Event Overview
Picture a bustling, vibrant event where the world of wine takes center stage—that’s exactly what the House of Accolade 2024 was all about. Hosted by F&BM for Accolade Wines, this event brought together the crème de la crème of the industry. Our venue, with its quirky and vibrant ambience, was the perfect backdrop to showcase Accolade’s impressive wine lineup. We had everyone from major retailers like Tesco and Asda to big names in hospitality like Matthew Clark and pub legends Greene King. It was the place to be for networking and discovering the latest in wine innovation.
“My company had the pleasure of creating an event for a leading wine company and booked 26 Leake Street for a weeklong immersive retailer event and company conference. We were blown away by the venue and booked straight away. The flexibility and versatility of the space mixed with its character and quirkiness made it the perfect venue.”
— Stacey James, Account Director at F&BM and Grand Central Creative
Challenges
The event was a dry hire, so no catering was initially included. The client wanted to incorporate catering and serve canapés during the four live tasting days. By choosing to manage catering in-house, they maintained a personalised approach. With small groups attending daily and no fixed canapé service times, our standard package required inventive adjustments to align with the unique dynamics of this event.
The Solution
To address these challenges, we stationed a chef on-site throughout the event. This ensured freshly prepared canapés were available exactly when required, adapting seamlessly to the event’s fluid nature. The client collaborated with our event manager to adjust service times as required. This approach successfully met the client’s needs, ensuring canapés were available on live days and aligned with event requirements.
“From start to finish, the team have gone above and beyond. Cate, leading the event curation, was excellent, helpful, and accommodating to the ever-changing needs that come with an event 8 months in planning. Every request was met with enthusiasm and a willingness to help us create the high-end event we were hoping for.”
— Stacey James, Account Director at F&BM and Grand Central Creative
The Outcome
Our strategic approach resulted in a smoothly executed event, even with the client’s last-minute requests. Having the chef on-site allowed us to provide a personalised service that met the client’s expectations and improved the guests’ experience. This flexibility, along with effective event management, showcased our capability to host high-caliber events. Accolade Wines made a positive and lasting impression on their guests, reinforcing their leadership in the wine industry.
“Ollie of Blue Elephant was incredible, leading the tech and scenic build for us. Again, with new requests and varying requirements coming in, he was patient, knowledgeable, and amazing to work with.
Faye (Hosch), leading the vinyl and stretch fabric requirements, was so efficient and responsive to our needs. I can’t rate Blue Elephant and Hosch and their teams highly enough. All highly professional and friendly in equal measures. The result of months of planning combined with their expertise and high-quality equipment made a truly spectacular event.”
“My last thank you goes to Alin and Toby (Venue Managers) who have been an absolute delight this week. They have bent over backwards and jumped to our every need this week and have made us feel very at home at Leake Street. We all know how tiring events can be, and the guys and their teams have been upbeat, super helpful, and lovely to work with. Fingers crossed we will be back and work together again.”
— Stacey James, Account Director at F&BM and Grand Central Creative
Event Overview
On September 9th, 26 Leake Street proudly welcomed back JSM Music Networking Night x Amplead Live Sessions for their second event of the year. The event featured performances by nine artists, offering everything from laid-back acoustic sets to full band performances. With over 500 attendees, including music industry professionals and creatives, it was the perfect opportunity for artists to gain recognition and make valuable connections.
Objectives
The event was all about giving emerging artists a big break by letting them show off their talents to key players like record labels, managers, and festival bookers. It also aimed to boost networking between musicians and industry insiders. Plus, the live performances were set to make a memorable impact on everyone there.
Challenges
Coordinating different artists across multiple genres required precise AV setup. Each performer had unique needs, and seamless transitions were essential to keep the event vibrant. Moreover, managing the bar for over 500 guests demanded quick service to prevent long lines that could distract from the performances.
Solutions
Our in-house team of operations, planners, and venue staff worked with the artists and organisers to keep the performances flowing smoothly, each perfectly tailored to the unique vibe of every act. Our superstar AV crew, Blue Elephant, nailed every technical detail, ensuring the sound was on point all night long. At the bar, our fabulous staff kept the drinks coming without missing a beat, keeping the energy high and uninterrupted throughout the evening.
