A couple of weeks before the Followers of Rupert Annual we continued with the production of all the printed items that help to make the event so unique (and you can check out 'Part 1' of this process by following this link...)
By now Tony Griffin, the Annual Organiser & Membership Secretary has most of the bookings confirmed and can give us an idea of numbers. It's quite an undertaking… How many for lunch, how many have ordered a signed Rupert Annual and who are attending the Gala Dinner?
We design all the printouts, adapting the artwork to suit the purpose. A4 place mats, price tags for the Followers stand, A6 vouchers & tickets (some have to be numbered) and the committee & guest badges, dealer signs & dinner place cards all have hand-written names. We also produce the button badges, an edition of 300 this year, all hand-numbered. And we've made a little Rupert scarf stand to support the laminated name cards...
This year's Annual event is the 28th in the Followers' history. Many years ago I remember going to the 5th Annual, held in an upstairs hotel room somewhere along Brighton sea front, in the days when the Followers were a very small band of enthusiasts. Almost 25 years later this event has changed beyond recognition thanks mainly to the efforts and imagination of one individual - Tony Griffin (and his very supportive family) - who's passion for Rupert and attention to every small detail in organising this event has taken it to such heights of excellence and originality…
It really is a marvellous occasion, celebrating Rupert the nation's favourite Bear! There's live entertainment, theatre, and sales area, making it a haven for collectors and an opportunity to meet like-minded friends. The event culminates in the Saturday night Gala dinner.
KC & I are delighted to play a small part in it's overall success and we hope everyone has a marvellous weekend - especially Tony as Saturday the 27th August also happens to be his birthday!