All in good taste

Jessica Breen, Nicole Chapman and Ashlee Bennett at yesterday's high tea. 143744 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM

YOU should never need an excuse to catch up over scones and champagne, but supporting a new local charity is a pretty good one.
Some 55 women gathered at EightyOne restaurant in Berwick on Thursday 3 September for a high tea to benefit ‘The Goodness Empire’ – a charity which will make-over rooms for people in need.
The idea is the brainchild of Pakenham interior designer Nicole Chapman, whose business Empire Interiors has seen great success in the area.
She operates on the belief that a warm, safe and beautiful living space can make a significant difference in a person’s life.
Speaking at Thursday’s high tea, Nicole said she hoped to make a difference in the lives of people going through tough times.
“The Goodness Empire was started with the vision to create beautiful homes for people and families in need through a series of surprise room makeovers,” she said.
“We’re involved with another charity who will provide us with different families to look at as far as candidates and then we’ll choose the best candidates and do the makeovers.
Guests enjoyed treats such as cheesecake, quiche and macaroons at the high tea, which was complete with a lolly bar and goody bags for each guest.
The first of many events that will be held to benefit The Goodness Empire, Nicole said the luncheon had been a great success.
“Today was about bringing together a number of clients and friends to test out the waters at our first corporate event, and it’s gone really well so we’re excited.”