Fabulous Food & Fashion

Not many fashion labels can claim to be top of their game for over 21 years. And even less of them are Irish. Congratulations then to Kartel, the menswear brand that has been a staple of the golf course for over 21 years. They celebrated with a big party in Samasara recently with invitations that were accompanied with the “key of the door”. If your key fit the lock then congratulations, you won a prize (the first birthday party I’ve attended where the guests get gifts).

International golfer Padraig Harrington was a guest of honour – he’s been a supporter of Kartel (and vice versa) for many years – and was high on his recent European Tour Order of Merit win. Other guests there on the night included Social & Personal publisher PJ Gibbons, Declan and Derbhla Leavy, Glenda Gilson, Alan Amsby, rugby player Malcolm O’Kelly and Richard Kavanagh.

Later on that evening I ventured down to the IFSC where Budweiser were hosting an event to launch the BudLight brand in Ireland. The vast space of chq was the location and TV / radio star Vernon Kay was the man of the night. I’m still not sure what the point of drafting in Mr. Kay was but as far as entertainment goes it was, well, entertaining. More wedding DJ than club DJ. And the vast chq space left some looking for an atmosphere.

Nonetheless, guests such as Eoin Higgins, Nadine and Sarah Jane Wai – O’Flynn, author Marisa Mackle and Norman Pratt enjoyed the gig, with some of them continuing on to SIN for Maria Fusco’s fashion show which featured her trendy Ave Maria store and, which I’m reliably informed, went on till the wee small hours.

One recent party that certainly did not lack atmosphere was the launch of The Dubliner's Top 100 Best Restaurants Guide. The magnificent Banking Hall in The Westin hotel was the location for what has become one of the best-attended parties of the year. Publisher Trevor White (fresh from a trip to NYC) certainly knows how to play host and at one stage I even spotted him topping up guest’s glasses with Santa Rita vino, which flowed all evening.

This years people’s choice award went to l’Gueuleton, the very popular French eatery on Fade Street which still has punters queuing up around the corner in the hope of securing an 8pm table. A triumphant Troy Maguire was on hand to accept the award.

The guide itself has experienced somewhat of a makeover and now sports a funky new look, which no doubt will ensure a broader appeal. There are a number of new additions this year (and indeed a few omissions) but as always it’s the discerning gourmands of Dublin’s public who have the greatest say in what restaurants make the cut.

Some of the discerning gourmands present on the evening included Gavin Friday and his artist pal Guggi, Sinead Ryan, Brendan O’Connor, model Carmel Mannion, TV chef Andrew Rudd, Fiachna O’Braonáin, Jay Bourke and RTE’s Kelly Barnes. Bon appetit (which, as my French friend tells me, they don’t say in France)!

It would appear that many of the aforementioned gourmands are also beauty junkies, as many of them went from The Dubliner party to Cocoon, where Donna Ledwidge was hosting a birthday party for her popular Donnybrook beauty salon High Maintenance. Stylist to the stars Leoné Amore was looking every inch an effortless high maintenance girl, as was Triona McCarthy and her sister Laura. Rosanna Davison was also there with her new beau, the dashing Wesley Quirke. Incidentally, look out for Wes’ brother Andy’s new single, Skanger Me Banger, which will be in shops before Christmas. No, seriously!

One of the most glamorous events of late has been the opening party of the swanky new Karen Millen store on Grafton Street. The fashion stakes were high (and the heels too) as the paparazzi scrum outside the store caught the arrival of the stylish guests, who included hot duo Pamela Flood and Caroline Morahan, Gayle Killilea, Lisa Breen – Fitzpatrick, Roisín Ní Mhordha and Margaret Nelson.

Inside, the store looks amazing. It could easily be the interior of London’s latest hip club or New York’s newest hotel. Lights, mirrors, glass and that ceiling! All offset of course by the beautiful threads that hung “off the rails”. TV presenter Anna Nolan, Alan Bruton and Sonya Mohlich, top model Andrea Roche, The Sunday Times’ Enda Leahy (who recently picked up a Law Society Justice Media Award) and Larissa Nolan, Collette Fitzpatrick and Debbie O’Donnell were also among those present.

The Tattinger flowed all night as we were treated to a fashion show of the latest KM pieces, after a touching ad-libbed speech from Ian Galvin, head of Mosaic Ireland, the company responsible for the brand and many others including Coast and Whistles.

Of course the star of the evening was Ms. Karen Millen herself. She leapt from a chauffeur driven car into the arms of the paps and subsequently glided around the party from air kiss to air kiss wearing the highest heels I’d ever seen. She’s a petit woman, but as I said, the fashion stakes were high.

Nik Quaiffe and Louise O'Reilly enjoy The Dubliner Top 100 Best Restaurants launch party at The Westin recently.

The Week That Was

There have been a wide variety of events hosted in the past few weeks, and if I didn’t know any better I’d say it was an attempt to entice the party people out of any self inflicted autumnal cocoons that they may be considering (and I’m not talking about Eddie Irvine’s Cocoon either).

Absolut Vodka hosted a party with a summer feel, but an autumn look, in the top floor party space of Fallon & Byrne recently. The hosts had done a magnificent job at turning what is normally just a vast empty room, into stylish lounge-y interior, for the launch of the latest Absolut flavour – Absolut Peach.

Looking positively peachy on the evening, despite the rising temperatures, were Astrid Brennan and Charles Guildbaud (whose new Venu eaterie continues to go from strength to strength), Gail Ferguson and her actor boyfriend Mark McAuley, Sonia Reynolds and Paul Trainer of The Dubliner, who, while I’m on the subject of eating establishments, is busy with the impending publication of the magazines much anticipated Top 100 Best Restaurants Guide.

Rumour had it that Peaches Geldof was invited to DJ at the event but she was too busy to attend. I guess it was a school night.

A recent highlight for me was to be invited to the gala ball for the 10^th anniversary of the Dyspraxia Association, which was held in the Killiney Castle Hotel. I must confess that I had no idea what Dyspraxia was, but having done a little research prior to the event I was very surprised at how much it affects children who suffer from it. Chairperson Jo Cullen also enlightened us on the evening with a most informative speech. Unfortunately there is no cure for the condition, but through therapy and assistance many children can learn to cope and deal with Dyspraxia.

