News & Events

The Veuve Clicquot Business Woman Award has been celebrating exceptional women for the last 47 years (since 1972). With an Business Woman Award evening now held in 23 countries, the Award will open its doors in London on 23rd May 2019 at The Design Museum. Exclusive tickets for the evening will be available through application…

The global luxury industry has long relied on China’s wealthy millennials for a boost in sales – they are, after all, the demographic that contributed most to the industry’s growth in 2017. They’re also the fastest-growing demographic in China, and they’re often early adopters of new trends and technology. But a recent tightening by the…

As part of their 25th Anniversary goal to raise £1 million in vital funds to support global conservation heroes, the Whitley Fund For Nature held a ‘‘Wild & Wonderful’’ gala dinner at the Natural History Museum in London. The evening, celebrating the charity’s 25 years, highlighted the achievements of award-winning conservation leaders from Africa, Asia…

The 2018 Luxury Briefing Awards took place on 5th November, hosted at The Savoy in London, and was attended by over 350 guests. The ceremony was hosted by the Chair of Luxury Briefing Awards Judging Panel, Charlotte Metcalf, and screenwriter and BBC Four panellist, Kit Hesketh-Harvey. Hundreds of votes had been cast and counted across…

A real highlight of the British Summer Season, Henley Festival kicked off on Wednesday 11th July. The festival screening of the World Cup Semi-Final match between England and Sweden was watched by hundreds of black-tie festival goers sipping champagne. Rita Ora even delayed her opening headline set by an hour to ensure festival goers could…

The countdown to Royal Ascot – one of the most iconic summer events of the British sporting and social calendar – has begun. On Tuesday 19th June, Ascot Racecourse will open its gates for five days of world-class racing, pageantry, high fashion and fine dining. The Racecourse was established at the behest of Queen Anne…

Now in its 36th year, Henley Festival – the UK’s most glamorous boutique festival – is returning to its spectacular setting on the riverbank in Henley-on-Thames from 11th – 15th July 2018. As the UK’s only black tie boutique festival, Henley Festival is glamour personified, offering Michelin-starred food, award-winning comedians, Turner Prize nominated artists and…

Positive Week is a celebration of a mission created by Positive Luxury to inspire people to buy better, and to influence brands to do better. Now into its fifth year, Positive Week runs from 2nd to 8th October, and each day of the week will focus on a particular pillar of positive business – environmental,…

Goldie was the headlining Saturday night act on the famous Floating Stage at Henley Festival this year, where he performed an orchestral version of his seminal 1995 album Timeless with The Heritage Orchestra. The classical reworking of one of the most influential albums of the last 20 years was performed against Henley’s stunning riverbank setting….

On Saturday 24th June, British Polo Day Great Britain celebrated its 60th event, in Helnley-on-Thames. Having held 59 invitation-only events in 16 countries since 2009, the annual series of events always returns to home turf for the English Summer before completing the year in the Far East with events in China, the Indonesian island of…

Henley Festival, the UK’s most glamorous boutique festival and winner of Headline Performance of The Year at the 2016 Festival Awards, is returning to its spectacular setting on the riverbank in Henley-on-Thames from 5th – 9th July 2017. The Floating Stage Grammy-award-winning singer-songwriter Jess Glynne will open the 2017 Festival, performing her string of number…

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) awarded 73 Gold Medals at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show. A total of 117 medals were awarded to the gardens and floral exhibitors in the Great Pavilion, which also included 30 Silver-Gilt Medals, 13 Silver Medals and one Bronze Medal. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show’s sponsors, The M&G Garden,…

Kick-off the London summer social season in style at Chestertons Polo In The Park! Combining world-class sport, a host of London’s most exciting restaurants and Europe’s longest outdoor bar, Polo In The Park is the perfect setting for polo fans and social enthusiasts alike to celebrate the summer season in style. This year’s layout of…

Running until 7th May 2017, the third edition of London Craft Week took up residence in the capital. This annual event showcased the very best international and British creativity and craftsmanship through a “beyond luxury” journey-of-discovery. The curated programme brought together over 230 events from all corners of the globe fusing food, fashion, design, art,…

There was a good deal of debate in 2016 about the slow-down of the Chinese economy and tough times for luxury brands. After years of strong growth, we are now talking about China’s “new normal” – i.e. a more moderate rate of growth and sales. But it’s not all doom and gloom. In fact, UBS…

At a ceremony attended by many of Tusk Trust’s high profile supporters – including Ronnie Wood, Deborah Meaden, Katherine Jenkins and Bear Grylls – the great and the good came together for an awards ceremony headed by HRH The Duke of Cambridge and the charity’s CEO Charlie Mayhew. The Duke honoured the extraordinary lives of…

Former British Number 1 Greg Rusedski, former Doubles Grand Slam Champion Xavier Malisse, and former World No.4 Guy Forget will be competing at this year’s Champions Tennis at the Royal Albert Hall in London. The tournament, which takes place between 30th November and 4th December 2016, celebrates its 20th Anniversary this year. The players join…

The Spanish Riding School of Vienna, the world’s oldest and most prestigious equestrian academy, performed at London’s Wembley Arena as part of their 450th Anniversary World Tour, with their famous Lipizzaner horses adorned with specially designed crimson and gold-edged saddle blankets embellished with 3,000 shining Swarovski crystals each. The world-famous performances by the Lipizzans –…

In September, Glion Institute of Higher Education hosted an inaugural Innovate Luxury Conference in Switzerland, and The Luxury Channel’s Christiane Muller was delighted to hear first-hand from top level speakers such as Christian Blanckaert (Former Directeur Général of Hermès International), Ronald Homsy (Co-Founder and CEO of Utopian Hotel Collection) and Bernadette Koltai (VP of Luxury…

Jean-Eric Vergne, the former Formula One driver now turned darling of the Formula E Virgin DS team and Mumm Champagne’s Formula E Ambassador, talks to the Luxury Channel about the future of battery powered cars, and what he misses most about Formula One…. Hope you’ve recovered from your crash earlier? [Our interview takes place a…

I went to a motor race on Saturday 2nd July, and it may not be the one you’re thinking of. The weather was impeccable, with the sky a perky blue and the pits occasionally glistening from a passing summer shower. There were all of the usual models, including car aficionado Jodie Kidd, and if one…

