Friday, April 29, 2005

Soft spot for IrishDev

On Wednesday night I had the great pleasure of attending an IrishDev event to present 2 industry awards, in my capacity as a long serving and Nokia partnered Blogger. Ireland's leading software developer network, IrishDev is the glue that binds the community together. Held in the mezzanine lounge of swish Dawson Street bar SamSara, the event attracted many representatives from the software development industry.

I was on hand to deliver a brief speech and to present Jamie Plenderleith and Kieran Lynam with the Most Valued Professional award, sponsored by Microsoft - who along with IT Talent were supporting the night. Kieran was unable to attend as he is currently in New York so his friend John Brennan, MD of Digerati (who is currently working and a massive EU software project in conjunction with the Irish Government) accepted it on his behalf.

Special guest on the night was Dino Chiesa from Microsoft who conducted a lecture and Q&A session, much to the assembled guests interest. At the reception afterward were Fergal Breen from IrishDev, Claire Dillon of Microsoft and Daft.ie founder Paul Fallon. I also spotted Rad Rapolu from O2, Hugh Larkin from the CitiGroup, Orlaith Finnegan and Alex Hoare.

It's these people and their colleagues that make our lives easier through continued software R&D and I, for one, am most grateful.

Thursday, April 28, 2005

ABSOLUTely gorgeous

I'd forgotten how good I was at playing Fuseball until the other night at the launch of the latest addition to the ABSOLUT vodka family, ABSOLUTE RASPBERRI. With fire eaters, a human statue and a distinctivly red vibe, Lillies Bordello was feeling more like a bordello than ever before. apparently even the guests were commenting on the aroma of raspberrys permeating the building, a result of the fresh raspberrys used on the night. It was intoxicating, in more ways than one.

The cocktails were specially selected and mixed by ABSOLUT barman James Murphy and were the Raspberripolitian, the Raspberri Blimey and Raspberri Red rock. Sampling the delicious creations on the evening were makeup artist Derek Carberry, publicists Aoife Donohoe and Corinna Field, stunning model Violet Ibanez (she could easily be a Bond girl with looks and a name like that).

Rock girl band Fair Verona, who featured in last weeks Sunday Times, took to the stage on the evening and entertained the buzzing crowd with their edgy vibe. after all the party food had been consumed there was even desert, with a massive cake in the shape of an ABSOLUT RASPBERRI bottle. Kudos!

Wednesday, April 27, 2005

Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy

Last night saw the Irish premiere of the much anticipated movie The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy. The screening was held in the UGC cinema on Parnell Street, where a bank of paparazzi were set up alongside the red carpet. The film was well represented by director Gareth Jennings, producer Nick Goldsmith and lead actor Bill Nighy all in attendance. Also there was Neil Hannon, lead singer of The Devine Comedy, who recorded a number of songs to the offiicial soundtrack.

I must admit that sci-fi is not my bag so I didn't really 'get' the movie. Although I may well have been in the minority judging from the laughter coming from the audience. As I slinked out the door early I spotted Tamara Gervasoni, former Rose of Tralee, who is now working on a movie herself. Watch that space.

Much more my bag was the roaring after party which was hosted in trendy bar Cocoon, which is owned by former formula 1 driver Eddie Irvine. Sponsored by Jameson, there were plenty of tasty cocktails doing the rounds - I particularly liked the specially named ones developed for the party.

Amonmg those bopping to the sounds of Ivano Caffola and munching on the yummy food from Unique Dining were optician to the stars Niall McCrudden, interior designer Judith Giltinane, socialites Richard Kavanagh and Gavin Lambe - Murphy, boyband Zoo, artist Terry Bradley, writer Conor McPherson and PR Romy Carroll.

Like hitchhikers in a galaxy we kept the party going and continued on to Lillies till the early hours. When you get a lift in the shape of a Jameson cocktail you may as well keep going.