Some of the well known guests who helped raise much need funds on the night were Martin King and his beautiful wife Jenny McCarthy, David Harvey, Triona McCarthy, TV chef Andrew Rudd, Ian Dempsey, stylist Cathy O’Connor, Sophie Flynn – Rogers and Helen O’Dwyer.

Former party girl Ashling McCormack was also in attendance, with her pal Catriona Hanly. A once regular face on the Dublin social scene, she now runs a successful fashion empire in Northern Ireland. Best selling author Marisa Mackle was also there and was flying out to Croatia the next day for a well-earned holiday after her marathon promo tour for her latest book, Man Hunt. Next stop, the UK market.

I went to the dogs recently (some might say I went a long time ago, but I digress) for a special night of entertainment courtesy of Daz, the soap you can believe in! They were celebrating the launch of their latest campaign, the Daz Millions, with a champagne dinner at Shelbourne Park dog track, which attracted a plethora of fun loving party people.

Fashion stylist Gramham Cruz was there, as was Roxanne Parker and her beau James Coyle, Frances Winston and everyone’s favourite jazz hands producer, Julian Benson. I was seated next to a charming girl who I later found out was Sinead Desmond, the new co-host of popular TV3 breakfast show Ireland AM. I haven’t had a chance to see her in her new role yet, hence my non-recognition of the dark haired beauty, so I hope she didn’t take offence when I asked her if she worked for P&G, the makers of Daz!

After upteen races, and even more bets, I realised that I hadn’t won anything all night, but the food and wine from the Dobbins kitchen distracted me nicely. Dog racing, you see, is pretty much luck of the draw. Even the dogs on the street know that.

Once spectacular party that certainly had me dazzled recently was the opening of Boodles, the gorgeous new jewellery store on Grafton Street. Nicholas Wainwright, who heads up the family business, hosted the glamorous evening for a select number of clients and friends a couple of weeks ago.

One of the star attractions, out of the hundreds of magnificent gems (each designed exclusively for, and by, Boodles), was the 27-carat blue-white Boodles Marquess diamond, with an equally impressive price tag of €1.2 million. Jody Wainwright, who heads up the new Dublin branch of the business (which dates back to 1798), was delighted with the new venture and, indeed, delighted to be living and working in Dublin.

Among the guests enjoying champagne and Grey Goose cocktails on the evening were Norma Smurfit, Samantha Mumba, Louis Copeland, Sinead Ryan and Joanne Byrne, Jonothan Sultan and John McKibbon, Laura Ennis and Caroline Downey.

A few evenings later I was sampling the culinary delights of Dobbins yet again, albeit in the sumptuous surroundings of their city centre restaurant, a million miles away from the Shelbourne Park franchise. I was a guest of Razvan Macici, who is the master winemaker for Nederburg Wines, the premier brand from South Africa. He was in town on the final part of a European tour, which had seen him visit Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, Germany and a host of other countries.

“I need to go on a serious diet when I get home,” he joked. Imagine eating a 6-course dinner, like the one we enjoyed in Dobbins, almost every night for 3 weeks! I hear you Razvan. Among those appreciating the fine Nedurburg wines were Andy Bowse of Food & Wine magazine (he loved them, and he should know), Triona McCarthy and Paula Marron, Roisin Tierney – Crowe, Eoin Higgins and Ingmar Kiang and Sarah Jane English, who is set to marry her fiancé Malachy Quinn any day soon.

The future will no doubt be bright for Sarah Jane and Malachy, and for a gathering in the breathtaking Gravity Bar recently it certainly was Bright. Financial whizz Mark Suter, and his beautiful wife Lucy, hosted a glamourous event to mark the launch of his latest venture, Bright Finance, which will offer a variety of finance services, including wealth management.

Ireland’s most well known new parents, Louis and Louise Osbourne, were there, minus baby Mia. "This is one of my first nights out since Mia arrived and I miss her so much. I think I have called my mother five times already" Louise told me. Other bright young things at the party included Eavan McSweeney and men-about-town Norman Pratt and Richie Stokes, who is set to leave wintery Ireland next month for a stint in Australia.

Well, I guess it’s always bright down under.

Bright Finance

Eavan McSweeney & Richie Stokes enjoy the Bright Finance party.

Diane Henderson & Nicola Corboy at the Bright Finance party in the Gravity Bar

The Week That Was

This is becoming a bit of a habit - my lack of writing! Thanks for the e-mails people and I am sorry for not updating, but I am very busy. Busy is as busy does so here is a quick synopsis of the last couple of weeks …

One of the busiest social weeks all year, people are back from their hols and are out en force to catch up and swap stories. There were no less than 15 events on around the city in the last 10 days or so, with many high profile, tanned faces in attendance.

Despite talk of summer vacations, the rain poured on the evening that the lovely Elaine Byrne and the dapper Phillip Carton launched their exciting new project, The Collectors Club. Despite the rather inclement weather, the elegant receptions rooms of George’s of Baggot Street were packed, with Sinead Ryan, Norman Pratt, Ross Robertson and Louise Leahy among the guests. Byrne, who worked the room with style and ease, was most enthusiastic as she explained the concept to me. Whether you collect antiques, jewellery, cars, whatever, you should check it out.

Businessman and raconteur Harry Crosbie delivered a rousing speech about collecting. I for one didn’t know the passion this man has for Georgian furniture (and disdain for Victorian). Harry says that collecting is not about money and that shouldn’t stop anyone from indulging in the finer things in life. I couldn’t agree more Harry.

I paid my first visit to Rhodes D7 during the week too, as a guest of Tony Collins and Carmel O’Reilly of Top Flight. They were celebrating another bumper year with a new snow catalogue and super new collaborations with Austria.

