News – Rendezvous London

September 8, 2025 In News

Soho Nights: Domaine Pichard at L’Escargot

Wednesday night found us in Soho’s Grande dame, L’Escargot, where the room brimmed with elegant, weather-defying guests (think sunshine, thunder, umbrellas, and still immaculate hair). Glasses of Domaine Pichard flowed, conversation sparkled, and the bar team was a study in unflappable chic. Between salmon “snails” and perfectly bite-sized croque monsieur, the evening reminded us why September in London, with unpredictable skies and all, can feel like the very best season of all.

Our merry crew barely blinked at the meteorological theatrics (only three last-minute cancellations, bravo, troopers). Inside, the Snail Bar’s skylit ceilings glowed against the stormy sky, while sixty or so guests filled the room with the kind of easy, lively chatter that makes introductions effortless and the evening stretch long after you meant to leave. Behind the bar, Feban was unflappable, Ferdi kept the whole show humming, and Stanley (mixologist, magician, miracle-worker) dropped in to lend his alchemy. Even Mr Brian Clivaz himself swept by to say hello, which added just the right touch of stardust.

The night’s vinous star was Domaine Pichard, presented by our friend Eva Akerholm, known to some of you from our lockdown wellness podcasts. (Wellness, it turns out, is perfectly compatible with very good wine.) We sipped both white and red: organic, elegant, and the kind of wines that make conversation lift a few notches. As for the food, it was French comfort with a playful wink: “snails” of smoked salmon and cream cheese (our only mollusc nod), golden cheese straws, excellent nuts, sausage rolls, and cocktail sausages. To keep us vertical, there were miniature croque monsieurs, the melt-in-your-mouth sort that vanish in two bites and leave you plotting your next one. The combination, lively guests, generous wine, impeccable staff, and a room that feels equal parts glamorous and conspiratorial made for an evening that was, in a word, sparkling. Our huge thanks to Domaine Pichard for the wine, to the L’Escargot team for their seamless care, and to all of you for bringing the sunshine inside, umbrellas and all. Here’s to the season ahead, may it be as full, fizzing, and delicious as last Wednesday night.

Barbara Brudenell-Bruce

<p>Barbara is a classic entrepreneur; her career has been defined by a series of iconic start-ups within telecoms, entertainment, and fashion. She leads Investor Relations for a London-based consultancy raising capital for entrepreneurs. Alongside financial matchmaking, her passion is connecting people in person. Barbara’s innate sense of what it takes to fit people together, with a flair for hosting exquisite events, makes her a social anchor for all that know her.</p>

July 26, 2025 In News

The Art of the (Modern) Soirée: A Rendezvous at Lucy Wong

Tuesday 22nd July

Lucy Wong | 33-34 Rathbone Place | London | W1T 1JN

There are some nights in London that simply glow—not from the streetlights or the sequins, but from that elusive, irresistible cocktail of mood, lighting, and chemistry. The kind of night where the air crackles with possibility, and your glass is never empty for long. Enter: Rendezvous at Lucy Wong—where flirtation meets finesse, and all bets are off by midnight (sometimes sooner).

Lucy Wong herself, of course, was nowhere to be found—rumour has it she’s currently drifting down the Mekong on a houseboat full of poets and gin—but she kindly left her Fitzrovia flat open for one of the capital’s most seductive social affairs. Hidden behind an unassuming door just off Charlotte Street, the venue is all smoky shadows and Eastern promise—a 1950s Hong Kong daydream. You half expect Suzie Wong to sashay past in a haze of jasmine and silk.

Guests were greeted with a glass of fizz—because nothing says “this is going to be fun” quite like something chilled and sparkling in your hand—and promptly melted into clusters of candlelit conversation over velvet banquettes. The atmosphere was part Shanghai speakeasy, part glamorous house party, with just a dash of the unexpected. Add in a soundtrack of low laughter, gently clinking glassware, and a few truly dangerous cocktails (yes, the infamous Sleeping Tiger made a return), and you’ve got the perfect recipe for delightful mischief.

