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.

Belfast

Went to the big Hallowe'en party in Belfast on Saturday. It has been years since I'd visited the city and it's as great as ever. Super shopping and food (check out Altos Restaurant on Fountain St.). We stayed in the fab new Radisson SAS hotel, located in the old Gasworks area. Actually, the hotel had it's official opening on Thursday, which was a resounding success by all accounts.

Mylo played a stormer at Shine, as indeed did all the DJs. Padraig Burke's party, which he hosted in his fab penthouse apartment overlooking the Lagan river, was a fantastic event. Most of the guests were in fancy dress, from a warewolf and builder to fairies and Inspector Clouseau.

Ah Belfast, what about ye?

X is 10


My day has not started well. I have just received a call from a rather irate publicist bitching about the fashion feature I did on TV yesterday morning. Apparently a marketing communications campaign worth hundreds of thousands of euro has just been wiped out by a few minutes of "mis-communication". I disagree and think that it went very well (I was looking particularly spunky!). As a friend said "what a great start to your Hallowe'en weekend - you've already been attacked by a witch."

Last night I wandered over to the beautiful surrounds of Dublin Castle, to the Chester Beatty library to be precise. It was the celebration of the 10th birthday of X Communications. Be-decked in orange, with pumpkins galore, the organisers did a sterling job on the gig. Pioneers in their field, X Communications was set up from a research group in Trinity College, and has been designing, tweeking and implementing ever since. It's thanks to them we have great design and functionality on the net.

Afterwards we headed to Ho Sen for dinner. An authentic Vietnameese restaurant, Ho Sen has not been open long, but has already gained a dedicated fashionable following. Our very own President McAleese is a fan. I highly recommend, as does my friend Ross Golden - Bannon, who is a restaurant critic and awfully hard to please.

So, to Le Weekend! Hurrah, it's Friday. I'm off to Belfast tomorrow to attend a Hallowe'en party hosted my my good buddy Padraig Burke, who is now a high flyer with the BBC. We are also planning on a trip to Shine, the ledgendary club at Queens University, where my current fav DJ, Mylo, is playing live. I shall be staying in the newly opened and uber stylish Radisson SAS hotel.

Witch attacks notwithstanding, much fun will be had. Happy Hallowe'en!

Love All, Serve All

Last night saw the official opening of Dublin's Hard Rock Cafe. Located in bustling Temple Bar, it is the 143rd worldwide branch to open. It was a miserable rainy night, but that didn't put off the party people from coming out in force. Among the bods were Def Leopard's Joe Elliott, Louis Walsh and model Astrid Brennan. As the drink flowed and the delicious burgers kept on coming, we enjoyed a performance from The Piranhas, who beat over 180 other bands to secure the party performance.

Also rockin' away were celebrity magician Keith Barry, TV babe Emma Buckley with her fiance Frazier Browne (who will tie the knot in a couple of weeks), Fair City bad boys Killian O'Sullivan and George McMahon (Lorcan and Mondo respectively) and showbiz agent Naoise Nunn.

Another special guest was Rita Gilligan, who is the Hard Rock Ambassador. She was their first ever employee and is still going strong, travelling the world and living it up. Working the room and telling great stories she sure knows how to party.

As I ran to my car in the rain I knew I was leaving a great party early but I had to be up at 5.30am to be on TV3. So did somebody else, but that didn't stop him from partying on late into the night. Guess which one of us made it in to the studio?

Incidently, I met Rita this morning again on the set of Ireland AM where she was being interviewed. She got to bed at around 3am. As I said, she knows how to party.

Good news and bad

Beautiful model Corina Grant has just gotten engaged to photographer Chris Doyle. Congrats to both.

Ledgendary BBC Radio 1 DJ John Peel suffered a fatal heart attack in Peru yesterday.

TV presenter and former Miss Ireland Pamela Flood models the 2004 Rose of Tralee tiara - a pic I took at the Newbridge Silverware show rooms in Co. Kildare the day we met the Roses. Now that I know how to post pictures expect more. Taken with my Nokia 7250

Home is where the heart is

So I went home on Friday to attend a family function. Not normally my thing but I am happy to report that it was fun. Got to say hello to some relatives that I hadn't seen in a while.

Saturday I met up with my good friends Cathriona and Siobhan. We just missed going to the nightclub, which was probably just as well. Fun was had regardless. As I always say, we could be in a barn in Leitrim with a bottle of vodka as still have fun (i.e. the venue is irrelevant, but booze is essential).

Back to Dublin on Sunday and off to the Front Lounge and Spy later that night. Full of cuties :-), including Aengus MacGrianna, Aoife Donohoe and Ciaran Colemen. Nice to see Jonathan back on the door too.
We hosted an improptu party after the club. One thing I don't like about the wintery months (and there are many things) is the dark mornings. During the summer, the dawn of the day is my cue to go home. These days though it doesn't get bright until after 8 and that just ruins my weekend as I lose precious sleep.
Maybe I'm getting old but my hangovers are certainly getting worse and I need all the sleep I can get. Maybe it's just thant I mix my drink.

On a happier note though, today is Tuesday. Huzzah!

x

Smile :-)

My smile has been voted into the Social & Personal Top 100 Smiles. I am honoured. Least because I don't think my smile is all that, but I guess everyone is their own worst critic. I'm under the catagory of 'Willing Smiles'. Yes, I'm willing.

Publisher PJ Gibbons hosted a party in 4 Dame Lane to celebrate the Top 100, which was sponsored by Reach.. Top smile went to the ledgend that is Ann Doyle, with Miss World Rosanna Davison, footballer Sean Og O'Halpin, model Glenda Gilson and radio and TV presenter Ryan Tubridy making up the rest of the top 5.

Smiling broadly and among those enjoying the Fruice cocktails were Jim Morahan, TV3's Alan Hughes, socialite Richard Kavanagh and Glenda Gilson, who was sporting a head of straight hair!

Home, James.

When I received the invitation to the launch of Liberty Limousines I just knew I had to go along. Not just because it was being held in No. 5 at The Unicorn, where the food is amazing, nor because it promised a champagne reception, but because I love cars.

Two brand new stretch Lincoln Towncars greeted us at the entrance to No. 5, it was like the red carpet at the Oscars. Inside I met fashion designer Robert Jacob, who was accompanied by Virginia Cole McColgan. Robert is very busy with his Autumn / Winter collection and is burning up the jet fuel with frequent trips to Poland, where his beautiful wife Hanna is minding their ranch. Virginia Cole McColgan on the other hand is working with a big name Hollywood star at the moment - sorry, I've been sworn to secrecy.

The food was delicious, as it always is in Unicorn. The cars are pretty cool. My friend Paul Trainer, from The Dubliner magazine, likened them to mobile nightclubs, such is the flash interior. Should you so desire, Tom Colton of Liberty can also provide you with jets, helicopters and "close personal protection"... sounds good to me.