TV presenter Alan Hughes was there, looking fresh after a recent trip to Slovenia. Publicist Aileen Eglington had been on the same trip but was looking a lot more rested. Alan, despite early morning (5am) starts, is also comparing the West Coast Cooler series of fashion extravaganzas that are currently taking place at a Radisson Hotel near you. Incidentally, Rhodes D7 is pretty good, though a bit too loud and bright for my liking.

Speaking of loud and bright, St. Julien, the shining lights in the stable of Sian Records, celebrated the launch of their debut single, Just Because, at a party in 4 Dame Lane. Formerly known as The Hoffman Affair, St. Julien, continue to hone their music style and deliver a tight and sharp sound. Their subsequent gig in the Sugar Club was sold out and their managers Andrew Wilkinson and Simon Rudd were delighted at the first round of what is set to be a long game.

Joy Everlasting. Doesn’t that just bring a smile to your face? Imagine then if that was your name. Joy! Everlasting! And your sister’s name is Love. Well that’s what the Hawkridge sisters, the owners of the popular Whetsone Hair Salon, are called. They hosted a very stylish party, with David Halpin, during the week to celebrate the launch of their latest venture, the Whetstone Aveda Lifestyle Salon, on South Anne Street.

The interior of the place is like something you’d see in World of Interiors. I wanted to live there. As did many of the other guests, who included Amanda Le Roux and Emmanuel Ray of Aveda (who flew in especially for the party), designers Helen Steele and Joanne Hynes, Christine Fredricks and restaurateur Charles Guildbaud.

From calmness and well being, to decadence and indulgence as I left the Whetstone Aveda party and popped into Jessica Walker’s do down at eaterie-du-jour, Fallon & Byrne (Colin Farrell and Kelly Osbourne were recent patrons). Jessica, a super sexy woman, has had her own range of delicious chocolates for years and has just launched her range here in Ireland. A premier brand (i.e. not available in your local supermarket), she’s got it right with her product and packaging. If the TV show Sex and the City were chocolate it would be Jessica Walker.

One of the most stylish events I’ve attended all year must be the Hermès party that was hosted in No.16 St. Stephens Green last week. Granted, you’d expect any party hosted by Hermès to be a stylish affair, but this one had a certain je nais se quoi.

Celebrating their association with the Horse photography exhibition by Koto Bolofo, Hermès were also delighted to be supporting the Ireland Fund. Outgoing Hermès MD for Ireland and the UK Charles Henri Leroy introduced his replacement, Florian Craen, who is looking forward to taking up his new role soon

Hugo McNeill of the Ireland Fund paid homage to the sterling Anglo – Irish Agreement work done by former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds, who was in attendance with his elegant wife Kathleen. Poor Albert got a bit of a shock however, as we all did, when there was a sudden, loud and mysterious bang, which seemed to come from within the walls of the building. It didn’t steal his thunder though.

Among the great and the good enjoying the Louis Roderer champagne were Astrid Brennan, who definitely sported the best (real) tan in Dublin, Paddy Bollard, Uwe and Fiona Gratzer and architect Felim Dunne. Talk was of London Fashion Week with Sive O’Brien and Triona McCarthy both making plans for the hectic event, more of which later.

During the week I also popped into Paul Cadden’s fab new restaurant, Saba, on Clarendon Street. Paul knows what works (he’s formerly of the Diep group so he knows Thai food too). Among the diners I spotted were fashionistas Maria Fusco and Virginia Macari, John Brennan, PJ Gibbons, TV and radio presenter Taragh Loughrey – Grant and stylist Leone Amoré.

Sad as it may sound, I make no apologies for the thrill that I got from sitting in the Big Brother chair recently. The real Big Brother chair. The big, gold, very comfortable chair that made an appearance at the huge Carphone Warehouse 10^th birthday party last week.

You see, I really am easily pleased.

More Electric Picnic

Basement Jaxx enjoy the hospitality of the Bacardi B-Live VIP area at Electric Picnic.

Olwen McAuliffe and MTV presenter DP Fitzgerald backstage in the Bacardi B-Live VIP area of Electric Picnic.

Triona McCarthy and Paul Trainer backstage at the Bacardi B-Live VIP area at Electric Picnic.

Kitchen Con

The well-attended launch party for Trevor White’s first book was a testament to the popular man that he is. Milling around Thornton’s restaurant in the Fitzwilliam Hotel, guests were eager to get a first look at Kitchen Con, the first book from the inimitable publisher / writer.

In Kitchen Con, Trevor lifts the lid on, as he puts it, “the restaurant racket”. And he’s well qualified to do so. His family ran a hugely successful restaurant on St. Stephen’s Green (Whites on the Green, if my memory serves me correctly) in Dublin for many years. He became a restaurant critic at the tender age of 18, has eaten all around the world and now publishes the best selling annual Top 100 Guide in Ireland in conjunction with his successful magazine, The Dubliner.

Among the guests feasting on the delicious canapés prepared by Kevin Thornton’s Michelin Starred kitchen were writer Eamon Delaney, Gavin Friday and Amanda Brunker. Style queen Sonia Reynolds was with her legal eagle hubby Barry Lyons, relaxing after a hectic few weeks with Dublin Fashion Week.

Some of the other guests in attendance included Quentin Fottrell, Aoife O’Reilly, the dashing Michael O’Doherty, Roisin Tierney – Crowe, Ulick O’Connor and Helen Lucey Burke. Bombay Sapphire provided the potent martinis and Harvey Nicks did the goodie bags, rounding off a most successful launch (for those in London there was round two at Bentley’s Oyster Bar the following evening).

NYC publisher John Ryan, did the honours on the evening, during a week in which he himself was riding high on the publicity front – a documentary, a Late Late show appearance and countless column inches. Luckily he didn’t manage to steal Trevor’s limelight but made a witty speech in which he regaled the guests with made-up “facts” about Trevor.

One true fact about Trevor is that he’s written a highly entertaining, engaging and educating book; one that, if you’ve ever eaten out in your life, you’ll find of interest.

Happy Birthday Westin!

Lisa Murphy and I enjoy the Casino Royale party in celebration of the Westin hotel's 5th birthday.