Huge thanks to the Lucy Wong dream team—Kat, Dennis, James, Editya, and Gee—who kept the magic flowing and the drinks even more so.

As always with Rendezvous, the aim isn’t just romance (though sparks absolutely flew), but connection. Proper, old-school, eye-contact-across-the-room connection.

By 10pm, the room was alive: voices low, laughter high, and a steady rhythm of “You have to meet so-and-so…” ricocheting across the bar. Stories were swapped, numbers exchanged, and one couple—we won’t name names—were last seen disappearing into the night, possibly in search of late-night bao buns in Mayfair.

And that’s the secret charm of a Rendezvous evening. For a few golden hours, you’re not just in London—you’re in a better version of it. One where people are disarming, conversation is unhurried, and anything feels gloriously possible.

So here’s to Lucy Wong, wherever she is—and to the joy of meeting people the proper way: over cocktails, dim sum, and a generous splash of old-world glamour.

Barbara Brudenell-Bruce

May 28, 2025 In News

Hello Petal, Flirt, Sip, Repeat

Hello Petal: Spring into The Other House

Tuesday, 20th May, from 6:30-8:30 pm

Charm and Connection at The Other House

Hello Petal at The Other House had all the right ingredients: flattering lighting, very well-dressed guests, and conversation that meandered charmingly from small talk to actual intrigue. Moatwood Gin was the pour of choice—botanical, crisp, unapologetically grown-up—while Something and Nothing spritzes quietly stole hearts. No awkwardness, no forced fun—just an evening that felt like something good might happen.

Enormous thanks to The Other House for giving us a setting as good-looking as the guest list. All lush foliage, soft lighting, and chic, calm, it was spot on. A particular nod to Jessica Barwell, a long-time friend and steady presence across our favourite London haunts. From Home House to Home Grown to here—it’s been a joy.

Bites, Sips & the Dream Team

Guests grazed on arancini, harissa halloumi, Padron peppers with whipped feta, and sausage rolls that vanished at speed—elegant fuel for sharp minds. Behind the bar, Fiza and Christian served with flair, David handled coats and charisma with disarming ease, and the ever-fabulous Jessica, Fran, and Ella made everything tick beautifully in the background.

Beyond Dating: Real Connection

Yes, there were sparks—but this was more than a dating night. Some drifted to dinner, others to the Monkey Bar upstairs, and one gang’s already planning their next outing to Taste of London. It was gloriously social: strangers became friends, numbers swapped, and laughter ensued. Chemistry, yes—but also connection of the most generous kind. And no, before you ask, no one ended up in the pool.

The Word on the Street (well.. in the Inbox)

“What a great party. I met some lovely people and had a fabulous evening.”
“Not my usual dating scene—but amazing people, great conversations. Thank you!”
“A splendid venue, a perfect vibe. My friend X is already planning to join your Club!”

It’s this kind of feedback that reminds us why we do what we do.

Membership Matters

If you’re already a Rendezvous Club Member, you know the deal: the inside track to the best bits. But here’s a bonus—The Other House is offering a special something to all of our guests. Fancy a tour or a day pass? Drop me a line. No pressure—just a nudge towards something lovely. barbara@rendezvous-london.com

Barbara Brudenell-Bruce

March 28, 2025 In News

A wine Romance

Thursday 27th March | 28:50 By Night

What a fantastic way to celebrate a week that includes the spring forward to British Summertime with our cheeky Uncorked the Unexpected wine-tasting party.

A heartfelt gratitude to the extraordinary team at 28-50 by night!

Team 28-50 is an exceptional group of individuals with relentless dedication. Each played a vital role in making our evening an absolute success.

A special mention goes to Raymund, whose exceptional management kept the party (and the bar) running like a well-oiled machine. And to be fair, we are quite a lively bunch of wine lovers!