P.S. My fonts have gone crazy in this post - if anyone knows how to fix it I'd be obliged if you would let me know.

Stormy weather ....

I wouldn't have put a milk bottle out in the weather we had last night. Wind and rain galore. Fret not folks, I've seen the future of staying in and it's called ScreenClick.com.

Basically, visit the ScreenClick website, open an account and select what DVD's you want to see. Now, the beauty of this is that ScreenClick post your DVD's out to you; when you've watched them you post them back. No 'overdue' payments to shell out. How many times have you rented out a video or DVD, watched it and then forgotten to drop it back? The original film cost you €4, but by the time you fish it out from behind the sofa and leave it back to the shop it could end up costing you 2 or 3 times that.

Staying in has never been so easy (but normal life resumes tomorrow).

Tuesday 19th - Alright Alfie?

The newly revamped Savoy on O'Connell Street was the venue for the Irish premiere of Jude Law's new movie Alfie. A re-make of the 1960's Michael Caine classic, the movie is brimming with style in every shot. Susan Sarandon co-stars (and looks wonderful), and editor of Vanity Fair Graydon Carter has a small cameo appearance also.

Renards was also brimming with style later in the evening for the after party. PR Sinead Ryan, models Lee Bradshaw and Barry O'Sullivan, Ray Shah of Big Brother fame and singer George Murphy all loved the Finlandia Vodka cocktails.

Downstairs in the Plu bar, Ireland AM presenter Alan Hughes was celebrating his birthday with champagne. I left the party early, as did Alan and co. - he had to be up at 5am to wake up the country on TV3.


Sunday 17th - Happy Birthday Raybo!

Publisher and Editor of ShowBizIreland.com, Ray Senior, celebrated his 30th birthday with a massive party in Lillies Bordello (which was not sold at auction last week) on Sunday night. Packed full of beautiful people, I am reliable informed that the party continued in his Temple Bar penthouse apartment 'til Monday morning.

Saturday 16th - The Crystal Ball

The inaugral Crystal Ball was held the the unusual sourrounds of the Round Room at the Mansion House on Saturday night. The theme was Winter Wonderland and I must say the venue looked amazing, a credit to the event managers. We were guests of Wall 2 Wall PR, courtesy of M.D. Toni Wall, who looked fab in a gold obi belt ensemble. Her colleagues Elizabeth Fitzpatrick and Joanne Rochford raised the bling bar with impressive jewels.

Our dinner partners for the evening were Carl Broderick and Debbie O'Donnell, and to say fun was had would be an understatement! Jewellery designer Caitriona Hanly, champion snooker player Ken Doherty and RTE's Bryan Dobson were among those enjoying the 'ChamBull' cocktails (M&C Champagne and RedBull...yum!). In aid of the Make A Wish Foundation, the event raised much needed funds, with the auction alone taking in over €44,000!

Wednesday 13th - The best gifts come inside the orange box!

Oh the sheer glam of it all!! It's finally arrived in Dublin ... the unmistakable orange of Hermès.
Yes folks, we are truly a fashionable city now that the French luxury brand had established their store in Brown Thomas. Where else were we supposed to buy handbags for between €4,000 and €6,000 - and go on a waiting list for the privilage? Oh, the fabulous silk ties and scarves, and don't get me started on the watches!

Admiring the new store were Social&Personal publisher and good friend PJ Gibbons with TV3's Debbie O'Donnell; fashionista Celia Holman - Lee and husband Gerry; model Astrid Brennan chatted with Judith Giltinane; Executive Vice President of Hermès Christian Blanckaert with the lovely Caroline Kennedy, who organised the champagne fuelled event. Guests left with a goody bag containing amazing Hermès scents. I think mine is perfume, but I love it so much I don't care and will wear it anyway.
Pamela Flood was there also recording for her Off The Rails show.


Tuesday 12th - More beer please ...hic!

It's that time of year again when the Germans celebrate Oktoberfest - beer at its best. I've never been to Oktoberfest, but I hear it's good - very good! The closest I've come to it is The Porterhouses's party this evening. Dublin's best independent brewer, The Porterhouse, hosted a special party to launch Oktoberfest. Sampling the beers on offer were the stylish Leanne De Cerbo, the dapper bow-tie wearing Kieron Wood and rugby correspondent Derek Foley. No need to go to Germany to taste good beer - hit Temple Bar instead.
Well, after a hiatus of over 2 years and due to popular demand, I have decided to start blogging about the Dublin social scene again. Sit back and (hopefully) enjoy...


Monday 11th - Inside I'm Dancing premiere

The much anticipated premiere of the film Inside I'm Dancing was held in the Four Seasons hotel this evening. My date for the night let me down at the last hour (a movie premiere in the Four Seasons, who wouldn't want to go?), but my gorgeous cousin Kerri Galligan stepped in to save the evening.

As we were driven through Ballsbridge en route, a motorcade zoomed passed us, lights a flashing and sirens blaring. Probably Kofi Annan, we thought, as he was in town for a few days. As our car pulled up outside the hotel we saw that it was our very own President Mary McAleese and her husband Dr. Martin McAleese (and their entourage), who were guests of honour for the evening.

Inside I'm Dancing is a touching story about 2 wheelchair bound guys and how they cope with life, love, ups and downs. Its a hilarious tear jerker - now there is an oxymoron if I ever wrote one!

Also in attendance were singer, songwriter (and now novelist) Brian Kennedy. He is delighted at how well his debut nove, The Arrival of Fergus Flynn, is currently doing. Looking ravishing on the night were TV presenter and FMI Pamela Flood, Fair City's Tatianna Ouliankina and author Marisa Mackle, each of them blonde, each of them beautiful.


Well, after a hiatus of over 2 years and due to popular demand, I have decided to start blogging about the Dublin social scene again. Sit back and (hopefully) enjoy...

Well, we are back a while now so we supposed we had better fill you in, so to speak, on recent happenings.

Wednesday 28th August - The seasoned (no, we don’t mean old!) Marbella clique were out in force for the 17th Birthday bash of Pasta Fresca, Dublin’s Chatham Street. Owned and operated by the respected restauranteur Mai Frisby, Pasta Fresca is certainly a popular place judging by the number of guests in attendance.

Despite the rain, the guests included Corrie star and former Boyzoner Keith Duffy, fellow restauranteur Christian ‘Bang’ Stokes, producer Cathy O’Connor, model Julian Pearson and ‘rock chick’ Philomena Lynott, mother of the late Phil (who had the misfortume of having red wine spilt over her lovely linen suit).

The abundance of cocktails on the evening were of the Belini, Cosmopolitan, and Long Island Iced Tea variety with good old Champagne making a welcome appearance also.