Tuesday, April 26, 2005

Una passeggiata a Napoli

The much anticipated Nicky Wallace fashion show took place in trendy bar AKA last night. Organiser Frances Winston, who was making her PR debut, did a magnificent job, with the evening proving to be a roaring success.

A Stroll Through Naples was the title of the show, borrowing on Nicky's love for all things Italian. As Ireland's formost menswear designer, he spends a great deal of time in Italy keeping abreast of style developments and trends.

The show was kicked off with writer and broadcaster Shay Healy officially opening it with a few choice words about the man of the moment. A refreshing twist was the inclusion of female models dressed in beautifully cut men's suits - trés sexy. With amazing attention to detail, and some trademark Nicky Wallace features, the suits were presented in a range of colours, styles and fabrics.

Mingling at the pre-show drinks reception were publicist Amy Buckeridge, stylist Sonia Mohlich with partner Alan Bruton of Reds, Eoin higgins and Paul Trainer of The Dubliner magazine, designer Virginia Macari and the ever glamourous Anne Boylan with Shirley Beere. I also bumped into model agency boss Trish Fallon and joked with her about her appearance in last weeks sceret camera TV show Naked Camera. She was mortified!

After the show I ventured up to the Odeon Bar for the launch of this year's Killarney SummerFest. Running from June 30th and July 10th, this years festival is looking to be bigger and better than ever. Snow Patrol, Meatloaf and Status Quo are some of the top music on offer.

There on the evening was author Maris Mackle, who is eagerly awaiting the green light for one of her book's to be made into a Hollywood film. Her latest book, Chinese Whispers, is being released in a couple of weeks and is already causing a buzz as it is based on the Dublin social scene. No doubt some people will see themselves characterised within it's pages. If there is a dashingly handsome male character, it's probably me.

Also there on the evening were jewellery designer Catriona Hanly, radio presenter Anita Hegarty and publicists Eleanor Cullen and Aileen Eglington with Fergal Breen and Micheál Burke.

After all that I was too tired to attend the Red Bull party next door in the PoD, but I'm sure you understand. I'm only human (it's true!) and I need my beauty sleep (well, sleep).

Monday, April 25, 2005

Happy Birthday x 3

I must wish the Crimmins triplets a very Happy Birthday today! Laura, Alison and Nicola, as I have mentioned before, are destined for big things in the near future. Represented and managed by Brendan Scully and Sean Montague of the b scene agency, the girls celebrate their 18th birthday today.


Question of the weekend: Which billionaire's son (and we don't have many billionaires in Ireland) was in a pub at the weekend and provoked an unfriendly reaction from fellow drinkers when he shouted a terrorist phrase? Later in the night he was so trashed that he narrowly escaped being the victim of an assault.
Sunday Lunch

Bistro One in leafy Foxrock was the setting for the charity lunch yesterday in aid of the Children's Sunshine Hospice fundraising project. Special guest at the event was rugby legend Sir Clive Woodward, coach of the Lions team, who was accompanied by his lovely wife Lady Jayne.

The society event was hosted by Sharon Smurfit, daughter of Dr. Michael and Norma, and raised much needed funds for the development of Ireland's first paliative care unit at the Children's Sunshine Home in Leopardstown.

Those in the luncheon party included Renards owner Robbie Fox and wife Martina, Denis and Caroline Desmond of MCD, property developer Johnny Ronan (and his Mercedes Maybach!) and society doyens Jackie Rafter and Mary Kavanagh.

The event was a huge success and a great kick start to the campaign which will be launched on May 5th by An Tániste Mary Harney.

Friday, April 22, 2005

Reading into it

I had the great pleasure of being escorted to the Hennessy Literary Awards last night by two stunning ladies. Dressed to die for, Olivia and Caroline Morahan made heads turn wherever they went. Luckily I'm not the jealous type.

We were safely ferried to the Four Seasons in a swanky car courtesy of Liberty Limousines, the people to call if you need to arrive in style. We were just in time for the pre-dinner speeches, at which the French Ambassador His Excellency Frédéric Grasset stole the show. He's a bit of a poet you know.