Let’s also raise a glass to Mike Guthrie, Head Sommelier extraordinaire and the mastermind both in front and behind the scenes. He quite literally stole the show! Who doesn’t love a sommelier getting bossy with the right way to taste the delicious wine in your glass? After all, that was the event we signed up for.

We loved the blind-tasting taste-off, thoroughly enjoying the Old-World vs New-World theme. We explored two captivating wines – a wonderful fresh and light Vino Verde from Portugal representing the Old World and a smooth South African Shiraz punching above its New World weight!

The tasting competition notes were diligently collected and separated by handsome helper Henry into those that had answered correctly, and Mike pulled the lucky winner out of a champagne bucket. Jane guessed correctly (actually, she had just been on holiday in South Africa, so she knew a thing or two already) and proudly took home a bottle to treasure.

Let’s not forget the canapes – 28-50’s MD Emiliano Isufi served us delicious parmesan arancini, Parma ham croquettes, and show-stopping mushroom and truffle tartlets that just melted in the mouth.

And by 8.30 pm, the music had begun, we were asked to take our seats as our private room was turning into a jazz space joining jazz-loving members of the public, seated for a calm dining experience. Quite interesting trying to get our boisterous herd of cats to take their seats – but it was worth it for bubbly and heartfelt Jazz vocalist Nel Begley, who has found herself in the midst of the London Jazz Scene and was smack bang in the middle of our wine romance!

This wasn’t just a wine tasting; the rest was down to you fabulous guests, creating a social symphony with old friends, new faces, and kindred spirits in an atmosphere of laughter, elegance, and a shared love of the finer things in life.

Barbara Brudenell-Bruce

January 25, 2025 In News

Baby, It Was Warm Inside x Marmalade Trust.

Tuesday, 21st January | Home Grown Club

Thank you to everyone who joined us!

On one of the coldest nights of the year, our fantastic crowd braved the chilly January evening to make our event unforgettable! You are true social superstars, full of energy and warmth. Despite what looked like an archeological dig outside (just road works!), you were quite the explorers finding your way to Home Grown. You made it happen!

A Glamorous Setting

Home Grown was our home for the evening, a stunning six-story Georgian townhouse in the heart of Marylebone. Its cozy, atmosphere was the perfect backdrop to foster the buzzing energy that made the night special.

A special thanks to those who joined in with our Sharing the Love campaign. It was heartwarming that so many of you nominated friends who needed extra encouragement to join us. We met the 10 wonderful new faces who won the tickets and welcomed them into the Rendezvous circle.

Birthday Bonus

We celebrated new connections and special occasions—two guests celebrated their birthdays with us! It was a joy to see them share their special day surrounded by old and new friends.

Eighty incredible guests filled the space, including new guests from the Home Grown’s Membership, creating a buzz of laughter, conversation, and genuine connection. It was a night to remember, proof that January can give warmth, friendship, and new beginnings.

Marmalade Trust

Finally, thank you for supporting our partnership with the Marmalade Trust. Your generous donations are helping this incredible charity combat loneliness and foster meaningful connections across all ages. If you’d like to learn more about their work or get involved, check out the links below:

Some lovely Feedback:-

Dear Barbara

It was lovely to meet you at your event yesterday, thank you for your very warm welcome.

The venue was beautiful, and the room was full of such interesting people!

Morning Barbara

Just to say last night was a fabulous event. I enjoyed it so much and so nice to reconnect with regulars, one of the highlights on my January calendar!

Barbara Brudenell-Bruce

November 10, 2024 In News

Celebrating 10 Years of Rendezvous

Wednesday 6th November | 6.30 pm – 8.30 pm
28°-50° By Night 76 Jason Court | Wigmore St | London | W1U 2SJ

When Lou and I created Rendezvous ten years ago, it wasn’t just about finding partners—it was about building a community, a friend group where everyone can enjoy life together. And so to 28-50 By Night Jazz Club last Wednesday night to celebrate those ten fabulous years, the atmosphere sparkling with warmth, laughter, and a sense of close-knit friendships that have blossomed through our events. Friendships matter, and so does finding someone special to share good news with… and especially to tell your friends about, of course!

