In honor of Sir Elton John’s Birthday today, I’m sharing the post I wrote when I attended his home near Windsor Castle for his annual White Tie and Tiara Ball raising funds and awareness for HIV. Such a WONDERFUL memory! Happy Birthday and blessings Sir EJ!

This spectacular evening marked the 20th anniversary of the Elton John AIDS Foundation which is a global organization fighting HIV and AIDS. Among the 10 largest AIDS grant-making organizations in the world, the EJAF supports thousands of men, women, and children with life-saving medication, as well as providing information, nutrition, education, shelter, and support.

This is HUGE.

The theme of the event this particular evening: love.

To quote Elton and David, “. . .If we have enough love and compassion to find the funding to make sure that no one gets left behind for HIV treatment or prevention, we can truly make the future HIV free in our lifetime.”

“. . .love and compassion. . .” 

Imagine that.

The reception, held next door to Windsor Castle, began at 6:30 P.M. on the 37-acre palatial estate known as ‘home’ to Sir Elton John and David Furnish. My girlfriend, Conny, and I were punctual. There is nothing fashionable about being fashionably late at this tremendous house party!

Once outside of the hustle and bustle of London we found ourselves in the quaint village of Old Windsor. As we drove past the Oxford Blue pub we waved to all the patrons outside who had gathered out front to wave to the cars passing by heading towards this event. The Elvis impersonator was a real stand-out.

At the time of our arrival, the mist that had threatened did indeed morph into rain showers. Our hosts were prepared for this and as we exited our hired car, we were met by men with oversized umbrellas who escorted us to the reception area where we were shown the coat check and given our table number.

With the first of our drinks in one hand and umbrellas in the other, we, along with several others made an attempt at strolling about the elegant grounds. There are several gardens and an 18th Century Orangerie to see, but we couldn’t really get any further than the Roman Terrace before the rains persuaded us to go back inside. Sheltered from the elements under a white mammoth canvassed dome, the well-heeled, the royal, and the celebrated from all over the world gathered to show their support for the foundation’s causes and to help raise funds for life-changing programs for the people suffering from or at risk of HIV/AIDS. They saw and were seen as they enjoyed the champagne reception featuring Grey Goose designer cocktails and delicate canapés.

The lavish dinner began shortly after 8. The menu:

‘Summer Garden’

a salad, consisting of Burrata, Barigoule Artichokes, Asparagus, Datterini Tomatoes, Rainbow Radish, Viola Flowers and Toasted Sunflower Seeds with just enough of a drizzle of Cabernet Sauvignon Dressing.

The main course: Milk Fed Lamb Noisette, 

accompanied by Kimichi William Pear, Carrot Confit, Smoked Potato and Summer Pea Puree, Olive Oil and White Wine Jus.

Desert:‘The Lovin’ Spoonful’ certainly didn’t disappoint.

It was deliciously presented as a Passion Fruit Bombe, with Lime Sugared Raspberries, Valrhona Caraïbe, Mango Sorbet, Honeycomb and Popping Candy.

Coffee, Tea and Petite Fours were served at the coffee station. Before the night was over, I saw that sliders (miniature burgers) were being served. I only remember thinking, “Tracie, don’t you dare! Enough is enough-even here!”

After dinner, the auction was held. Charlie Rose, the charming auctioneer of the evening, raised over 3 million British Pounds (over 4.5 million U.S. dollars)! Auctioned items included The Chopard Red Carpet Cannes Experience, a private styling session with Victoria Beckham, a luxurious Audi RS 6 Avant roadster, and several other exclusive Superbrand lots.

The night culminated with Coldplay performing and Sir Elton John joining in on a couple of songs himself. A highlight of the musical performances was when Elton and David announced Glee star Matthew Morrison’s engagement to his girlfriend, Renee Puente whereupon Elton and Coldplay singer Chris Martin serenaded the couple with Your Song. When all was said and done, streamers fell from the ceiling and as I said, there were those dang sliders and probably breakfast, which was served the last time I attended.

But alas it was 2 in the morning and our driver was outside waiting to drive us back into London town. The rains had finally stopped, but that was the last thing on my mind.

I was actually filled with awe for this man who could at this stage of the game just sit back on his laurels, but who instead has chosen the road of tenacity and dedication in heading the foundation that bears his name. I tried to imagine the number of lives he is personally responsible for saving.

“. . .love and compassion. . .” 

Imagine that.