The all-star line-up for this year’s Henley Festival has been announced! As one of the most decorated and recognisable names in British music, Sir Elton John and his band will open the Festival on Wednesday 6th July to a sold-out audience whilst one of Britain’s greatest-ever entertainers, Dame Shirley Bassey, will be teaming up with…

The star session at the recent Condé Nast International Luxury Conference held in Seoul, South Korea, was “Ripples of Responsibility.” It addressed the impact of wasteful sourcing and processes in the fashion industry and emphasised the need to “institute sustainability,” as K magazine reports…. Under the shadow of the South Korean capital’s geographical landmark, Mount…

Even in February, the South of France enjoys the Mediterranean sunshine, a fact capitalised upon by the Nice Carnival. If you’re lucky enough to be jetting off to the South of France, make a point of stopping by the Nice Carnival. Taking place from 13th to 28th February 2016, the Nice Carnival has been the…

A woman wearing a traditional carnival costume poses in front of the Bridge of Sighs in Venice. The famous bridge takes its name from a legend which tells of how prisoners on their way to their cells would be able to take one last look at beautiful Venice and sigh. The annual Venice Carnival is…

Walpole has revealed the 2016 selections for its esteemed Brands of Tomorrow programme. The line-up comprises trailblazing innovators who have caught the attention of the world of luxury. Via carefully tailored learning, including one-to-one tutelage from industry leaders and a year-long workshop schedule, the winning brands will also be given access to Walpole’s established membership,…

For the very few of our planet’s billionaires who can afford to tackle space travel, their journeys are not always that easy. We see who is battling it out for their place in the galaxy and how successful they have been…. Jeff Bezos Perhaps the most successful of the “space billionaires” so far, the Amazon…

BIFA (the British Independent Film Awards) has long been an industry insider. Now sponsored by Moët Chandon champagne, it is known as the platform for rising British and Irish film talent, from auteurs like Andrea Arnold to globally recognised actors like Michael Fassbender. The BIFAs are comparable to such globally-known ceremonies like the Cesars in…

The Luxury Channel, as a guest of Land Rover, joined Tusk and its Royal Patron HRH The Duke of Cambridge to recognise excellence in conservation in Africa. Dr. Emmanuel de Merode was presented the 2015 Tusk Conservation Award at the awards ceremony held at Claridge’s in London. The award, sponsored by Land Rover, celebrates emerging…

The driving rain did not cool the mood and anticipation at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York, when BMW announced that the BMW Art Car artists will be John Baldessari and Cao Fei for Racing Cars #18 and #19 in the series. In 1975, French race car driver and auctioneer Hervé Poulain invited…

The winners and runners-up of the World Boutique Hotel Awards 2015 were announced at a glittering awards ceremony held at the Montcalm Hotel in London. The ceremony brought together an array of boutique hotel owners, travel press and travel industry influencers from all four corners of the world, who came together to share in their…

This year’s FT Business of Luxury Summit shed new light on the Chinese market and the digital directions influencing the industry… ECONOMIC DISRUPTION A key theme emerging across the conference was disruption, which has occurred in luxury markets in part due to a weak euro and its associated impact on global pricing and demand. Global Outlook Martin Wolf, associate editor and chief economics commentator of The Financial Times, offered insights into the global macro-economic outlook, based on the latest forecasts from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD): “Yet again, the US is very disappointing, with [forecast] growth of only 2% this year, which is well below what people had been expecting. The Eurozone is in recovery at 1.4%, Japan at 0.7% and global growth at 2.1%. It’s…

Not sure what to watch next at the cinema? We recommend Fabergé: A Life of Its Own, which charts the rich history behind the iconic luxury brand Fabergé, from the monumental rise of “artist jeweller” Peter Carl Fabergé in the 19th Century, to the enduring legacy of Fabergé today. The film’s director, Patrick Mark, reveals…

Martell Cognac, steeped in history and glamour, is the reason why we gathered in the most beautiful surroundings, at the Palace of Versailles. Pernod Ricard, the owners of Martell and justifiably proud of this jewel in their crown, decided to pull out all the stops to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the founding of the…

Every year, the Henley Festival of Music and the Arts is held on the banks of the River Thames. It is held on the same spot as the Henley Royal Regatta, which takes place the week before. The Henley Festival has established itself as a unique experience, bringing together world-class musicians, performers and artists over…

Tuscany’s Ornellaia makes a Splash at Swiss benefit auction…. Well into his 70s, Marchese Ferninando Frescobaldi is still an attractive man. So much so, that his second wife jealously hovers about as he skilfully plies his well-honed charm before his adoring congregation of fans. We are in Basel, at the Fondation Beyeler in the grounds…

With boys’ toys very much at the epicentre of Monaco with luxury boats and all that goes with it, I was only too eager to say yes to a 24 hour getaway to celebrate the launch of the Maserati 2015 sailing season and to meet some of the crew – Captain Giovanni Soldini, Fiat boss…

Former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic has confirmed he will play at the BNP Paribas Tennis Classic at The Hurlingham Club in London this June – the perfect appetiser to Wimbledon. Best known for being the first wildcard entry to win Wimbledon, Ivanisevic revealed the Tennis Classic is “always such a great way to kick-start the…

It was a dazzling night for The Luxury Channel, when we made our way to the stunning surroundings of London’s Royal Opera House, where Kevin Spacey stole our hearts and the show at the Oliviers (known as the theatre Oscars). He surprised all the audience present by launching into an unannounced performance of Bridge Over…

Whether you take photographs for commercial reasons or just as a hobby to savour a moment in time or place, photographs are an important – and in many cases, precious – means of communication. We bring you our round-up of the photography exhibitions to point your camera at…. Salt & Silver – Early Photography (25th…

The Geneva Salon has always been the show of the art house exotic, the technologically sensual. Yet it is usually able to offer a real-world manifestation of those qualities. Jaguar’s E-type was unveiled there in 1961 and Lamborghini’s Miura in ’66. This year’s show certainly has its share of ultra, ultra hi-tech speed, power and…

We all know that diamonds are a girl’s best friend – but it seems they are also an investor’s best friend too. With the 87th Academy Awards around the corner, all eyes will not only be on the hopeful winners but also on the fashion and jewellery worn on the red carpet. We look at…

