It’s doughnut (candle) time for Philip Sallon
Socialites and creatives flock to Chanukah party in Notting Hill to launch innovative gift
More than 150 people – including creatives from across the arts, entertainment and modelling industries – flocked to Notting Hill to celebrate the release of a new jam doughnut candle collection ahead of Chanukah.
Launched by Natasha Hersham – aka “The Basic Balaboosta”, a nod to the Yiddish term for a traditional homemaker – the range includes a candle that looks like a real jam doughnut, and another encased in a pink glass jar that’s jam doughnut scented.
Socialite Philip Sallon, once dubbed the “King of Clubs”, donned an image of a Chanukiah on his shirt as he sang an impromptu range of songs, including Maoz Tzur, Tumbalalaika and the Hatikvah.
Later, artist Danny Reuben performed his rap version of “Shalom Alechem” – to which the whole room sang along.
Natasha Hersham, whose range is now sold out, says: “It has been an absolute joy to celebrate Hanukkah in such a fun and creative way. Bringing people together to enjoy something playful and a bit different yet rooted in our tradition is truly at the heart of the Basic Balaboosta ethos.”
She adds: “I honestly cannot believe the range has already sold out, I am overwhelmed by the response and beyond grateful. This is only the beginning – there’s lots more to come throughout 2026.”
The event, which took place on Sunday afternoon, served up latkes and doughnuts with a blackberry and cheesecake filling made by award-winning chef Jemma Harrison of Kaunter.
Instagram: @thebasicbalaboosta
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