As the clock approached 3pm on a
grey and damp Monday afternoon, I began to think about exotic combinations of
freezer food I could chuck together to enjoy in front of some trashy TV - A
thought that was quickly banished as a last-minute invite to represent Harbour
& Jones at the 'Best Employers in Hospitality 2013’ awards popped up in my
inbox!
Too good of an opportunity to
pass up, I pulled together a semi-acceptable 'black tie' dress, whipped a few
curls in my hair and applied another coat of red lippy. With a splash of sample
perfume from John Lewis, I was on my way to the Lancaster hotel to join my
other employees for a *fingers crossed* celebratory night.
With champagne and olives on
arrival, the room quickly filled with an air of excitement whilst colleagues
nattered over who was going to win the all
important prize of the evening 'Best Employers in Hospitality 2013'.
At 7.30pm we were invited to take
our seats in the beautiful Grand Ballroom. Themed in black and purple the
ambiance was electric as contenders settled at their tables for the evening.
After wine had been served, the
starter was soon to follow: fresh roasted sea bass with red miso, pickled melon
and radish salad with yuzu dressing. For the main course we enjoyed a
breast of roasted guinea fowl served with pressed celeriac and truffle potato,
ragout of marinated artichokes, sun blushed tomatoes, black olives and a rich
tarragon chicken jus. As if I hadn’t had my fill after the scrummy savouries,
out came pudding, which was an adult’s Halloween delight. A clever play
on the toffee apple, it was a trio of carpaccio English apples, toffee bavarois
with Hampshire Cox and Bramley apple sorbet.
I really do have to say,
compliments to the chef. The level of presentation teamed with tasty, fresh
flavours and piping hot plates was a promising start to the evening.
Shortly after coffee and petit
fours were served, our host for the evening took to the stage. I never really
find comedians funny. However, whilst telling a story about being overweight,
he launched himself across the stage resulting in a domino effect of crystal
trophies smashing to the floor. The slightly taken aback audience didn't know
whether to sit in an awkward silence or roar with laughter. I chose the latter
and thought it was hilarious! I would have been mortified if this had happened
to me however it broke the ice (literally) and set the tone for the night.
We didn't have long to wait
before our category was called: ‘The Best Medium Contract Cater Employer 2013.’
Contending against The Good Eating Company, we waited on tenterhooks for the
winner to be announced.
WE WON! Being the raucous bunch
of personalities that we are, a field of high-pitched squeals and masculine woooo’s
filled the room. We all quickly made our way up to the stage with Mr Jones
himself to collect our award.
 |
| Putting the Jones in 'Harbour & Jones' |
Being fresh out of university
when first joining Harbour & Jones the opportunities and encouragement I
have had over the last two years have been invaluable. Although we all work very
hard at what we do, the emphasis on having fun is paramount. I love that there
isn’t a divide between senior management and employees therefore everyone is
treated fairly. The clear presence and input of Patrick harbour and Nathan
Jones keeps everyone striving in the right direction to do the best for the
company.
A worthy award for a truly
amazing employer!
Thanks for having me H&J!
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