Black Tie Event, Belgrade, Serbia
On Thursday, September 12, I had the distinct pleasure of attending a truly memorable Black Tie event hosted by BMW Stefanovic at The White Palace (Beli Dvor) in Belgrade. As a plus one to a dear friend, a successful entrepreneur with businesses in Belgrade, Geneva, and Prague, I had no idea the evening would unfold into such an elegant and awe-inspiring experience. It was a perfect introduction to Serbia's social scene and a glimpse into the fascinating world of the country’s elite.
The evening began with a drive to the stunning White Palace, a royal residence nestled in the Dedinje district of Belgrade. For those unfamiliar, The White Palace is steeped in history. Built between 1934 and 1937 by the Yugoslav royal family, the palace was intended for the three sons of King Alexander I of Yugoslavia. Its white stone façade and sprawling gardens reflect a blend of Serbian, English, and French architectural styles, adding to its allure as a landmark of elegance. Once home to royalty, today the palace is occasionally used for official state events, charity functions, and private events like the one I attended.
As we approached the palace, I was instantly captivated by the sight. Although I wasn’t able to see much of the grand exterior, the atmosphere was electric. The entire façade was illuminated with exquisite lighting, casting a magical glow on the surrounding grounds. BMW’s latest luxury models were prominently displayed at the entrance, a fitting touch for an event hosted by such an iconic brand. As we arrived, we were welcomed by the gracious hostess and her family, adding a personal touch to the evening from the very start.
Upon entering the palace, my eyes were immediately drawn to the grandeur within. The black-and-white checkered marble floors beneath our feet were pristine, and the walls were adorned with breathtaking paintings and regal décor. It was hard not to feel transported to another time, one filled with timeless luxury and a sense of history. Beautiful models stood poised and welcoming, guiding guests through the palace towards the heart of the event – an outdoor garden that was perfectly curated for the night.
We were led down a grand staircase that opened into a gorgeous garden space where the main event was unfolding. I was taken aback by the sight of the black carpet that stretched toward a central stage. The atmosphere was intimate yet grand, with tables elegantly set along either side, candles casting a warm glow over the well-dressed guests. Around 200 of Serbia’s most prominent business figures, investors, creatives, and professionals were mingling, laughing, and raising glasses of champagne. It was a dazzling scene, one that felt like something out of a classic European gala.
For the first two hours, my friend and I moved from group to group, meeting fascinating people from all walks of life. My friend, well-connected in Serbia's business community, introduced me to several key figures in attendance, including the event organizer and other prominent leaders. It was clear that this was more than just an evening of luxury – it was an exclusive networking opportunity, where some of the country’s brightest minds and most influential figures came together to celebrate and connect.
The live music set the tone for a lively yet elegant evening. A talented band played an array of beautiful songs, creating the perfect background to our conversations. Guests took turns swaying on the dance floor, adding to the dynamic energy of the night. Then, to our great surprise, the evening's main act was announced – Ceca, Serbia's iconic and beloved singer, graced the stage.
For an hour, Ceca performed her greatest hits, and the atmosphere became electric. Guests gathered around the stage, singing along and dancing in unison. There was a palpable sense of joy and celebration in the air. Ceca’s performance was the perfect highlight, drawing everyone together in a shared experience of music and culture. It was truly something special to witness – an intimate performance by one of Serbia’s greatest stars, right in the gardens of The White Palace.
As the night progressed, the formalities began to wind down. Speeches were given, toasts made, and light bites were served as guests continued to mingle. The mix of business conversation, lighthearted laughter, and the celebratory ambiance made it clear that this was an evening designed not only for enjoyment but for fostering connections and building relationships. The conversations I had were engaging and varied, covering everything from business ventures to art, culture, and life in Belgrade.
Before I knew it, the event was coming to a close. We finished the night with more drinks, some light dancing, and goodbyes. As I was driven home, I couldn’t help but reflect on what an incredible evening it had been. The White Palace had provided the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrated luxury, culture, and community in equal measure.
Looking back, I am filled with gratitude for having been a part of such an exclusive and beautifully curated event. It was an honor to meet so many talented and inspiring people, all while soaking in the beauty and elegance of one of Serbia’s most iconic landmarks. I look forward to attending more events like this and continuing to deepen my connections within Belgrade’s vibrant social and business scene.
In the end, the evening at the White Palace was not just about the stunning location or the opulent details. It was about the people – the conversations, the connections, and the shared moments of joy that made the night truly unforgettable.
