By Ella Hamilton Savory
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Amidst flashing cameras and star studded dance floors – icons and the generous alike enthuse and enjoy. At this charity gala dinner, the scene is magical with effervescent green décor and draping galore.

Attending an event that is both heart-warming and fun, is definitely the way to thaw the icier seasons. Therefore an affair that is as generous as it is congenial, is the seasons destination. The Emeralds & Ivy Ball, is an event that truly lives up to its name. The vast number of A-list guests in attendance isn’t the only thing that conveys the sparkling reputation of the gala. But also the dazzling amount the event raises annually for charity. At this charity gala dinner, expect nothing less than a guest list dressed to the nines and dripping in jewels.

Because nothing feels better than dressing up and doing good.

The event of world class splendour, is an annual flagship charity gala dinner. Behind this lavish ball, is a meaningful celebration of the partnership between Cancer Research Uk and The Marie Keating Foundation. The charities host the event yearly at an array of prestigious venues. Each of which has yet to un-impress. A few to name are The Old Billingsgate and Supernova in Victoria Embankment Gardens. In accompaniment of spectacular venues and exclusive guest lists, are illustrious music performances and plenty of champagne on the door.

The ball is always an affair to talk about.

The History Behind The Ball

The first edition of the event was held in 2005. Set up by Ronan Keating – the annual host of the gala & Boyzone band member – for a reason close to his heart. This being, that funds are raised in memoriam of his late mother and in aid of her foundation – The Marie Keating Foundation. 

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"What feels better than getting done up to do good?"

The gala is inspiring in its aspirations to raise funds that go towards the Cancer Research Roadshow. Which advocates enlightening people on the important cause at hand. Recent events have raised over £882,000 through valuable donations in exchange for exclusive tickets, unique gifts and experiences.

The Auctions and Raffles – Prizes money can’t buy.

Ronan Keating centre stage during the balls exclusive auctions.

The unforgettable night doesn’t end when the ball comes to a close. Guests that partake in the extravagant raffles and the live and silent auctions, go home with prizes and gifts that ‘money can’t buy’. From fine dining experiences with private chefs and unique villa stays, to luxury cars – the prizes are enticing.

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"The sensation of purposefulness is one to search for, yet at The Emeralds and Ivy Ball, you can do so draped in your best gown, and in the company of likeminded guests."

A few of note are signed Olympian gear, executive boxes at sporting arenas and opportunities to holiday at one of Richard Branson’s private islands.  Receiving decadent gifts in return for charitable actions doesn’t sound like too bad a way to spend a night.

Fine dining at the charity gala

Soon after a Pol Roger champagne reception, guests take their seats and dining is underway. Whilst basking at carefully adorned tables of sensational design and detail, dinner is served. Three courses of deliciously concocted dishes. All of which are cooked and designed by top class catering companies such as London’s own Rhubarb Design and bespoke catering by The Moving Venue. When reaching for something to sip, guests have bottles of Housewater to hand. Accompanying the food and champagne on the table, the water at this ball is as purposeful as your presence. Housewater is sustainably sourced and bottled. Therefore your good doings branch out to your beverages.

A star studded night

From those on the guestlists to those who take the stage, the chances of being starstruck are high. With a great cause to raise funds for at hand, a variety of great talents will be showing face in support. Past familiar faces in attendance have ranged from A- listers such as Sir Rod Stewart, James Corden and Girls Aloud. To royal appearances from the Tindall’s.

Up on the glimmering stage, providing entertainment for the night are some of Britain’s very best. With Gary Barlow, Leona Lewis and The Saturdays having performed over the years. Once the tables are pushed to the side and the gala dinner is done, the floor is lit. Soon dancing and mingling will take the revellers far into the night at this one of a kind, charity gala.

An inspiring night of good intentions, music, and prizes that money can’t buy is truly one to remember. The sensation of purposefulness is one to search for. Yet at The Emeralds and Ivy Ball, you can do so draped in your best gown – and in the company of likeminded guests. With no expenses spared in putting on a night that’s sparkle likens to winter stars. The charity gala dinner is a date to jot in any lavish-lustre’s diary…

Ella Hamilton Savory

Ella is a travel writer and aspiring creative writer based in Bristol, England. She is driven to write through her passion for storytelling and immersive wordplay. With a great love for art, culture, and fast paced cities, when travelling Ella searches for destinations that stimulate and excite.