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Golden Hearts Dinner: An evening of generosity and compassion

Our Golden Hearts Dinner was a night to remember, held in the lovely setting of Hogan Lovells with a mission to raisie funds for the people of Ukraine. Partnering with Ellis Wines, the event brought together heartfelt stories, culinary delights, and a shared sense of purpose, all for a great cause.

A heartfelt opening

The evening kicked off with an inspiring speech from Richard Yates, who shared just how important donations are for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. His words resonated with everyone in the room, reminding us how crucial it is to come together and support each other in tough times. It was a moving start to the night, setting the tone for a truly meaningful evening.

A warm welcome

The gala wasn’t just about fundraising—it was also a celebration of fine food and drink. Guests were welcomed with an impressive array of canapés, prepared by the talented team at BM. These delicious bites were paired with sparkling wine, generously provided by Chapel Down, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Hospitality Manager Nuno Pias and his dedicated team ensured that guests felt right at home. Additionally, Evolve offered their support by providing skilled front-of-house staff, adding to the seamless experience

Stories that stirred the heart

In keeping with the evening’s theme, the dinner featured two inspiring speakers from Ukraine. Olia Hercules, a celebrated chef and food writer based in London, and Felicity Spector, a television news producer actively supporting volunteers in Ukraine, shared their personal stories with the audience. Led by Piers Zangana of Susa Comms, the Q&A session was both moving and insightful, shedding light on the profound impact the war has had on their lives and communities. The speakers’ words left a deep impression, filling the room with a reflective silence that underscored the evening’s purpose.

An exceptional dining experience

Following the moving discussions, guests were treated to a delicious three-course meal designed by Adam Byatt, owner of the Michelin-starred restaurant Trinity in Clapham:

Starter: Cured centre cut salmon with heritage beetroots, cucumber, keta, and buttermilk.
Main Course: Loin of Herdwick lamb accompanied by a shepherd’s bon bon, shallot, broccoli purée, pomme anna, and minted lamb sauce.
Dessert: Island chocolate marquise with figs, crème fraîche, and fig leaf oil.

Each dish was a masterpiece, blending creativity with taste to create an unforgettable dining experience.

A successful auction for a great cause

As the evening progressed, excitement filled the air as the live auction commenced. Hosting the auction was an honour, as I had the pleasure of presenting 12 unique lots donated by various BM partner suppliers. One of the highlights was a last-minute flight package that raised a remarkable £3,000. The auction alone generated over £20,000, a significant contribution towards the gala’s ambitious target of exceeding £60,000 for humanitarian aid in Ukraine.

Reflecting on a night of generosity and unity

The Golden Hearts Dinner was more than just an event; it was a powerful demonstration of generosity, compassion, and unity. From the extraordinary food and welcoming atmosphere to the deeply moving stories shared by those affected by the crisis, the evening was a reminder of the difference that can be made when people come together for a common cause. The funds raised will go towards essential medical aid and training, providing much-needed support to those enduring hardship in Ukraine.

As we reflect on this successful evening, we’re reminded of the strength of community and the profound impact that even a single evening can have in making a real difference. The Golden Hearts Dinner was a testament to the power of compassion, bringing hope and assistance to those who need it most.

Angus Brydon

Joint Managing Director