar Named Desire, which will be going on a nationwide tour in the near future.

Probably the most exciting news I've heard in a long time is that of the latest group that Brendan and Sean are managing and about to launch. The Crimmins sisters, Alison, Laura and Nicola are beautiful blond triplets and are set to be a huge success. Sean let us all have a sneak preview of their debut single and, while I'm sworn to secrecy, I feel I should issue a warning to Girls Aloud, the Sugababes, et al - watch out girls, you'll soon have some serious competition.

9 Songs

I went to the press screening of the controversial movie 9 Songs today. I used to be a film critic and I must say it was probably the most well attended press screening I've ever been to. Everyone was talking about this film before they had even seen it.

Basically it is about a guy (Kieran O'Brien) telling the story of his girlfriend (Margot Stilley) and the good times they had. He's on a trip to the Antartic, which I presume is some sort of metaphor for the relationship. The entire film switches between the couple having sex (graphic and real) and attending music concerts.

It doesn't deserve the hype it has generated. Actually, as a movie, it's fairly dull. Some sex, then a song, more sex, another song ..... repeat until all nine are covered. Apparently it is all in the name of art, but I can't help but think it is glorified porn. Great soundtrack though.

It is being screened tomorrow as part of the Jameson Dublin International Film Festival, with director Michael Winterbottom present for a Q&A afterward. I don't know if it will get a general release, I can't imagine so.

A beacon in suburbia

Whenever I hear of Sandyford, I automatically think 'industrial estate'. Not anymore. Sandyford is full of swanky office blocks now, some of which designed by none other than John Rocha. Indeed, the party of last year, the launch of the gorgeous new Volvo S40, was hosted in that very office block, Beacon Court. Well, now there is a hotel to add to the collection. Owned by the ubiquitous Paul and Lisa Fitzpatrick, of the Fitzpatrick Hotels dynasty, The Beacon is the newest kid on the block. I would have thought that Dublin needs another hotel like Paris Hilton needs a Fendi handbag, but there you go.

I was unable to attend last nights launch, but am reliably informed that present and correct (and enjoying sushi) were artist and BFoB (that's Best Friend of Bono) Guggi, RTE golden boy Ryan Tubridy, TV star turned panto princess Louise Loughman and charity queen Clodagh Kean. My insider tells me The Beacon is looking pretty swish. Hop on the Luas and see for yourself.

Question of the night: Which musical pair were looking cosy in a box at last nights opening of Blood Brothers at the Gaiety?

Yours truly getting in the mood for I, Keano outside The Olympia last night.
(Pic: Taragh Loughrey - Grant, using the Nokia 7610)

I, Keano

The grand old environs of The Olympia theatre were packed to capacity for last nights world premiere of I, Keano, the hilarious musical with tells the story of the Roy Keane / Saipan debacle of 2002. Written by Arthur Matthews, who also brought us Father Ted, the ensemble cast includes Gift Grub creator Mario Rosenstock in the title role.

Characters in this Julius Caesar - style tragi-com include Macartacus, Quinnus (who sounds remarkably like TV3's Martin King), Packie Bonnerus and Surfia, the PR obsessed wife of Quinnus. Cleverly put together, the show contains music and lyrics by Paul Woodfull as well as more well known customized songs. I'll be the first to admit that I'm not a big footie fan, and the Saipan affair worried me not, but it is a testament to I, Keano that it has something for all. My date, FM104's Taragh Loughrey - Grant, and I laughed our little hearts out.

From my seat I spied a sparkly Lorraine Keane, writer and broadcaster Shay Healy, RTE presenter Laura Woods and a pleathora of Irish International Rugby players. No football players, though not surprising as I guess they are resting for the upcoming match against Portugal. Did anybody actually expect Roy Keane to show?

Also in attendance were actor Keith Duffy, Rosanna Davison, singers Paddy Casey and Linda Martin (not together!) and model Glenda Gilson, who I'm sure I saw waving down at the rugby boys from aloft in her private box. Later, the party majority continued on around the corner for the after show bash at SIN.

Question of the night: Since Brian & Glenda are no more, who are set to be the next glamour couple? He is one of Brian's team mates and she is a beautiful TV and radio broadcaster. They are keeping the relationship under tight wraps for the moment but I expect them to be stepping out very soon.

Model behaviour

Yesterday we recorded the Oceans 12 fashion feature I mentioned last week. Thanks in particular to designer Nicky Wallace, Deirdre Browne of Dunnes Stores, Declan Fitzpatrick of Fitzpatricks Grafton Street and Olga Kearney of Vision Express. It was all such a manic last minute rush and definitely my most stressful Ireland AM feature yet.

It always helps to work with cool people though, as it makes everything fall into place. I've worked with male models who think they're bigger than Marcus Schenkenberg. I call it 'model attitude' and, trust me, it's not a good thing. The three guys on this shoot were real professionals - Ben Okonji, Brian Manning and Justin Milligan.

I've worked with Ben many times before and its always a pleasure (speaking of times, he graced the front page of The Irish Times Magazine last Saturday). Brian travelled from Galway and looks so like actor Vincent Cassel in Oceans 12 that he was a perfect cast. Justin is one of the top male models in Northern Ireland, and came all the way from Belfast for the shoot. He's in big demand as he currently has two agencies vying to represent him. Watch that space.

I'm off to the world premiere of I, Keano tonight. Apparently Roy Kean is in the country and has been invited. Details tomorrow.

Question of the week: Which radio station (and no, not FM104!) is facing a huge law suit following the departure of a key member of staff?

Judith Giltinane, pictured with the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup (pic: Oonagh Fallon)

Le Weekend

And what a busy one it was too. We kicked off with champagne in GUBU, where my good friend Ciarán Coleman was celebrating the fact that he has just landed a top job with an international pharmaceutical company. We continued on to PoD, where we were joined by Ross Golden - Bannon, who was celebrating also. Ross had just come from RTE where he was accompanying Jean Butler, who had just appeared on The Late Late Show.

Jean is goodwill ambassador for the Christian Blind Mission and Forgotten Children (who Ross' PR agency represent) and had just returned from a trip to Rwanda with much news to tell.

Saturday night was a long and busy one, however in all the madness I sought refuge in the newly opened Centre Stage Café, on Parliament Street. Owner Martin Moore is full of hospitality and makes a killer Kir Royale. Do check it out.

The biggest news of the weekend was to be had at Leopardstown racecourse. Winning the Hennessey Cognac Gold Cup was none other than Rule Supreme, a racehorse owned by John Fallon, who is father of my good friend Oonagh Fallon. As Judith Giltinane informed me today, there was much celebration indeed!

Wax on


Co-owner of Urban Wax Rebecca Taplin captured with my gorgeous new Nokia 7610


It's Friday, hurrah! I've had a long, but interesting, week and will certainly appreciate the chance to rest and recharge. For a long time I've been singing the praise of Thursdays and trying to market it as the unofficial start of the weekend. My hard work is paying off as each Thursday my posse of party people gets bigger and bigger.

We kicked off proceedings with a trip to Urban Wax. No, I wasn't have anything depleted but thought it important to be in-the-know about such things. After my recent experience at the all-girl OPI launch I brought along my pal Gareth Gleeson. Safety in mumbers, so to speak.