Results
With over 500 attendees, the event was filled with energy, and we were grateful for the positive feedback. Both performers and guests praised the venue’s layout and the staff’s ability to make the night flow effortlessly, allowing the artists to truly shine in front of the industry’s key players.
John Saunderson, Head of JSM Management,expressed “This is the second time 26 Leake Street has hosted my Music Industry Networking Event. I’ve held this event in some pretty prestigious venues for over 11 years. I can honestly say that this is the best experience to date. Every single member of staff, from management to the bar staff, were amazing. Polite, helpful—nothing was too much trouble for them. Great venue, great staff, great location—a promoter’s dream. Thank you.”
“I was fortunate to be involved in the venue’s first-ever live music performance a fair few years ago, but now, with the venue under new management and a new setup, I have to say it’s amazing—so much better. In the last 6 months, we’ve done two music showcases here, and apart from it being a really cool venue, the team at 26 Leake Street—from the tech side to management to security and bar staff—have been so helpful, supportive, and just genuinely decent people to work with. I can honestly say this has been the best venue I’ve worked with, and I’ve now made it our Showcase home. Well done to everyone at 26 Leake Street—you make clients want to come back time after time.” – Gavin Barnard, Amplead, Chief Relations Officer
Conclusion
The event was a resounding success; bringing together talent, industry pros, and a stellar atmosphere. With a supportive team and a venue that hits all the right notes, it’s no wonder this event is becoming a must-attend for the music industry and both JSM and Amplead are keen to make 26 Leake Street their official home for future collaborative networking events.
Event Overview
On August 30th, Concept 101 returned to 26 Leake Street, drawing hundreds of professionals and students from the video game and movie industry for a full day of portfolio reviews, talks, and networking. Supported by sponsors such as SharkMob, Athena Productions, and Framestore, this must-attend event fostered a vibrant community spirit through knowledge-sharing and career development, finishing with a fantastic after-party to wrap it all up. Camm & Hooper provided the venue, catering, and event management support, ensuring smooth execution at every level.
Event Objectives
Facilitate connections among professionals, students, and sponsors
Boost learning through portfolio reviews and industry talks
Strengthen ties within the concept art community
Offer engagement with industry leaders and career opportunities
Logistics
Organising an event for over 500 guests at 26 Leake Street called for creative planning. The venue’s adaptable spaces were expertly utilised to ensure smooth transitions between reviews, exhibitions, and talks. Through the seamless collaboration between Concept 101 and Camm & Hooper, the event buzzed with energy from start to finish, making sure everyone enjoyed themselves and stayed connected.
Catering for the Masses
To successfully cater for over 500 guests at 26 Leake Street, we worked closely with Concept 101 to create a detailed plan. The menu was thoughtfully curated with a wide variety of dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, to accommodate diverse dietary needs. To streamline service, multiple food stations were strategically placed throughout the venue, reducing wait times and allowing guests to enjoy their meals at their convenience.
Jules Darriulat, Concept 101 Director, expressed “Concept101 2024 was a huge success, and this wouldn’t be possible without you and your team. We received overwhelmingly positive feedback from our 500+ attendees, who thoroughly enjoyed the talks, portfolio reviews, booth interactions, and the food and beverages. Having companies like Camm & Hooper truly makes the difference.”
Maintaining Attendee Engagement
Stefan Valasek, Director at Concept 101 shared his excitement about the venue’s setup, saying, “The zones really brought the event to life, making it both fun and engaging.” At 26 Leake Street, the venue’s distinctive layout, complete with chill-out zones for unwinding and exhibition stalls that sparked dynamic exchanges, crafted an effortless fusion of learning and networking. This smart design allowed attendees to glide smoothly between insightful sessions and friendly conversations.
“We’ve hosted numerous events over the years, and Camm & Hooper delivered our best experience yet! Everything from planning to catering and tech was flawless. Our guests were absolutely delighted.” – Stefan Valasek, Director at Concept 101.
Key Takeaway
Multi-faceted Venue: At 26 Leake Street, we offer an ideal space for creative events, featuring distinct zones that can be tailored for various objectives.
High-Quality Catering: Our food offerings were a hit, as we seamlessly catered to diverse dietary preferences and created different styles of food, from street food and canapés to gourmet dishes, and anything else the client envisions. Excellent AV and Tech Support: Partnering with Blue Elephant, we ensured flawless presentations and talks.