One of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world, Chinese New Year has established itself as more than just a day – it’s become a booming season. As Chinese customers have become crucial to global luxury consumption, what will the Year of the Goat mean to them and to local and international brands? K…

Think Paris, think design, think innovation….Maison&Objet Spring Fair remains one of the most influential and important markets for stores and designers worldwide to attend. The fair celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and The Luxury Channel was there to report on what we think is new, inspiring and trending. In the lead up to this…

Chinese Whispers, the new exhibition at the Fine Art Society Gallery in Bond Street by artists Rob and Nick Carter, is a series of playful takes on a number of familiar works by Andy Warhol. At the show’s opening night, Nick Carter told me they had selected the Warhol images and then sent them off…

If ‘Skate at Somerset House’ doesn’t get you in the mood for Christmas, then nothing will. For over a decade now, the 900-metre-square outdoor rink, set in the grand 18th century neoclassical courtyard, has provided London’s most picturesque setting for ice-skating (“London’s favourite ice-rink,” according to one paper. And “the coolest rink of all,” in…

Tennis coach and Strictly Come Dancing star Judy Murray has worked with Harris Tweed Hebrides to produce a bespoke Harris Tweed for her son Andy’s Perthshire hotel, Cromlix. The new Harris Tweed (inspired by the famous Wimbledon colours purple and green) has been used by three renowned Scottish-based designers – Catherine Aitken, Gráinne Broderick and…

A dreary London evening is surely a world away from sunshine of the Hollywood hills, but if the light is going to shine anywhere, then along the red carpet is usually a pretty safe bet. In London, the carpet was awash with stars for the premiere of Angelina Jolie’s latest role as director of the…

The Luxury Channel had access all areas to the 2014 British Independent Film Awards, sponsored by Moët & Chandon, which took place at London’s Old Billingsgate. Benedict Cumberbatch was honoured with the Variety Award, which was given for his great part in helping to “focus the international spotlight on the UK.” Accepting the Award, Cumberbatch…

HRH The Duke of Cambridge attended the 2014 Tusk Conservation Awards at Claridges in London, even lending his name to one of the awards presented that evening. As Royal Patron of Tusk, Prince William presented awards to two leading conservationists for their outstanding work in Africa, and announced his plan to introduce a new award…

Osborne Samuel has announced a collaborative exhibition with Beetles+Huxley to present the variety and influence of photography through the ages. Running until 23rd December, this major photography exhibition crosses both of these leading London galleries to showcase over 150 important photographs from the 19th century to the present day. The exhibition displays a range of…

A unique and important art exhibition has opened at The Old Sorting Office in the heart of London to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of The IUCN Red List of Threatened and Endangered Species, entitled “Here Today….” Curated by international curatorial collective Artwise, the exhibition includes specially commissioned interactive installations and artist’s rooms, and features the…

Why are luxury goods bucking current global trends? Dr. Rebecca Harding, CEO of Delta Economics, explains…. Economic news does not make happy reading at the moment. China is slowing down, the Eurozone, as always, is teetering on the brink of a new crisis, and geopolitical risks (such as the crisis in Ukraine and in Iraq)…

How do you celebrate a 50th Anniversary in style? For Champagne Jacquart, the Heron Tower’s 39th floor (otherwise known as Sushi Samba), was the perfect location for showcasing the brand’s new Mosaïc collection, as well as the limited edition Champagne Jacquart Rosé Magnum. The stunning panama of London at night, looking so small from our…

London’s leading wedding and party planner, the internationally acclaimed Bruce Russell, has launched an innovative new concept, called The Bridal Room. The first British luxury bridal destination online, The Bridal Room is set to transform the wedding market, marrying discerning grooms and style-savvy brides to uniquely sourced products, destinations and experiences. Designed to simplify the…

With the classic and prestige car gathering at the Chantilly Arts And Elegance concours d’elegance, France reclaimed a cultural institution it evolved almost single-handedly over the first half of the 20th Century. The chateau hosted almost 10,000 spectators at this first edition of the event, with the visitors strolling amongst some 100 hand-picked cars displayed…

Celebrated every four years and alternating with the Olympic Games, the World Equestrian Games, sponsored by Land Rover, is undoubtedly one of the biggest equestrian events in the world. Over a thousand horses and the finest athletes from 76 nations compete against each other in the eight official Fédération Equestre Internationale disciplines, including Jumping, Dressage,…

As the first Salute To Style hosted by The Hurlingham Club has drawn to a close, visitors, exhibitors, artists and classic car collectors alike have hailed the event as a successful and elegant nod to summer in London: even the sun was a permanent feature throughout the celebrations! As Michael Scott revealed, (who organised Salute…

The Luxury Channel was delighted to accept an invitation to London’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Knightsbridge to meet Mr. L.A. himself, Ross King, best known as the top showbiz correspondent on Good Morning Britain, a man we are accustomed to seeing grilling A-list celebrities on the red carpet, from the Academy Awards to The Grammys…

Across the four days of The RHS Chelsea Flower Show this year, Sodexo Prestige catered for over 160,000 people, and just over a month later, Sodexo staff were once again preparing floral-inspired catering for the largest flower show in the world, the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. Prestige’s events and operations manager, Julie Bromage,…

For the fourth consecutive year, Glorious Goodwood’s exciting celebrity charity race, the Magnolia Cup, will welcome a star-studded line-up of ladies, including top fashion model and Ladies Day Ambassador Edie Campbell, and renowned fashion designers Sarah Burton and Vivienne Westwood. The ladies will take on the roles of jockeys, silk designers and team supporters in…

Celebrating its 175th anniversary this year, Henley Royal Regatta is undoubtedly the best known regatta in the world and is both one of the highlights of the summer sporting calendar and the social season. Attracting thousands of visitors over a five day period, spectators watch over two hundred races of an international standard, including Olympians…

Jaeger-LeCoultre has chosen Masterpiece London as the venue for the international exhibition and premiere of its Hybris Artistica collection, which comprises twelve fascinating timepieces that represent a combination of watchmaking art and exquisite craftsmanship. The twelve pieces also underline the fine arts of enamelling, gem-setting, and engraving. Jaeger-LeCoultre was also announced as the official partner…

The British Polo Day Charity Cup, presented by Land Rover, saw over 800 VIP guests and picnickers descend on the prestigious Black Bears private estate and polo ground in Henley-on-Thames. Marking the beginning of the English summer, the second British Polo Day Charity Cup was the home leg of its Global Series, and this year’s…

