The Big Table Group’s Dream Makers Ball 2026 was a spectacular success last night, bringing together business leaders and supporters for an unforgettable evening of entertainment and fundraising in support of children’s charity Dreams Come True.
Hosted by award-winning actress, comedian and writer Sally Phillips, the glittering event took place in the magnificent Ballroom at the Royal Lancaster Hotel, London, and celebrated the extraordinary impact that can be achieved when businesses and supporters come together to help children and families facing some of life’s toughest challenges.
The evening marked another major milestone in The Big Table Group’s partnership with Dreams Come True, with the Group having raised an incredible £80,000 on the night and a further £120,000 throughout the year across all restaurants through colleague fundraising, customer campaigns and flagship events.
The Dream Makers Ball built on the success of last year’s inaugural event, which raised an outstanding £70,000 for Dreams Come True.
The Big Table Group, one of the UK’s leading hospitality businesses and operator of Bella Italia, Las Iguanas, Banana Tree, Frankie & Benny’s, Chiquito, Café Rouge and Amalfi, has become Dreams Come True’s most significant corporate supporter. With more than 200 restaurants and 5,000 team members nationwide, its fundraising and awareness campaigns have helped the charity reach and support more children and families across the UK.
Sally Phillips brought her trademark warmth and humour to the evening, guiding guests through a packed programme of entertainment, inspiring stories and fundraising.
Best known for her role as Shazzer in the Bridget Jones films and as co-creator and star of the Emmy Award-winning comedy series Smack the Pony, Sally was joined by special guest Will Bayley MBE, Paralympic Gold Medallist and one of Britain’s most inspirational sporting figures.
Will shared his remarkable story of resilience, determination and achievement, helping make the evening particularly memorable for guests.
The night featured a champagne reception, premium dining, live entertainment and a fundraising auction, alongside powerful stories demonstrating the difference Dreams Come True makes to children living with serious illnesses, disabilities and life-limiting conditions.
Lisa King OBE, Chief Executive of Dreams Come True, said: “What an extraordinary evening. We are incredibly grateful to Sally Phillips, Will Bayley, The Big Table Group and every single person who joined us and supported the Dream Makers Ball.
“The generosity in the room was overwhelming and, most importantly, every pound raised will help us create moments of joy, hope and lasting memories for children and families facing incredibly difficult circumstances.
“The Big Table Group continues to be an extraordinary partner to Dreams Come True, and we cannot thank its teams, customers and supporters enough for everything they do to help us make more dreams possible.”
Alan Morgan, CEO of The Big Table Group, said: “Last night was a fantastic demonstration of what can happen when people come together behind a brilliant cause.
“We are incredibly proud of the success of this year’s Dream Makers Ball and hugely grateful to Sally, Will, our guests, partners, colleagues and everyone who gave so generously throughout the evening.
“Dreams Come True does remarkable work for children and families across the UK, and we’re proud that our teams and customers continue to get behind the charity with such enthusiasm. Raising £200k so far this year is an achievement everyone across The Big Table Group can be incredibly proud of.”
Dreams Come True is the UK’s only wish-granting charity dedicated exclusively to supporting children with serious illnesses, disabilities or life-limiting conditions who are also living in the highest areas of deprivation.
The charity creates unique, personalised experiences designed to bring joy, confidence and hope to children aged 5-18, while providing precious memories for their families during extraordinarily difficult times.
