It’s doughnut (candle) time for Philip Sallon

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