The biggest names in polo were in action on the Queen’s Ground at Guards Polo Club, Windsor Great Park in a bid to win the Cartier Queen’s Cup 2014…. One of the most prestigious events of the British sporting calendar, the final was watched by Her Majesty The Queen, Arnaud M. Bamberger (Executive Chairman of…

Upon this striking Heath a joyful throng shall once again with eagerness descend…. One of the highlights of the British Summer Social Season is undoubtedly Royal Ascot, arguably the most prestigious meeting of the flat racing calendar. Ensconced within this iconic building, recently refurbished (and used as a substitute for Shanghai Airport in Skyfall), our…

Elizabeth Emanuel, co-designer of one of the most iconic dresses in the world – Princess Diana’s wedding dress – is set to rock the British establishment of men’s shirts with a new and contemporary range of women’s business shirts designed exclusively for the Queen’s shirtmakers, Thresher & Glenny. The official launch and unveiling of the…

The Millbrook Summer Season is under way with the Mashomack International Polo Challenge and upcoming Fitch’s Corner Horse Trials…. The 17th Annual Mashomack International Polo Challenge took place on Saturday 21st June, presented by Nespresso. Located just 90 minutes from New York City, The Mashomack Polo Club is located on a 1,900 acre private reserve…

With Wimbledon just around the corner, the greats of the tennis world descend on the Hurlingham Club for a few days of frenzy, frivolity and just a hint of the serious competitiveness that will ensure victory in SW19. Luckily for us, The Luxury Channel has a chance to mingle with the ‘‘great and the good’’…

The Luxury Channel attended one of the most glamorous events to hit the London Men’s Collections calendar this season. Samuel L. Jackson, Colin Firth, Simon Pegg, David Walliams, Jeremy Piven, Jesse Metcalfe, Pixie Lott, Amanda Holden, Margot Robbie, Luke Evans, David Gandy, Lewis Hamilton and British GQ editor Dylan Jones were among the guests at…

Chestertons Polo In The Park, one of the most hotly-anticipated fixtures on London’s sporting and social calendar, blends ferociously competitive on-field action, a variety of off-field entertainment and world-class, pitch-side hospitality. Now in its eighth consecutive year, Chestertons Polo will return to the beautiful surroundings of historic Hurlingham Park, from 3rd – 5th June. Chestertons…

Swarovski will be presenting Prologue, a new large-scale installation created by Fredrikson Stallard, at Design Miami/Basel, the global design forum. Prologue is a powerful representation of new beginnings and an abstract symbol of life and rebirth. The monumental circular sculpture, holding over 8,000 golden Swarovski crystal droplets within a patinated steel frame, will be suspended…

Jon Hamm unveils the beautiful new Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe that made its debut at the New York International Auto Show…. Actor Jon Hamm has begun providing voice-overs for German car maker Mercedes, lending his sonorous, all-comforting, all-promising pitchman’s authority to its TV spots. He told us, “It’s funny, right? Kind of this weird…

British supermodel David Gandy will star alongside Jennifer Lopez in the video for her new single First Love, the second release from her new album A.K.A. The video features Gandy getting up close and personal with Lopez, playing the part of her love interest. Gandy is the only person to feature in the video alongside…

Last year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show centenary saw creative colours, mythical creatures, gnomes and fabulous planting. A difficult act to follow! This year, however, certainly didn’t disappoint. Imagination and flair were everywhere. The trend this year included tiered gardens and the Best Fresh Garden winner, the RNIB’s Mind’s Eye Garden, and also Bord Na Mona…

Julian Fellowes was the special guest of the Hon. Alexandra Foley, founder of Lady Foley Grand Tour™, at the Lady Foley Grand Tour™ launch party at the Sloane Club. Guests included Foley’s friends who have inherited Britain’s historic houses, such as the Duke of Rutland (Belvoir Castle), Lady Ashcombe (Sudeley Castle), Viscountess Stormont (Scone Palace),…

The House of Britannia, the new British luxury goods investment and management company, has announced that it is agreeing to acquire a majority stake in Cornelia James Limited, Royal Warrant holders to Her Majesty the Queen for Gloves. Managing Director Simon Petherick said that he has “been an admirer of Cornelia James for many years….

To celebrate their first birthday, Fortnum & Mason have a number of special events and promotions planned, running from Monday 12th to Sunday 18th May, and drawing in some of the Jewellery Room’s most famed craftsmen. Situated on the second floor at Fortnum & Mason, the Jewellery Room offers a beautifully curated range of classic…

When it comes to driving forward new ideas, Land Rover has always been at the forefront of innovation, and the last few months have clearly been busier than ever for the brand, with several big announcements which are keeping them firmly in the automotive headlines. Firstly, the launch of Land Rover’s invisible bonnet. Not literally,…

What does it take to make a champion? Practice, practice, and er, a luxurious few days spent on the grass courts of the Hurlingham Club, apparently. Current Wimbledon Men’s Champion Andy Murray will be back in SW6 for the annual BNP Paribas Tennis Classic, regarded by those in the know as the warm-up to Wimbledon….

With Easter just around the corner, chocoholics and those with a particularly sweet tooth look forward to their chocolate eggs! Now they can have real reason to rejoice, as master chocolatier Paul A. Young has created an exclusive chocolate-inspired afternoon tea at one of London’s top hotels, the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane. Young’s passion…

With the weather warming up in the Mediterranean and preparations for the spring and summer events well underway, we take a look at the latest yachting news briefs…. Loro Piana The Loro Piana Caribbean Superyacht Regatta & Rendezvous, a truly spectacular event epitomising “the Loro Piana lifestyle,” is a unique sailing competition that saw a…

The Asia Cup Polo International Day, launched in London in 2007, is a high profile luxury lifestyle event attended by royalty, high net worth individuals and senior corporates. Maharaj Narendra Singh of Jaipur plays in the international matches giving Royal Patronage, and the event has subsequently become a key date in the summer social calendar….