The awards, which were in association with The Four Seasons and The Sunday Tribune, were well attended, with publisher Trevor White, film director Neil Jordan, playwright Frank McGuinness and publicists Mary Crotty and Emily Cox. Also there, and looking tanned and refreshed after a recent Carribbean cruise were former film censor Seamus Smith and his lovely wife Sheila. At our table was artist John Keating who opens his latest exhibition, "A Year", in The Bold Art Gallery, Galway, this weekend.

After the dinner, which was truly amazing, the much anticipated ceremony took place. The prestigious award was won bywriter Terry Donnelly, who was presented his award by Maurice Hennessy. Also picking up a gong was writer Pat McCabe, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame.

After all that literature we continued on to Lillies where we studied the champagne and cocktail list and danced till the wee small hours.

Question of the night: Which high profile fashionista has recently overcome his cocaine addiction? Some might say too little to late as it cost him his relationship and nearly his job.
On the Rise

I almost forgot to mention the launch party for the BudRising music festival which was hosted in CrawDaddy on Tuesday evening. Now in it's second year, BudRising, brought to you by Budweiser, brings the creme de la creme of musical talent to a venue near you.

Beginning on June 1st, it promises 7 days and nights of sounds from today's biggest names, tomorrow's heroes and a handful of legends including Roots Manuva, Beck, The Hives, The Chalets and Weezer. The major news about this year's festival is the extension to the big time. In August the gig spreads it's wings and will host huge concerts at Marley Park and Lansdowne Road with acts such as the Scissor Sisters, Chemical Brothers and Fraz Ferdinand, who will play their only Irish gig. Take me out!

At Tuesday night's bash and tasty BBQ (the first of the year) were DJs Hugh Scully and Arveene, model Sinead Burt, Nadine Wai - O'Flynn of Principle Management, all loving the performance from DJ du jour Mylo, no doubt.

Come summer the Bud sure will be Rising.

Thursday, April 21, 2005

Special screening

Film producer and broadcaster Mary Kate O'Flanagan celebrated her birthday in style last night with a private screening of one of her favourite films. Many of her closest friends gathered for cocktails in the Odessa Club, where the classic that is Tootsie was being shown.

Mary Kate's sister Rebecca, who is a lecturer in film, gave a running commentary on the movie, which, for those of you who don't know, is much more complex than you might think!

Among the faces flickering from the silver screen were newscaster Aengus MacGrianna, who is off to New York next week, TV producer Traolach O'Buchalla and restaurant critic Ross Golden - Bannon. Many of Mary Kate's family were also in attendance, including her father who is a retired diplomat.

After all the Cosmo cocktails had been consumed I'm sure more than a few of the guests were walking like Dorethy Micheals in a pair of her highest heels.

Wednesday, April 20, 2005

MANGO for the Summer

Fashion retailer MANGO last night unveiled their Summer collection at a show in the impressive City Hall. As the rain poured down outside we were treated to a glimpse of what stylish girls will be wearing by the beach - although that beach will probably be in Miami if the weather here stays as it is.

The boho-chic look is still a strong favourite, with floaty skirts in vibrant prints also a big presence. Think Mischa Barton in The OC. Glitz and glam are also well catered for with a gorgeous range of party dresses, perfect for cocktails by the pool. And that gold lamé swimsuit! Every girl should have one.

The fashion cognoscenti were well represented with, among others, journalist Antonia O'Keeffe, stylist Roxanne Parker and designer Nicky Wallace, who has his own menswear show coming up next week which promises to be full of surprises.

Also there were author Marisa Mackle, sporting a bright blonde new hair style, make-up artist Derek Carberry, actor Jamie Belton and his pop star girlfriend Carol Anthony and Sonia Reynolds, the former top model turned event co-ordinator who was responsible for last week's Nokia Fashion Awards. As I left, using my goodie bag as a makeshift umbrella, I thought of my sister Denise who is currently in sunny Marbella celebrating her birthday.