Meanwhile over in the Guinness Storehouse, comedian Paddy Kielty was hosting his show, Patrick Kielty Almost Live. His guests included the dishy Rupert Evertt.



Thursday 29th – An early start after a late night….don’t you just hate them! Luckily the Moet was flowing at the unveiling of the Autunm / Winter collection from Magee, the traditional Donegal menswear designers. Although perhaps ‘traditional’ is not a very appropriate word to describe Magee these days. With cord and moleskin suits in a variety of colours from blood red to moss green, they are certainly laying claim to the competitive menswear market.

Among those in attendance were TV’s hottest duo, Caroline Morahan and Pamela Flood, the new faces of fashion programme Off The Rails. Other fashionistas included Fiona Byrne (who is leaving WHO magazine to join the new teen offering, Kiss as Fashion Editor), party girl Etain Boyd, model Andrea Roche and radio journalist Eileen Brophy.

On the boys team (who, we are sure, appreciated the free Magee shirt more than the girls) were TV3’s Alan Hughes, sport commentator Micheal Lister and model Lee Bradshaw.

Leaving together were diarist Jason O’Callaghan and PJ Gibbons of The Examiner. They were later seen having a leisurely coffee outside Bruxelles, Jason, no doubt, discussing plans for his Rat Pack Ball in The Four Seasons on the 21st of September.




Saturday 31st – We dispatched some of our younger team to Punchestown Racecourse for the day. Had it been a corporate day of hospitality we would have attended ourselves, alas it was the massive dance event known as Creamfields. 35,000 people, over 80 acts in 6 areas and the shining sun, ensured a great time was had by all. Among those spotted were international DJ’s Judge Jules, Mario Picotto and Sasha. Irish DJ’s included John Power of 2fm, Ben Carvosso and Johnny Moy. Also among the crowd in the VIP area were ex-MTV babe Emma Ledden and E4 presenter Melanie Hill (ex Big Brother 1 contestant).



Tuesday 3rd - The Wella / Design Centre Fashion Show for Autumn / Winter 2002 is always a much anticipated event. Held in the spectacular surrounds of Dublin’s City Hall, this years show kicked off with a Veurve Cliquot Champagne reception. Enjoying the chilled bubbly were designers Louise Kennedy, Jenny Pacham, Mary Grant and Helen Cody.

At the after party in the fashionable SPY in Powerscourt Townhouse were Richard Liu of Bennetton, funky gal Antonia Campbell – Hughes and Frances Winston of U Magazine.

Also at the show and the after party was It-Boy Gavin Lambe – Murphy. Seated in an area reserved for ‘PRESS’, we wondered: does he really warrant membership of the media group anymore? Having left both The Sunday Times and VIP Magazine, surely he should be made scramble for a seat with the regular invited guests. While we’re at it, is he still an It-Boy? Don’t know the official line, but we think, once an It-boy…. Always one!


Wednesday 4th – All the best parties happen on the same night. You’d think the PR’s would learn not to step on each other’s toes.

First off, we were down to the hip and happening Lobo at the Morrison Hotel for the relaunch of WHO Magazine, which is now called WHO Celebrity. Looking every inch the rival to established UK titles heat and NOW, we wish new Editor Aoife Byrne every success.

Quaffing Champagne and luxuriating over Tia Lusso were PR supremo Tara O’Connor, graphic designer Dylan Owens, newly appointed Social Editor Etain Boyd and the ever-glamorous Jane Devitt.


Meanwhile, on the southside, stylish men gathered in Brown Thomas to hear details of the new campaign, Tackle, cancer action for men, which was organised by The Irish Cancer Society, in association with BT’s.

Some of the handsome men rubbing shoulders included former Taioseach Albert Reynolds, hotelier John McGaughran, and models Alex Fitzgerald and Julian Pearson, who is sporting a floppy new hair-do.
Among those endorsing the campaign are journalist David McWilliams, TV presenter Brendan Courtney and comedian Des Bishop, who gave a hilarious, if slightly risque speech about his experience with cancer (We loved it…Not sure if Kathleen Reynolds did though!).
Attending both of the evenings functions were omni-present socialites Jason O’Callaghan and top choreographer Julian Benson.



Thursday 5th – Ah, time for a little culture. Off to the fancy environs of the National Gallery – the old part. The occasion was that of the Ulster Bank’s generosity, whereby it has loaned a portrait of Daniel O’Connell to the gallery.

In attendance was Minister for Arts and the Gaeltacht John O’Donohue who gave a lengthy but interesting speech on all things Kerry and historical.

Sorry we have not updated in weeks but we thought that you wouldn't much care for Marbella gossip, this being a Dublin website! (However, if you do want the low down on Marbella, may we suggest you pick up a copy of Angela Phelans excellent iStyle Marbella magazine).
They weather has been so-so....more so than so. Back soon. In the meantime we'll have a cosmopolitian for you and you have a G&T for us.

x

Now that we are here we may as well fill you in on the happenings of the Horse Show Ball, which was held in the Burlington on the 9th of August. In aid of Brainwave, it was MC'd by the lovely Emma Buckley and ex-Boyzoner, the lovely Mikey Graham (he is looking fine these days!). Among the patrons on the night were model Andrea Roche with her man PJ Mansfield, Lillies boss Valerie Roe, Koo Donnelly and Freddie Browne, the beautiful Etain Boyd of WHO Magazine and Gavin O'Reilly and his fab wife Ivana (not that Gavin sillies!). With all the free booze that was consumed, we were surprised people got home by 4. Another year of powerful fundraising.

Getting lazy again are we?! Getting over last week more like it!

Wednesday night saw the premiere of the much anticipated film Reign of Fire, which was shot on location in Wicklow. After the movie in the Savoy, all gathered in Gravity, Dublin's coolest bar in the Guinness Storehouse. Among those enjoying the festivities were Christian Bale and Izabella Scorupco. Also joining them were Irish actor Colm Meaney.

The following night we were shaking our booty down in Lillies for their summer party, where they turned the club in the ledgendary St. Tropez hangout, Le Club 55. Those in their summer chic were Caroline Morahan and Dara Conlon, Tara O'Connor and Koo Donnelly, It-boy Gavin Lambe -Murphy and Fair City's Jade Yourell. A night to remember!

Dublin was celeb packed last night for two classy premiers.

Down at the Point theatre the great and the good assembled for the Irish premiere of the smash hit Miss Saigon. Among those enjoying the pre drinks reception were Pat Kenny and his delishous wife Cathy (who was rather miffed when a photographer didn't know who she was!), pop king Louis Walsh with his clatter of girls from Six and Bellefire, joined by Popstars judges Bill Hughes and the stunning Linda Martin and former Boyzoner Stephen Gately (what is with that boy and hats - is he hiding something?!). Other RTE representatives were Maxi, Larry Gogan and Gerry Byrne of Fair City.