Well known as the number one waxing specialists among Ireland's fashionista's and most stylish, Urban Wax has extended it's range of treatments in celebration of Valentine's Day and to launch their new premises in 5 Johnson's Place, beside Dylan Bradshaw. Sure to be a hit this for Valentine's is their 'Outrageous' range that sees a Brazilian Wax followed by the application of Swarovski Crystals in a number of shapes and fashion. You can choose from the Urban Minx, a landing strip wax with the finest of Swarovski crystals, The Urban Show Girl, a spray fountain shape, or indeed, the City Of Love, a love heart detailed in red Swarovski crystals. Very bling bling!

Owned and managed by Rebecca Taplin and Jennifer Treanor, both from Dublin, Urban Wax is a perfect example of filling a niche in the beauty market and developing services at a fast pace to keep up with trends and fashions in the fast paced world of beauty treatments. In business together for just over 3 years, Rebecca and Jennifer have strong loyal client base and go to great lengths to ensure that they are up to date with international waxing trends and tastes. So if you want to feel smoother than a glass of Veuve Clicquot get your booty down to Urban Wax, tout de suite.

Later on in the night we bumped into Frances Winston and Fergal Breen, who joined us later at Mostly B, the super club night at The Hub.

Ireland's Most Eligible Man, Mr. Des Bishop.

Top 100

The newly revamped Cocoon was the location for the latest Social & Personal par-tay, hosted by the irrepressible P.J. Gibbons. A veritable Who's Who of familiar faces, the great and the good quaffed champagne and indulged in Haagan Dazs, while checking out whether there actually were any eligible men in the room. That's why we were there, to celebrate the Top 100 Most Eligible Men List.

Standing proud in the top spot is none other than comedian (and fellow blogger) Des Bishop. The native New Yorker was unable to attend the big bash as he is currently recording a show for super channel HBO. Also sharing the space at the top are actors Cillian Murphy and Keith Duffy, playboy Eddie Irvine and U2's Larry Mullen Jnr. No doubt the judges, who included my agent John Compton, had a tough time deciding.

From my vantage point I spied designer Nicky Wallace, models Astrid Brennan and Peter Lloyd, publicists Sinead Ryan and Amy Buckeridge (who celebrates her brithday next week), diarist Gavin Lambe - Murphy and fashionista Anne Boylan. A glowing Glenda Gilson made a dramatic late entrance, obviously enjoying life after Brian. You could tell what type of party it was by the cars double parked outside: a Ferrari, 2 Mercs, a convertible Lotus (Glenda's new voiture) and a Beemer.

We repaired to Bruxelles for Pussy's hilarious show, where we bumped into Ali Chawke (Ireland's answer to Paris Hilton?), Emily Cox of Slattery and Richard Kavanagh. Oooh er missus.

Question of night: Which married woman flirted openly with guys half her age? Her millionaire husband was clearly embarrassed, but turned a blind eye to her drunken behaviour.

Property Ladder

Congrats to TV presenter Caroline Morahan, who has just bought her first property. Caroline, who co-hosts Off The Rails with Pamela Flood, is currently working on the interiors of her new apartment (which will go nicely with her sporty new Mini). Located close to the family home off leafy Griffith Avenue, her new abode will be ready within the next few weeks.

Elsewhere in the property world, I see Stephen Gately is still trying to sell his luxery apartment in Rathmichael. The price has been considerably reduced in the last few months; nevertheless he will still pocket a tidy profit.

Oceans 12

After seeing Oceans 12 at a special Warner Bros. screening last night, I've had some super fashion ideas for Ireland AM. The amazing suits worn by George Clooney, Brad Pitt et al should be inspiration to us all.

Question of the weekend: Which iconic artist was startled in a bathroom recently? Startled because she was mid snort and had a rolled up note stuck in her nose.

Couture nails

Nailcare is big business. I remember being surprised at the number of nail bars in New York, where everyone, girls and boys, take the state of their nails very seriously. Julian Fallon, who runs the hugely successful 1st Option model agency, saw the importance of this grooming element and set up The Nail Room a few years ago. Needless to say business is booming. So much so, in fact, that she has just become the Irish distributor of OPI, the Gucci of nailcare.

With celebrity followers like Madonna, Reese Witherspoon, Cameron Diaz and Jennifer Lopez, it's not difficult to see why the brand has become such a hit.

Julian hosted the launch of OPI - the Japanese Collection in the trendy Aya sushi bar on Clarendon Street this morning. I felt a little bit out of place in a room full of excited girls all having manicures. It was a case of blessed arth thou among women. Indulging in the luxury treatments were TV producer Cathy O'Connor, FM104 beauty correspondent Gillian Hyland and Julian's sister Trish, who is positively blooming with her first pregnancy.

With names such as Don't be Koi with me, Dress to Empress and Miso Happy with this Color, you should be able to imagine the quirky, high fashion image of the brand. Available from The Nail Room in Roches Stores Henry St. and Blackrock from 9th February.

Behind you!

I went to the Liberty Hall Theatre last night for the final performance of the panto Beauty and the Beast. Directed by Simon Delaney and written and produced by Karl Broderick of Anthem Productions, the jokes came thick and fast with something for all ages.

The cast incuded TV3's Alan Hughes (who co-produced), presenter Louise Loughman, boy band Final Four, Brenda Donohoe, Jonathan McCrea of Spin 1038 and P.J. Dunleavy.

As it was the last performance, after a long and extended run, many well known names attended to celebrate the last night. In the audience were Twink with her daughters Chloe and Naomi, TV3's Martin King and Colette Fitzpatrick, George McMahon of Fair City fame, Ireland AM boss Debbie O'Donnell and Evening Herald fashion editor Bairbre Power.

After almost 2 months of presenting Ireland AM and working on the panto, Alan embarks on a relaxing cruise with Royal Caribbean later this week. However, plans are in full swing for next years production of Cinderalla.

Spiritual enlightenment



It's here! I can barely contain my excitement ... Grey Goose vodka has arrived in Ireland, and thanks to Edward Dillon & Company it will be more widely available than ever before. Did I mention it's the most gorgeous vodka in the world?

Last night two of my favourite drinks were the focus of a launch party hosted by Edward Dillon & Co., in the cool surroundings of the Blue Leaf Gallery, Pembroke Street. Bombay Sapphire gin and Grey Goose vodka are now being distributed by Dillons, who will surely do these sexy drinks justice. Sexy people enjoying said drinks were Francis Winston (who is back writing her ShowBitch column in The People), Fergal Breen, DJ Hugh Scully and Sarah - Jane English.

On hand to show us how it's done was Bombay Sapphire international mixoligist Jamie Walker, whose job it is to work with, mix and write about the premium spirit. You could call him a 'spiritual advisor'. I worshipped my Sapphire Rose cocktail in the Waterford Crystal glass.

After sampling the stylish drinks, grazing on the scrumptous food from Unique Dining and viewing the finalist of the Designer Glass Competition, we departed into the night. Goodie bags clinking with bottles of the good stuff, we retired to the Sky Bar @ The Clarendon.

Happy 4th Birthday

Congratulations to Trevor White and his team at The Dubliner magazine, who, last night, celebrated their 4th birthday. I remember the launch of The Dubliner. It was a time when new magazines in Ireland were like Conrad Gallagher restaurants - opening to much fanfare, but sinking without a trace. Magazines WHO and IQ were both born in the same year but are now a distant memory.