Note to self: Must book holiday soon.

Tuesday, April 19, 2005

Celtic Tiger still roars

I had a lovely dinner last night in Peploes with my good friend Ciarán Coleman. For a Monday night the place was almost packed. As is any other top restaurant any night of the week.

The Celtic Tiger is alive and well.

Question of the weekend: Which fashionista has recently come out of hiding after suffering a botched collagen job on her lips? Apparently the trout pout isn't half as bad as it was. I dread to think was it was like originally!

Monday, April 18, 2005

Welcome back Hugh Lane

A reception I attended last last week was the re-opening of the Dublin City Gallery, The Hugh Lane. The gallery will be temporarily be open until the end of October, after which the big official unveiling of the completed building will take place in March 2006.

Last weeks re-opening was marked by an exhibit curated by Declan Clarke and Paul McDevitt. Accomplished artists in their own rights, they introduced artists Sophie Von Hellermann, Ian Kiaer, Cornelius Quabeck, Matt Calderwood and Bjorn Dahlem, all of whom were making their Irish debut.

Enjoying the evening, and the Wolf Blass wine, were Lord Mayor Michael Conaghan, chairperson of the board Anne Rehill, fashion designer Ali Malek and artists Louisa Sloan and Gary Coyle.

It's only when something is gone that I ever miss it and I'm glad to have the Hugh Lane Gallery back in situ. If you havn't been in a while pay it a visit.

In other news, I lost this beautiful object over the weekend :-( - if you find it, be a good samaritan and let me know.

Friday, April 15, 2005

Glenda's stalker

The media are having a field day with the recent story that top model Glenda Gilson is being stalked. Glenda, who has recently reunited with boyfriend, Irish rugby captain, Brian O'Driscoll, has been terrified of late by some crazy who is obsessed by her. Hey Glenda, as long as he doesn't harm you or your sports car, who cares? You're not a bona fide celebrity until you've had a stalker - lap it up!

All this talk of Glenda and Brian (for he has recently been chosen to captain the British and Irish Lions squad) reminded me of the first time I met the pair as a couple. Actually I think it was their first public 'date'.

I was at a Justin Timberlake concert in The Point in December of 2003 with my friend, RTE journalist John O'Driscoll. Just as the show was about to begin the two vacant seats beside me were suddenly taken. I didn't take any notice of who the new arrivals were until after the first song, after which I coped it was Glenda. We exchanged pleasantries and continued bopping along to JT.

With that, John asks me: "Is that who I think it is?"
"Yeah, Glenda Gilson!", I replied.
"Who?", he says, in a puzzled way. I duely explained who she was and, with a laugh he replied "no, the guy she's with, it's Brian O'Driscoll". He then explained to me who BO'D was.

That moment I realised two things. I knew nothing about rugby and I'd never make a good showbiz journalist.

Have a good weekend y'all.

Glenda (far right) pictured recently with Andrea Roche and Rosanna Davison at the launch party of The Third Stop at The Hilton hotel.

Thursday, April 14, 2005

The perfect HOST

The plush members-only Odessa Club was the setting for last night's party to announce the arrival of HOST PR. Formally part of the Octavo Group, the PR and publicity division has now become a seperate brand and will continue to specialise in working with the hospitality, travel, entertainment and well-being sectors. I also specialise in well-being, but only for myself.

Director Tim Magee told me: "There is no HOST PR without our clients and we work hard for them. To sell a spa, hotel or restaurant effectively to the media you need to know what it is, how it works and who makes it work. That is what we do...."

Enjoying the champagne reception were Rebecca O'Neill and Kieran Grimes from TV3, photographer Mark O'Sullivan and singer David Hope pf Your A Star fame. Gillian O'Loughlin of HOST was the perfect hostess for the evening (and looked fab as always with a gorgeous new hair style) and chatted to Paul Trainer of The Dubliner magazine, who commented that The Odessa Club was for those 'too old for Lillies but too young for the Kildare Street Club'. I think I still have a few years of Lillies still in me.