Jules Darriulat, Director at Concept 101, shared, “The success of Concept 101 2024 was due to our collaborative efforts with Camm & Hooper. The positive feedback from our attendees highlighted the impactful talks and exceptional catering.”
Stefan Valasek, Director at Concept 101, added, “Camm & Hooper’s expertise made this our best event yet. Their detailed planning and support provided an outstanding experience for everyone involved.”
Nestled beneath the bustling streets of London lies a hidden gem, a canvas of creativity where walls speak stories of rebellion, expression, and artistic prowess. Leake Street, once a dimly lit underpass, has transformed into a vibrant hub for street art and graffiti, captivating the hearts and minds of visitors from around the world.
The history of Leake Street as a haven for street art dates back to 2008 when renowned street artist Banksy orchestrated the infamous “Cans Festival,” an exhibition that invited artists to spray-paint the tunnel walls, igniting a movement that would redefine the perception of graffiti in the public eye. Since then, Leake Street has flourished as an ever-evolving gallery, highlighting the diverse styles and voices of both established and emerging artists.
Among the myriad of creative spaces that have emerged along Leake Street, one stands out with its unconventional twist – 26 Leake Street, a dynamic venue that seamlessly blends performance art, creativity, and community engagement. Located at the heart of this artistic enclave, 26 Leake Street has become synonymous with innovation, hosting a myriad of events that celebrate the spirit of artistic expression.
This summer, 26 Leake Street invites you to immerse yourself in the captivating world of graffiti art with “The Graffiti Experience” from June 6th. This event promises an unforgettable journey into the realm of street art, guided by skilled Leake Street artists who will share their knowledge and passion for the craft.
Guests will have the opportunity to engage with a vibrant community of artists, exchange ideas, and unleash their creativity on canvas under the expert guidance of seasoned graffiti artists. Whether you’re a novice eager to explore the art form or a seasoned practitioner seeking inspiration, the Graffiti Experience offers a creative environment to hone your skills and express your unique voice.
From selecting your colours to bringing your vision to life, the hands-on experience allows you to channel your creativity freely, resulting in a personalised masterpiece that reflects your artistic journey and the camaraderie shared with fellow participants. As a memento of the event, you’ll have the chance to take home your artwork, a tangible symbol of your immersion into the dynamic world of graffiti art.
But the Graffiti Experience at 26 Leake Street offers more than just artistic exploration. With drinks from the Buskers Bar and a dynamic atmosphere filled with creative energy, participants are invited to enjoy a lively celebration of artistic expression and connection.
Workshop Details:
Private Group and Corporate Workshops:
Looking to enhance team bonding or uniquely celebrate a special occasion? Private group and corporate workshops are available upon request, offering a bespoke experience tailored to your needs. To enquire about availability and pricing, please email marketing@camm-hooper.co.uk and our team will be delighted to assist you.
Open to All Ages:
Whether you’re a budding artist or a seasoned pro, our workshops welcome participants of all ages and skill levels. Discover the thrill of graffiti art alongside friends, family, or colleagues, as you explore your creativity in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of The Graffiti Experience at 26 Leake Street – reserve your spot today and prepare to explore your inner artist in the heart of London’s iconic street art scene.
As we bid farewell to 2023, Camm & Hooper had much to celebrate, concluding the year with the launch of our cutting-edge venue, 26 Leake Street. On the 18th of January, over 600 event professionals were invited to experience the magic of this unique space, an event that showcased not only the venue’s potential but also Camm & Hooper’s commitment to innovation and individuality in the events industry.
The event’s theme, “Express Your True Colours,” was brought to life by our creative team and lighting and audio-visual experts, Blue Elephant. The venue’s blank canvas nature was transformed into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colours, inspiring guests to express their individuality.
The launch was brimming with entertainment, which included live demonstrations by Leake Street’s resident graffiti artists, Shauna, Stockie and Lours, who set the tone for the evening through their captivating art. The Elementals, a reputable London dance group, wowed guests with a spellbinding performance, welcoming them to a night of creativity and self-expression.
The entertainment highlights of the night included various acts from Blank Canvas Entertainment, including roaming magicians, living statue performers, and busker shows. Each performance was diverse and engaging, ensuring that guests had a fun-filled night of entertainment.