The luxurious Westin hotel on Dublin’s College Green celebrated it’s 5^th birthday recently with a magnificent 005 Casino Royale evening. The glamour stakes were high with the invited guests looking every inch the high rollers they are.

The hotel’s General Manager Enda Mullin welcomed guests in the breathtaking Banking Hall, where all enjoyed champagne and a selection of delicious lime and blueberry flavoured martinis - shaken not stirred, natch - courtesy of Ketel-One vodka.

Upon entry guests were presented with $1000 to splash out on the gambling tables, where competition was tough to secure the highest winning position in order to win one of the many super prizes up for grabs with celebrations in the hotel’s Mint Bar later that night.

Marisa Mackle, whose latest book Manhunt has just hit the shelves, attended and looked stunning in a pale blue dress. Marisa’s long-time pal, fashion stylist Roxanne Parker was also there with her boyfriend James. 2FM DJ Ruth Scott, model Lisa Murphy, Peter Keenan and Frances Winston, Elaine Byrne and Fair City’s Tatiana Ouliankina and Yuri Stepanov (who play brother and sister Lana and Sergei) were also among the stylish crew who enjoyed the evening.

Electric Picnic 06

It was a rainy start to my Electric Picnic experience when I eventually arrived on Saturday evening, but it did nothing to dampen my spirits. Thankfully there were no tents to be pitched as the group I was with had set up camp in a terrific location at the Artist Camping zone backstage the previous day. And it was only when I ventured to the main camping areas that I realised how lucky we were with our location (in case you’re wondering, it took me 20mins to walk from stage to the yellow camping zone, not to mention navigating the assault course of tents).

Due to my late arrival I missed pretty much half of the festival (Anthony Hegarty of Anthony and The Johnsons and PJ Harvey), but on the upside I also missed the gale force winds that battered the site the night before. I guess it kept everyone festival fit if anything else.

I didn’t see that many performances to be honest, but Groove Armada, Basement Jaxx, the Bodytonic arena, New Order and the Pet Shop Boys were all pretty memorable. I also managed to catch highlights from Abie Philbin-Bowman's hit satire “Jesus: The Guantanamo Years” which was on at the popular Leviathan tent. The Bacardi B-Live area was pumping at all times with great sets from Disconauts and IG Culture among other top acts.

Backstage in the Bacardi B-Live VIP area I spotted George McMahon, MTV presenter DP Fitzgerald, singer Jeanette Cronin, Niall McCrudden, Channel 6’s Taragh Loughrey – Grant, David Cavanagh and Richie Stokes.

The place to be though was the VIP area, with its massive marquee, comfy beanbags, full bar, outdoor seating and covered balcony which looked on to the main stage. In times of rain this was the place to take refuge. Some of the faces there included Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Kelly Osbourne and her boyfriend Matty Derham, Louis Walsh, Nadine Wai – O’Flynn, Sinead Ryan and Malachy Geelan, Naoise and Ashley Nunn, actress Bronagh Gallagher, Norman Pratt, Tom Dunne and TV star Lucy Kennedy.

David McWilliams was with his wife Sian, after a hectic day hosting at the Leviathan marquee. Triona McCarthy, Bubble Hits presenter Liam McKenna, publicist Andrea Horan, TV chef Andrew Rudd, Lee Walsh, James Hyland, Anna Lavery and Paul McGuinness were also among the VIP guests.

Monday morning came all too soon though and there is no such thing as a lie-in when umpteen trucks arrive to dismantle tonnes of equipment. As I strolled around the grounds one last time, met by a small army of people whose job it was to erase all sign of Electric Picnic from the Stradbally Estate, I thought of what a magnificent weekend it had been.

Electric Picnic was voted best music festival in Europe last year. I hope there’s a bigger award for it to win this year – best in the world maybe?

Hollyoaks stars Carly Stenson and Andrew Moss were special guests at the recent TV3 party in Spirit.

TV3 launch new schedule

TV3, Ireland’s first independent television channel, once again pulled out all the stops to launch their latest season of programming. At a party hosted in Spirit recently, guests were treated to a glimpse of what TV3 has to offer in its forthcoming schedule.

From the US come new shows JERICHO, a dramatic, stylish and scary new drama - a nuclear bomb has destroyed most of America and a small Kansas town must get to grips with a new kind of reality. From Warner come some of the strongest titles in years with NOTES FROM THE UNDERBELLY, an engaging thirty-something comedy and SMITH, executive-produced by John Wells of ER fame, a very powerful crime drama with a great cast including Ray Liotta and Virginia Madsen. A real treat is in store with STUDIO 60 ON THE SUNSET STRIP from the West Wing stable, a funny and really poignant tale about the world of television starring Matthew Perry and Bradley Whitford as the maverick writer / producer team.

The soaps return in force to entertain their legions of fans with BAFTA award-winner and Ireland's most popular soap CORONATION STREET, EMMERDALE the fastest growing soap on Irish television, HEARTBEAT and its hugely successful spin off THE ROYAL and TV3 will be airing in the early evening from October the award-winning and very popular soap HOLLYOAKS.

Joining TV3 faces such as Mark Cagney, Lorraine Keane (who's looking great in the late stages of expectancy) and Martin King at the party were Louis Walsh, Eleanor Cullen, Keith Duffy, Phina Oruche of Footballers Wives, Debbie O’Donnell and Hollyoaks stars Carly Stenson and Andrew Moss.

Oh, and there’s a great homegrown show in store too. Picture a Dublin location at night and a large floating glass block illuminated from within - this is home twenty four hours a day for the contestants in THE BOX, TV3's brand new million plus reality quiz show. Two players go head to head throughout the day. By the end of the night one will be ejected. The winner can go on to collect an unlimited cash prize. Close friendships will be formed and bitter rivalries developed.

There will also be some celebrity guests and lots of surprises! Every morning live on Ireland AM, Alan Hughes will give 3 lucky contestants the chance to battle it out and the winner will go into the box that night and take on the reigning champion. Viewers will be able to register through a dedicated phone number and on the TV3 website. Viewers will also have the opportunity to play the game from home. Presented by Keith Duffy, THE BOX will run every night for three weeks in the autumn starting in October.

