It’s been a roller coaster ride since Covid struck—first we weren’t able to run any events because of lockdown, and later, after restrictions were lifted, we found the nation’s mood had shifted slightly and the patterns of how people came to our events was changed. Last year was tough, as many in the hospitality game will tell you, but we ended with a sell-out party for New Year’s Eve and every reason to be optimistic about 2023.

We’ve also got some changes coming up with the events themselves, and our first party of the year will actually be a Spring Ball next month at a new venue, a Georgian mansion in south London with its own ballroom, two bars, a garden and lots of space. If things work out we should be using this place a lot more in 2023.

Come and check the place out on 18th March, when we’ll have live music from Laurence Corns’ Hot Strings Review, a new jazz combo with violin and clarinet. (Those who have been to the Candlelight Club around Mardi Gras time will have seen Laurence’s other outfit, the Candid Jug Orange Band, pumping out the distinctive jazz or New Orleans.) As ever, hosting will be by Champagne Charlie, with DJing from the Bee’s Knees. Elsewhere you’ll find our tarot reader Lucius, and sketch artist Sophie Williams, ready to capture you in your vintage finery.

As usual you can reserve a table with Champagne, or book the three-course dinner. As before we also offer the inclusive drinks option in the form of a wristband that gives you unlimited Prosecco, house wine, beer, soft drinks and single spirit with mixer, up till 11pm—and at this venue there will be a separate bar for customers with these wristbands, so you’ll get a VIP drinks service too!