Local department store de Gruchy hosted an exclusive fashion event on Wednesday 22nd October, raising £800 for Freeda, its chosen charity for 2025. 

The sell-out event welcomed 75 guests to the Mint Velvet department, where Hilary Palmer, Retail Director for Mint Velvet, flew into the island especially to host the event and unveil the brand’s new season collection.

Commenting Hilary said, “It was a truly remarkable evening, and I was thrilled to host the event and showcase our stunning Autumn/Winter collections and talk through how we are making sense of fashion at Mint Velvet. de Gruchy is an exceptional partner, and I was overwhelmed by the positive feedback we received on the night. I am delighted that we could raise funds for Freeda, who perform extraordinary work in supporting women and children in Jersey. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and for their incredible generosity.”

Guests enjoyed prosecco, gourmet light bites and an exclusive preview of the latest collection, as well as the opportunity to book personal styling sessions.

Simon Youden, Store Director at de Gruchy, said: “This was a very special evening that brought together inspirational fashion and community spirit. We are proud to have raised £800 for Freeda and are grateful to everyone who joined us in supporting such an important cause.”

Kate Wright, CEO of Freeda added, “de Gruchy, it’s retail partner, Mint Velvet, and most of all it’s wonderful customers have yet again blown us away with their generosity towards Freeda and the women and children we support. We are so grateful for this generous donation that will directly support vulnerable people fleeing and surviving domestic abuse in our community. Thank you to everyone who came along. Speaking personally as a big fan of Mint Velvet, what a wonderful event it was too!”