Our Not-So-Serious Awards Ceremony

This milestone deserved something special, so we held our own version of an awards ceremony to honour the people who’ve shaped our last decade. You might expect attentive guests, big screens, and suspense-filled announcements… but as always, our spirited crowd had other ideas, and it was more like trying to control a group of excited teenagers. For those who missed the stage action, here’s a recap of the night’s “unofficial” awards!

Best Schmoozer: Robin Shuker
Robin’s award was well-deserved! Not only is he our top social butterfly, but he’s also the one who introduced me to Lou—a gesture that needs no topping in my book. Robin’s humour, warmth, and irreverent charm always light up our events. His prize? A bottle of Pink Diesel Rose toast his next date.

Best Plus One: Elizabeth Sharpe and Peter Munier
Rendezvous pairs tickets by design—this is how we create lively and diverse gatherings. Elizabeth and Peter, our ultimate platonic duo, bring fantastic energy as a “plus one” pair. They received a champagne treat at Franco’s, our much-loved haunt.

Favourite Flirt: Cosmo Landesman
Although Cosmo couldn’t join us (duty called with a US election article), he still won an award for his role in our iconic “Love Surgery” events. These sessions were some of our most star-studded, unforgettable nights. Cosmo’s prize? Dinner for two at 28:50 Wine Bar, our generous partner.

Rendezvous Champion: Tina Coram James
Tina has been one of our greatest advocates, always enthusiastically spreading the word about Rendezvous. She speaks with a conviction that’s impossible to ignore—if I were on the Titanic, I’d want her on my escape team! Tina’s prize was a luxurious box of Love Bird eggs from The Chocolate Detective.

The Maestro: Michael Gelardi
Legendary musician Michael Gelardi, music director at Boisdale and our partner for Members’ Jazz Dinners, brings elegance and joy to every event. Even after four years of fabulous dinners together, I can’t wait for the next one. Michael’s prize was a bottle of Tidal Rum from our wonderful friends at Tidal.

Queen of Hearts: Elly Royal
Elly is Rendezvous’ hardest-working matchmaker. She ensures our male-female dynamic runs smoothly and helps guests connect. Her care for others makes a real difference, and we adore her for it. Elly’s prize? An afternoon tea at Lucy Wong and champagne at Franco’s. Presented by the fabulous Suzanne Noble of Advantages of Age.

Here’s to You, Our Rendezvous Family
Thank you all for making this journey so remarkable. The past ten years wouldn’t be the same without every one of you—whether you’re a seasoned Rendezvous veteran or a new friend. Here’s to the unforgettable memories we’ve made and here’s to many more to come! Stay tuned for more exciting events as we continue to bring people together in the spirit of love and friendship!

Some lovely feedback –

“It was such a joyous occasion, and I’m so glad to have been part of it last night and in the previous years. Congratulations to you and Lou on such a terrific achievement!

Last night epitomised what I like best about Rendezvous. I had some terrific catch-up conversations with people I’ve enjoyed meeting previously. “

“I thought the 10th-anniversary party for Rendezvous last night was a roaring success Seeing a room with up to 100 people and speaking to new faces and old friends. So much fun! “

“Thanks to you and Lou for organising all the ‘various gatherings over the years,

although I couldn’t see my ‘George Clooney’ this week, I looked around the room

and decided it really was great and felt lucky to be part of this lovely friendship group.”

“Thank you so much for the party. I met some interesting people and really appreciate all the effort you put into making it a fantastic event.”

“Thank you so much for inviting me to yesterday’s party. I had a wonderful time and met many interesting people.”

“Lovely, as always, to see you and all the fun ladies and gentlemen, and congratulations on the 10^th Anniversary of Rendezvous – and wonderful achievement.”