Forget having a stunning model on your arm - the new fab guest to bring is your mother....TV gal Caroline Morahan, singer Liam Brady, radio presenter Bronagh Dorian and yours truly all brought our mammies. At the after party in the swanky new bar The Vaults, the crowd enjoyed a constant flow of champagne and danced till the early hours.

Accross town, the Irish premier of Men in Black 2 was on in the Savoy. Guests included SM:TV hostess Tess Daly, Film buff Jonathan Ross with his wife, the flame haired Jane Goldman and their 3 children. At the post part in Lobo, in the Morisson, Big Brother evictee Adele DJed and Popstars reject Nadine Coyle was overheard saying that she thought that Six had no future. What about your future sweetie?

London, New York, Paris. Stylish men abound. Dublin? Of course! Last Thursday evening saw the awarding of the now annual Louis Latour Man of Style Awards in the luxurious confounds of the plush Merrion Hotel. Among those enjoying the lush Louis Latour wines were Gavin Lambe – Murphy, who was on his first outing after his departure from VIP magazine, buxom Amanda Brunker (boy she gets around!), Julian Benson, who was pretty in pink and PR mum Sonia Reynolds.

Rumours were abounding on the night. The winner was Derek Boyd, who coincidentally is friends with last years man o’ style, gallery owner Jerome O’Driscoll. Coincidentally indeed, as O’Driscoll was on the panel of judges. Also up for this years prize was coffee entrepreneur Brian Kennedy….as he was last year. C’mon guys smarten yourselves, we need new faces.


As the wine disappeared in the Merrion, the young and trendy were heading off to the launch of Dublin’s newest radio station, Spin 1038. Held in the uber-stylish venue, Spirit, the party kicked off early and by the time we arrived it was packed. VIP wristbands in place we were escorted up to the mezzanine area to enjoy the free bar and fab food.

Enjoying music by those funksters Hugh Scully and Shay Hannon, were U Magazine’s Frances Winston, former MTV babe turned Spin presenter Emma Ledden, TV gal Caroline Morahan and multi-millionaire Denis O’Brien. Also movin’ and shakin’ were Shane Byrne from Sony, PR chic Andrea Dillon – Horan and letting his hair down again GL-M with buddie Lee Bradshaw.

The great and the good all enjoyed a fantastic goodie bag on the way out. An event to remember thanks to Prior Communications who organised.


Also over the weekend was the Witnness music festival in Fairyhouse. We did venture down on the Sunday but it was all rather muddy and hot. Even the free Guinness in the VIP tent couldn’t tempt us to stay. Rock festivals are so last season sweetie.

It's been a week since the 4th July party....we thought around 450 guests....it was more like 2,000! Neil Diamond did play. Nothing else of note happened.

Last night there was an abundance of parties on....Trevor White launched his book of the top 100 restaurants in Dublin in the Westin Hotel.....Social & Personal threw an awards bash in the Morgan....and Coors Light launched their new draught product in Dakota. Among the coors Light throng were Francis Winston and Derek Foley, Amanda Brunker and her beau Keith Redmond, Jane Devitt, Sinead Ryan and Andrea Roche. Check out the beer guzzling guest at the Summer snaps part of the XSS website.

Spin fm are holding their first party tonight in Spirit and of course the Witnness music festival is on this weekend. We're sure a few music celebs are bound to surface in Lillies at some stage.

The crowd landed on Connolly Train Station en masse, for the recent launch of The Vaults, Dublin's latest addition to the already swelling number of drinking establishments. Among the great and the good were many politicos including newly elected Barry Andrews and his lovely partner Sinead McGrath (their first launch of many we think), and of course Taioseach Bertie Ahern. For international flavour there was the Mexican Ambassador Dr Agustin Basave and the Portuguese Ambassador JP da Silveire Carvalha. Regular socialites included rock chick Karla Elliott, designer Antonia Campbell - Hughes (double barrell names, we love 'em), Francis Winston (who was fresh from a relaxing time at some spa down the country), and a load of other beautiful people. Of course everyone was talking about the shenannigans of Dwight Yorke at the recent Budweiser Derby, where he apparently assaulted Mairead Egan, wife of Lillies owner Dave. Needless to say he is barred - for life.

Today being July 4th, things just wouldn't be right unless there were a multitude of USA themed parties going on. King of the crop surely must be US Ambassador HE Richard Egan's (nothing to do with Lillies) bash at his residence in Pheonix Park. Around 450 VIP guests are expected to be entertained by the likes of Neil Diamond and a firework display. Yee haaa!

Well it was certainly a wet and wind swept day for one of the major social events of the year, the Budweiser Irish Derby, at the Curragh racecourse. As expected, High Chapparral, the aidan O'Brien trained horse, romped home to win the Derby prize of €1,300,000. Also winning the Epsom Derby recently, he becomes the fiftheenth horse to complete the Epsom - Derby double win.

The other major event of the day was of course the prizes for best dressed ladies. Sponsored by Powerscourt Townhouse, the judging was assisted by stylist Sonia Molich. Pocketing vouchers worth €3,000 was Michelle Clifford from Cork, who wore a pink dress from Karen millen, with a feather in her hair. Tara O'Leary, also from Cork, came second place and Howth lady Chanelle McCarthy came third.

Among those drinking the endless supply of free Budweiser, wine and champagne were the BBC's Clare Balding, former Boyzone lads Keith Duffy and Stephen Gately, footballer Dwight Yorke and sundry politicians, models, media moguls and pr babes, a veritable who's who of Irish society. Entertained by David Cassidy it certainly was a day to remember.

In fact, one of the aforementioned was so drunk that he proceeded to man handle a few girls and was taken away by the Gardai after several complaints were made.

Off out to windy Bray, Co. Wicklow we were last Wednesday evening, for the re-launch of Barracuda. Why re-launch we hear you say? Well, everyones fav entertainment bon viveur, Robbie Fox, has taken the place over and put his mark on it. A few cosmetic changes - new curtains, new menu and the like - promises to boost the once flagging seaside eaterie.

Spotted on the night were all and sundry from Robbie's other haunt, Renards. They included Cindy Caffola, Amanda Brunker, that cool-cat Tony Fenton, TV3's Lorraine Keane and model Glenda Gilson, who was with Simon Arnold. No sign of Helen Cody though (Simon's ex).

Also on the same night was the opening of a door....sorry we mean another trendy bar in the capital. This time it's on Harcourt Street and it's imaginatly called d-two. Still waiting for our party people to come back with a report.....more anon.

While we're the social scene, SPY, our fav pitch-black-lodsa-candles den, was host to the Westlife (why does an Irish group have a .co.uk website??) chaps yesterday where they were shooting their latest video. Rather down heel venue for a pop video shoot we thought.