The chattering classes didn't think Trevor would succeed, but the easy confidence of the young entrepreneur was a force to be reckoned with. His monthly mix covers the arts, culture, dining, entertainment, lifestyle, fashion, music and more. It's a must have.

Last nights soireé was held in the trendy new Bia Bar on Drury Street. Enjoying Wolf Blass wines, Ketel One vodka and Haywards Indian Beer, the guests mused over the latest issue, which includes the Top 21 Places to Pickup. Three people who certainly don't need to consult that guide are theatre producer Bea Kelliher, writer and broadcaster Quentin Fottrell and PR Kelley Cousins, who were among the well wishers.

Question of the night: Which former couture model now makes a fortune by charging for his time?

She rocks!

Brigette Nilson is in Dublin. Last seen shopping in Brown Thomas.

Roll out the red carpet

It's hard to believe that the Jameson Dublin International Film Frestival (try saying that after a few Jameson cocktails), is 3 years old already. How time does fly.

The event was launched last night in the cavernous Odeon Bar on Harcourt Street, with a crowd of hundreds assembled to hear the details of the 3rd festival. Michael Dwyer, the festival director (and film critic for The Irish Times), announced a programme of over 100 films, including a number of world premieres. Moving and shaking among the guests were FM104 presenter Taragh Loughrey - Grant, film producer Liz Kinsella and actor Alan Leech.

The festival opens on February 11th with the World Premiere of Pearse Elliott's The Mighty Celt, which stars Gillian Anderson and Robert Carlyle (who, rumour has it, are expected to attend). I'll be bringing you more news from the festival screenings and premieres as they happen, and, no doubt, gossip from the nightly festival club at the Mint Bar in the Westin Hotel.

Taking to the high seas

I ventured to Ocean bar and estaurant yesterday afternoon to view the new Timberland SS05 collection.
Modelling on the day were FMW Rosanna Davison and Ford Supermodel finalist Eoin Gill. The two globetrotters joined up with Timberland to help in with their ‘Make it better’ campaign for outdoor apparel.

The new Timberland menswear and womenswear collection takes its inspiration from the sea and the tropical jungles. Rosanna’s colours of the day reflected the jungle with highlights of carmine red, chicory, wisteria and lipstick matched with cool calming and refreshing tones of sugar, beach and sea foam. Menswear will reflect the natural tropical environment as Eoin demonstrated in colours of spicy vegetation, muddy banks, rainforest greens and river blues all of which are integral to this season’s collection.

The thing I love about Timberland, apart from the beautiful designs, is the modus operandi of the company. For an international, they sure know how to keep it local. A program that enables every single Timberland employee to devout time to local chariable and environmental issues plays a large part of the Timberland way of life. Their diverse range of sponsorship activities, such as the One Life yacht (which I was a guest on during Cork Week 2004), is also highly commendable.

Other multi-national brands should take a leaf out of the Timberland book.

Happy Australia Day!

To all my friends down under, including Elke Pascoe, Catherine Tierney, Deirdre Kerans, Benn Salier, Yvonne Smith and Leona Galligan.

Every cloud has a Silver lining

I received a very surprising text from my friend Tara O'Connor on Saturday night. Tara is a publicist fro Lillies Bordello, where she looks after the cubs VIPs and special guests. Not any more. She has left the club along with general manager Valerie Roe and hostess Elaine Roddy. You might remember that Lillies was recently taken over by Porterhouse owner Oliver Hughes, so I can only speculate that this is something to do with the mass exodus.

Don't worry though, the girls won't be joining the dole queue just yet. Tara O'Connor also runs Intrepid PR, which she set up a few years ago with Koo Donnolly, daughter of multi- millionaires Joe and Marie Donnelly. Koo has since left the the firm (she married Freddie Browne in a lavish ceremony last year), but Tara continues to attract big name clients such as Smirnoff and top designer Patrick Casey. Valerie and Elaine set up RoRo Management and together look after music groups. Their latest signing is boyband ZOO.

After digesting that shocking piece of information I ventured to the RDS on Sunday morning for the launch of the 2005 collection from Newbridge Silverware. As part of ShowCase Ireland, Newbridge unveiled their latest range with champagne, strawberries and chap playing a grand piano.

All the faces of Newbridge were there to lend a hand including singer and actress Samantha Mumba, Miss Ireland Natasha Nic Gairbheith, Rose of Tralee Orla O'Shea (who is off to Dubai next week), former Miss World (doesn't that sound strange?) Rosanna Davison and model and FMI Andrea Roche. I meant to ask Andrea about the TV campaign for bathroom tiles she is currently in, totally slipped my mind though.

Among the throng I also spotted beauty journalist Anne Boylan, Ireland AM editor Debbie O'Donnell with colleague Mary Irwine, MD of Newbridge William Doyle, former Rose Orla Tobin and Christina Moore of Looks One PR (who is leaving the firm to join fashion house Kalu).

Talking of people leaving, last night saw the last person leave the Big Brother house, with Bez winning CBB. It'll be interesting to see if he does anything with his new found popularity.

Question of the weekend: Which glamourous lady was seen clutching her goodie bag after a recent launch party? Nothing strange in that you might say, except that her husband is the owner of the company that hosted the bash. :-/

I can see clearly now

Henry Street is looking pretty snazzy these days, all sparkly and rejuvenated. One of it's newest residents is Vision Express, who launched their flagship store last night. Ever expanding, the optical specialists have built a state-of-the-art premises, which was designed by Parisian designer Shanna.

After the extensive tour I thought is would be rude not to take up the kind offer of an eye test, and I happy to report my peepers are in good nick. They have 100 different ways of testing your eyes with over 1000 frames to choose from, including Gucci, Prada and Karen Millen.

Enjoying the champagne, canapés and jazz tones were Mary Pace, vice president of Alain Mikli (the most fabulous eyewear), Tony Gregory T.D. and publicist Mary Crotty. I'll be back next week to pick out a pair of glasses, which store manager Olga Kearney assures me will not be a difficult task.

I've got my eye on a nice pair of Alain Mikli.

Feel the Love

That widely renowned French house of beauty products, Clarins, last night launch their first ever dedicated fragrance. Par Amour is their new scent which is going global, and already proving to be a big hit. Now, I always thought that Eau Dynamisante was a perfume, but was corrected last night. It's not a dedicated one. So there.

Among those at the champagne reception in the RHA Gallery were my good friend, the gorgeous Fidelma Kelly, style writer Leanne De Cerbo, Clarins Ireland boss Gerry Hickey and his son Luka, who is head of Bourgois Cosmetics Ireland.

As I stepped out into the cold and windy night I could smell Par Amour in the air, and for the briefest of moments I thought it was summer.

Later on in the evening i tried (again) to get a table at l'Gueleton. I've heard so many good things about this restaurant, but because they don't take reservations I have yet to sample the fare. I hope the day never comes that they rely on reservations. Anyway, I ventured across the road to The Market Bar and had the most amazing, inexpensive meal ever (not to be confused with an amazing expensive meal). I'll be back, as the Governor of California once said.

Question of the night: Who gate crashed the Clarins launch and sat front row, despite working for a rival company? The cheek!

IMMA in 2005

The Juice presenter Taragh Loughrey - Grant and I have often let it be known our love for the Irish Museum of Modern Art, or IMMA for short, at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham. I highly recommend a visit to this treasure trove. Maybe our recommendations are paying off, as according to Minister for Arts, Sports & Tourism Mr. John O'Donoghue T.D., last year was the busiest year in it's history, with over 350,000 visitors crossing it's hallow threshold.