Experience all the racing glamour and of the Monaco Grand Prix on board the Nth Degree’s luxury yacht, moored on the marina just metres away from the F1 action, and enjoy the best fine dining experiences that Monaco has to offer. With outstanding hospitality in an unrivalled trackside position, the VIP package at the Monaco…

The fabled Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel will be the epicentre of the Music Industry this spring, when it plays host as the central location for one of the world’s most prestigious global entertainment events. It is truly a beautiful venue with a veritable storied past, having been the location of the very first Academy Awards which…

Land Rover Discovery celebrated 25 years with a first-of-its-kind adventure challenge on Sunday 2nd March. Four of the world’s greatest explorers were brought together for an epic mountain adventure, competing against each other as they took part in the search for Land Rover’s Next Generation Explorer in the Discovery Adventure Challenge, mentoring four promising, young…

Aston Martin arrives at the 84th Geneva International Motor Show with its most compelling bespoke sports car creations to date, courtesy of its increasingly popular tailor-made personalisation service: Q by Aston Martin. The great British sports car brand is showcasing the capabilities of its bespoke service in Switzerland, as more and more of its customers…

“I will use the hope of getting an Academy Award a) to honour the people who work so hard and also b) it’s the greatest Good Housekeeping seal in the world. It’s the greatest brand. It’s as good as Louis Vuitton and Dior in the world of movie-making. It’s the Super Bowl.” – Harvey Weinstein…

The world famous La Mamounia Hotel in Marrakech will host a very special exhibition from 20th February – 3rd March 2014. The unique showcase features seventeen paintings by Hassan El Glaoui (most of which have never been seen in Morocco) and eight by Sir Winston Churchill. It will be the first time Churchill’s paintings have…

Geneva is where it’s at when it comes to The Womanity Foundation‘s seriously loyal supporters, friends and partners. For about an hour, a continuous influx of guests and sponsors heads to the Espace Hippomène, a cool, contemporary, industrial-style edifice built for cutting-edge exhibitions, congresses, and in this case, The Womanity Foundation’s bi-annual gala evening. The…

On Friday 7th February at 01.15am British polar explorers Ben Saunders and Tarka L’Herpiniere re-wrote history as they completed, for the first time ever, the ill-fated journey of Captain Robert Falcon Scott’s iconic Terra Nova expedition. Having trekked 1,795 miles across the inhospitable landscape of Antarctica on a journey to the South Pole and back,…

The Queen’s lifelong passion for horses is shared by many members of the Royal family through racing, polo, three-day eventing and carriage driving. In 2014, The Royal Borough offers visitors ten memorable ways to celebrate the Year of the Horse, whether as spectators or participants….  Racing At Ascot Synonymous with quality, style and excellence,…

The American Express World Luxury Expo returns to the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh from 28-30 January 2014, and invited guests can look forward to a wide variety of opulent hospitality on offer. The highly anticipated three day event is title sponsored by American Express and held in association with The Saudi Investment Bank. Selected luxury brands…

Prince Harry – not long returned from an Antarctic expedition of his own – honours Ben Saunders and Tarka L’Herpinere as they step into the final stage of the Scott Expedition with a personal message…. As Ben Saunders and Tarka L’Herpiniere step into the final stage of their 1800 mile journey on foot from the…

Once again, Strategic Vision has sponsored the American Affluence Research Center’s (AARC) Affluent Market Tracking Study, a survey of the wealthiest 10% of households determined by the Federal Reserve Board based on net worth. I continue to advocate the importance of this kind of research and data collection for industry leaders to gain insights and…

With five Michelin-starred restaurants, VIP service at the Vienna airport and business-friendly luxury hotels such as the Palais Coburg, Hotel Sacher and the architectural marvel of the Levant Parliament, Vienna is a luxury destination for both the business and private traveler (see www.wien.info). The city was the host of the FT Business of Luxury Summit…

Feeling the cold? Well, think of the designers working in sub zero degrees, battling with tons of ice….all in the name of art. Now in its 30th year, China hosts the Harbin International Ice & Snow Festival, which runs until February (or at least, until the spectacular display melts away). Ablaze with lights, the seemingly…

The Luxury Channel attends a talk by Shelley Von Strunckel…. It was very appropriate that we should be sitting in Amanda Wakeley’s Chelsea store – one of London’s top designers – to hear astrologer Shelley Von Strunkel’s predictions for the Future of Luxury. “The word ‘luxury’ evokes the caress of cashmere, the pop of a…

It’s not every day that you are lucky enough to see six of the greatest tennis stars battle it out for victory, particularly in one of London’s greatest venues – The Royal Albert Hall. As a guest of the organisers, The Luxury Channel was kindly invited to join them. British sports stars from all competitions…

More than 100 years after it was first attempted, two Britons will be honoring the legacy of iconic British explorer Captain Robert Falcon Scott by setting out to complete his ill-fated Terra Nova expedition, described as one of the most challenging journeys in human history. It will be the first time in more than 100…

According to Mayor of London Boris Johnson, the city “bestrides the world of fashion like a dapper titan and I’m proud to support London Fashion Week, which showcases the brightest and best designers working today. This week promises to be the most exciting yet, offering opportunities for even more people to feel a part of…

Héloise Agelou is one of the youngest horse-racing experts in the world, and her first acquisition, at the tender age of 21, was a champion two year old, Milanais. Thereafter, she decided to create Agelou Horse Racing Ltd to help a new breed of horse owners enjoy ownership without ceremony, pompousness and hassle whilst retaining…

The stunning backdrop of Tower Bridge against a setting sun was the perfect spot for the John Walker & Sons Voyager, a glamorous 1920s-style sailing yacht and the perfect vessel for re-imagining the epic ocean voyages that took Johnnie Walker from the four corners of Scotland to the four corners of the world. The Luxury…

With Cowes Week not long over, yachting fans will be considering what events offer the best mix of sailing and socialising in the latter part of the year. Opportunities for sunbathing on the foredeck might be limited in northern climes, but the tall black sails of one of the Volvo 70 racing yachts berthed off…

It may have threatened to rain for much of the day, but this is polo country and nothing can truly dampen the spirits here. The Audi International Polo, held at Guards Polo Club in Windsor Great Park, saw the USA take on England for the prestigious Westchester Cup. The closely fought battle had ended in…

Following in the tyre marks of its Monaco-based predecessor, the inaugural The Run To Yas – a five-day luxury road adventure culminating on the Yas Island entertainment destination – was announced in London. The one-of-a-kind experience will see 30 international supercar owners and enthusiasts roll into Abu Dhabi ahead of November’s Formula One Etihad Airways…

