Worshipful Company of Lightmongers

Jon and I got invited to a black tie event on Friday night. It was the Annual Livery Dinner of the Worshipful Company of Lightmongers. A couple of ATL’s guests had to cancel at last minute and Jon and I attended in their place.

But, who and what are the Worshipful Company of Lightmongers? (the following information has been taken from: http://www.lightmongers.co.uk/)

Back in the 50s, a few members of the Lighting Industry decided to proceed with the formation of a Society called the Lightmongers to foster friendship within the industry. The appeal of the Society was immediate and membership grew rapidly, but was agreed to be limited to 110 members which was the City voltage at that time. Historically the Wax Chandlers and Tallow Chandlers were suppliers of light, but both regarded electric light as being worthy of a new Guild and became very supportive.

Trade and craft associations have flourished all over Europe for many centuries, but the City of London companies, originally known as Guilds are now collectively known as the Livery and unique in their survival, number and diversity.
The social and economic conditions which gave birth to the original guilds have long since been overtaken by the development of industry and commerce, but the livery companies still flourish today as living institutions. They have survived by doing what they have always done: fostering their trade in a wide context, serving the community through education and charity, and embracing modern skills and professions. Today there are 107 livery companies in the City of London. (More information in this page)

For me, attending this event was an unique experience that I don’t think will repeat any time in the near future. It was quite an honour to be part of this tradition, even for one night only. The Hall where the event took place was just stunning, full of history and character (read about the Hall here and see a few pictures here). The catering was pretty much immaculate and the company very nice indeed (I spent half the night talking to Eric Anderson, Siemens’ National Sales Manager). We all even took place in the “Ceremony of the Loving Cup”. (Read about it here or here). I was told by different people that a) you’re not meant to drink the wine inside it and b) that you ARE meant to drink it. I was conquered by curiosity, so I tried the mulled wine! It wasn’t bad at all! It was a bit fizzy and quite sweet…

Jon looking great in his black tie, and me getting ready!

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