Well, I was there again today for the launch of the 2005 program (which begins with one of the undoubted highlights of the year - the first large-scale exhibition in this country by the iconic American painter Jasper Johns, 9 February - 24 April). The reception was held in the beautiful surrounds of the Masters Quarters and the announcements were made by Minister O'Donoghue.

Among the events we can look forward to are the first exhibition in Ireland by the French artist Pierre Huyghe, New York artist Fred Tomaselli, three film works by Isaac Julian, one of Britain’s pre-eminent contemporary filmmakers and a major retrospective of the work of the much-loved Irish painter Tony O’Malley, now recognised as one of the leading Irish artists of his time, who died in 2003.

It is one of my favorite places to spend (a Summers!) evening, and if you've never been then you're missing out.

Le Weekend

Ah, adventurous as always. I believe the weekend should really begin on Thursday night, and so mine began with the charity dinner in Diep Le Shaker, off Pembroke Street. The amazing Thai restaurant hosted a benefit evening in aid of selected charities helping the tsunami relief. Owners Matthew and Julie Farrell and Paul Cadden laid on a feast fit for a king which was enjoyed by all, including Sharon Smurfit, PR babe Elizabeth Fitzpatrick and a rather fab looking Clodagh Kean, who seems to have bounced back after the recent split with husband Gerald (he was spotted over the holidays at Leopardstown with daughter Kirsten).

Friday night I was out with my good friend Deborah Allen, who is off to NYC in a few weeks. We called in Lillies for a cocktail, and I was surprised to see some changes have already been made since the recent take over. New security on the Member Bar door, with the addition of a new girl checking off names. I also hear that there has been a clamp down on complimentary admissions. No flies on new owner Oliver Hughes.

The remainder of the weekend is all abit of a blur, but I do recall being in Traffic with the lovely Judith Giltinane; attending going away drinks for Ross Golden - Bannon and John O'Driscoll, who went to Rwanda with Jean Butler and Cuan Hanly on a fact finding mission for the Christian Blind Mission, and dancing in Spirit with Gareth Gleeson.

Normal transmission has resumed.

Question of the weekend: Which busty TV totty recently spent the night with a bespecled former broadcaster? She was spotted leaving his hotel in the early hours of the morning and has since divulged the information to friends. Let's hope her boyfriend doesn't find out :-(

Sasha

It's that time of year when all the fashion houses showcase their SS05 collections (Spring / Summer 2005, for those not in the know!). This morning, en route to Facialworks for a body service, I called in to the Plunkett Communications offices (located in the old Patrick Guilbaud restaurant premises) to see the new offerings from Sasha. While there I bumped into Sive O'Brien, fashion editor of Image magazine, who looked gorgeous as always. We discussed the much anticipated opening of the new Dundrum Shopping Centre, slated for March 3rd (we think).

But I digress. A wide variety was on show with items such as long colourful floaty dresses and tops, tailored coats, funky knitwear and distressed jackets - all of which I have no doubt will be best sellers. Big colours include pink, lime green, bright blues and more sombre chocolate browns and off whites. I could just picture actress Orlaith Rafter, the face of Sasha, in every single item.

Go forth, girls, and shop.

Every little helps

Tesco hosted a lavish lunch today in the gorgeous Fádo restaurant, in the Mansion House. Just before lunch the firm presented a cheque for over €1 million to Childline, their nominated Charity of the Year 2004.

Among the stars attending a special photocall were Sharon Corr, Irish rugby captain Brian O'Driscoll, singer and actress Samantha Mumba (who has been quiet of late) and Corrie's Keith Duffy, who is still recovering from his recent knee injury. Also in attendance were TV presenter Kathryn Thomas (it's her voice you hear at Dublin Airport departures) and Hazel Kaneswaren, the flame haired You're A Star judge.

At the luncheon, 2fm's Gerry Ryan presented awards to deserving Tesco employees at a special ceremony.

Speaking of Childline, the annual Childline Cheerios Concert takes place on the 30th of January. Always a great event, if you haven't already booked your tickets then you better get a move on (if it's not already too late that is). That reminds me of the night, 2 years ago, that I went partying with a few friends after the concert, which I was covering for ShowBizIreland.com. We didn't go to the official aftershow party in Cafe en Seine, but ended up in the Fitzwilliam Hotel with some of Westlife, Blue and S Club (remember them?) instead. The main door of the hotel was crowded with fans, so we all had to sneak out the back via the car park and walk down Grafton Street like some sort of marching parade, en route to Lillies. Very rock 'n roll.

Alexander

Sincere apologies for not updating in a while - it's been a quiet week and I took the opportunity to rest and recoup in advance of the kick off. Not before the Irish premiere of Alexander though. On Thursday night the great and the good assembled in the Savoy for the gala screening (in aid of Our Lady's Hospice, Crumlin). A scruffy looking Colin Farrell, an elegant Angelina Jolie, a charismatic Val Kilmer and a business like Oliver Stone were all in attendance.

Colin, who arrived a little late, was en famile and his brother Eamon looked more of a movie star than he did. The fab four and their entourage left the screening shortly after it started and went for an intimate dinner in Derry Clarke's L'Ecrivain restaurant.

The after show party was held in Vicar Street (not exactly glam central, but the place was looking wonderful), and all the stars were there. Angelina and Val only stayed a short while, with Colin and Oliver lasting the pace.

Shunning the top nightspots, the place to be was the Four Seasons Hotel residents bar, where the party continued 'till the wee small hours.

It's all quiet

The champagne corks have been popped, the canapés eaten and the good cheer is a distant memory. The festive season is over for another year. Although some people, and retailers in particular, insist on the '12 Days of Christmas' maxim, I must admit I'm not one of them and yearn for a return to normality.

It's quiet on the social scene. Party people are nursing hangovers and are exhausted after all the dancing, and who would blame them? I have always said that this time of year is perfect for a big launch party. Alas.

On hand to cheer me up last night was my ever-ready friend Sinead Ryan, who regaled me of her seasonal activities, and vice versa. Sinead spent NY with sister Afrik and about 38 other close friends in the rural sourrounds of Andrew Rudd's family estate. No worries about loud music there.

Question of the day: Which well-known wealthy publisher was spotted in Tesco Baggot Street stocking up on half price selection boxes?!

2005

Happy New Year to one and all from Cardiff.



Question of the day: Which former TV star turned broadcaster was feared missing in the horrific tsunami, but thankfully was not harmed?

The Bertie Cronin Memorial Cup

I had the great pleasure of presenting the Bertie Cronin Memorial Cup last night. In memory of my late father, the golfing trophy was played for at Crover House, and the ceremony took place in The Kesh Bar, which is run by my uncle Cathal Cronin.

Congrats to Frankie Lovett who won this year (Frankie and my cousin Tina recently became first time parents to little Daragh).

White Christmas

It snowed in Cavan on Christmas day. Perfection!

Christmas cheer

One of my favourite places in Dublin, and especially so at this time of the year, is The Shelbourne Hotel on St. Stephens Green. It olde world charm is something unique that you just don't get elsewhere.