With clients such as Radisson SAS Hotels, Liberty Limousines and ENO Wine, HOST PR have the expertise to make things work. Watch them as they go from strength to strength.

Question of the night: Which sports star was on the receiving end of a stiletto to the head in a Dublin club recently?

Wednesday, April 13, 2005


Winner of the Nokia Young Fashion Designer Award John McCormack flanked by his two models.

Yours truly, captured, last night.

Darryn Lee and Triona 'Party' McCarthy pictured at the Nokia Young Fashion Designer Awards last night
Strike a pose

Fashion sweetie - it's all about fashion. Last month in the Sunday Business Post newspaper I was asked 'Who's got it right?'. I answered that Nokia had. They strike the right balance between fashion and function. How right I was.

Last night's Nokia Young Designer of the Year Awards was an exceptional event. With the theme of Urban Glamour in mind, it was hosted in one of the underground car parks in the new Dundrum Town Centre. Enough to rock my world. As I sipped on my snipe of Moet & Chandon I chatted to TV presenter Caroline Morahan, who was full of news about her new summer reality TV show. It's looks like it's going to be balled Chance To Dance. You read it here first people.

Showcasing cutting edge fashions from students of different colleges, the outfits ranged from the conservative to the outragous, with the end result being a big wow factor. This years winner was John McCormack from The Grafton Academy, whose beautifully tailored suits you can see above.

Wandering around the darkened spaces of the carpark last night were Nokia's Jackie Brannigan, HOK's fashion consultant Aisling Cullen, TV presenter Pamela Flood, designers John Rocha and Peter O'Brien who also showed their latest collections. Also there were designer Synan O'Mahony, eyewear designer Brian McGinn and actress Marianne O'Connor, who has just signed a contract to appear in the UK series Casualty. Good to see Sunday Tribune social diarist Sarah McInerney up and about again after a recent bout of illness. In fact he's so well she's off to San Diego next week for a well deserved break.

After all was said and done I ventured into The Trocadero for a late dinner with beauty journalist and fashion buyer Triona McCarthy (or Party McCarthy as ahe is known as) and artist Darryn Lee. Triona was the only Irish jorunalist this year to interview Britney Spears a couple of weeks ago. I remember her telling me that she thought that Britters was preggers. Well Party was right - look who just made a big anoucment.

Tuesday, April 12, 2005

Keep it short and sweet

The 2005 Dublin Gay Theatre Festival was launched yesterday evening at a Boru Vodka reception in the historic surrounds of the Gate Theatre. As I arrived I could hear the unmistakable voice of Senator David Norris booming from beyond. Pleased that I had not missed Senator Norris' speech, I slinked in at the back of the crowded room.

Ever the entertainer, Senator Norris was a wonderfully witty speaker, as always. This country is very lucky to have such a scholar, activist and raconteur, who was looking refreshed having recently returned from a trip to Cyprus.

The festival runs from the 3rd to 15th May in a variety of venues including The Gate, The Project Arts Centre, Focus Theatre, Centre Stage Café and the Andrews Lane Theatre. With premieres of New Boy by William Sutcliffe, Naked Will by Blair Fell and About Face by Jinny McCallister the event brings new productions to the Irish stage. Others include an adaptation of the famous Torch Song Trilogy and Irish shorts Citizenship and Don't Die Wondering.

I spotted broadcaster and writer Ross Golden - Bannon, writer Emma Donoghue, GCN editor Brian Finnegan, Danny Lane of Queerid.com and Deputy Lord Mayor Andrew Montague. I would have stayed longer had one person's speech not exceeded 20 minutes, but how and ever. Next time I'll solicit bets to make it more interesting.

Question of the day: Which radio station (not FM104!) is going through major upheaval at the moment with the recent resignation of a presenter and the sacking of member of top management? Add that to the huge law suit they'll soon be facing and, well, things don't sound too good.

