How was the brief met? Event's party was treated to pre-lunch canapés at the new Humphry's restaurant at Stoke Park. Gathered round a serving table they nibbled on inventive dishes like squid ink and smoked salmon macaroons, and duck tartare with chestnut honey, gingerbread pearls and foie gras foam. They also met head chef Chris Wheeler who popped in to explain his creations.
More food followed: lunch in the hospitality tent, which was a large white marquee with chandeliers overlooking a courtyard, lawns and fountain near the tennis court. A three-course lunch was served, also designed by Wheeler, including a tounge-in-cheek chocolate with his face on it.
Formula 1 presenter Natalie Pinkham hosted the day. She welcomed guests from the stage at the back of the marquee and invited them to submit questions for two players, Janko "Tipsy" Tipsarevic and Stanislas Wawrinka. Pinkham introduced them after lunch and read out the audience's questions, ranging from their tattoos, their interest in psychology, and of course, whether Murray could ever win Wimbledon.
Guests were then free to make their way to the nearby tennis court, passing practice courts where players were warming up, a display of Jaguar cars and several other tents. Event's group watched two matches on the intimate court, whist enjoying a hamper of champagne and Pimms served with individual portions of chopped fruit and vegetables to put in the glass.
After the games Event visited the Boodles tent to have a look at the sparkling and very expensive jewellery on display. Outside it, guests could lounge on white sofas on a decked area.
Retiring to the hospitality tent again, guests enjoyed high tea with tiny scones and cakes on tiered platters, and picked up goodie bags filled with food from Humphy's.
What was good? The weather was perfect and the food was elegant. Exclusive elements like the Q&A with players reflected Boodles's status as a luxury brand.
What was bad? Not much, except perhaps the fact that Event eyed up a necklace made of huge diamonds, only to be told it cost £1.4 million. A little out of our price range.
Behind the scenes:
Savoir Faire
TT Tents
Lavender Green
Cavendish Events
Event Hire
To leave a comment and let us know your thoughts.
For more print-only showcase features, don't miss the next issue of Event magazine by