Programmes, Wine and Tweed
As a not-for-profit company the support we receive from individuals and businesses is invaluable, particularly in these rather lean times. This support can take the form of cash, gold bullion (we wish) or 'in kind' gifts like tweed ties and wine (oh yes). So, we would like to introduce you to three companies who are supporting us this year. A rousing cheer please for Allander, Henderson Wines and Walker Slater whose sponsorship of our book festival shows their good taste as well as a certain magnanimity.
Allander
Allander are an Edinburgh-based print company who produce and distribute a large range of high quality print products with minimum fuss. For three years now Allander has produced all West Port Book Festival publicity material, with wonderful results. They are pretty good about using 'layman terms' if necessary, so you don't have to pretend you know what you're talking about (although our designer does), and are obliging about picking up proofs and dropping off the finished product. Most importantly, we know we can rely on them - none of this 'sorry, we're running late stuff' that makes any director want to pull their hair out in frustration. Plus Allander have stepped in this year as our programme sponsor, thus ensuring our gratitude if not forever, at least for a fair time to come.
So, in answer to that oft asked question, 'who printed your programme,' the answer is: Allander. www.allander.com
HA
Henderson Wines
My venture by foot to our sponsor Henderson Wine, though almost an hour from the north of the city, was opportunely rewarded. Not only did David Henderson and Doug Bond supply us with excellent wine for our programme launch (for which the West Port Book Festival is hugely thankful) but they have created a welcoming and unassuming service at the store on 109 Comiston Road.
Established in 2001 Henderson Wines is one of Edinburgh's leading independent wine merchants with over 1000 wines for sale well as over 100 beers and 50 or so Malts. Their aim is to provide a friendly and knowledgeable service which they have certainly proved with a legion of loyal customers. It’s the little touches which make Henderson Wines a standout such as reimbursing your parking fee on purchases over £25 and free delivery.
With a caption like 'Independent Wines for Independent Minds' and the recent(ish) collapse of the Wine Rack chain, Henderson Wines are promoting a welcome push for autonomy of choice when it comes to your alcoholic beverage indulgence and the pleasure of choosing in a convivial atmosphere often unexpected in wine shops.
MM
Walker Slater
It’s simply elementary…for the best tweed in town, visit Walker Slater on Victoria Street. Business partners Paul Walker and Frances Slater started this wee tweed shop in order to provide elegant coats to warm the Scots, whose kilts are not so cozy in the winter. Now, Walker Slater’s linen pieces complement the long warm days ahead and the new line of women’s wear adds some elegance to the gentlemen’s timeless tweed classics. Their creations take you from the office to Johnson’s western islands and, with a shop in London, all the way down the country in style.
Several gorgeous photo shoots from just down the road in the Borders to all the way across Europe in Germany can be seen online. Plus, founder Paul Walker, client manager Simon and intern Angela are some of the spunkiest, sparkling individuals you will ever meet and will do everything they can to assist you in your choice of handsome wardrobe feature. Visit in person at 20 Victoria Street EH1 2HG, online at www.walkerslater.com or over the phone at 0131 220 2636
EA
Posted by Michelle on June 06, 2010.