I met up with my old pal Jason O'Callaghan, former gossip journalist turned Rat Pack singer. He has just completed the sale on his new apartment in Cannes and will be spending new year there with his lovely girlfriend Etain Boyd. We were later joined by publisher of Social & Personal PJ. Gibbons and ledgendary socialite Richard Kavanagh. Discussing plans for the season PJ informed me that he will be spending time in his native Mayo, while Richard will be ensconsed in Foxrock.

Speaking of the surname Kavanagh, I bumped into the gorgeous Sarah Devitt (sister of Jane) who informed me that Sarah Kavanagh is now engaged! Well, diamonds are a girl's best friend.

Later in the night I also met Paddy Bollard, business partner of the talented designer Louise Kennedy. Paddy, who has recently set up his own event management firm, was looking relaxed and full of festive cheer.


Question of the week: Which celebrity couple broke off their relationship a number of weeks ago? However, the girl denies that she is now single, while the boy is playing the field!

The party season

I hosted a small drinks soiree a chez moi on Sunday. The perfect opportunity to meet friends before the holiday break. Wonderful to see Geraldine Mahony before she heads off to Australia to visit the gorgeous Elke Pascoe, who is now resident there with her fiancé Nick McDonagh.

Also present were Bronagh Dorian, who is set to blaze a trail through the recruitment industry when she starts her new job in January, Ciaran Colemen and RTE journalist John O'Driscoll.

Last night I met up with my very good friend Sinead Ryan, or 'PR guru' as she is referred to as in the press. After drinks in Maguires of Baggot Street (which has the best smoking area in the city), Sinead bought me dinner and we bumped into TV presenter David McWilliams and he lovely wife Sian. Abrakebabra Baggot Street is where it's at.

Rounding off the night with Irish Coffees in the Shelbourne and O'Donoghues, we were wise and went home. Nonetheless my head still hurts today.

Recovery

So, on Wednesday night the 6 strong crew of The Juice, FM104's top entertainment show, hit the town for a Christmas shindig. Sexy presenter Taragh Loughry - Grant, stylish fashion and beauty correspondent Gillian Hyland, the sultry Penny Gray of TV Now, the devilish Daryl Moorhouse, good time Games Guru John Walsh and yours truly went mad.

Kicking off the night with some party startin' cocktails, we had a scrumptious dinner in the Stokes Twins new hip and trendy bar, The Clarendon. After much wine was consumed we continued on to SPY where Cheeky Monkeys and Monkey Magic were consumed. By the end of the second one we were calling them Blue Monkeys, a much better name I think you'll agree.

No party is complete without dancing, so we decended the stairs and boogied on down in Wax. Oh what a night....

Ah yes, I could live that life ...

Model behavior

Beautiful models converged on Lillies Bordello last night (what's new?), for the Christmas party of John Compton's Compton Model Agency. John, who is my agent, and friend, really knoes how to party. Somehow I don't think he was in his office today.

First and foremost

Last night saw the launch of a very important book, called Sport and the Law, the latest offering from First Law publishing. Written by Dr. Neville Cox and Alex Schuster, the book is the first of its kind in Ireland written on this industry and should interest all engaged in sport, whether a participant, sponsor, insurer, lawyer or property owner.

The much anticipated new book was launched in association with law firm, A&L Goodbody, and was held in their headquarters in the IFSC, where the guest speaker for the evening was President of the GAA, Mr. Sean Kelly.

Among those enjoying the evening were RTÉ newscaster Aengus MacGrianna, publisher Bart D. Daly and Senior Counsel and former boxer Mel Christle. Many family and friends also turned out to lend support and all enjoyed speeches by the authors, Sean Kelly and Head of Sport Law at A&L Goodbody, Eoin MacNeill.

Le Weekend

Saturday night I ventured down to 12ten, a club night at The Legal Eagle. I went along to hear the mixing skills of two friends Mark Woods and Hugh Durkin. Hugh is the brains behind Fashion.ie, the popular portal for everything stylish in the country. The boy's got talent. anyway, 12ten, a quality night of house, a house with a quality crowd, as a radio advert proclaims correctly.

I spent my Sunday in the wilds of Wicklow with friends Micheal Burke, Ross Golden - Bannon and Mary Kate O'Flanagan, whos most recent appearance was in the hit Irish movie Inside I'm Dancing. We had the pleasure of driving to The Brook Lodge for lunch, which Ross was reviewing for his restaurant critic column in The Sunday Business Post. While he never reveals the identities of his fellow diners, Ross has been known to make use of this carte blanche when it comes to regaling the culinary occasions. I await his writings with anticipation!

From Brook Lodge, which, incidently was lovely, we visited Mary Kates abode, which is on the sprawling parkland of the Mount John estate. A fine lunch, walks in the country and champagne with Trivial Pursuit, it's what Sundays are for.

Fashionable ladies who lunch

I had the great pleasure yesterday of being the compere / MC for the fashion lunch in aid of Our Ladies Hospital for Sick Children Crumlin, which was held in the swish Herbert Park Hotel. The fabulous clothes from Clery's looked amazing and the show was a complete success.

Minister Mary Hanafin T.D., PR Marika MacCarvill and Tomasina Costello of OLH were among those glamourous girls at the lunch. The fashion show was produced by the lovely Trish Fallon of 1st Option and styled by the very talanted Graham Cruz.

Incidently Clery's have just completed a €20million revamp and is looking wonderful. The place to shop.

A marriage made in heaven

I knew as soon as I receivd the invitation who I would bring as my guest. It was the launch of SimplyWeddings.com, and as my fab friend, radio presenter Bronagh Dorian, is getting married in Italy next year, I just knew she would love the party. She and fiancé Nathan Timmons will tie the knot after a whirlwind romance, which was cemented earlier this year with a big rock from Paul Sheeran. Well, diamonds are a girls best friend.

So anyway, we went down the Conrad Hotel where we were greeted by a buzz of excitement as the assembled guests got a glimpse of the new website. Colette O'Loughlin is the editor, and along with Ciara Langan (Liam Lawlor's daughter), there's nothing these gals don't know about weddings.

Enjoying the pink champagne were gorgeous models Glenda Gilson and Katy French (Katy is currently dating Glenda's brother Damien), PR gal Jane McDaid (who just got married this year) and wedding planner extraordinaire Tara Fay, who was responsible for, among others, Nicky Byrne and Georgina Ahern's nuptuals in France last year.

Later in the evening we went along to trendy bar SamSara for the launch of the fabulous new Mandala spa in La Stampa Hotel. This place really is a haven within the hustle bustle of the city centre and well worth a visit.

More pink champagne was consumed (is it the new in drink?) and I spotted Evening Herald fashion editor Bairbre Power, former Rose of Tralee Tamara Gervasoni, stunning model Astrid Brennan and knitwear designer Tim Ryan.

Accross the road in the Round Room of the Mansion House, fashion designer Synan O'Mahony was hosting his first couture show, which was in aid of the Marie Keating Foundation. I hear the night was a roaring success, but unfortunately I didn't make it in time.

It's getting very busy on the social scene!

Broadcasting in Public Life

Author John Horgan launched his book, 'Broadcasting in Public Life', last night in Buswells Hotel. In association with RTE, the publication chronicles the history of broadcasting in Ireland and features many familiar names throughout.

The Minister of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Mr. Noel Dempsey T.D., was the guest of honour and delivered a warming speech. Among those in attendance were restaurant critic, and now NewsTalk broadcaster Ross Golden - Bannon, RTE newscaster Brian Dobson and Sherin Wilde of The Clarence Hotel.

