Nothing was going to dampen our spirits on Sunday, especially not the English ‘summer’ weather!
These last few months, really have been another remarkable journey culminating in our 40th Anniversary Party. Held to say thank you for your loyal patronage, and that is a lot of years for many of you – obviously those who’ve been there from the beginning will remain nameless and ageless!!
Relocating STUFF for the day to Osteria Del Portico and battling against the damp and occasional thunderous deluge, with the help of Osteria’s wonderful staff we created a little bit of courtyard charm for the day. And before we had time to relax, the party began…
Those early nervous minutes when we questioned whether the invites actually made it to you were quickly extinguished as many of you were surprisingly prompt and really got the party started and we couldn’t be more grateful.
What a great turn out. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces, those who have travelled long distances to be there and to our regulars, it was so wonderful to share a few glasses of bubbles with you all celebrating 40 years!
I’ve always been staggered by the varying achievements, occupations and experiences of my customers and I know from mingling throughout the day, you also enjoyed the opportunity to meet each other and share your little bit of STUFF history together as well as much much more!
As the sun broke through the clouds and much of the delicious food had been enjoyed, I took an almost reluctant role centre stage, with a brief speech. For those of you who had already gone, I no only thanked you all for you ongoing custom but also wanted to thank my long standing members of staff particularly Debbie and Algie. Keeping formalities to a minimum I quickly got on with the prize drawer; £250 Joseph Ribkoff vouchers, £250 Stuff Gift vouchers and a stunning silk Limited Edition Laura Orchant scarf celebrating the Rolling Stones Saatchi exhibition…lucky ladies who won, I’m sure you’ll all agree.
After the raffle excitement it was on with the cake and what a masterpiece, made by the fabulous Polish Patisserie Sowa, more desert than cake, a concoction rich in chocolate, nuts with a subtle crunchy base, it is making my mother water just thinking about it! A definite indulgence and yes I will be going back to sample more delicious delicacies.
Again, what more can I say, but thank you! Thank you for joining us in celebrating this milestone, thank you for all your gifts and warm messages. I’m completely overwhelmed by your kindness and support. And truly it is my pleasure to have known you all for so long and so well that you felt compelled to come along. Thank you all again.