Has our steady advise been taken seriously? It seems that d'Side Magazine has not closed completely, but has in fact been taken over by that white knight publisher Mike Hogan of Hoson Publishing. Hogan, who already runs WHO Magazine and In Dublin, recently rescued G.I. (Gay ireland) from John Ryan. Hurrah for d'Side and all that is cool.

Unfortunately though, IQ Magazine has folded. The 'mystery investor' decided not to invest leaving many people out of jobs and owed money. Staff are said to be disgusted at the way in which they have been treated throughout the debacle.

Maybe Mike would like to lend a hand?

The weather has been so nice that we have been sitting in the sun during the day and cooling our sunburnt bodies by night.
However, some devastating news that reaches us is that....

a) d'side Magazine is no more. Editor Melanie Morris has decided to call it a day. Don't know about you, but it was the defining bible of all things cool that moulded us into the uber-stylish we are today. Take note...resurection would be a great business idea.

b) Wanderlust is no more. The ground breaking internet/dating/travel show is not getting another series here in Ireland. While the bidding war may still be going on to sell the format around the world, producers Tyrone seem to be tired of it here. Or perhaps a suitable presenter could not be found to fill Brendan Courtney's shoes? Now that he is off being the new male Cilla Black on ITV2's Blind Date (and with other offers from the BBC in the pipeline), Wanderlust is but a distant memory.

Yes, it has been confirmed that Tara Lee has left Bellefire. It has been claimed that she suffered terribly from homesickness and was also fed up with the tough schedule. We also hear that up to 6 record companies are courting the now threesome, with a deal being finalised in a couple of weeks time. The group and their management have decided not to replace Tara.

We had a plesant lunch in the newly opened Vaults bar / venue / place last week. Being touted as something new and never seen before - isn't every new place? Officially opened in July, it seems that everyones fav store, Brown Thomas, has already gotten in on the act. We hear they have booked the place well in advance for their Summer, Autumn and Winter collection shows.

On a different note, we hear that Tara Lee has decided to leave Bellefire, as a result of the band being dropped by their record label, Virgin. Look out for future updates.

A great deal of bad press for Dublin's celebrity hangout Lillies Bordello recently. The club were ordered to shellout over €27,000 to a couple after, what the press described as, a 'commando style attack' on an unsuspecting couple. Head of security Dino Vidan, who was to have instigated the assault, was keeping a low profile on Saturday night, despite the club being packed to capacity (the 'members lounge' seems to be open to any T, D or H these days). Ever glam club boss Valerie Roe was undeterred and put on a brave face. Oh well, life goes on in clubland.

Actually, while we're on the subject, heres a bit of a rant....Spy has had a makeover of sorts by its owner John Reynolds. The VIP lounge now resembles an old country house without electricity, such is the darkness and the multitude of cheep and tacky night light candles. Awful.

Staying in is the new going out - well, on a Saturday night anyway!

So it seems the rumours that the Sunday Independent's Gayle Killilea has been approached by Ireland on Sunday have been true. The journalist, who is going out with artist Graham Knuttel, famed for gossip has recently been trying to turn her hand at serious hard hitting interviews. We did hear that an offer of around 100,000 euro had been made to her but we dismissed this as pure fantasy. After all she is only 'The Blonde'. Or is she?

Last night we were present for the launch of what is truly a unique project. Situated within the West Wood gym complex, Barcode is the new breed of pub / restaurant / entertainment complex. A football themed night, what with World cup fever and all, it was hosted by that man with a fabulous face for radio, Gerry Ryan. Special guest was former Irish international John Aldridge.

It was a refreshing change not to see the same old faces and among the few we recognised were Mr. Ireland Padraig Hearns and his lovely girlfriend Melanie and East Coast FM radio presenter Bronagh Dorian.

We wish Barcode success - but can't help wonder if it's a little too big.

Have we fallen off the face of the earth? Have we drank ourselves to death? Are we suffering from the mother of all hangovers and are unable to work? Well, 2 out of 3 would be right! No updates since February....how awful. We apologise.

So what's been happening since? Well Liz Bonin has left Ireland and is now presenting the new Channel 4 breakfast show, RI:SE. Rumouir has it that TV3's Lorraine Keane is skipping over to the UK soon too. Talking about Liz, her ex. John Ryan has been having a run of bad luck these days too. Between now and our last social fix, John launched a publication called Stars on Sunday, which was pretty much pictures of the weeks social gatherings. Light graphics for those who don't like to strain their brains (although it did have an entertaining social column by Bryan Walsh). Anyway SoS closed as has John's other publication GI (which stands for Gay Ireland). His future plans are unknown, but Hoson publications have taken over GI so relax boys.

Meanwhile our good pal Gavin Lambe-Murphy has also been on a downward spiral. His column in The Sunday Times was axed some time ago and his has recently left VIP magazine. We believe he has decided to go travelling for a while, until he decides to re-brand himself as something else. Ditto for everyones fav chef, Conrad Gallagher. He is in a bit of strife with his former business partner Vince Power and his flagship restaurant, Conrad Gallagher, now has nothing to do with him. It is now called simply 179, for those of you interested.

That is the tip of the iceberg folks. There are a few others out there with less than rosey lives (that made you feel better!), but we'll not divulge for now.

Anyhoo, we're back and hopefully for a good while. Regular updates to follow but as they say, time flys when your drunk.

The weekend was like nothing I have ever experienced. Partying with S Club 7, Westlife, Hear'Say (sans Kim), Abs from 5 and Blue (among a host of others!).
I have to dash off to get ready for the premiere of Monters Inc. which is tonight.

I promise I will update you on all the goings on of Saturday 26th / Sunday 27th. In the meantime though check out the excellent coverage of events (with pics too!! - how spoiled you are) on ShowBiz Ireland (or the Celebrity Bible as I sometimes call it).

Well the Haunted House affair on Wednesday was indeed, haunting. Scary ogres parolled the crowd with blood oozing from their faces! Plenty of loud noise, eery smoke effects and even the Gardai turned up (police to our international readers!). Well done to Intrepid (Tara & Koo) for organising such a great launch. I also heard that in the region of €60,000 was raised for charity between Louis Maguire of Funny Stuff TV (makers of Haunted House), TV3 and Intrepid.

Milling around the haunted crowd were Ray Senior of ShowBizIreland, Caroline Morahan & Jordan Lee McDaid, Julian Benson, Sarah Devitt and Toni Wall. The party continued on to Club Anabel till the early hours, giving all 27 contestants a good chance to get to know one another.

My weekend was rounded off nicely on Sunday, with a trip out to Killiney to meet Ireland's newest pop group, winners of Irish Popstars, Six. Emma, Sarah, Sinead, Kyle, Andy and Liam are sure to hit the bigtime when their debut single is released on the 8th of February. I've already heard it and a catchy number it is. You can see them perform for the first time ever at the Childline Concert in the Point this coming Sunday.
And as if a line up including S Club 7, A1, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Blue isn't enough celebrity for you, then you better get down to Tolka Park on Saturday. Keith Duffy is holding his annual charity footie match - the Keith Duffy All Stars v Sky One's Dream Team.

