As anyone who has ever lunched knows, it is surprising what interesting concepts, discoveries and plans can emerge from such convivial occasions.

In the case of Jennifer Gunn and Jacqueline Yeo, it was how to raise money for a local charity. Having agreed that this was what they wanted to do, Miss Yeo went online to find one. Next, they wondered how they would proceed with fund-raising and tossed around several ideas before settling on a dinner dance, which they ultimately agreed would be “something elegant appealing to all ages”.

“So we chose a black tie ball, and selected the local band Legacy to perform throughout the evening since they play a variety of music,” Mrs. Gunn said.

Thus it is that on Saturday, June 9 guests will gather in the Poinciana Room of the Fairmont Southampton Resort to begin a glittering evening of fun and fund-raising for PALS, Bermuda’s cancer charity.

“Having several of our own family and friends affected by cancer, Jacqueline and I thought PALS was the obvious choice,” Mrs. Gunn said. “PALS does so much for those whose lives are affected by cancer that by having this fund-raiser we can show our appreciation to all who fall under the PALS umbrella.”

The ball, which is being sponsored by their company, Aspen Insurance Holdings, will begin with a champagne reception at 7 p.m. followed by a five-course dinner, including a bottle of wine per couple.

Throughout the evening, a large variety of prizes will be raffled, all of which have been generously donated by the business community and hospitality industry. They include rounds of golf, and a weekend for two at two top hotels. Spot prizes will also be offered throughout the evening.

“A silent auction will give guests an opportunity to bid on a superb variety of prizes, including a beautiful, 18-carat necklace with baguette diamonds worth $2,000, a complete day of beauty at a top spa; a computer and iPod with docking station, also worth $2,000; and a framed print by a local professional artist, and we will also auction a unique prize for the golf fanatic: a hat signed by several of the top PGA players,” Mrs. Gunn said.

Tickets ($200 per person) are available from the organisers, who can be contacted as follows

:Jennifer Gunn: 297-9236 or e-mail: Jennifer.Gunn@aspen.bm

Jacqueline Yeo: 297-9238 or e-mail: Jacqueline.Yeo@aspen.bm