Keith Duffy and Phina Oruche at the TV3 party in Spirit recently.

Fashionably Late

Well, there goes another summer, all too short in my opinion, but then I guess it depends on how much (or how little) you squeeze into the few months.

I decided to abandon my writing and coverage of events as the social scene really does wind down during this time and the frequency of events slows somewhat. It was great to receive loads of e-mails enquiring about my whereabouts; nice to know I was missed! Equally so, the number of readers who mentioned my absence to me in person. No doubt, however, many of you were tuned into The Juice on FM104 for my weekly social digest!

So, what’s been happening over the summer? Well, The White Tie & Diamond Ball in Marbella was a big hit, raising a huge amount for the Water Angels charity. Among the guests, many of whom were Irish, were Glenda Gilson, Rebecca Jane Higgins, Lisa Murphy, Aysha Campion – Awwad, Brendan Courtney, Rebecca Loos and Liam Cunningham.

The Galway Races were a huge success, as always. Andrea Roche married PJ Mansfield. The Horse Show was a glamorous occasion, with record numbers attending Ladies Day. The British Ambassador, HE Stuart Eldon, hosted his last Horse Show soireé in Glencairn before taking up his new post in Brussels. Anna Nolan announced her departure from presenting The Afternoon Show, Corinna Field departed Ireland for the world and Lord Kilbracken departed the world (R.I.P.).

Few and far between the parties may have been lately, but the quality and excellence of them made up for that. One of the big bashes this summer was thanks to top model Roz Lipsett, who hosted a fundraising event to aid her humanitarian trip to Brazil, where she currently is, working in an orphanage. Her parents, Robert and Therese, threw open the doors of their beautiful Rathgar home, and guests enjoyed an evening of food, drink, music, fireworks and a bouncy castle! Thankfully Roz’s gorgeous sisters Avila and Sarah were on hand to avert any potential firework / bouncy castle disasters.

Among those in attendance were Rosanna Davison and James Montgomery, Robbie Wootton, Astrid Brennan and James Flanagan, Miss Ireland Sarah Morrissey, Zach Jordan, Emily O’Donnell and Colm Farrell, publisher Michael O’Doherty, Richie Spence and FM104’s Jodie King, all of whom helped raise much need funds for the disadvantaged children.

A fashion event with a difference was held in the ever-popular Design Centre recently. Aisling Kilduff welcomed the glitz and the glam to her style emporium to celebrate the very trendy Preen label, by Thornton Begazzi, which is now available in the store. Caroline Sleiman, designer Synan O’Mahony, Tara O’Connor, John Rocha and Celia Holman – Lee were some of those enjoying the Moet & Chandon reception. Talk on the night was of the Rose of Tralee festival and Celia’s now legendary Newbridge Silverware fashion show. Congrats to The Queensland Rose, Kathryn Anne Feeney, who won the coveted title.

While I’m on the subject of fashion, this week sees Dublin Fashion Week take place for the third season. The brainchild of the gregarious Sonia Reynolds, this event continues to go from strength to strength with more designers, an increased number of visiting press and buyers and a new location in the FitzWilliam Hotel.

The official launch party took place on Monday evening in the Absolut Garden @ Solas, with Graham Cruz, film producer Mills Goodloe and Bianca Bezdek from L.A., designer Eileen Shields and Andrea Horan all lending their support.

This weekend sees the music event of the year, namely Electric Picnic, take place at Stradbally Hall in Offaly. Big attractions include the Bacardi B-Live arena, political cabaret and lively debate Leviathan, Southern Comfort Crawdaddy arena, the Haagen Dazs cinema tent and of course the music. The event has been sold out for months but for those of you without tickets, RTE will broadcast coverage throughout the weekend. Those of you lucky enough to have tickets, I’ll see you there.

Be back soon!

Apologies for not updating in so long, but I decided to take an extended summer vacation (not that much is happening this time of year anyway). Thanks for all your e-mails, it's nice to know I'm missed.

Normal transmission will resume shortly. In the meantime, check out Code.tv.

xoxo

Haagen Dazs Summer Cocktail Party

TV presenters Kathryn Thomas and Lucy Kennedy enjoy the Haagen Dazs cocktails at the recent summer party.

The party posse are taking full advantage of these long balmy evenings and outdoor drinking is the new black. It’s important to make hay while the sun shines and all that, so the good people at Haagen Dazs ice cream had perfect timing as they hosted their summer cocktail party on the private terrace at George’s of Baggot Street yesterday evening.

With delish, nay decadent, Haagen Dazs cocktails and Kir Royales there was a real social buzz about the place as the crowd discussed plans for summer and upcoming events. A hot topic of conversation was the forthcoming White Tie and Diamond charity gala ball in Marbella next weekend. Organised by Marc and Lynn Quinlan and a host of friends, the event is in aid of the Water Angels charity and takes place on Saturday the 16^th in Finca de la Concepcion. A huge Irish contingent is expected and the MC for the evening is the inimitable Brendan Courtney. Check this out for more details.

Back to last night, and the other matter in hand seemed to be avoiding the TV cameras that were floating around the party. Hosts Joanne Byrne and Sinead Ryan were filming for the final of their new RTE TV show, It’s My Party, and the pair were miked up and working the room effortlessly. Let’s hope that some great gossip passed their lips and will be shared on national TV!

Also there were TV stars Kathryn Thomas and Lucy Kennedy, Norman Pratt and Avril Collins, Gavin Lambe – Murphy and Libby Ryan, Andrew Rudd, Trevor White from The Dubliner and Jedda Downey, sister of Caroline who is no stranger to TV following the hugely successful show Charity Queens, in which she appeared recently alongside my pal Tara O’Connor.

After umpteen Haagen Dazs cocktails (I was physically unable to drink anymore) I popped into the new Portoo House tapas bar on South William Street, which was celebrating it’s opening night. Reminded me of a cute little place you’d see in Barcelona, such was the décor. The food is as good and authentic as you get in Barcelona too. I spotted Lillies Bordello boss Fiona Roche and socialites Jonothan Sultan and John McKibbin there.