Later on in the evening I popped in to Life Bar, where Lucy Bowen, editor of the Life magazine in the Irish Independent, was hosting a Christmas drinks party. Life Bar / Life magazine - geddit? A good night had by all, though I don't know how many of the guests are feeling lively today.

Rosanna Davison, pictured with my trusty Nokia fone, at this years Newbridge Silverware 70th birthday celebrations.

Congrats Rosanna

I almost forgot to mention the Miss World final, which was held over the weekend in China. Well done to Miss Peru, Maria Julia Mantilla Garcia, who was crowned Miss World 2004.

Congrats also to our very own Rosanna Davison, now forever known as 'Former Miss World'. I have met her many times, the first being in 2003 shortly after she was crowned Miss Ireland (a coveted title itself). She was making one of her first appearances at a special preview of Magee's A/W 04 collection at a champagne brunch in The Clarance. I recall her telling me about her iminent plans to travel to China for the Miss World finals. She was the same down to earth, pleasant and well mannered girl then, as she is now.

The last time we met we were in the Newbridge Silverware showrooms once again, for a special reception with the 2004 finalists for the Rose of Tralee. Rosanna was telling me all about a recent trip to a 3rd World country, where she was part of a chartible deligation, far from the glitz and glam of Miss World.

She has been an amazing world ambassador for Ireland - and no doubt, will continue to be, in whatever she decides to do. For now though, I hear that she has gone back to UCD to complete her studies. Go girl!

Par-tay People

Congratulations to the gorgeous Caroline Morahan who was bestowed with the honour of being Social & Personal Top Party Person of the year. At a reception last night, sponsored by Jameson, in Dakota bar, the bold and the beautiful assembled to have a look at the 100 list. The host, PJ Gibbons (who was unfortunately walking with the aide of a crutch after a recent fall), once again threw a great party.

Caroline was accompanied by her handsome boyfriend Jordan Lee McGrath, and the two caused a stir as the paparazzi clicked away outside the venue. Inside, the assembled guests included jewellery princess Cathriona Hanly, Ferrarri prince Trevor Musgrave, style queen Leann De Cerbo and night club king Robbie Fox. Party people are next to royalty.

Joining Caroline in the Top 5 positions are Bono, model Glenda Gilson, Niall McCrudden of InSight Opticians and music mogul Louis Walsh. Some others making this years list are writer Cecelia Ahern, rugby player Ronan O'Gara, PR Joanne Byrne, agent Celia Holman Lee, TV presenter Amanda Byram, Colin Farrell and brother Eamonn.

~H2Opening

When I arrived for opening party of the brand spanking new H2O+ store on Grafton Street, I thought I was mad late, such was the crowd of people inside. Passing by party organisers Emma Kelly and Mary Crawford of Elevate, I took refuge upstairs. It was as crowded there too though, obviously a great sign of the stores popularity.

Interestingly, the skin care specialists have branches in New York, L.A., Sydney and Hong Kong, among others, but no outlet in the U.K. Quelle surprise! It is a rare occasion that we get something as exciting before the trend setting streets of London.

Quaffing down the champagne were Lucy Bowen of Life magazine, stylist and designer Triona McCarthy, best selling author Marisa Mackle and the gorgeous Caroline Morahan, who officially opened the store.

Arriving late were poacher turned game-keeper, sorry I mean socialite turned gossip columnist Gavin Lambe - Murphy and his party pal Richard Kavanagh. Feeling hot under the collar (or maybe it was just my black trilby) I slipped away into the cold night, but I'll certainly be back to stock up on Christmas goodies.


Question of the night: Which beautiful party girl recently damaged her mobile after jumping, fully clothed, into a swimming pool during some after dark partying?

Floating down to Monstown

Last night saw the launch party of Dublin's newest holistic centre. Float was the venue for a glamourous well attended party, where bubbles and baloons were the order of the evening.

Andrea Rochford, who owns Float, played the perfect hostess to the likes of Sarah McInerney, writer and broadcaster Quentin Fottrell and stunning New Yorker Tracey Fleming (who is the spitting image of Sarah Jessica Parker).

Providing, amongst other things, therepy and massage, ear-coning, life coaching and colour therepy, Float would be the perfect way to unwind before, and indeed after, Christmas.

Last night I also dined at The Clarendon, the new cafe bar owned by the sauve Stokes twins, Christian and Simon (or as Gayle Killilea calls them 'the Bang Twins', on account of their mother being interior designer and retailer Pia Bang). Beautiful food, stylish surrounds, great staff. The place to be.

Happy Birthday!

Today, and this weekend, I would like to extend birthday congratulations to 3 friends - Frances Winston, Darren Kavanagh and Gavin Downes. Hope you all have a great time.

Frances with Martin King at the Curragh earlier this year

Skating on thin Ice

Rush hour traffic in Dublin is cat. That's why we missed the opening ceremony of Smithfield on Ice, but more of that later.

I made my way (slowly) to the RDS for the VIP evening of the annual Toys4BigBoys show. I love my gadgets and this event is just heaven. Among the highlights are the cars, the lads pad, penalty shootout and various innovations. I spotted DJ Hugh Scully, rugby player Denis Hickie, PR girls Eleanor Cullen and Aileen Eglington and former Taniste Dick Spring among the crowds. Check it out boys.

On then to Smithfield for the opening night of the outdoor ice skating rink. Just as we arrived Tara O'Connor infomed us that we had missed the ceremony. Lord Mayor Conaghan was leaving early, a busy guy no doubt, with no time to waste.

Unfortunately I cannot skate, but that never stops me from trying. Despite the fact that The Sunday Tribune's Roberta Gray took me in hand and helped me on my way, I still managed to fall. Twice. As I staggered off the ice, wet and embarrassed, I spyed Karla Elliott and Ray Senior (are they back together?), Marty Whelan and his children and boyband Zoo. As I settled down with a hot mulled wine I got chatting to Tamara Gervasoni, who told me she is joining the ranks of Social & Personal magazine as their Motoring Correspondent.

Also cutting up the ice were Fair City actors George McMahon (sporting sexy new glasses) and Killian O'Sullivan, while Sky News Ireland presenter Grainne Seoige took the wise option and looked on from the safety of the viewing area.

The annual Manly Art Auction took place in the Solomon Gallery yesterday evening. A large number of art lovers were assembled for the sale, with one painting acheiving over €25,000. With delicious canapes from Michelin star restaurant Thorntons, the evening was a resounding success.

Among those were socialite and fundraiser Norma Smurfit, who purchased three beautiful pieces. Gallery director Tara Murphy, Christine Ryall of Christies and Fergal Breen of Edelman were also present.

Hitting the high notes

Ah Christmas is round the corner. Too early though, in my opinion, but how and ever.
In order to get into the swing of things I went along to St. Patricks College Drumcondra to a very special choral recital. I had no idea Leonard Bernstein had such mad music.

My dear darling friend Rebecca Jane Higgins was on a flying visit to Dublin, so after my body was stirred by sporanos I met up with her for a few cocktails. Finishing the night in the Bubble Lounge in Renards, we set the world to rights and devised a few new plans. Everyone should have a friend like R-JH, shes a great inspiration and a good laugh too. I hope the people of Marbella, Co. Spain, appreciate her as much as I do.

