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An events company that launched in Leeds during lockdown has hosted a string of successful ‘social distance socials’ after changing its approach to business.

Rolling Social Events is the brainchild of Samantha Fish and Bruce Lerman, two of the city’s most respected names in hospitality.

Together they founded Leeds Rum Festival – which has been running for four years at Leeds Corn Exchange – and Leeds Gin Fair also at the Corn Exchange.

When COVID-19 hit they were forced to cancel the first event they were to host under the new company name.

Rolling Social’s Gin Picnic at Kirkstall Abbey was meant to be in May but following their agreed pre-lockdown mission – ‘to create modern experiences that connect our guests through food and drink’ – they took a change of direction.

The duo created ‘Sip Along’ an event that takes place in the ticket holder’s own home.

Lerman, who owns Hedonist Bar in the city centre, said: “People were missing social side of Leeds. And we in the industry were missing our customers and the general city vibe, so we created an interim event to bring us back together and celebrate the things we love – spirits and connecting people.”

They first Sip Along was staged in June and the company has held a string of sell-outs since then, featuring rum, whiskies, gin, wine and vodka.

Sip Along brings people together via Zoom. The ticket holder receives a link to the event and a generous sample pack delivered to their home free of charge.

One of the sample packs

Each event is hosted by a brand ambassador for the spirit or wine.

Fish said: “Traditionally we have focused on Leeds – it’s where we’re from, where we work, and what we love.

“Of course there are no geographical limits for the Sip Alongs and people all over the UK have joined us – we’ve even had requests from overseas, but we haven’t quite managed the delivery for that!

“We know that there are still some who are nervous about returning to a social life, but also we have found people who really enjoy partying on their own sofa.

“There are many reasons people don’t or can’t go to town; child-care, accessibility, and cost are just a few and we are reaching those people with this new initiative.”

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Fabi Viola

Brighouse-based web design and branding agency, Fab Media has experienced an upturn in new clients since lockdown began in March.

With non-essential shops forced to close and some business owners unable to trade, the pandemic has pushed many businesses online.

Most of the agency’s recent projects have come from businesses that want to trade online or improve their website.

Fab Media provides a range of digital services to clients, including web design, branding and digital marketing.

Fabi Viola, director of the agency, set up the company in 2016.

Among the firm’s new clients is Huddersfield confectionary retailer, Honey Bee Sweet Shop which has been able to start selling online after Viola designed and built a new website for the family-run business.

Viola has also worked with local charity Ruddi’s Retreat to rebrand and modernise their shop signage, logo, and menus. The organisation helps families with seriously ill children have access to a holiday home for free.

Other projects include an e-commerce website design and build for a monthly dog subscription treat company, More 4 Pets, and a new website for car financing service, Any Car Credit.

Viola said: “When the pandemic started, I was worried about the future of Fab Media.

“Lots of businesses were closing, while others were busy adapting. We were contacted by several local business owners who wanted to take their products and services online and generate a new income stream.

“We love working with local businesses and being part of their growth and journey. I feel a sense of accomplishment watching them flourish — especially in times like this. It’s great to see businesses finding new ways to attract customers.”

He launched Fab Media after completing a BA Hons in Creative Media and a foundation degree in Advertising and Graphic Design in Manchester.

The company moved to a Ltd structure last year and has continued to experience growth and attract new clients throughout 2020.