England will take on the USA for the prestigious Westchester Cup

, the highlight of the polo season, at Windsor Great Park, followed by an exclusive Boujis after-party – we bring you all the details below. The Hurlingham Polo Association (polo’s official governing body) is delighted to confirm that a new International Pavilion, providing first class…

Long known as the playground for the rich and famous, Monaco continues to shine as the place to seen in Europe, though offers a lot more than just glitz and casinos. The second smallest country in the world, it is recognised for its amazing Palace, some of Europe’s finest hotels, legendary casinos, more Ferraris per…

It isn’t every day you go to an art fair, only to wander past exotic tanks of oysters, perhaps better suited to an aquarium. But then, Masterpiece London isn’t any old art fair. Ask style doyenne Sarah Jessica Parker, who joined the throngs of invited press and guests for the preview day. After all, if…

With Wimbledon having started this week, the players on the current ATP tour were practicing hard, and where better to do that than at the BNP Paribas Tennis Classic, held in the lush grounds of The Hurlingham Club? Now in its twentieth year, the best-kept secret in tennis is only just starting to gain awareness…

Here at The Luxury Channel, we’re rather fond of our four-legged friends, and couldn’t resist the opportunity to let you in on the latest canine-centred event. Chelsea Harbour’s Design Centre in London will be hosting a special dog show on July 3rd in aid of Battersea Dogs And Cats Home and Canine Partners, with an…

The luxury industry means big business. Addressing the issues faced by luxury businesses has become ever-more important in a rapidly changing world, and the ninth annual Financial Times Business of Luxury Summit was held to help explore the ideas of power, politics and profits, with discussions by leading luxury luminaries. The Summit was attended by…

Humanitarian charity Not On Our Watch is to host their first ever UK charity fundraiser on Saturday. The Not On Our Watch Charity Race Day is an event of both high prestige and humbling generosity, which aims to raise funds for an incredibly worthy cause. Not On Our Watch was founded by Jerry Weintraub, Brad…

The BNP Paribas Tennis Classic takes place at the height of the summer tennis season, and gives spectators the opportunity to watch unforgettable, world-class tennis. Set in the tranquil 42 acre grounds of one of the most renowned members’ clubs in the country – the Hurlingham Club – the event showcases some of the stars…

MINT Polo In The Park was launched in 2008 as an exciting and innovative new polo event that hit the streets of London with gusto and glamour. Year-on-year, it has stood as the leading outdoor polo and lifestyle event in central London. The MINT Polo In The Park launch has now become a yearly tradition,…

For fans of one of the most expressive forms of music known to man, it would appear strange that there has never been an awards ceremony to celebrate all that is great and good about opera. Businessman Harry Hyman, a prolific opera fan who attends some 30 different operas a year, has thus taken matters…

We came, we saw, we wore. The Tempus team recently descended on BaselWorld, the world’s biggest watch show, and found a feast of horological delights on offer. The show offered the perfect snapshot of what the watch world has in store over the next few months and, as always, threw up several surprises. Boundary-smashing technical…

Colourful watches from Dior, DeLaneau, de Grisogono, Omega and Chopard got Baselworld off to a bright start, as Maria Doulton from The Jewellery Editor reports. Spring has arrived in Switzerland and at BaselWorld, the flags are flying in the sun and the flowers are in full bloom. There is plenty of colour inside the vast,…

BaselWorld 2013 has, undoubtedly, been a resounding, unmitigated success with each of the world’s leading watch brands showcasing some truly astounding timepieces over the last few days. One brand in particular turned more heads than most at this year’s event, and that brand was Zenith – who had a rather impressive special guest in the…

For any luxury aficionado, there is one date in the calendar that typically stands out more than most and the event in question is that of BaselWorld. Starting today in Switzerland, the event serves as a platform for all the world’s leading watchmakers, such as Hublot, Montblanc, Rolex and Breitling, to showcase the timepieces that…

Paris, known for such iconic buildings (the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, for instance) also prides itself on a number of other less well-known buildings, such as Les Bains. Built in 1885, Les Bains was originally one of the most famous bath houses in Paris for almost a century, frequented by the likes of Marcel…

Françoise Almasa Alunni reports from Top Marques Monaco…. Looking for the 007 Skyfall top of the range helicopter or the latest crème de la crème automotive model? Then you should have been at the Top Marques Monaco Supercar Show. Despite the global recession, demand for the ‘Top Toys’ has never been stronger. Gold is definitely…

“It’s been Tartan Fortnight in New York, from music to fashion, film, energy and business forums – but let’s not forget pipers, kilts and tartan! Tartan Day Celebrations take place all over the States, and indeed the world, on April 6th. New York is an epicenter for Scotland Tartan Week celebrations and the corner stone…

While many pieces of jewellery are described as works of art because of the craftsmanship involved, some are literal works of art, like those on show at the Museum of Arts And Design in New York (MAD). Until 2 June, you can view a 130-strong collection of exceptional art jewellery, acquired by MAD over the…

Awards ceremonies, despite the celebration and recognition of the talents of the winners, are understandably geared towards the achievements of those who are already established. There are very few that focus solely on awarding the up-and-coming – but from whiskey to wine, handbags to hotels, if it’s new or undiscovered, (and in the luxury arena),…

Before London Fashion Week, there is a tipping point where anticipation meets anxiety: the fear that I will have no tickets to any of the shows, despite working hard all season on some killer shoots for some great magazines; and then the universal fashion editor’s fear that I have nothing to wear, despite having numerous…

The weather might have been cold and grey, and the economic climate even more hostile and depressing, but the atmosphere at the recent VicenzaOro Jewellery Fair in northern Italy was warm and inviting. In fact, the event has been busier than ever in the last few years with a vast expansion in the purpose-built facility…

In association with The Saudi Investment Bank, Riyadh, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, played host to the American Express World Luxury Expo. Guests were treated to the finest hospitality experience at the palatial Ritz-Carlton Hotel from the 10th – 12th February 2013. Under the patronage of Her Highness Princess Nouf Bint Faisal Bin Turki…

Highlights Monday 7th January London is indeed the home of menswear; think Savile Row and classic tailoring. GQ editor Dylan Jones explains: “(London)…invented youth culture, and it continues to produce the best young designers in the world. Why would a menswear designer choose to show anywhere else?” On the first full day of shows for…

Having placed a single order for 56 Bombardier jets, and options for a further 86, luxury aviation company VistaJet has made sales history, with a total order value of $7.8 billion. The Luxury Channel was in conversation with Steven Ridolfi, President of Bombardier Business Aircraft, at a special lunch held to mark this momentous order….

