A cocktails, canapés and sushi reception for a wealth management client, hosting their private and corporate clients for a summer’s evening in the Cloisters with jazz and private tours of the Abbey, including the Cosmati Pavement and the tomb of Edward the Confessor.
We welcomed 300 guests to the Dean’s Yard entrance of the Cloisters at 6.30pm on one of the sunniest days of the year (weather prophecy not always included in our services). VIP guests had attended Evensong earlier, seated in the Quire, followed by private tours of the Abbey before the reception.
Guests walked through the South Cloister to be welcomed by the team, and then were ushered into the East Cloister and the Chapter House – the medieval home of Britain’s first parliament. Here they were offered cocktails – a classic Pimm’s or a St Clement’s – while they listened to a jazz trio. Our production and lighting team created a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, and guests had the chance to take a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of the Abbey during the evening, with specially negotiated access to the tomb of Edward the Confessor and a rare close-up view of the Cosmati Pavement. All this helped create connections and conversations among the guests.
We designed the invitation branding and creative, focusing on the Cosmati Pavement, digital ‘date for your diary’ and travel directions and all signage on the night. We selected a truly unique heritage venue communicating our client’s commitment to giving their guests an experience that reflects the magic of London, and worked closely with the Abbey to bring in a specialist caterer with heritage venue experience. We managed logistics, production, lighting, entertainment, specialist insurance and health and safety, catering and the event on the night.
There was a phenomenal response from both the clients and their guests, who all felt that the event more than delivered.
From our client’s guests:
What a wonderful party you hosted last night! The setting was magnificent and it was such a treat to have the tour. The guides were immensely knowledgeable, and I definitely learned things about Westminster Abbey I never knew before. The food and drink were delicious, and we really enjoyed having the opportunity to visit with you, your team and many lovely guests. Many thanks for your kind hospitality.
We had a lovely time! I have not previously had the privilege of seeing some parts of the Abbey that we saw last night. Another successful event! Well done!
Sasha, what can I say. A superb evening in such a great setting. Attention to detail perfect as always. Food wonderful. Atmosphere very special. Well done you and thank you.
—Director, Wealth Management Firm
