Launch Photoshoot 26th Feb.

After several weeks of organising, spending and begging, the 26th February 2011 finally arrived. The big day. Possibly the most important part of the RF business was riding on the success of today and it all came down to whether we could pull it off...

Despite a few speed bumps in the approaching days (and hours) everything seemed relatively under control. The London traffic on a Saturday morning provided the inevitable slow start, but allowed the early birds a chance to settle in with a coffee and get their heads around what was to come. Did anyone really know what was going on? We hoped Jess did, but you can never be entirely certain.

The Paradise is a well-known little place just off Ladbroke Grove, often associated A-listers and celeb-spotting low-lives. It was therefore little surprise that various 'models' were offered some class-A's barely 30 seconds after arriving. Needless to say, the offer was politely declined and the day began to gather momentum and the venue was ideal, with Jess' research evidently paying off.

As all the models, make-up artists, stylists, photographers and chefs set to work there was an exciting buzz in the air. This was a new experience for many of us, and the male models seemed to thoroughly enjoy having their make-up done. There were some very interesting outfits, most noticeable were the Mad-Hatter and the White Rabbit from the Alice in Wonderland tea-party scene. The Mad Hatter, played by Richard Verden, appeared to be in his element surrounded by young girls and plenty of alcohol. He fitted the character superbly and I wonder if he has changed out of his costume yet. For all we know, he is still propped up at the bar in The Paradise.

Kenzo Ejiri was a last-minute recruit for the photography following a minor disaster earlier in the week. True to form, he did an amazing job and will no doubt produce some magical shots. It's well worth having a look at his work.

Olivia von Halle pretty much saved the day, yelling instructions left, right and centre. She ensured the timing was bang-on throughout the day, and encouraged all the models to mingle and perform. The canapes and drinks continued to circulate, resulting in a hugely enjoyable and productive day. So many people contributed to the success, and the RF venture must be hugely grateful for all the hard work. This is surely a perfect platform from which to launch.