Today I wanted to share some photos and thoughts on the recent press event I co-hosted at 14 Cavendish Square. You may have seen all the footage on mine and Tuula's instagram accounts, but I thought you'd enjoy a brief re-cap here. Firstly a huge thanks to everyone that turned up. It was actually quite overwhelming and not only did it make the event worthwhile, it gave me some real optimism that the appetite for socialising and press events are well and truly back. As Darren Branch told me, 'haven't we all just had enough of being stuck indoors?'

A huge thanks also should go to Looking Glass Cocktail Club. They provided some wonderful cocktails which everyone devoured all the stock in no time at all, leaving me having to order a huge alcohol order from Deliveroo and Getir. They have a bar in Shoreditch also so please do drop by and say hello if you're in the area. I personally would recommend the Sherry cocktail, however they have a whole menu of the best cocktails in London.

The event was initially brainstormed by myself and the STPLwear founder David Biren. We had an idea to put on an event for a handful of small brands to showcase their products but also all gain from a collective of audiences and customers. Things really started to take shape when I asked VMV Media to get involved. The founder Vedant Majithia of VMV has plenty of experience in brand building, cinematic filming and now events! He managed to convince Grams(28), JoyResolve and Bodylines that this event would be beneficial to their brands. VMV then provided cinematic film to promote the event, lighting, videography and photography at the event as well as some post-event footage.

Ok so a short word on all the brands present.

TUULA ROSE ARTWORK

She was really drafted in at a minutes notice and put some paintings together on linen a week before the event. She is so talented and it was a real thrill to see her art furnish the walls and add a creative flair to the space. Please check her out on Instagram and contact either myself or Tuula on Instagram for commissions.

STPL

Shorthand for Staple. You may have heard about these guys through GQ, or perhaps you might just be down with the cool kids. Accessible basics from the most luxurious textiles. Longer lifespan. Ethical sourcing. Extraordinary craftsmanship. Shirts and tee shirts. I know the shirts are especially high quality and it was great to see them in the flesh. Through subtle details in the design, tailor Francesco weaves into the shirts the sprezzatura that is characteristic of Italian tailoring. Be sure to check out the collection here.

DION DREYES

Yes it's me! Was very humble to be part of this and actually quite proud to show the collection off to my friends and peers. I got some very positive feedback and it also lit the fire in me to crack on with the second collection which will be called ‘PROTECTION’ a continuation to our pilot ’DAMAGED’ collection. Be sure to check out my unisex range and follow my journey on instagram.

Grams(28)

What a treat it was to have these guys onboard. Luxury quality with a sensible price, handcrafted leather goods sent directly to your doorsteps. I loved the sunglasses and case bundle, the billfold wallet and seeing the tech carry case up close and personal really made me appreciate the artisanal craftsmanship. My favourite being the 159 folio pro. The perfect mobile office, Made of Italian vegetable tanned leather. You'll have a better idea if you see their recent post on Instagram.

JoyResolve

If you're looking to take your coffee game to the next level then be sure to check out Joy Resolve. Their award winning brewers are not only innovative, but so elegant to look at. It will be the focal point of any kitchen or bedroom and will surely impress your friends and guests when you offer them a coffee. Great to meet the founder Josh at long last and listen to his story about wanting to create something with functionality as well as style.

Bodylines

Lastly but not leastly, Bodylines. Ethically sourced natural ingredients skincare ingredients. Dr Anisha and her husband spoke about the products with so much passion. They smelt great and soaked into the skin like hot butter. A truly honest heartfelt brand made by the kind of people that care about quality and take pride in their work.