So, here we are, another new year. Aprés the holiday festivities I hope your transition back to the real world was relatively hassle free. A quick tot up of the 08 diary revealed that there were 198 'official' events attended last year - 'official' events are those that might be reported on here and/or on air.
It was a good year, with plenty of quality parties and extravagant hospitality, but I think the social scene is beginning to feel the pinch from the recession. Just after Christmas, for example, the Lexus Chase race day in Leopardstown was a trimmed down affair with no hospitality for guests (as opposed to a boozy long lunch in previous years). When a high-end car manufacturer takes it down a few gears you know they see trouble on the horizon.
Having lunch out and about the other day a PR girl stopped by our table to say hello and I took the opportunity to quiz her about plans for the coming year. Working in the luxury brands sector she confided that yes, clients are starting to cut back and demanding more bang for their buck. Interestingly though she also thought that it will be 2010 by the time the real knock on effect happens in the world of PR events.
Anyhoo, I hope you have a happy, healthy and prosperous new year. Will the champagne bubble burst? We'll see....