Having a Ball

The weekend saw two big events take place. The wonderful Miriam Ahern hosted the annual CARI Ball in Jury's Hotel, Ballsbridge, in association with Newbridge Silverware and Mr. Steve Murphy hosted his 40th birthday.

The Cari Ball kicked off with a champagne and Smirnoff cocktail reception, which was attended by An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern. RTE presenter Laura Woods did a marvellous job as MC for the evening and ensured that the guests, who included best selling author Cecelia Ahern, the gorgeous Yvonne Keating, TV presenter Laura Bermingham, Fair City's George McMahon and William and Oonagh Doyle of Newbridge Silverware, had a great time.

Plenty of champagne was consumed in Athy, Co. Kildare, as Steve Murphy threw open the doors of his beautiful home to celebrate his 40th birthday party. Among those toasting the birthday boy were the lovely Deirdre Burke, celebrity gardener Dermot O'Neill, jeweller Hugh Statham and TG4 chef Brian O'Donnell.

Life begins!

Blossoming at Catwalks '04

The hugely successful Blossom Hill Catwalks continues with unabated pace. Currently in it's 3rd season, I attended the latest Dublin event last night. Hosted in the historic Clontarf Castle, the assembled guests quaffed champagne and swapped gossip before enjoying dinner and the fashion show, with Lee Bradshaw as MC.

I was a guest of Amy Buckeridge, who is the Ireland publicist for Timberland and who was also busy with Magee who feature in the show. Joining us on Amy's table were Timberland marketing manager Niamh Lyon and her glamourous mother Helen, former Miss Ireland Yvonne Ellard, beautiful diamond importer Marie Collins and hairstylist Paul Hession.

I was lucky enough to be seated next to the lovely Fionnuala Sherry, who won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1995 representing Norway with her group Secret Garden. Her violin solo and haunting voice secured the prestigious prize and Secret Garden havn't looked back since. They have had No.1s all over the world and have sold millions of albums. Probably one of the most successful Eurovision winners ever.

Top 100

Trevor White knows how to throw a good party (I may have written that before, but it's still true). Last night an unprecedented amount of people atteded a reception in Browns Brasserie to celebrate the launch of Trevor's highly successful wee book, The Dubliner Top 100 Restaurants, in association with Santa Rita wines. The sheer volume of the crowd was evidence of the popularity of both Trevor and his magazine, The Dubliner.

Spotted enjoying the Santa Rita were the ever glamourous Mafra O'Reilly chatting to Myles McWeeney, restaurant critic Ross Golden - Bannon with Quentin Fottrell, Georgio Casari of The Unicorn and model Roz Lipsett with VIP publisher Michael O'Doherty. Also spotted were the Knight of Glin and Princess Colonna, the Spanish Ambassador H.E. Fernando Doliveira - Neves and the Italian Ambassador H.E. Dr. Alberto Schepisi (who lives in the finest ambassador's residence in Dublin).

I had to laugh at the opening of Trevor's speech: "I haven't seen so many people in the one room since the creditors meeting of Peacock Alley, and even then, Conrad Gallagher still wasn't there".

The Santa Rita People's Choice award went to CafeBarDeli, which was accepted by co-owner Jay Bourke, who was both delighted and surprised.

The Dubliner Top 100 is in good shops now.

Kiss and make-up

Today I met Barbara Daly O.B.E., make up artist extraordinaire. She was in town to launch her new cosmetics line, make-up for Tesco. Barbara has many well known clients, including Gwynth Paltrow, but her most well known would be the late Diana, Princess of Wales. She even did Diana's make-up on her wedding day.

At lunch in the Herbert Park Hotel, I sat next to her husband Laurence Tarlo, who is also her business partner and advisor. He explained that while they lead very busy lives, they divide their time between London, Dorset and Provence, thus striking the right balance for a good lifestyle. Laurence told the story of how Barbara was make-up artist to the former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, who had a popensity to call Barbara 'Wendy'. Whether the 'Iron Lady' forgot people's names, or just chose to rename them, we will never know.

I spent the weekend in London. My first time flying in to London City Airport, courtesy of City Jet, and I must say that it is the only way to travel there. Its close proximity to the city saves so much travel time.

I stayed in Covent Garden and partyed hard. A weekend of debauchery as it were.

Incidently, people moan about how expensive Dublin is - try London for a weekend of socialising and you'll know all about spending.

Dirty but clean

We decended on the hallowed halls of the old United Service Club last night, for another in the series of Laurent Perrier Culture Club events. Guest speaker was criticically aclaimed author DBC Pierre, whose book Vernon God Little won last years Booker Prize.

Trevor White of The Dubliner, theatre producer Bea Kelleher and style princess Andrea Dillon - Horan were among those who enjoyed a Laurent Perrier champagne reception after DBC's humourous talk.

Repairing to the Horse Shoe bar in The Shelbourne, the tone of the evening to come was set by the collective hilarity of the group I was in. Among them media personality (and he has a big personality) Brendan O'Connor and his beautiful wife Sarah Caden, PR guru Sinead Ryan and Scotland's finest Ross Robertson. DBC was last seen sitting on the hotel steps sourrounded by a gaggle of female students.

Ending the night in Renards, I was surprised, nay shocked, to bump into my old friend Orla O'Connor, who is now residing in the U.K. and is engaged to be married. That last piece of information unsettled me as Orla and I agreed to marry each other if we were still single by the age of 30. Luckily I've got another few years to go yet.

It's social and personal with Sasha's halo...

Yet again, several great parties taking place on the one night. 5 to be precise! The evening kicked off with a special VIP night at Sasha, in their Stephens Green branch. Gorgeous Fair City star Orlaith Rafter, who is the face of Sasha, was present, modelling some fab clothes for the party season. It really is ironic - in the soap she plays sexy mechanic Robin, who is usually seen in oily overalls, yet that couldn't be further from the real life glamourous Orlaith.

A short distance away in the Odeon on Harcourt Street, a much anticipated party was kicking off. Hosted by PJ Gibbons, the new look Social&Personal magazine was officially re-launched. It really was a glitzy affair worthy of comparison with an international media party. Guests were greeted by a string quartet on the red carpet and enjoyed champagne cocktails and a generous goodie bag. A who's who of familiar faces, the party goers included Terry Keane, music manager Louis Walsh, designers Virginia Macari and Anthony Brennan, business man Derry O'Donovan and his stunning wife Mary and socialite Gavin Lambe - Murphy.

Publisher PJ, who cut a dash in a dapper suit (one lady likened him to F. Scott Fitzgerald's the Great Gatsby!), is doing a sterling job at the magazine, which he took over a few months ago. Just as I spotted TV presenter Amanda Brunker's new blonde curls I was out the door to the next event.

Computer games - I don't know much about them, but I'd heard about the popularity of Halo and it sequel, Halo 2, was no different. Apparently over 1.5 million copies of the X-Box game were ordered in advance. The Metropolitian Bar was jammed full of gamers playing consoles, but in the midst of the geeks I spotted stylist Roxanne Parker, the devine Sarah Devitt and journalist France Winston and Fergal Breen of Edelman.

I continued to Bruxelles, where Mr. Pussy was performing his hilarious Wednesday night show, Swan Alley, where Marie Carr was celebrating her birthday. Dave and Mairead Egan, Dermot Hayes and singer Anne Bushnell were among the well wishers. As the party continued to Lillies, I made my way home in order to polish my halo. A hectic but enjoyable night.

Terry Keane - 'The Queen of Gossip'

She's back!