Stay tuned for updates.....or if you can't wait, get your fix at ShowBizIreland.com

I'm just back from a most AMAZING snowboarding trip - thank you girls! Now I'm....ready to rock!!!

Last night I went along to the premiere of Vanilla Sky, which stars Tom Cruise, Penelope Cruz and Cameron Diaz. Quite a spectactular way to start the movie year. A very screwed up film that will get you thinking. Go see when it is released on the 25th of this month.


Off to club Anabel for the launch of TV3's Haunted House reality show. More tomorrow. Mah ha ha ha!!!!!

Happy New Year all.....updates forthwith.

And here we are! Flicking back through my 2001 diary, I can see there were quite a few good nights during December. Here are a few of the best....

Wright's Cafe & Bar in Swords - Yes, some will go to the opening of an envelope or the launch of a kite. When your host provides limo service though, there is no excuse not to attend! At the champagne fuelled party were Caroline Morahan & I, PJ Gibbons & Lisa Mitten, a few from B*Witched, Mr. Ireland Padraic Hearns and fashionista Liz Bonnin. The fun part of the night was the sight of Gavin Lambe - Murphy's limo parked along the motorway with a female passenger (who shall remain nameless - poor dear!) relieving herself up an embankment. Classy friends has our Gav!

Capital Lounge - Recently taken over by new management, the Capital on Wexford Street was the scene of another champagne flute clinking night. Among the throng were TV producer Louis Maguire, WHO magazines Etain Boyd, TV girl Caroline Morahan and singer / songwriter Naimee Coleman.

Corporate Evening - Christmas time is full of cheer and good will. And the corporates were out to impress us by providing a free bar in the Shelbourne. With a band in full swing and delish canapes doing the rounds, it was the perfect place to practice your seasons greetings. Sipping the mulled wine were PR duo Koo Donnolly and Tara O'Connor, Stephen Byrne (sans Louise Loughman) and Aishling Naughton.

To the movies - Final gig was the premiere of Behind Enemy Lines, starring Gene Hackman and Owen Wilson (who unfortunately couldn't make it to Parnell St.). Good film - go see (well according to ShowBizIreland.com). Popping popcorn were designer Helen Cody and boyf Simon Arnold and the wonderful Sonia Reynolds.


Up to date then and we have New Years Eve - the mother of all party nights or mother superior of the convent? I don't know about you but I had a lovely dinner in Tiger Becs on Dawson Street. On then to the WHO Glitterati Ball in Lillies. Glittering away were, Melissa Nelson, Nadine Wai - O'Flynn, model Lee Bradshaw, Kerry Katona and Nadine Smyth (a proper singer!).

On then to a mystery house party which I barely remember, but had a great time!!

The Christmas lights went on quite early this year....the end of November to be precise! The Annual Coors Light Zanzibar extravaganza rolled into town on Thursday. Last year we had songstress Sinead O'Connor. This year Kerry Katona. She who used to be in Atomic Kitten. Just goes to show you can be a has been, marry a boy bander and still be in demand to switch on lights! there's hope for us all yet!!

All those twinkles were giving me a headache so I grabbed my doll Sharon, and headed on to The Tomato Club for a vodka club night. The tunes were pumping and I was reluctant to leave, but onward to Bar West in Blanchardstown. Now, normally I wouldn't make such a long trip, but I'd called ahead and it seemed to be the place! It was OK.

Hello sunbeams!
Well a few things happening since we last had the pleasure. Brown Thomas hosted a Dolce e Gabbana fashion show in store on Wednesday 14th, among those present were Brian McFadden of Westlife and his fiance Kerry Katona (former Atomic Kitten), Robert O'Byrne and Dr. Alison O'Reilly.

Later that evening was the first WHO magazine Christmas party. This year it was in conjunction with St. Vincent de Paul, and the format was 'bring a present'. (would have picked a worthy charity personally, but hey). Squashed into Lillies on the evening were the ubiquitous Jason O'Callaghan, WHO's editor Lisa Gaughran, TV people Brendan Courtney and Teresa Smith, novelist Eamon Delaney and PR Sinead Ryan.

Bringing you up to speed to this week then, with Tuesday evening being the highlight of the society week. The venue: The Mueseum of Modern Art in Kilmainham The event: The Mulberry Fashion Show, organised by Norma Smurfit. A veritable who's who of 'a-list fashionistas' (the press release words, not ours!). Spotted mingling around the champagne reception were Jackie Rafter, Koo Donnelly, Gavin L-M, hairstylist Dylan Bradshaw and his model brother Lee (who seemed to be hanging around the door - security for the night maybe?). On to the show and Brendan Courtney provided the entertainment as MC for the evening. Front row were Mulberry founder Roger Saul, Norma Smurfit, TV3's Lorraine Keane and Ian Galvin and Miriam Ahern. While the actual models looked a bit on the thin and slouchy side, the guest models made up for them. They included Victoria Smurfit, comedian Des Bishop, Mr. Ireland Padraic Hearns and film director Jim Sheridan.

Retiring to the restaurant, where lovely food prepared by Jonny Cooke was consumed, and the gossip surely flowed. Among the throng were Louis Copeland, Julian Fallon of 1st Option, Richard Liu, Vanessa Lunt and my dates for the evening, the gorgeous Morahan sisters, Caroline and Olivia. A stylish soiree indeed.

Following on from the last post we had the Moulin Rouge themed party in Lillies on Wednesday last. The girls looked amazing in their costumes with fish nets, feather boas and frilly can can dresses in abundance. Those of note were Tara O'Connor, Caroline Morahan, Karla Elliott and Olivia McCashin.

It was a generally quiet week, starting on Thursday with, what I call, ‘a meeting of friends’ night. The early bird was down to the Clarance for cocktails with the legal fraternity, before heading off to the 98fm party in Club Anabel. Leaving shortly after, I made my way down to the Isacc Butt (where? – it’s a cavernous be-tiled pub beside the IFSC). My dear friend Siobhan Flood was off on her travels to Australia and so in fine 235 style we gave her a memorable send off. On then to Fireworks for some late night drinks with the Devlin Emma, Siobhan’s bro Eamonn and the Floody woman herself.

Needless to say I was in no fit state the next day. Fortunately I didn’t have to get out and about till the evening time when I was meeting Aisling Naughton for dinner. Excited Aisling has just landed a new job and so she was on a champagne fuelled rampage – I had to join in you understand! Anyway I’ll spare you the details – lest to say rampage we did!