Following a week of mixology trends unveiled, red carpet events and a showcase of the industry’s brightest stars, Tim Philips from Hemmesphere cocktail bar in Australia was crowned Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year 2012 and hailed as the industry’s newest mixology talent, rising above 50 other finalists to win the most prestigious…

Masterpiece London is the ultimate destination for the world’s most extraordinary items. “Brilliant” showcases the finest diamond jewellery considered to be innovative one-off pieces. It is structured into four artistic disciplines – art, architecture, fashion and sculpture. The exhibition is geared toward selling, and private inquiries about the collection can be made via info@bochic.com in…

One of the best ways to quickly get a feel for a new city is by visiting one of its bars or pubs. War correspondents have a saying for this – it’s called covering the story from ‘mahogany ridge’ – and nowhere is that phrase more apt than the beautifully kept wooden bartops of some…

A two-day luxurious gastronomic event in London with Quintessentially. 20% off the ticket price for The Luxury Channel readers. Quintessentially Epicure, a two-day luxurious gastronomic event sponsored by Coutts, will be taking place at one of London’s most exquisite venues, The Hurlingham Club on the 9th and 10th of September. Luxury Channel readers are invited…

Caroline Stubbs mimics Elizabeth Barrett Browning to win the honeymoon of a lifetime! The Luxury Channel and Quintessentially Travel asked: Why should we send you on 2011′s Ultimate Honeymoon? This was Caroline’s winning response, an adaptation of Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s How do I love thee? Let me count the ways… How do I love thee…

What happens when street art meets a luxury airline? The pairing of a L.A. based street artist and the world of corporate jets may not seem an obvious one, but it’s certainly colourful. Luxury aviation company Vista Jet, bored of the traditional and sometimes staid approach to air travel, is radically making over its fleet…

A look at one of the most popular wedding venues in England – a luxurious architectural escape to enchant brides-to-be the world over. When one aims to retreat from the harsh sprawling conurbation, a picture of idyllic England is what springs to mind. Historic, romantic and gloriously idyllic, Fawsley Hall has presence. Situated in the…

Think Punk Rock playlists, inspired cocktails such as ‘God Save The Queen’ and a retro menu of Great British classics. Ok, I’ll admit it. Come Friday I’ll be celebrating with the best of them. I love bunting. I love bank holidays. I love weddings. However I, and the Metropolitan Hotel apparently, know that some of…

Tell us why we should send you and your love on 2011’s ultimate honeymoon… Quintessentially Travel and The Luxury Channel launch 2011’s Ultimate Honeymoon Competition Brides and grooms need not despair – the masters of travel couture are here to take care of you; Quintessentially Travel has teamed up with The Luxury Channel’s Wedding Diary…

The Make-up artist to the stars creates three perfect bridal looks. Over the years, Daniel has worked on both sides of the Atlantic and all over Europe on a number of shoots with high profile fashion photographers for top glossies and with designers backstage at a number of major fashion shows and a regular on…

Valentine lovebirds in search of a gastronomic treat and burst of Scottish Highland air should look no further than Ackergill Tower this February. Two Michelin star chef, Andrew Fairlie, and the Tower’s Head Chef, Kevin Dalgleish, have developed a fabulous foodie demonstration (made from the finest, locally sourced beef, lamb and fresh seafood) and selected…

A glass of champagne brings sparkle to any event, but what is it about these lovely bubbles that makes it such an emblem of festivities? This question was addressed in depth at the first ever Champagne Assembly run by Pernod Ricard’s top champagne brands, Perrier Jouët and Mumm. The head of marketing for Pernod Ricard,…

We take a look at the best of this year’s Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and the Rolex Swan Cup. From the 5th to 11th and then the 13th to 19th September 2010, the toast of the sailing world flocked to Porto Cervo, Sardinia for the annual Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup followed by the Rolex Swan…

The Soho cupcake scene is given a designer twist. Patrick Cox has a skill set to make any girl swoon… By that we mean shoes and cupcakes, of course! Not content with producing some of the sexiest footwear in fashion, the designer has recently teamed up with master baker Eric Lanlard to open sweet treat…

Prepared by Vicki Edgson for The Luxury Channel. Consider your handbag as your travelling kitchen – the perfect way to avoid high-salt or sugary foods whilst going from one show to the next is to select what you need for the whole day and bag them up in mini zip-lock bags to keep everything fresh….

Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. PC Neil Sampson knows he is alive today thanks to Anya, his German Shepherd police dog. Despite that she is, as he describes her, “big, clumsy and like a bull in a china shop,” Anya saved Neil’s life when he was attacked by a man wielding a 6in…

The fabulous Goodwood Estate played host to the Vintage At Goodwood Festival over the weekend of 13th – 15th August this year…. Vintage At Goodwood, in partnership with watchmakers IWC Schaffhausen, celebrated five revolutionary decades of British design, music and culture. A wide variety of events, shows and spectacles took place throughout the festival, with…

An outdoor opera in the courtyard of 51 Buckingham Gate. The Courtyard at 51 Buckingham Gate invited The Luxury Channel to an indulgent al-fresco dinner under the stars and spectacular opera performance. Set in a Victorian courtyard at the prestigious Taj Suites and Residences (of which I am a huge fan of since my stay…

Corvoisier presents: The Complete History of Food with Bompas and Parr. Imagine enjoying foods prepared by Michelin Star chefs served inside the stomach of an dinosaur or ricocheting off the walls of a bouncy castle room that resembles the inside of a human stomach. As bizarre as this all sounds, this is what Bompas and…

MAG (Mines Advisory Group) is arranging a high-profile celebrity choe auction on eBay between Thursday 22nd July and Sunday 12st August 2010. The A-list stars taking part in “Give Landmines the Boot” includes the likes of Alan Shearer Roger Federer, Cherie Blair, Katy Perry, Nelly Furtado and Pink, as more than 60 pair of celebrity…

