The Shamrock Ball

The Shamrock Ball

BRIEF

The Irish Guards approached Callow Events in 2022 to organise their annual gala dinner to raise much needed funds for The Irish Guards Charity. This organisation is devoted to fundraising for the ‘duty of care’ for wounded Irish Guardsmen and their families. Whilst there is an immediate need for this support due to the intensity of recent operations, the charity also want to preserve this support for years to come. As Major RJ. Wilmont puts it, ‘For many the physical war might be over, but the mental war will have to be fought for a long time yet.’

The aim of this charity gala, known as ‘The Shamrock Ball’, was to first and foremostly raise funds for the Irish Guards Charity but it was also intended to bring avid supporters of the charity together as a collective to boost this endorsement. The evening was to consist of both a live and silent auction, a three-course meal and some after-dinner entertainment.

RESULT

The chosen venue for The Shamrock’s Ball, was the beautiful Merchant Taylor’s Hall in the City of London.

As guests arrived in the evening, they were welcomed with a glass of champagne in the hidden courtyard where they also had the opportunity to take a picture with Seamus, the much-loved Irish Guard Mascot. Following the reception, the Irish Guards Pipe Band surprised guests with a rousing performance before they made their way into the ballroom.

As they savoured a delicious three-course meal, our team kept the energy high with exciting fundraising initiatives such as a thrilling game called ‘Higher or Lower’ that had everyone on the edge of their seats. The evening also featured a silent auction, where guests eagerly bid on amazing one-of-a-kind prizes specially curated by Callow such as a chance to go to ‘The Household Division’s Beating Retreat for 4 Guests, with 5* Accommodation in London.’

The Regimental Band played a mesmerizing set between courses, and Incognito, the undercover performance artists blew everyone’s minds with a surprise show.

After dinner, guests were ushered into a bespoke nightclub featuring a live DJ and a talented saxophonist. The dance floor was packed as guests partied the night away, and in the foyer, guests tried their luck at the Casino tables to raise even more funds for the charity.

It was an unforgettable night of incredible entertainment and fundraising, leaving everyone feeling exhilarated and proud to support the Irish Guards. Such was the triumph of the evening that Callow Events has been approached to organize the event once more in 2023.