Seeking solace in the country for Saturday night, I was quite refreshed come the Sabbath. Unfortunatly I was unable to make it to the races but am sure the day was a resounding success – especially that part organised by Tara O’Connor and Koo Donnolly of Intrepid.

Off to the National Concert Hall for a production of The Nutcracker by Ballet Ireland. It’s a shame that it was only on for a two performance run, as I’m sure many people would have loved to see it. Rounding off the night in the Bordello of Lilly with Deborah Allen, who everyone thought was my new girlfriend!
You give the crowd a new face and the gossip goes into overdrive!

The weekend got off to a rip roaring start with a (very) long (mostly liquid) lunch in Bang. Present and correct were most of the Horse Show Ball Committee members - for the lunch was in honour of us. Among those knocking back the Senera were the fantastic Jane Devitt (outgoing chairperson), Sarah Kavanagh, JO'C, the delightful Koo Donnelly of Intrepid and Joan Connolly (incoming chairperson - congrats). Leaving some five and half hours later, those of us left standing retired to The Shelbourne, where I had a few with Mike Glynn, chief exec of Brainwave.

12 finally become 2 and Business Post journo Aileen Power and I sauntered down Kildare Street to Buswells for a nightcap. We had intended to make it out to bigger and better things but were in no state to do so.

Saturday night saw a much anticipated party on the Dublin social scene. My third annual outing to this event - this year in association with Bacardi (as opposed to Bubble Brothers champagne - is this the recession?). Any it was the 26th birthday of that IT Boy, Gavin Lambe - Murphy. Originally the venue was to be Blue Eriu, that bastion of hip on South William Street. However Blue Eriu has been sold to make up chain Space NK, and 6 staff members were made redundant. The new store will be taking on the name of New Blue Eriu. I hope that wasn't a secret!

So anyway, after all that digression, Gav's party was relocated to Nude on Suffolk Street. Indeed one well known attendee had expressed concern to me by confiding that she 'was not looking forward to attending a prty in a sandwich bar'. Indeed! Arriving a bit too late, and only having Bacardi and water (!) to drink - I didn't stay too long. Mingling around Nude (shall we call them nudists?) were Kate Conkey, Suzanne Devaney, Judith Giltenan, fav-tv-gal-about-town Caroline Morahan, Dara Conlon and Gill Pearson. Within the boys team were Stuart Musgrave, model Lee Bradshaw, little monkey Gareth Gunnigle and oldie David Doane.

On to Spy for a quickie with the likes of Jim Corr (back with sister-lookalike Andrea Roche) and Tony Fenton in the backround. The evening was rounded off nicely in Lillies.
As you can imagine Sunday was not a very productive day and the highlight was dinner with my friend Debs.

Last night saw the premiere of On the Nose, the latest from the stock of Irish movies. As I'd seen it already on a couple of weeks ago, i decided to join the posee in the Guinness Storehouse for the after party. My head is a little fuzzy still so I'll get back to you on who was who at a later stage.

You'd think PR people would communicate with each other and not hold their parties on the same night. I was dashing around Dublin in the rain like a maniac trying to keep up with the events of last night. Luckily a driver was always on hand (yeh, I blagged a lift wherever I could!).

Running late, as usual, I just about made it to the premiere of Legally Blonde, the new Reece Witherspoon offering. Review coming soon to a ShowBizIreland near you. En route to Renards for the premiere afterparty, I popped into the Morrison for the launch of the newest magazine to grace Irish newsagents - Gi - or Gay Ireland. A new venture by John Ryan of VIP fame, and Melanie Morris of d'Side, I'm sure it will do well in capturing the 'pink pound'. Among the attendees quaffing champers were Samantha Mumba, Julian Benson and my companion for the evening (everyone's fav TV-gal-about-town) Caroline Morahan.

Back on track and to the pink and fluffy Legally Blonde party which consisted of yummy food (not bloody sushi for a change), cosmopolitans and manicures for the girlz. Spotted in the throng were Sonia Macari, Anna Lavery, TV3's funny weatherman Martin King and Olivia Morahan of WHO (Caroline's big sis). Poor Olivia fractured her wrist a few days ago and was putting on a good show.

Final leg of the night was to Lillies where there was a members evening, themed 'magic'. We were treated to the amazing talents and trick of Jean Michel Jaares son, Marcel, who is a wonderful magician. The Jameson cocktails flowed (didn't know you could make cocktails out of Jemmie!). Those enjoying were singer Namee Coleman, Gavin Lambe-Murphy, Dara Conlon and actor Gabriel Byrne, among others.

As the rain poured down, Caroline and I did our own disappearing act and vanished into the night. More shenanigans this weekend for sure - hope you have too - see you on Monday.

Last week was indeed a busy one. It's Monday, the start of a new one - and I'm feeling quite hungover. Despite the fact that it is 6 in the evening. Think I'll take it easy for a while.
So I was in Wagamama with my good friend Debs* on Monday and a few nice drinks in The Shelbourne after. I love eating healthy food, ala Wagamama. Makes me feel all good and healthy - even though I'm not!
Tuesday saw me at the advanced screening of American Pie 2 in UGC. Among the movie goers were the devine Suzanne Devaney (who had a wee fall earlier that day and was putting on a brave face), Anna Lavery from Disney and a smattering of girls from the fashion and beauty industry including Cathriona from Blue Eriu and Dannielle from Stila. On to the Morrison after.

More movies on Wednesday when I attended the Buena Vista International day with my movie buddy Olivia Morahan (Caroline's big sister). Saw the Princess Diaries, On the Nose and The Others. Off to Gravity at the Guinness Storehouse for delish canapes and lush champagne. (Incidently Gravity has got to be Dublin's most amazing drinking establishment - the best view of the city). And as if that wasn't enough we went on to The Sugar Club for more. Poor Olivia was worse for the wear by the time we left - luckily I was off the next day! Excellent day and night thanks to those luvvies at BVI. On Thursday we saw Serendipity with Cate Blanchett and John Cusack. Surely a Christmas hit. BTW, The Others with Nicole Kidman is not very good.

Later that evening I was in SamSara for the launch of Riley Advertising in Ireland. Patrick Ryan will no doubt do a sterling job. Among the crowd were Daniela Crawlwy of Heineken and Gareth Gunnigle of 98fm. Which reminds me, I must call my good friend Paraic Gallagher in Lite FM to see how he is getting on in his new role as chief news reporter for Dublin.

Went to Lillies on Friday night and to Cavan on Saturday. Consolation to Bernardine Galligan on the recent split of her long relationship with Gary Dunne.

And so last night was one of many going away parties for Padraig Burke who is leaving us next week to join BBC as a producer in Belfast. Paudie, PR to the masses Audra Dutton and I were rightly blotto. Wonder how they are today?

No entries in over 3 weeks....I do apologise! I have been away on holiday for a while and....well no other excuse really.