“Thank you so much for organising such a fun evening. Glad we came. Lovely to meet you and others .Xx“

Barbara Brudenell-Bruce

September 8, 2024 In News

Living it up in L’Escargot

Wednesday 4^th September l 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
L’Escargot l 48 Greek Street | London | W1D 4EF

And so to L’Escargot, following in the footsteps of an eclectic group of previous patrons including Princess Diana, Coco Chanel and the Kray twins, and up to the vibrant Snail Bar. The secret location on the top floor of L’Escargot’s glorious Georgian townhouse provides a bright and airy atmosphere with its stunning skylight ceilings.

With 60 guests making themselves perfectly at home last Wednesday night for our first Rendezvous party of the Autumn season, the packed room meant you couldn’t help but turn one way to say hello to one group of fun-loving guests or turn another and be switched into another lively conversation with a completely different group.

Pink Diesel rosé proved to be the perfect welcome glass, blended with pure love to #FUELGOODTIMES. Pale in colour, with notes of honey, peach, and citrus, it’s delightful blend of 35% Syrah, 35% Grenache, and 30% Cinsault grape varieties and a great accompaniment to the cheese straws, cocktail sausages, truffle nuts, and delicious croque-monsieur’s we nibbled on.

Thank you to team L’Escargot for truly stunning service. Head barman Stan hats off to you for utterly unflustered and superb bar service. Team Rendezvous (Lou, Isabella, and I) had the best time, and we hope you did too!

Many thanks to Pink Diesel for fuelling the occasion.

Barbara Brudenell-Bruce

July 27, 2024 In News

Rendezvous with Lucy Wong

Wednesday 24^th July
Lucy Wong | 33-34 Rathbone Place | London | W1T 1JN

The World of Lucy Wong

Lucy Wong is renowned for her exclusive parties thrown for friends and socialites at her glamourous London residence. And did we have some love and romance on Wednesday night – I am delighted to say we did! This was the Moon and Stars party and their alignment with the amazing cocktails was a perfect combination.

Rendezvous is about meeting new friends – not just potential partners – and we like to make connections that will last, and in turn let those intros help you meet your next partner. Two of our guests really hit it off and spent until midnight in a restaurant in Mayfair chatting, laughing, drinking, bonding and planning their next dates.

Nestled near fashionable Charlotte Street, Lucy Wong is a stylish Asian-inspired space adorned with Eastern art that attracts a beautiful crowd. Thank you to Kat, Julia, George, Edite, and Rosie, who kept the drinks and nibbles flowing. Everyone tucked into the super-moreish rice chilli crackers, vegetarian spring rolls with signature chilli sauce, and delightful duck, spring onion, and hoisin puffs. Soon the guests were working their way down the cocktail list from the Crouching Tiger to the Yangtze Margarita.

As the evening progressed, the room was full of new friendships, lively conversations, and romantic moments sparked. Rendezvous hosts the best and friendliest parties and this new Asian fusion venue was the ideal setting for cocktails, conversations, and new connections.

Barbara Brudenell-Bruce

May 30, 2024 In News

About Our Sold-Out Drink Pink Party

Tuesday 21st May
28:50 Oxford Circus | Market Place | 4 Great Portland St | W1W 8QJ

What better way to shelter from a freak flash flood than in the excitement of our Drink Pink party. Everyone had a story to tell of their determined navigation to 28:50 Wine Workshop, our venue for the night, and were soon calmed by knowing that just sixty guests got the lucky tickets to our very sold-out and exclusive wine-tasting party.

Why Drink Pink? I hear you ask – well, we were going to drink pink of course, but also we loved the lyrics from Audrey Hepburn’s movie Funny Face, and Think Pink sprang to mind. With its glamorous star and its light-hearted tone we felt it fitted perfectly with a spring rosé party.

We chose rosé tasting for May because, for many wine lovers, nothing evokes the feeling of sunny spring days like a crisp rosé. Whether you’re enjoying a glass in the garden or sharing a carafe at an alfresco dinner with friends, a good rosé is summer in a bottle.

So after we settled into the excited chatter of the room, helped along by a chilled glass of delicious Villa Folini Prosecco for starters, and with the backdrop and warmth of our gorgeous room, we handed it over to the experts to let the proceedings begin.