Monday, April 11, 2005

Fire up the Aga

Last week I also attended the opening of the gorgeous new Fired Earth / AGA showroom in Dun Laoghaire, called The Clubhouse - a rather elegant name I think you'll agree. I was accompanied by the lovely Jenny Fallopian, who was in Dublin on a brief, but much appreciated, visit.

I'm into interiors as much as the next person, but it was Jenny who thrilled when I told her where we were going. She loves cooking on her Aga that one.

Among those admiring the The Clubhouse in all it's glory were the Brithish Ambassador, HE Stuart Eldon and his wife Chris and the French Ambassador, HE Frédéric Grasset and his wife, Mme. Grasset.

Guest of honour, and chief ribbon cutter, was the baby-faced Irish international rugby player Ronan O'Gara, who apparently was not taking part in any photo opportunities or talking to any press. A far cry from what teammate Denis Hickie went through recently when he was grilled by George Hook and Brent Pope at the Timberland launch. Game for a laugh is Denis, but I digress.

'Who needs him anyway', said Jenny, 'the beauty of the Aga speaks for itself.'

Don't you just know it Jenny.

Friday, April 08, 2005

Style file

There was more bling, posing and pouting than at the Oscars, as the glamourous girls were out in gale force last night for the annual Peter Mark / VIP Style Awards in the plush Four Seasons Hotel. Twenty well-known style icons made up the final list, with readers of VIP choosing the winner of this prestigious prize. At the gala dinner, editor Emer O'Reilly - Hyland revealed this year's winner to be none other than RTE newscaster Sharon Ní Bheoláin, who looked stunning in a black Valentino gown.

Sharon, who is no shrinking violet, happily accepted the specially commissioned Tipperary Crystal award, designed by Louis Kennedy. Previous winners Celia Holman - Lee and Gránnie Seoige were there to congratulate her. Also picking up an award was friend of SD, TV presenter Kathryn Thomas, who picked up the award for most stylish woman of the night. Work it girl!

Looking fab on the red carpet were models Andrea Roche and Glenda Gilson, TV stars Pamela Flood and Caroline Morahan, FMI Rosanna Davison and actress Orlaith Rafter. Fashion designers Peter O'Brien and Synan O'Mahony were also in attendance, along with An Taoiseach's ex-wife Miriam Ahern and her daughter Gerogina Byrne, wife of Westlifer Nicky.

Thursday, April 07, 2005

In the market

The latest band of gastro venues to open up in Dublin is a fantastic development. Eating out no longer has to be an expensive but distinctly average occassion.

I've probably written about it here before, and indeed have been quoted in the press about it, but my favourite place for inexpensive but great food is The Market Bar on Fade Street. I had yeat another fab dinner there last night with my good friend Gareth Gleeson, who I think I have converted to become a Market Bar regular.

In other news, Kylie, the princess of pop, is in town. she kicks off the Iriah leg of her tour tonight in The Point and will play a further 4 gigs here. I'm off to see her tomorrow night and am really looking forward to it.

I passed the Merrion Hotel earlier today and spotted a well-known paparazzo lurking outside, so wee Kylie may well be resting her head there for the duration of her stay.

I'll have to head to Lillies this weekend - well, pretty much any celebrity who comes to Dublin ends up there, so you never know, Kylie and I might have a laugh over a Cosmo.

Wednesday, April 06, 2005

Take to the Catwalk

Last night saw the latest launch and preview of the hugely successful Blossom Hill Catwalks event in the cavernous Odeon bar on Harcourt Street. Now in it's 6th season, the Catwalks roadshow has been going from strength to strength, with the support of Blossom Hill wines.

The nominated charity of the event is the Marie Keating Foundation, which campaigns for cancer research and support. Singer Ronan Keating originally set up the charity in memory of his late mother, and it is now run by his sister Linda, who delivered a sincere thank you to Catwalks organisers Greg Canty and Deirdre Waldron.

