A Royal Evening – UK Business, Culture, History & Networking
On November 2, 2017, the BABCPHL partnered with Select Greater Philadelphia and the World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia for a “Royal Evening” at the Pyramid Club, 52 floors above the magnificent City skyline. The view swept guests off their feet as they arrived around 5:30 pm to network with international business professionals, and enjoy British themed food and drink. More than 50 members and friends from these three organizations filled the room for an exciting evening and discussion about UK business, culture and history.
Linda Collin, President of the World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia welcomed guests, and provided trade statistics on the Greater Philadelphia region and the United Kingdom. She then introduced the speakers – Oliver Franklin, OBE, the Honorary British Consul and Austin Morris Jr., Chairman of the Friends of Independence National Historical Park. Oliver provided a personal perspective about the value of the business relationship between the US and the UK, stating UK organizations are “your perfect business partners.” Following Oliver’s brief presentation, Austin told attendees the story of the Bicentennial Bell. The historic bell was a gift from Queen Elizabeth II who visited Philadelphia in 1976 in honor of the Bicentennial. Austin described the plans and transformation of the Park where the Bell will be housed, located at the corner of 3rd and Walnut Streets. The Bell is going to be placed in the center, surrounded by interpretive and interactive gardens. The space will also be used for outdoor classrooms. He explained the historic significance of the Bell and the symbolic relationship it represents between the US and the UK.
Immediately after speaker remarks, networking resumed. As the sun went down, the City’s lights twinkled, enhancing the glow of the evening and sparking conversation. Throughout the night guests enjoyed Beefeater gin, Scotch eggs, bangers and mash, and much more. To top off the evening, there was a business card raffle draw. The BABCPHL provided a branded umbrella and cap, and the Pyramid Club graciously donated a dinner for two. After the drawing event partners, speakers, and guests were thanked for making the night a great success.