Fashion and racing – far too good to be missed! Attending a fashion show at Royal Ascot does little to ease the stress surrounding what dress to wear and the choice between a hat and a fascinator. However, fashion and the races is a potent mix – far too good to be missed. Located on…

For many art-lovers, the beginning of July is a date in the diary as the Master Drawings London, a series of exhibitions across the capital, gets up and running. It also represents an opportunity to nourish one’s collection as the exhibition is timed to coincide with the major auction houses opening their doors to begin…

A conference is being held at Christies’ in St James’, London on the 22nd July 2010 highlighting the significant opportunities for both Indian and UK companies in the emerging sectors of sports, lifestyle and luxury in India. India’s enormous economic strides have made global headlines and some of the new sectors that will continue this…

The Luxury Channel interviews Sonia Irvine; Formula One events mastermind and sister of ex-Ferrari driver Eddie Irvine…. We meet Sonia Irvine in London, just a week after she put on a spectacular three-day event over the Monaco Grand Prix race weekend. Her events company, Amber Lounge, provides a luxury nightlife experience for F1 stars, sponsors,…

To coincide with the FIFA Wordl Cup 2010, Corum Timepieces has announced the inception of a business partnership with the Professional Footballers’ Association. The eyes of the world this summer have been on South Africa as it plays host to the Fifa World Cup. To coincide with the occasion, Corum Timepieces has announced the inception…

Hot-footing and jet-setting it from one social event to another this summer? Make sure you know the best address to lay your head and recuperate between engagements. Cartier International Day Guards Polo Club, Surrey, UK 25 July 2010 The polo event of the summer. Glamorous, beautiful and impeccably dressed – and that’s just the players….

The Luxury Channel interviews Chantelle Kidd from V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, about the impact of the World Cup on a host city…. As one of Cape Town’s best-known tourism jewels, and a neighbour to the Cape Town Stadium, the V&A Waterfront is a prime catchment area for locals and visitors in search of the football…

This month the Luxury Channel takes an insider look at one of the Cannes Film Festivals most exclusive events. Prestigious watch-making and jewellery brand De Grigosno held a private affair in collaboration with German luxury car manufacturer Maybach, to honour and showcase the true talent of Cannes at the Eden Roc Hotel on Cap d’Antibes,…

The Luxury Channel’s Entertainment Issue June 2010 Welcome to The Luxury Channel’s Entertainment Issue The Royal Wedding has given us a much-needed cause for celebration. The world smiled as the colourful guests arrived, gasped with awe at Catherine’s Alexander McQueen dress, and delighted in every detail of the wedding reception from the flowers to the…

The Luxury Channel is a new and exciting multimedia platform that provides compelling, high quality TV programming and videos, trendsetting online editorial, and an outstanding range of high-end retail products. The Luxury Channel provides a full range of expertise and experiences for our television and web audience. The Luxury Channel launched its first series of…

Grace Kelly, style icon, at the V&A. Grace Kelly’s life was a fairytale of the truest sort: the Hollywood career, the royal husband – and then the tragic death. Like every fantasy, it was costumed with exceptional pieces from the eras highest fashion houses, complementing Kelly’s natural elegance and sense of chic. The V&A and…

Luxury in China – The Facts In 2008, China had 415,000 High Net Worth Individuals with at least US$ 1million in financial assets, an increase of 20% over the previous year. The Chinese spend three times longer shopping than those in the US or France. China is the only market in the world where the…

Business as usual British Airways has launched a new, exclusively business-class service from London City Airport to New York’s JFK. The twice-daily service will use Airbus A318 aircraft and is the first British Airways route to allow customers to send emails and texts and use the internet, via an inflight communications system. Willie Walsh, CEO,…

The Luxury Channel’s Fiona Sanderson wins best journalist award at Luxuria 2009. London (26 June 2009) – Fiona Sanderson, co-managing director of The Luxury Channel, won the Best Journalist award earlier this week at the first annual Luxuria awards. The awards were held by the Luxury Marketing Council Europe in association with The Wall Street…

The annual Amber Fashion Show in Monaco saw F1 drivers take to the catwalk to model for charity…. Formula One swapped the roar of the engines for the clinking of cocktail glasses in Monaco this week for the MARTINI® sponsored Amber Fashion Show at the luxurious Le Meridien Beach Plaza Hotel. Stars from the world…

Fiona Sanderson, joint MD of The Luxury Channel, discusses how the global luxury industry has not only embraced the Web but sees it as a major player in global brand extension. Just two clicks into the Chanel web site and you’re aboard a luxurious night train departing Paris in the newest Chanel No. 5 movie…

The results from The Wallpaper* Design Awards, 2010. The Ceremony The Luxury Channel attended the Wallpaper Design Awards, 2010. Where a lively consortium of design savvy journalists and product designers came together in celebration of this years winners. Guests were greeted by an exquisite asymmetrical dress by Viktor & Rolf (the model glided around the…

It’s time to put some colour and fun back in your wardrobe Louis Vuitton has renewed their creative collaboration with Japanese Neo-Pop artist Takashi Murakami. Previously Murakami has re-invented the famous LV monogram in bright and bold colours, merging the Louis Vuitton heritage and quality with the contemporary art scene and bringing the designs firmly…

Cricket in the Alps? Golf in Greenland? Metres of snow can’t stop these sports fans! There are enough winter sports out there to fill up anyone’s calendar, from skiing and snowboarding to ice-skating and the luge. But some people just have to go off piste when it comes to games. You may have thought you…

Fleur Cowles artist, editor, author and co-founder of Flair magazine died this week at the age of 101. Renowned for founding the avant-garde magazine Flair in 1949 Cowles pioneered new approaches to magazine design. With cut out front covers and on one occasion a scented issue, the magazine was a unique blend of art, literature,…

This year’s Only Watch charity auction is a must-see for watch lovers and collectors. James Gurney, the editor of QP Magazine, finds out why…. The London preview of the bi-annual Only Watch auction was held last week at Asprey, and showcased 34 truly unique watches from some of the world’s best makers, from Audemars Piguet…

Your ticket to the world’s most glittering events! Parties at the exclusive Amber Lounge have gone down in history as being some of the most exciting and decadent of recent times. Stars of the stage and screen rub shoulders with racing drivers and models, while the world’s top musicians serenade you as the champagne flows….