Sex and the City 2 at the Barbican

The Barbican was buzzing on 7th June when its famous Conservatory and adjacent area were transformed into both Manhattan and the Middle East thanks to a Sex and the City 2 styled party.

The event was stage to attract some of the UK's most influential events people and members of The BNC were present in their dozens.

After drinking a variety of elegant and expertly made cocktails guests enjoyed a Cosmopolitan mixing lesson. Also on offer was the chance to decorate and devour their own New York-style cup cake and Benefit - make-up company to the stars - were on hand to give beauty tips and demonstrations.

Preferred caterers Searcy delivered tray after tray of New York deli delights such as Reuben sandwiches and falafels, among many other delicious Middle Eastern inspired foods, spiced-up the servings.

Genie Events brought both the Big Apple and Abu Dhabi to the Barbican, setting up a New York City skyline and jazz band in the Conservatory. Next door Genie transformed an ordinary space into an exotic desert night complete with palm trees, plush ornate pillows and star-like lighting. Genie Events has just been brought in to the Barbican as a preferred supplier.

After fabulous food and SATC-style fun it was down to one of the Barbican's comfortable cinemas for the private screening of the much-anticipated sequel, Sex and the City 2.

And the special treatment didn't end there. As they descended the stairs guests were given a loud New York City welcome through the thumping rhythms of Alicia Key's Streets of New York. Awaiting the eager Sarah Jessica Parker and co fans were giant light box images of the stars. More drinks and sweet goodies were handed out for all to munch on during the movie.

Vickie, Head of Business Development at a financial institution, really enjoyed the evening, remarking on how well it was organised and how good the food was.

Of the Barbican she says: "I thought that the venue was excellent. I have used the Barbican for events before. However, I was not aware of the gardens that are available for events. The setting was beautiful and lent itself well for a networking evening."

Law firm Events Manager Candice raved about the evening. "I thought it was a truly superb evening! One of the best events I've ever been to. Incredibly well organised and fun," she enthused.

Emma, an Events Executive from the SMI Group, thought that the evening offered a good networking opportunity and was a great way to see so many people in one place. She continues, "It was great to see the flexibility of the Barbican as a venue. I loved the extra touches of making your own cupcakes and because of the Benefit make up stand I had a brilliant (if rather more pricey) time than expected after buying plenty of new products!"

The BNC were invited to the From Manhattan to the Middle East evening by Samme Allen, who is the venue's Business Development Manager. Thanks and congratulations on such a wonderful evening go to her and her team.

The unique Conservatory at the Barbican is just one of many conference and event spaces at the large London venue. The stunning green Conservatory space can be transformed to suit any event and has several areas that can work well with it such as the Conservatory Terrace. It seats: 72 Banquet, 150 Reception, 48 Seated Buffet, 100 Fork Buffet.

Samme Allen
Tel: 0207 382 7093
Mob: 07788 568659
samme.allen@barbican.org.uk
www.barbican.org.uk