Guards Polo Club

July 2005

Guards Polo Club, Windsor

reason / objective

The annual Cartier International Polo is one of the most celebrated events of the Social calendar. Traditionally there have been 2 after parties, 1 hosted by a London nightclub and 1 which has very much been seen as its ‘poorer little sister’. Smyle saw an opportunity to produce an alternative event that would rival the expensive nightclub party.

concept / solution

Being the first time Smyle had produced a ticketed event that was for the public, rather than a private or corporate event, it was important to introduce ourselves to the Summer party scene with a ‘Bang’!
A fantastic modern structure, that had never been seen before in Europe was shipped over from Canada.
During the daytime, to ensure an informal, laid back feel, pre-ordered luxury picnics were available. These were to be enjoyed at picnic tables, over looking the Polo pitch. However due to what can only be described as Glastonbury style downpours all the lunches had to be moved inside, to the comfort of the main party marquee. Acoustic music and magician Sav provided table magic to keep guests happy despite the bad weather.
After the Cartier International match, the Official Players Marquee opened its gates to 3000 suitably wet party goers…and sunshine! Guests could enjoy a delicious summer BBQ and Smyle enthused the party vibe via summer tunes provided superbly by DJ Georgie. The chilled summer feel was enhanced greatly through a ‘chill-out’ area provided in conjunction with Carpe Diem. Guests stayed refreshed in the chill-out area with free revitalising Carpe Diem drinks and free home-made Morelli ice cream.
This led into the now notorious and ultra cool Gumball 3000 hosting their official 2005 awards ceremony, which every Players Marquee Party guest was welcome to partake in! This included a display of some of their finest cars from Ferraris to a super charged VW Camper Van!
To compliment the Gumball 3000 cars, none other than a Double-decker London bus, complete with PS2’s could entertain younger guests or those with a particular penchant for consoles who should know better! All proceeds from the entrance fee to the Bus were donated to the Red Cross London Bombings Relief Charitable Fund.
The main attraction, and quite a coup for the event was securing James Blunt to perform a set, especially as his album and single went to number 1 the day of the party!
The brilliant DJ Ebe followed Blunts set with a storming set into the night and off the wall entertainers, stilt walkers, fire jugglers and dancers adding to the incredible party atmosphere!
The blank canvas that the structure provided allowed for a breathtaking light show. This, combined with all the other aspects of the event helped to attract the type of star guest that had, in previous years, only attended the London nightclub party, and set a real precedent for years to come.