Celebrating Elegance: André Jacques Hosts Annual Derby Day Eve Luncheon at The Langham Melbourne
As we arrived on the 25th floor at The Langham, Melbourne, André Jacques, the Regional Director of Marketing greeted us with the most elegant setting for his highly anticipated annual Derby Day Eve luncheon in the stunning Alto Room.
This exquisite gathering brought together an esteemed guest list, including media and publication heavy weights, renowned interior designer Shaynna Blaze, Caroline Ralphsmith, CEO of the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival, and Inge Fransen Chief Executive Officer of Vranken-Pommery Champagne, Australia, the event’s prestigious champagne partner.
Guests were invited, firstly for a champagne on The Langham’s coveted rooftop with panoramic views of the city. We were then treated to a culinary journey that included, Lime Cured Tuna, Grain Fed Victorian Beef Eye Fillet and Chocolate Chilli Truffle Torte to name a few, that perfectly complemented the Derby Eve atmosphere, all while sipping bubbles of Pommery Champagne.
André was in high spirits for his favourite Langham event of the season, showering congratulations on the special guests! He applauded Jackie Epstein for her stellar coverage of The Olympic Games for the Herald Sun and celebrated the fabulous Shaynna Blaze on the release of her debut EP, “Sweeter Than Life,” which coincidentally dropped on the same day!
Photographer Sam Tabone couldn’t resist the moment, prompting Shaynna for an impromptu performance. She leaped up from her seat with a huge smile, and sang along to her song that André had organised to play, that left everyone applauding with excitement.
Jeffrey van Vorsselen, Managing Director of The Langham, Melbourne, and Regional Vice President of Operations for Langham Hospitality Group, added to the event’s grandeur with his presence, reinforcing the hotel’s reputation as a premier destination for events that blend elegance with exceptional service, and spoke about the many new hotels by Langham, set to open soon.
Jeffrey said, “it’s the first event I put into my diary at the beginning of every year and there is no way I would ever miss this.”
This annual event not only celebrates the excitement of Derby Day but also fosters magical connections, whilst also showcasing the city’s rich culture and vibrant community. André Jacques curated an afternoon to remember, proving once again that The Langham Melbourne is at the forefront of luxury hospitality.
By Melinda Sullivan
Photography by Sam Tabone