It was no coincidence then that I also spotted them in Lillies later on ripping up the dancefloor with the likes of Trevor Musgrave, Lord Henry Mountcharles and his wife Lady Iona Mountcharles.

Jedda Downey and Clare Kavanagh having a ball at the Haagen Dazs summer cocktail party.

Ahoy me fashionistas!

Also enjoying the Nicky Wallace show were Tamara Gervasoni and Frances Winston.

Nicky Wallace pictured (centre) at his "A Man for all Seasons" fashion show with Maria Fusco and Alan Amsby.

Ireland’s top menswear designer Nicky Wallace hosted a fashion extravaganza to showcase his latest range on Monday evening. The location was the beautiful John Field room in the National Concert Hall, a most unusual venue for a fashion show and the first one I’d attended there. Kudos for the location Nicky.

The collection is called “A Man for All Seasons” and it reflects Nicky’s belief that men’s fashion should not be dictated by the traditional Autumn / Winter and Spring / Summer dicta. As we have most unpredictable weather in this country (four seasons in the one day lately) Nicky’s designs reflect just that and his use of different fabrics and styles are practical for the climate we have.

Moet & Chandon were on hand to support the event and among those enjoying the champagne reception (before and after I might add) were TV presenter Alan Hughes, publican John Foley, Sinead Ni Chonaill and Aoife O’Reilly of Slattery Communications, model Alex FitzGerald, interior designer Sarah Peterson with Lowri Bennett and actor Kevin J. Ryan, who is off to L.A. next week to star in his first feature film.

Speaking of movies, after the Nicky Wallace show I dashed down to The Sub Bar (formerly O’Reilly’s of Tara Street which was owned by the aforementioned Mr. Foley) for the after party of the Irish premiere of Pirates of the Caribbean. No big stars in attendance as the UK premiere was taking place in London that evening, but some guests really took to the theme and sported pirate fashion. Designer Virginia Macari and her boyfriend Michael, model Fergus Kealy, Sandra Tully and Emma Jane Power were some of the faces I spotted.

Cork

I didn’t make it to the Curragh at the weekend for the Audi Day or the Budweiser Derby as I flew down to Cork for a few days. I stayed in the sumptuous Hayfield Manor Hotel (Cork’s only 5 star), which rivals the best when it comes to high levels of service and attention to detail. Dinner in Orchids restaurant at Hayfield was a gastro tour-de-force and a snip compared to similar high standard restaurants here in Dublin. I highly recommend it.

On Saturday night I was lucky enough to secure tickets to the sold out last production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest which was procuded by Corcadorca, one of the countries leading theatre groups. Directed by Pat Kiernan, the setting for the play was on the pond in the beautiful surroundings of Cork’s Fitzgerald’s Park. It was a fantastic production – alternative, adventurous and avant-garde. And made all the more special because it was outdoor.

I attended the Marquee on Sunday night for the Kanye West gig. I’d attempted to see him a couple of times in Dublin but his shows always sell out in record time, hence my trip to Cork. The show was amazing and he really got the crowd going. Contrary to reports I didn’t find him to be too arrogant and was impressed at his interaction with the audience. Unfortunately my flight back to Dublin was early on Monday morning so I couldn’t wait for Mr. West to appear at the after show party, which I believe was a late one.

“Cork people are very stylish” commented my brother, when we were having a look around Brown Thomas (which is far less pretentious that it’s capital counterpart). Yes they are stylish, and friendly and polite too. Up Cork, boy.

Nokia Darklight

Melanie Carroll and Michelle Kelly at the Nokia reception in the trendy Budda Bag store.

Film makers Paul Barritt and Julian Andrade were respectively awarded with the top prizes in the professional and newcomer categories of the 2^nd ever Nokia Darklight Pocket Movie Challenge at an award ceremony last week. Over 200 films of varying genres from over 10 countries were entered for the challenge in a one month period.

Shed, by UK based Paul Barritt, was awarded winners in the professional category. Shed is a short film derived from the writings of Paul Barrett. The pictures appear upon the paper as if being gradually seen and understood. The visual references appear in an oblique way to the text. Hote You, by Argentinean Julian Andrade was awarded winner of the newcomer category. Hote You is a story of love and more specifically a couple who argue because of this love.

Nokia hosted a reception in the trendy Budda Bag store in the buzzing Quatiere Bloom, where guests including Ciara Elliott, Richie Stokes, Sian Grey of Nokia Ireland and Roisin Tierney – Crowe watched the short listed movies. The awards were then presented at an outdoor BBQ in the IFI in Temple Bar later in the evening. Among those enjoying Billy Scurry’s culinary delights and Kombacher beer were Georgina Heffernan, Mark McCauley and Gail Ferguson, Daniela Crawley and Sinead Ni Chonaill.

A sunny evening, beer, a BBQ and movies – the perfect combination.

Ciara Elliott and Joby Hickey at the Nokia Darklight reception in the Budda Bag store.

S&P Sexy Legs

The crew at Ireland’s society bible, Social & Personal magazine, once again stepped up to the plate and delivered yet another of their legendary parties on Wednesday night. Guests showed up in summer finery to enjoy West Coast Cooler cocktails and pour over the latest Top 100 list – Sexy Legs!

In association with Horse Racing Ireland, the party certainly got hearts racing as many of the people on the list were in attendance and happily showing off the very reason they made the list …. their pins! First past the post to claim the sexiest pair of legs in Ireland was blonde hottie Lisa Duffy, who also graces the cover of this month’s magazine.

Lisa, who is married to ex. Corrie star Keith Duffy, was delighted with her accolade and beat off some tough competition from the likes of Sharon Corr, Amanda Byram and Jean Butler.

The terrace of Howl at the Moon was the hang out spot, such was the balmy evening. Among the throng were Astrid Brennan, Sinead Ryan and Joanne Byrne (both excited with their new TV show which premiers on RTE this week), Amanda Brunker, Libby Ryan and Gavin Lambe – Murphy, who is finding his new wine bar venture to be “hard work, but so worth it”.