The food was a visual and sensory delight. The bespoke Italian food station, where our talented chefs prepared truffle tagliatelle and orzo, stood out with its open-kitchen design, allowing guests to watch their meals being prepared. The Shawarma Bar, designed by Leake Street graffiti artists, was a unique experience that allowed guests to personalise their chicken, lamb, or jackfruit shawarmas. Our Culinary Chefs showcased their culinary abilities with canapés and bowl food, providing a sneak peek into the 2024 Spring Summer menus.
For dessert, guests were treated to a nostalgic Sweet Shop, offering childhood favourites like pina colada dib dabs and rhubarb & custard tea fools. A cocktail-inspired candy floss machine added an extra sparkle of fun to the party.
Signature cocktails crafted by Liquid Chef James Allen put a smile on the faces of guests. The three speciality Cocktail Stations – The Tuck Shop, The Smokehouse, and The Infusion Bar – all offered a unique flavour sensation.
A huge thanks goes out to all our guests, clients, investors and suppliers who made the event truly memorable. The launch of 26 Leake Street was a testament to Camm & Hooper’s dedication to creating extraordinary events. To explore our venues or get in touch with the team, click here.
In the heart of London, where creativity meets raw urban charm, 26 Leake Street emerged as a vibrant canvas throughout October. This remarkable venue, our latest gem, transcended into a haven for extraordinary experiences.
A Night of Change Under the Arches: Reigate Grammar’s Butterfly Effect
On October 10th, Reigate Grammar alumni gathered under the arches to inspire change through their ‘changing lives, building futures’ campaign. The evening revolved around the butterfly effect concept, envisioning the positive impact of even the smallest actions. The venue transformed into a butterfly haven, with delicate winged creatures adorning tables and arches. Jazz melodies filled the air, courtesy of alumna Karolina Csathy and keyboardist Zac.
“I just wanted to thank you and the team for all your hard work to ensure that the event was a roaring success. The positive feedback we have received from attendees was exactly the impact that we were trying to create, so we are very happy with the outcome. You have acquired a great venue with lots of potential”- Jonny Hylton, Foundation Director, Reigate Grammar.
Global Action Plan: Illuminating Luxury for All
On October 19th, we had the privilege of hosting an extraordinary event for Global Action Plan, an environmental charity deeply committed to reshaping our world for a sustainable future. The event posed a profound question: ‘What would luxury that’s fair to people and the planet look like?’ Influencers spanning various sectors came together to explore this vision, delving deep into conversations about reshaping societal norms.
At 26 Leake Street, we meticulously transformed the venue into a multi-space immersive experience. Each of the three key areas served unique purposes, guiding our guests through an enlightening journey. Arch one and two were adorned with headsets that intricately detailed the narrative of a changed future. These designs, thoughtfully created and produced by talented students from Middlesex University, added a touch of creative virtuosity to the event. As our guests immersed themselves in this visionary narrative, they were then led to the working bar area. Here, amidst the ambience of comradeship, our attendees indulged in delightful canapés and cocktails while listening to speeches from inspiring activists. These passionate discussions illuminated the core premise of their organisation, leaving a lasting impact on everyone present.
“I just wanted to say a big thank you for all your help yesterday with our event. I was so impressed with the level of service we received. I’d like to particularly thank Tobi and Alin who throughout the entire event were fantastic. It felt like nothing was too much of an ask for them- they went above and beyond to help, and they ensured everything ran smoothly. They were both an absolute delight to deal with- so friendly and attentive. They are true assets to Camm & Hooper” – Kristina, Programme Manager, Global Action Plan.
As we reflect on a month filled with creativity, collaboration, and positive change, we invite you to consider 26 Leake Street for your upcoming events. Whether it’s a corporate gathering, a celebration, or an immersive brand activation, let 26 Leake Street be the backdrop for your next memorable experience.
Have You Booked Your Christmas Venue Yet?
This holiday season, enjoy the festive spirit without the hassle of event planning. Join us at 26 Leake Street for the shared Big Winter Party, where we take care of every detail, leaving you to simply turn up and enjoy the festivities. Experience the magic of the season surrounded by the unique charm of 26 Leake Street. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make your holiday celebration truly special.