I have just received news that the ledgend that is Terry Keane is to return to journalism after a long hiatus. She will join Social & Personal magazine exclusively, as their Travel Correspondent and Restaurant Critic.
For those of you who don't know who Terry is - for shame!

Terry Keane was the original gossip columnist many years ago, writing for the Sunday Independent. I remember avidly reading her column from the young age of 12, facinated by this golden circle of Irish society. Despite the fact that I had little or no idea of who these fabulous people were, I still looked forward to absorbing her weekly slate, The Keane Edge.

Terry never really held back when it came to dishing the dirt, and her cutting edge remarks often ruffled the feathers of the upper echelons of society. Towards her latter years in the SIndo, she took a step back and had a team of snoops infiltrating the party network, digging the dirt for her. I recently met one of her former contributors who regaled me with a few juicy stories and spoke of her time there with much fondness.

Personally, I credit Terry Keane for inspiring me to go into journalism, and in particular to be a social diarist. While I have never written in the oft scathing style favoured by her, I do love it and believe it to be one of the best jobs in the world.

I could ramble on about this great dame, and believe me there is much to write about, but lest to say Terry Keane has had many pretenders, many indeed worthy, but most poor substitutes.

Paul Costello for Newbridge

Newbridge Silverware have just launched their new Paul Costello range of giftware. The beautifully designed gasses, vases, and bowls are a thing of simplistic style.

At an intimate champagne reception in Arnotts this evening I got to meet the talented man himself. I must admit that i am a big fan of Paul's, not only beacuse of his amazing designs but also because of his friendly attitude and all round ground personality. Admiring the range were socialite Mary Irwin, Mary O'Sullivan of the Sunday Independent and Louise Byrne of Looks 1 PR.

The best part? Paul sketched one of his designs for me, dedicated and signed it! I shall treasure it, frame it and display it with pride.

150 years of learning

I am a bit of a culture vulture - when I get the opportunity that is. I love going to gallery openings, but would hardly describe myself as an art connoisseur. Likewise, I adore the opera and similar musical performances, but do not go often enough. So, it was with a spring in my step that I went along to the National Concert Hall for the gala performance of Dream of Gerontious, at the invitation of Dr. Hugh Brady, President of UCD.

Written by Cardinal John Henry Newman and coupled with music from Elgar, Dream of Gerontious was performed to celebrate the 150th anniversary of UCD. Yes, it was on the 3rd of November 1854 that Newman opened the doors to his new college on St. Stephen's Green, an educational institution that would change the course of learning in Ireland. The man had great vision.

After the exilerating 2 hour performance by the RTE Concert Orchestra (conducted by Proinnsias O'Duinn), Our Lady's Choral Society and the UCD Choral Scholars (with solos by Alison Browner, John Elwes and Ian Caddy), guests enjoyed a private reception. Former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds and his stylish wife Kathleen looked relaxed and Cardinal Desmond O'Connell looked like retirement was treating him well. Also spotted was H.E. The British Ambassador Stuart Eldon. I spoke briefly with the Lord Mayor Micheal Conaghan, who thoroughly enjoyed the evening and thought it 'a bit different'.

Tonight the Foundation Day Dinner takes place in O'Reilly Hall. The black tie event will be attended by President Mary McAleese, who is guest of honour, as a well as many UCD supporters, business leaders and alumni.

The birthday banquet (taken with the fab Nokia 7250)

Happy 180th Birthday!

That grand old dame of St. Stephen's Green, The Shelbourne Hotel, celebrated it's 180th birthday this year. Over the last month the hotel has hosted a variety of events in honour of this great milestone. Last night saw the culmination of the celebrations with a lavish party in the Great Room.

I love The Shelbourne. It has a certain style and grace about the place that other hotels can only imitate. Many a long day I have spent in either the Horse Shoe or the Shelbourne Bar (the latter being my preference, though many would disagree), where we would discuss lifes loves and labours. It really is a smorgasbord of Dublin society and one should never be surprised at who might be sitting at the next table, be it famous musician, politician or journalist.

The chefs were out in force with a banquet fit for a king - Eastern, Italian and Japanese dishes followed by a sumptuous chocolate fountain and decadant profiteroles (pictured above, thanks to my trusty Nokia). The invitation requested 'Lounge Suit' and there were certainly plenty of suits in attendance. Among those enjoying the hospitality were former Ireland international player Packie Bonner, style guru Leann De Cerbo, model Roz Lipsett and fashion correspondent Bairbre Power.

Question of the night: Which property magnate owned the new chauffer driven Mercedes Maybach parked outside? This D4 resident is one of the first in the country to take delivery of the €400,000 dream machine.

The Edge of Reason

Ah, Bridget Jones, I remember you well. It's not often that I get the chance to read the original literary offering before seeing the big screen version, but Bridget is an exception. Granted, I think the original books are funnier than the films but I guess it would be impossible to include every joke and humourous incident.

Last night saw the Irish premiere of Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason. Indeed as Paddy Kelly of UIP informed us, we were seeing the film a full week before it's UK premiere - a rare occurance.

There was a traffic jam on the red carpet as FMI and top model Andrea Roche was posing for the paparazzi. She knows how to work the lense. Inside the theatre I seemed to have been seated in the RTE TV section - ID presenters Laura Woods and Steve Curran in front, presenter Ray D'arcy to my left and Afternoon Show presenter Anna Nolan behind me.

The movie itself is very funny. Hugh Grant plays the cad Daniel Cleaver with tradmark ease and Paul Nicholls makes a brief appearance too. Bridget is such a lost cause but a heroine to so many girls - inspiration comes from the strangest of places I suppose.

At the Rat Pack inspired after party in Lobo at the Morrison, guests enjoyed rather generous glasses of chardonnay (Brid's fav) and an even more generous free bar. Moving and shaking were Ray Shah, Alan Hughes of Ireland AM, Derek Mooney chatting to Judith Giltinane, Tara O'Connor with Elaine Roddy and the lovely Katie French.

Question of the night: Which well known presenter did not introduce his late arriving guest to the people he was with? Was he embarrassed by what his 'friend' worked at?

The Italian Job



Tamara Gervasoni pictured at the Newbridge Silverware 70th Birthday celebrations (using Nokia)


I received an e-mail from Tamara Gervasoni last week. It was her final day in her PR job at Burrell and she was thanking all and sundry for their help and assistance. Tamara, just in case you have been living abroad for the last 3 years, was crowned Rose of Tralee in 2002. After a shaky year, in which she battled an eating disorder, she came out on top and appeared in Celebrity Farm. Since then she has been flirting with the media world and been working for NewsTalk 106. Lady O'Reilly has even named a race horse after her.

I had a brief conversation with her recently and she told me she has landed a few gigs and hopes to be joining 98fm in the near future. That's what I adore about Tamara - her 'get up and go' attitude. Watch that space.

While I was in Belfast enjoying myself, the Irish Film & Television Awards ceremony took place in Dublin's Burlington Hotel on Saturday night. Otherwise known as the IFTAs, the event attracted a few big names, such as Pierse Brosnan, Andie McDowall and John Cleese as well as a plethora of Irish stars.

Last year I did not enjoy the night, so I was not too bothered about missing it this year. Seems like I was right, judging by the report that Henry McKeen delivered on NewsTalk106 fm.

Congrats to TV3's Claire Byrne who won TV Personality of the Year.