Berlin is where LAR began. Neukölln is where our founder lived for 13 years, where she grew as a person, and where she adopted her dog. So coming back to the neighbourhood for our first ever event felt exactly right. We spent a slow Sunday afternoon at Studio 14 Haarschneiderei in Berlin, where we introduced the collection to a wider audience for the very first time. zest Wein curated a selection of small Portuguese producers, championing female winemakers who are reshaping wine with passion and a distinct point of view.
And of course, there was a fundraiser. Guests could donate €10 and draw a card for a specific animal from the public shelter in Mafra, Portugal. This brought the animals’ individual stories to life and made it possible to buy a toy, food or treats for that particular dog or cat. A small gesture with a big heart. Thank you to everyone who took part.
And since rescue stories don’t always go as planned, we also hosted a last minute fundraiser for one dog specifically.
Drako is twelve years old. A senior dog, surrendered by his family, he spent a year in a shelter and passed through two foster homes before finally getting adopted – only to be returned again, just days before our launch event. We shared his story in the room that afternoon and launched an online fundraiser so people from all over the world could contribute to his future care at a private sanctuary in Portugal. The response was overwhelming. Together, we raised €1,292 – €315 for the dogs and cats in the shelter, and €977 for Drako specifically.
Because every dog and cat deserves a second chance at life – and a place to call home.