At last nights launch I spied Alan Hughes and Debbie O'Donnel from TV3, socialite Dr. Robin O'Reilly and her boyfriend Ziggy, Paul Trainer and Eoin Higgins of The Dubliner magazine. Clare Feely of Kennedy PR and Roisín Tierney - Crowe of Paul Allen were also enjoying the fashion show, as were model agency boss Trish Fallon and stylist Cathy O'Connor. Fashion designer Synan O'Mahony was also there, no doubt admiring his own amazing creations on the catwalk.

The first Catwalks event kicks off on May 12th in Mullingar followed by Dundalk on the 13th and Dublin on the 17th. For the full itinerary go to www.catwalks.ie.

By the way, did you know that over 25,000 glasses of Blossom Hill are consumed ever hour? I'd say last night's shindig contributed a great deal to that figure.


Question of the night: Which party person is back on the snow patrol? After previously attending rehab the socialite has fallen off the wagon once again and has returned to telling lies and acting like a diva.

Tuesday, April 05, 2005

Holiday Skin

I guess one disadvantage to living in Ireland is the weather. A golden tan is either cultivated in sunnier climes, or more often than not, out of a bottle. Whoever said that pale and interesting looked good just didn't have a clue.

I attended the launch of Holiday Skin today, the revolutionary new tanning moisturiser from Johnson & Johnson. At a lunch hosted by Puffin Moynihan and David O'Brien of Dynamics PR, in the luxurious Merrion Hotel, brand manager Ruth Cosgrove informed us all of the new wonder product, which is essentially the only daily body lotion that also gives you a light tan 365 days of the year. And it's not just for girls.

Also speaking at today's event was Dr. Ben Jones from the Face Research Laboratory at the University of Aberdeen. His research has proved that a healthy looking skin colour is widely believed to be a reflection of health, sensible eating, sleeping and exercise patterns. People actually consider glowing skin on the outside to be an indication that all is well on the inside. So get that glow and even if you live a reckless lifestyle you won't look like you do. I've got mine.

Incidentally, Ben had just flown in to Aberdeen from Detroit the previous night and then straight from there to Dublin, via Manchester. He obviously practises what he preaches as he was looking pretty fresh.

Among the ladies looking radiant today were TV presenters Pamela Flood and Caroline Morahan, editor of VIP magazine Emer O'Reilly - Hyland, beauty journalist Anne Boylan, LIFE magazine editor Lucy Bowen. Style goddess Leanne De Cerbo was also there, looking amazing as always, and informed me that Joanne Hegarty has joined Gavin Lambe - Murphy at the helm of the The Diary column in Ireland on Sunday newspaper.

Monday, April 04, 2005

Manic Monday

I always feel that I need a couple of days to recover from the madness that is usually the weekend. Today being no exception. However, I'm laying all blame with my old pal Catherine Tierney, who is visiting home from New Zealand. Well, it's always easier to point the finger, isn't it?

I bumped into Quentin Fottrell last night. Sporting yet another new pair of specs, the writer and broadcaster is as busy as ever. Representing Ireland for the international news agency Dow Jones, Q also pens the answers to the countries complaints on his site, www.WorldWeary.com. There's always someone worse off that you!

I also heard today that my good friend Caroline Morahan is set to present the TV show of the Summer. Entertainment site ShowBizIreland.com last week papped Caroline who was out and about filming the new reality show, so I just had to find out more details.

The as yet untitled series will follow the search for a dancer, with top coreographers training the hopefuls and selecting the eventual winner over a number of weeks. The contestants will also live in the same house for the duration, so there's sure to be some juicy stuff.

Speaking of Caroline, I see she is again in the running for the coveted VIP Style Award, which will be hosted on Thursday. But more about that anon.

I must extend a warm welcome to Cuan O'Regan - Bannon who entered the world safe and sound this morning. Cuan's parents, publicist Ultan Bannon and barrister Attracta O'Regan are delighted, natch. Congratulations to all concerned.