Tamso Doyle of HRI was taking time out of her busy schedule to attend. She has a hectic weekend ahead at the Curragh with the Audi Stakes on Saturday and the Budweiser Derby on Sunday, two premier social events in the racing calendar. TV presenters Lucy Kennedy and Kathryn Thomas looked fab and are enjoying their summer break from our screens. Soon-to-be TV presenter Glenda Gilson was in top form and looking forward to her forthcoming debut on new music channel Bubble Hits.

Also there enjoying the hospitality of publisher PJ Gibbons were Nadine Wai – O’Flynn, stylist Ellie Balfe, Leanne de Cerbo (who has just joined S&P as Style Editor), Ross Robertson and Naomi Carroll, Richie Pearson, Cindy Cafolla and Richard Kavanagh, Andrew Rudd and the beautiful Jayne Blight, who had just jetted in from Sicily, via London, earlier that the evening.

Many of the party posse continued on to Renards and Lillies (where Take That were hosting their after show party) to put their sexy legs to good use on the dance floor.

Glenda Hits!

Glenda Gilson celebrates the announcement that she is set to join the presenting team at all new music channell Bubble Hits.

Bubble Hits today announced that Glenda Gilson will join the presenting team at the new music channel set to air on Sky Digital on the 14^th August.

Top Irish model Glenda joins former Eastenders star Chris Parker and former Six singer Liam McKenna as a Showbiz Correspondent on the Irish owned station that will broadcast to over 31 million viewers in the UK and Ireland. The trio will front the entertainment features and exclusive interviews that will run throughout the day.

Following out-and-about trails at high profile gigs and events in the UK and Ireland, Glenda beat four short-listed hopefuls to land the role as Showbiz Reporter for this exciting new TV channel. Glenda’s first official interview for Bubble Hits will take place tonight (28^th June) when she interviews pop sensations The Pussy Cat Dolls.

Speaking about her new role, Glenda, 25, said, “I’m absolutely ecstatic about my new role at Bubble Hits. I’ve had a lot of great help and support along the way and it’s such a huge opportunity for me. Not only is it my break into TV but also into the UK market. I can’t wait to really get my teeth into it and start working with Chris and Liam. They’re two top guys and we’ve had lots of fun together already during the trials.”

Bubble Hits prides itself as a no commercial breaks station which they believe will stop viewers flicking to other channels. Music shows such as ‘Get your Hits Out’, ‘Bubble Top 20’, ‘Bubble Cuddle’ and ‘Pop It or Drop It’ will form the basis of the stations programming. The station, owned by two young Irish entrepreneurs James Hyland and Lee Walsh, sees a return to the essence of music channels – to play music.

Summer Socials

It was a champagne and Kir Royal reception at the waterside deck for the annual Mid Summer Ball which was hosted at the luxurious K Club on Friday night last. The weather was clement and the spirits high as the guests assembled at the gala to raise funds for St. Bridgid’s Hospice and Home Care Team. Led by the Ambrielle committee team, the evening was a resounding sucess.

The inimitable Charlie Bird was MC for the evening and both he and special guest An Taniste Mary Harney TD gave us immense pleasure in the jokes and one liners that they fired at one another in their speeches. However, as they both declared that “what happens in the K Club, stays in the K Club”, I’m forbidden from revealing the source of the hilarity.

I was a guest of Olay, who had booked a small party of us into the nearby Barberstown Castle and ferried us to the K Club via limo. After a sumptuous dinner and dancing to the Jim Doherty Swing Band we retired back to base for our own private party. We all agreed though, what happens in Barberstown, stays in Barberstown.

Some of the guests included Ireland AM presenters Karen Koster and Laura Bermingham, stylist Sonia Mohlich and her partner Alan Bruton, Julie Byrne and hairstylist Stephen Kelly. Also there were Nigerian Ambassador to Ireland, H.E. Mrs Mandu Ekong-Omaghomi, Sinead Lynch, Triona McCarthy, Sir Wesley Deaton, and TV presenters Caroline Morahan and Pamela Flood, who I had the pleasure of sharing a table with.

Actually, I’d met Pamela just the evening before at the launch party for the new Opel Astra Twin Top, which took place at the Radisson SAS St. Helens Hotel. The girls were out in force for that one, and as the competition to win one of the convertible cars was drawn to a finale, it was a line-up of 6 females who took to the podium.

Looking summery on the terrace that evening were Nadine Wai – O’Flynn and her sister Lara, Roisin Ni Mhordha and Viv Maguire, FM104’s Jodie King, publicist Roisin O’Hea and the gorgeous Avila and Roz Lipsett.

Let’s hope the weather keeps up for all this al fresco socialising.

Pamela Anderson comes to Dublin....

Diarmaid Gavin, Grainne Seoige and Ryan Tubridy enjoy the MAC gig last night.

Quentin Fottrell and Triona "Party" McCarthy hang out with Pamela Anderson at the party last night.

Pictured at the MAC AIDS FUND VIVA GLAM V bash (l-r) Clodagh Kean, Paddy Bollard and Anette Rocca.

It’s not often that a huge (literally) A-lister comes to Dublin, but when Pamela Anderson rocked up on Thursday she caused mayhem. She was in town as part of her role as a passionate spokesperson for the M·A·C AIDS FUND VIVA GLAM V campaign. Leading figures from the world of fashion and entertainment gathered at No.15 St Stephen’s Green last night, to honour her.

Over 200 guests arrived at Hugh O’Regan’s stylish Georgian townhouse to party with the mega star where they enjoyed delicious Boru Vodka Martinis and Moet champagne with mouth-watering canapés, served by a number of cute male models. There was a veritable scrum when she arrived at the assembled guests tried to get a glimpse of the big star.

Those keen to catch a glimpse of the star included gardener extraordinaire Diarmuid Gavin and the ever glamorous TV star Gráinne Seoige, who was accompanied by her husband and TV3 commentator, Stephen Cullinane. RTE’s Ryan Turbridy came along with agent Noel Kelly, Derek Stenson was there with his pal Darren McBride and singer Brian Kennedy was in great spirits and is busy preparing for the first recording of his new RTE show which takes place this Friday.