Thank you, Mike Guthrie – 28:50’s Head Sommelier extraordinaire, for presiding over our Rendezvous Rosé blind taste-off. We thoroughly enjoyed the England vs France theme exploring two captivating rosés. And two distinctly different flavours with only their light pink colour in common!

We blind-tasted Folc Rose, a lively dry English gem of a rosé, sourced from family-run vineyards in Sussex and Kent and crafted from a blend of pinot noir, pinot meunier, chardonnay, bacchus, reichensteiner, schönburger, and dornfelder grapes.

Next in the blind-tasting was ….ah the familiar taste of Provence in AIX Rosé with its elegant salmon pink shade, enticing us with delicate aromas of fresh red fruits, peach, and subtle floral hints, culminating in a long and precise finish with a touch of minerality.

Now, we’re sure you’re wondering how the blind tasting ended and how the vote went. I would like to say England came out as a new-to-the-Rosé challenge winner, but no, France still triumphed with the majority vote from you fine wine connoisseurs.

We extend our gratitude to Nikola Koppova, Marketing Director par excellence. She and her team, including the aforementioned superstar Mike who was fearlessly supported by Alex and Cam, are dedicated to crafting an exceptional experience and certainly did so that night. Until our next party, let us raise our glasses and celebrate the enchanting world of rosé, where each sip transports us to moments of pure bliss.

Some lovely feedback –

From the newcomers –

“Hi Barbara, I just wanted to let you know how much fun I had last night. Can’t wait for July!! “

“Thank you for a fun evening. When will you be holding one of these again?”

“Just want to thank you for organizing yesterday’s party. X and I both agreed that we had a great time; we really enjoyed the evening, meeting some interesting people and exchanging contact details. Looking forward to seeing you again at future events.”

And people who have been before –

“Thank you so much for another great fun event. Nice wine and nibbles and some great conversations. Looking forward to the Moon & Stars party on 24th July! “

“Lovely party! Was great to be back! “

Barbara Brudenell-Bruce

March 28, 2024 In News

Hello Spring Party – 26th March 2024

Home Grown Club | 44 Great Cumberland Place | London | W1H 7BS

Despite the spring showers, our guests’ spirits remained undampened as they gathered in our private rooms; the Salon and Secret Salon of Home Grown’s Private Members’ Club. Attendees found themselves enveloped in an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. The intimate yet welcoming ambience of the club provided the ideal backdrop for our like-minded guests to engage in lively conversations and forge new connections. Some even took advantage of the plush velvet sofas, settling in for a fun effervescent evening.

Every corner of the venue sparked conversation, from the captivating art pieces to the exquisite colour-clashing decor. And let’s not forget the exceptional cocktail list which further fueled the evening’s excitement – it was Espresso Martini o’clock at the bar.

A heartfelt thanks to Pablo, Alex, Joy, Mastro Jessica, and the dedicated team at Home Grown, whose unwavering efforts ensured that each guest felt truly valued and welcomed. When the guests arrived they were greeted with glasses of Spanish wine, setting the tone for an evening filled with laughter and conversation. Pablo showed impeccable timing and great humour whilst serving delectable nibbles, including Mozzarella and Kimchi Arancini with smoked chipotle mayo, as well as Mixed Vegetable Crisps with a fresh cashew dip, and Smoked beef short rib croquettes. These were so well received as connections blossomed, laughter filled the air, and cherished memories were created throughout the night.

Some lovely Feedback –

From a newbie

Hi Barbara

“Thanks to you and your colleagues for a fab evening last night. Great venue and beautifully organized!”

From a Rendezvous regular

Hi Barbara,

“You, Lou, and Elsa outdid yourselves last night! I thought with the dire weather the event would be sparsely attended– ha! I think it was the best Rendezvous gathering I’ve been to! The rooms were gorgeous and maybe that multi-room approach and club ethos made it a bit easier to chat to people. Many thanks for including me, it was great fun!”