Networking breakfasts
Initially a suggestion from one of the members, the networking breakfasts have proved incredibly popular, offering the opportunity for more intimate networking in a range of fabulous venues from Galvin at Windows on Park Lane to The Only Running Footman in Mayfair.
The launch party, February
The launch party was the first opportunity for CVTF500 members to meet. With a lavish showcase of members' work, from art and fashion installations to a 'wall of fame' display featuring case studies and quotes, the evening encapsulated the incredible talent and diversity of the network and kick-started numerous collaborations.
Dress2Kill platinum range launch, May
In May, member James Hibbert launched Dress2Kill's anticipated platinum range: traditional suits using the finest British cloths. To celebrate the launch Courvoisier offered cognac cocktails across his three stores and James ran an offer of half-price suits for members.
Ai digital launch, June
Member Jason Woodford invited his clients, partners and staff to celebrate the launch of Ai Digital – the new name and brand for his award-winning digital and search engine marketing agency. Courvoisier joined in the celebration by sending a team of mixologists to the launch event in Brighton to create bespoke cocktails for the night.
Pioneering spirit, June
Members Ian Burrell, Jennifer William-Baffoe, David Prior, Neil Fairbrother and Sam Bompas recorded inspirational interviews on entrepreneurialship at the Cumberland hotel to be screened on YouTube.
Architectural jelly banquet, July
Surely the most fun, talked about and surreal offering at the London festival of architecture was the jelly banquet from member Sam Bompas of Bompas & Parr. Sam and his partner Harry created unique models of the international architectural competition winners in jelly, while another member, Lisa Morgan, designed costumes for the occasion and Courvoisier was on hand to administer cognac cocktails.
The Wackness premiere, August
Member Justin Marciano was involved in one of the most controversial film events of the year: launching The Wackness with a spoof video clip of someone graffiti-ing Buckingham Palace.
Evening drinks in Manchester, August
Each month drinks evenings are held across the UK, at stylish bars from The Light Bar in London to Obsidian in Manchester. These have proved hugely popular and have offered an opportunity for more intimate networking.
The Big Pitch, September
Part Dragons' Den, part business consultancy, 'the big pitch' invited members to present their business plans to leading funding experts Mark Watson-Mitchell (founder and CEO of Addworth), Peter Webb (founder and former CEO of Unicorn Asset Management) and Dru Edmonstone, (executive director at Dowgate Capital). Members benefited from straight-talking guidance from the panel, with the potential for investment still being investigated.
Carnaby Street Design Festival, September
Beyond the Valley created a host of 'inverted' environments as part of London design week. Showcasing new fashion and design products the event benefited from collaborations with member Sam Bompas and media partner Urban Junkies.
Art & Cabaret drinks, October
Member Pablo Flack invited members to the Napoleon bar of his Bistrotheque for an art and cabaret night. Not only did members get a chance to enjoy the renowned performances, they also had the opportunity to roam the surrounding streets as artists in the area opened their workshops and galleries to the public.
RE:Fashionawards, November
Cyndi Rhoades launched the inaugural RE:Fashion Awards, the world's first dedicated awards for ethical fashion. The glittering event, held at Shoreditch town hall, saw major faces from the fashion world come together to recognise significant developments in social and environmental standards in the fashion industry.