Pamela was at Brown Thomas earlier in the day to present a cheque for €20,000 on behalf of the MAC AIDS Fund to Dublin AIDS charity, Open Heart House. The MAC AIDS Fund, which has so far raised $65million worldwide, is the charitable arm of MAC Cosmetics, and appointed model and actress Pamela Anderson as spokesperson for the VIVA GLAM V Lipstick advertising campaign in April 2005. Past MAC VIVA GLAM spokespeople include Christina Aguilera, Missy Elliott, Linda Evangelista, Elton John and Mary J Blige. Pamela’s specific platform focuses on the importance of getting tested, getting results and knowing your health status.

With such a high profile visit, MAC’s Global General Manager Peter Lichtenthal flew in from New York to mark the occasion.

David Blake - Knox, the Irish based producer who worked on the BBC’s Ruby Wax series of interviews, met Pammie years ago in LA when she was an actress in Baywatch and enjoyed catching up with her. It was her interview with Ruby that opened everyone’s eyes to her charm and wit.

Fashion designers Louise Kennedy and Joanne Hynes looked as stylish as ever as, as did Caroline Morahan from Off the Rails. CEO Dalton Philips enjoyed the party atmosphere accompanied by his wife Penny. Also enjoying the party was Mrs Margaret Kenny, wife of US Ambassador James Kenny, who came along with her daughters Courtney and Colleen. Glamour girls Gail Ferguson and Melanie Morris, Annette Rocca, Louise Loughman and TV3’s Maura Derrane all enjoyed the celebrations.

Pamela Anderson arrives at Brown Thomas early yesterday with BT boss Dalton Philips.

Fever pitch

World Cup fever has hit the country, and whatever team you’re supporting I hope they are doing well. I’m not a big follower of football so my motivation for going to see England Vs. Sweden on Tuesday night was not the match per se, but rather the Kopparberg Cider, who were hosting the party in 4 Dame Lane.

I first tasted Kopparberg a few months ago and, while I’m not a fan of cider, I absolutely loved it. So refreshing and the bottles are huge! It’s manufactured solely by first-class raw materials and fresh spring water. They don’t ad alcohol; instead it gets to slowly ferment to desired strength. According to an old Swedish original recipe, they have fermented this semi sweet cider, with light, fresh, clean fruity flavours and the range includes pear, apple and mixed berries.

The pear and apple versions have an alcohol level (or whatever you call it) of 4.5% whereas the mixed berries carries a whopping 7% ABV. That surely does the trick!

Among the guests were TV3 sports presenter Aaron Armstrong, Avril Mulcahy and Aimee Milne, sports writer Derek Foley (who tells me that Gary Oldman is being lined up to play him in a movie!), Rebecca O’Neill and photographer Ingmar Kiang.

Incidentally, the match was excellent and ended in a 2-2 draw.

The following night I bumped into Derek Foley again at a reception that Stephen Mackeral and his team at the Carphone Warehouse were hosting to showcase the latest in mobile communications. TV via mobile is no longer a thing of the future and was demonstrated to me on the night. Quite impressive.

I quizzed Derek on his Gary Oldman claim and he explained that there is currently a film project being put together about the Sunday Tribune’s fictional character Ross O’Carroll – Kelly. Derek, or One F as he is often referred to as in the column, will feature in the movie version and be played by none other than Mr. Oldman. Again, quite impressive.

Wedding of the Year

As we were driven up the avenue of Carton House in Co. Kildare, it was evident by the shear size of the marquee, the number of security men and the line of big cars just how spectacular the wedding was going to be. Then there was the style. Black tie for the gentleman and high fashion for the ladies.

It was definitely the big society wedding of the year, as Anne-Marie Leavy tied the knot with Kieran McManus in Ballivor Chuch in the brides native Co. Meath. The wedding was a true family affair with Anne-Marie's sister Vivienne and Kieran's sister Sue Ann as bridesmaids and brother Gerrard doing a reading. The ceremony was attended by 250 of the couple’s family, and an additional 500 attending the reception at Carton House. That’s some crowd.

Guests enjoyed a Dom Pérignon champagne reception in the gardens of the historic mansion, as background music from a string quartet mixed with the gentle sounds of the nearby fountain. Feasting on canapés, the girls, and boys no doubt, subtly eyed the fashion on show. From the simple to the outrageous, the word of the day was “elegant”.

And nobody looked more elegant that the bride herself. Anne-Marie looked absolutely stunning in a Vera Wang creation which was long and fitted with a lace top, suiting her tall frame. The bridesmaids looked fabulous too in long flowing pink dresses that were created by Irish designer Synan O’Mahony.

The interior of the marquee was breathtaking with each one of the tables sporting a gigantic floral display, with discreet pink lighting complimenting the flowers. Candles, chandeliers and cream napery completed the overall look.

The wedding dinner was delicious and worthy of the best restaurant anywhere. It was 8 courses, and included dishes such as “Tian of Smoked Chicken and Mango with Lakeshore Mustard Cream, Green Asparagus and Baby Leaf Salad”, “Steamed Paupiette of Dover Sole with a Lobster Mouse and Lobster Bisque Sauce” and “Roast Fair End and leg of new Season Lamb, Parsnip and Gubeen Dauphinoise, Truffled Port and Rosemary Jus”. Truly superb.

Speeches were short and simple and from the patriarch’s of the families. Gerard Leavy spoke of his delight at seeing his daughter so happy, while JP McManus welcomed Anne-Marie into the McManus family on behalf of him and his wife Noreen. Kieran’s best man, his brother John McManus, also made a lovely speech, with Kieran himself rounding off proceedings.

Among the guests I spotted were businessmen Dermot Desmond and John Magnier, Minister for Defence Willie O’Dea TD, Tamso Doyle of HRI, designer Lynn Hunter of Lynn Marr fame, Aisling Kilduff of the Design Centre and her husband Aidan and EU Commissioner Charlie McCreevy.

Entertainment was provided by several bands and singers, including Paddy Cole, and the party continued well into the wee small hours.