I'll not prattle on about every social gathering that happened over the absent period, but will note a few. The Spider Awards on the 6th were b-o-r-i-n-g. The Irish Champion Stakes in Leopardstown were excellent as always - especially because I was accompanying the wonderful Ms. Wendy Monks. Then of course there were the Cinema Days in UCI Blanchardstown. This is an event for media / industry people to view new releases and 8 films were shown in the two days. With plenty of partying on the two nights as well! Watch out for Legally Blonde and America's Sweethearts. (Although if you are in the US you'll have seen them ages ago).

The 17th saw the launch of the Murphy's Cork Film Festival in Dakota. Later that evening we saw the opening of the most recent adition of the Little Caeser restaurant family. This was not your usual wine and canape reception but rather a 3 course meal and comp drinks for all. Done with Italian style boys!

Nothing else to report. As you were.

It was a busy week indeed, with plenty of fashion high jinx. Tuesday saw the fashionistas Marcari Brennan display their latest designs in City Hall. A resounding success with plenty of cocktails and scrumptious food by none other than Conrad Gallagher. Have not heard of that celebrity chef in a while, I hear you say. Conrad has been very busy with his new London restaurant, called Conrad Gallagher. Another resounding success by all accounts.

Thursday was a hectic day on the social scene. First port of call was the Mansion House for the annual Wella Design Centre Fashion Show. Everyone and anyone was there, in particular, Limerick's Celia Holman-Lee, Miriam Ahern, Yvonne Keating, the devine Laura Bailey, PR Tara O'Connor and the nations fav TV-gal-about-town, Caroline Morahan. Us blokes were represented by Mr. Ireland Padraig Hearns, Jason O'Callaghan, Julian Benson, Gav Lambe - Murphy and Cormac Keane among others. Luckily I had seen the Macari Brennan collection on Tuesday evening, as I had to rush off before the show ended. Thankfully I was going just down the road to the Screen cinema for the Gala Premiere of The Most Fertile Man in Ireland. A most humourous film set in Belfast, starring Kris Marshall and James 'I am everywhere' Nesbitt. On then to Renards for the post champagne & red bull party (party organisers take note: don't mix champagne). On then to rejoin the fashionistas in Lillies till the early hours.

Friday saw Michael Wright launch his new seafood range out in The Anglers Rest in Howth. Goes to show that socialites will travel out of D2 if the canapes are worth it! Spotted at the party were Etain Boyd & Jason O'C of WHO magazine - the new celebrity couple?, Elaine Roddy, Simon Stokes and Conach Breslin. Back to town and called into Samsara (where the Fair City crew were having a get together) and Cocoon before retiring to Lillies for the remainder of the evening. And I must stifle those rumours that Karla Elliott and Ray Senior are back together - sadly not, but they remain good friends.

I did not manage to make it to Slane as once was enough for me and instead ventured to Cavan for Captains Day at Cavan Golf Club. Certainly gives Lillies a run for it's money - still drinking and dancing at 4am!

Friday night was business as usual and I didn't get to leave Lillies till nearly 6am. I had intended to venture to Slane Castle early on Saturday but didn't leave Dublin till about 4pm. Missed all the support acts and was involved in the photographer scrum when U2 finally came on stage at 8.30.

Wandering the VIP area were Samantha Mumba, Eddie Irvine, Mo Mowlam, Bertie Ahern and Woody Harelson among others. A good time was had by all.

It was very strange to see Lillies in daylight - as if I got locked in and left behind. But if that happened I'd help myself to the bar, natch.
Anyway, down to Lillies last evening for the launch of The Mad Hatter, a new hat/accessorie venture by Nessa Cronin, located on St. Stephens Street. The girlies were out in force and included Nicola Hayes, Nadine Wai-O'Flynn, Sarah Kavanagh, Etain Boyd and my fav TV gal, Caroline Morahan. A few boys were there too, so I didn't feel too out of place with Jason O'Callaghan, Richard Lue and Stephen Byrne. As night fell I felt more at home as Paul Harrington tinkled the ivories and the delish wine set in.

And on the subject of wine, thank you to Gilbeys. I received your lovely pressie this morning!

Charidee work is very time consuming - but well worth the effort.
The Horse Show Ball was a resounding success. Shared my table with the wonderful TV gal-about-town, Caroline Morohan, her boyf Jordan Lee, friends Gel, Conall and Caolin. Also seated with us were Letty Fernandez, model Ruth Doyle and her friend Paula Mythen of Electric News.
Down to Anabels for a short while and on to the usual, Lillies.

As all of that was well over a week ago I can't remember what I've been up to since. I'll bring you up to last Thursday and the departure of Sarah Reid. Sarah is a cousin of Dannielle McKee and is heading back to her native San Fran. Drinks in Cocoon and more in Lillies ensured a good send off. Bon voyage Sarah.

Friday night was again spent in the Bordello. But not before a visit to the Portobello for the 21st birthday bash of ex-235 resident, Claire Halton. All the possee was out in force to help The Asp celebrate this lifetime landmark. Looking every inch the party girl in a black and white low cut number, Claire was in top form. Other revellers included Itchy & Scratchy (aka Elaine and Emma D), celebrity chefs Cathriona Maguire and Jerome Peray, Siobhan Flood and a rare appearance by Sinead McIntyre. Many others, too numerous to mention also graced the Porto nightclub, Kostellos. The new Lillies? Anyway, back in the V VIP bar of said establishment, Brian Westlife and Joe 'Def Leopard' Elliott were singing away like goodo upstairs. This new music combo was dubbed Def Life by pianist Paul Harrington. A truely riotous night. On a different note, Karla Elliott (or Rhamdanie), Joe's ex-wife, has split from her current beau, Ray Senior.

That's all the news in Dublin.....coming up we have a mad hatters party in Lillies tomorrow evening. And of course who could forget U2 in Slane over the weekend.

Hmmm...bank holiday weekends - they don't seem to have the same excitment as they used to. Thursday, Friday and Saturday night spent in Lillies - nothing much new there. but somebody did say that Texas and the Stereophonics were in. But I wouldn't recognise them so I'm afraid I can't confirm (although I spoke with Ashley Breslin the next day and she informed me that Stereophonics were not). Sunday I went to Cavan and returned on Monday evening.

Horse Show Ball fever has gripped the city and everyone (or anyone worth talking about) is going. Stay tuned for gossip. And hey, if you are in dublin over the weekend why not come to the ball.....a few tickets still available - mail me.

Another Absolut Vodka (umm) party to look forward to, as they launch their Absolut Collection of Art in the Rubicon Gallery next Tuesday night.

Well...back into the loop I didn't go. Stayed outta the loop all weekend but can rest assured that I missed nothing - it pays to have reliable sources.

Beautiful hot sunny day here in Dublin and am off to a BBQ hosted by those lovely people at Coors Lite.