How Supporting Small Businesses Became Our Heartbeat
When we first dreamt up The Pink Elephant, we couldn’t have imagined just how far our passion for supporting small businesses would take us. What started as a simple idea — creating beautiful grazing tables and picnic boxes during the pandemic — has blossomed into something much more: a movement dedicated to celebrating independent talent, quality craftsmanship, and the power of collaboration.
The Beginning: From a Pandemic Idea to a Purpose
During the pandemic, when gatherings and celebrations were limited, we wanted to bring joy and connection back into people’s lives — safely and beautifully. Our answer was to create luxury grazing tables and picnic boxes, designed to bring people together through food.
It all began with a friend, Tadinka, whose homemade luxury nougat and golden honeycomb were irresistible. Including her creations in our boxes didn’t just elevate the experience — it sparked an idea: what if we built a business that showcased independent food producers like her?
From there, we started sourcing from small, passionate makers — brownie bakers, cupcake creators, baklava artisans, and local fruit and vegetable growers. We discovered a world of exceptional quality hiding in small kitchens, family farms, and independent workshops. And just like that, our purpose became clear: to support small businesses by bringing their products to the tables of our clients.
Building a Community of Independent Artisans
Our early collaborations grew into a network of independent food producers — people who shared our values of quality, care, and community.
We curated grazing experiences featuring authentic Italian, Spanish, and French charcuterie, artisan cheeses, vibrant antipasti like sun-dried tomatoes, chargrilled peppers, and artichokes, and beautifully presented seasonal produce.
But more importantly, we connected with the people behind the products. For us, supporting small businesses isn’t about size — it’s about spirit. We choose partners who not only deliver excellence but who share our commitment to integrity, efficiency, and passion.
Beyond Food: The Bloom of Collaboration
As The Pink Elephant evolved, we realised that great experiences are about more than just food — they’re about the atmosphere, the details, and the emotion. That led us to expand our collaborations into floristry, drinks, and entertainment.
Independent Florists & Event Styling
We began working with SW Bloom in Southfields, London — a boutique florist whose artistry brought our events to life. From there, our network blossomed to include independent florists across London, Hertfordshire, and Buckinghamshire, all creating unique designs that reflect our shared ethos: quality, creativity, and authenticity.
Independent Cocktail Makers & Sustainable Wines
Our partnerships with Ipanema Events and Ohana Mobile Bars introduced us to the world of small-batch cocktail makers and mobile mixologists. Together, we’ve transformed ordinary gatherings into immersive experiences — one handcrafted drink at a time.
Then came Bancroft Wines, whose commitment to sourcing from small, family-run vineyards resonated deeply with us. Their organic, sustainable wines from independent vineyards worldwide now complement our grazing experiences beautifully, adding another layer to our mission of supporting the small and the soulful.
The Soundtrack of Independent Talent
Food and drink are only part of an experience — music brings it to life.
We’re proud to collaborate with Rosie Bringing, who connects us with classical independent musicians, and Zarah from Vibe Room, who curates exceptional DJs for events of all kinds. Through them, we’ve built a library of talented independent artists who bring energy and emotion to every occasion.
We also partner with Jen from Evoke Entertainments, another inspiring small business owner who shares our values. Together, we support and promote independent entertainers — proving that when small businesses unite, big things happen.
The Pink Elephant Today: A One-Stop Shop for Independent Excellence
Today, The Pink Elephant is more than a catering company — it’s a collaborative platform for small independent businesses across the event industry.
We bring together the best of local and global artisans — from food and floristry to cocktails, wines, and live entertainment — to create truly bespoke experiences. Whether it’s a private celebration, a corporate event, a festival, or a brand activation, every detail is crafted with care and collaboration at its heart.
As we move into the festive season, our team is working with outstanding independent caterers to deliver everything from canapés and bowl foods to floral installations and charcuterie displays. Each element tells a story — a story of passion, craft, and connection.
Our Mission: Taking “Support Local” Global
Supporting small businesses is more than an ethos — it’s our foundation. It’s how we operate, how we innovate, and how we connect. Every product we source, every partner we collaborate with, and every event we design helps to sustain independent makers and creators.
Our dream now is to take this model worldwide — to showcase independent businesses on a global stage, and to bring communities together through quality, creativity, and heart. At The Pink Elephant, we don’t just create events. We create stories. We build connections. We celebrate the independent spirit — and invite everyone to be part of it.
So whether you’re planning a corporate event, a private celebration, or something truly one-of-a-kind, get in touch with us. Let’s create something that celebrates small businesses, supports local communities, and tells your story beautifully. Because here, at The Pink Elephant, every event begins with a purpose — and that purpose is to support small.