On Friday afternoon, December 11, 2015, the renowned Starlight Ballroom of the Fairmont Miramar Hotel was transformed by a spirited Merry Christmas Celebration in Grand British Tradition.
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Celebrated British Fashion Photographer, Reality TV Star, a longtime Judge on CW’s America’s Next Top Model, New York Times Best-Selling Author and Award-Winning Filmmaker, NIGEL BARKER was this year’s main guest speaker. LOUISE ROE, Internationally Renowned British Fashion Journalist, Inspirational Author, Television Personality, and Red Carpet Presenter served as luncheon emcee. The Invocation was given by British Textile and Fashion Designer, DAME ZANDRA RHODES.
The festive Christmas Luncheon has become a celebrated favorite with the British and American communities in Southern California. Each year it draws over 500 people, including celebrities, prominent leaders from high profile business, aerospace, manufacturing, legal and entertainment companies, local political figures and many distinguished guests from the British and European Consulates.
Festivities began at 11:30 am with a hosted Champagne Reception and expansive Silent Auction. The traditional sit-down British Christmas Luncheon, complete with all the trimmings, was accompanied by first-rate entertainment. A Grand Raffle featuring spectacular international trips rounded out the afternoon.
Recent distinguished speakers at the Christmas Luncheon have included NBA All-Star Gary Payton in 2009, producer Mark Burnett in 2010, best-selling author Sir Ken Robinson in 2011, comedian Tom Arnold in 2012, Sarah, Duchess of York in 2013, and renowned actor Malcolm McDowell in 2014. Other notable speakers, performers and guests have included Sir Roger Moore, Daniel Craig, Lynn Redgrave, Lesley Nicol, Brenda Blethyn, Billy Connelly, Ben Stein, Joan Collins and some of LA’s most talented musicians, who have played alongside the likes of Paul McCartney, Elton John and Rod Stewart, among many others.
