On October 30th 2023, the parent association’s largest fundraising event took place in the Benilde-St. Margaret’s Haben center. With over 60 vendors, this year’s Knightsbridge was the largest one to date. This boutique-styled, London-themed event not only benefits BSM but the small businesses throughout the community. Because of this event’s help to raise money, the BSM parent association is able to put on fun events throughout the year for students.
Many Knightsbridge vendors have continued to return, but there are always new retailers and products. With a wide range of products, from spiritual items to BSM gear, there was something of interest for everyone. Event organizer and parent association member, Tina Callan, explained the significance of the function. “We’re calling it ‘Knightsbridge Revival.’ You will still be in London, but you won’t necessarily have only Christmas decorations,” Callan said.
By purchasing from vendors around the community, customers did not only support small businesses but also helped create opportunities for fun students throughout the year. Some of these include the mother-son event that occurred earlier in October and the father-daughter dance. “[Knightsbridge is a] unique way to raise money for all of the wonderful programs that we put on for the kids across BSM,” Callan said.
[Knightsbridge is a] unique way to raise money for all of the wonderful programs that we put on for the kids across BSM.”
— Tina Callan
A large incentive to attend was the products that were sold by all of the small businesses. There were many options to find the perfect gift for family and friends and pick up some more BSM gear while there. The personalized items provided a large array of options and a fun atmosphere. “There are plenty of gifts, not only for yourself but for your friends and family,” Callan said.
Something new to Knightsbridge this year was the giveaways. Just by attending the event, customers were entered into a raffle to win prizes purchased by the school or given away by vendors, regardless if they made a purchase. “We will have over $1,000 worth of giveaways this year, everything that we are giving away is purchased by BSM or provided by the vendors,” Callan said.
BSM believes that this event was a great way to bring about community involvement and benefit the many parties involved. Not only were the items unique, but so was the event in total. It was truly an experience you weren’t likely to find elsewhere. Admissions intern Greta Nystuen expressed how much the community was involved. “There has been so much behind-the-scenes work going on and everyone is looking for ways to help and it truly shows how strong this community is,” Nystuen said.
The annual Knightsbridge was a great experience to purchase rare gifts and prepare attendees for the fast-approaching holiday season, an event created as a once-a-year experience.