New Leeds events company launches during coronavirus pandemic

Rolling Social Events, the brainchild of Samantha Fish and Bruce Lerman, has launched at a time when the industry is being hit hard by Covid 19.

Co-founder Bruce Lerman said: “There is no denying that this is a difficult time for the hospitality industry. But Rolling Social was always our plan, and we figured that if we get started now, when we come out the other side we’ll be ready and raring to go.”

The pair originally partnered up to host the hugely successful Leeds Rum Festival - which this September celebrates its 5th year at Leeds Corn Exchange (September 19); there followed Leeds Gin Fair in 2019 – again at Leeds Corn Exchange and again very popular.

After last year’s successes they realised that between them they have a lot of great ideas, a lot of contacts, and a lot of knowledge and it made sense to put them under one banner - Rolling Social Events was born.

It has already been a tricky path for Rolling Social after the first new event they put in the calendar was postponed due to the pandemic. Gin Picnic was to take place at Kirkstall Abbey last month, but it soon became clear that it wasn’t to be. Despite this, the pair remain positive and upbeat.

Bruce said: “Gin Picnic will definitely be back. It might look different, it will likely be even better, but it will be back.”

In the meantime, the determined duo continues to build on the successes of their last four Rum Festivals and have launched a new event called Sip Along to give rum-lovers everywhere a treat during lockdown.

“We know people are missing the social side of Leeds right now,” says Bruce who owns Hedonist Bar in the city centre.

“And we in the industry are missing our customers and the general vibe too, so we have created an interim event to bring us back together and celebrate the world’s most diverse spirit – Rum!”

The first Sip Along will be hosted on Zoom on Friday, June 12 at 7.30pm. Ticket holders will receive six samples of Rum - worth around £35 - and will then hook up with Sam, Bruce and other rum lovers for an online gathering hosted by Plantation Rum’s brand ambassador Paul McFadyen.

Bruce added: “Paul’s masterclasses are always popular at Leeds Rum Fest so we’re delighted that he agreed to host our first ever Sip-along. At this event he will be introducing us to a brand-new Rum from Fiji - we can’t wait!”

Plantation Rums hail from different islands and different plantations across the Caribbean (hence the name). Paul will talk through the effect that the land has on the flavour of each Rum sharing his in-depth knowledge of the different environments and why they affect the flavour of the Rum. The Sip Along events will support the company’s brand giving people the experience they are renowned for.

Sam added: “Rolling Social’s mission is to create modern experiences that connect our guests through food and drink. Our Festivals have always had that at their heart; they’re not about us making a quick buck and disappearing – we never over sell tickets and we are committed to bringing quality to the independent Leeds scene. We’re about celebrating, sharing knowledge, and bringing people together for a good time.”

“We are proud to have succeeded in this mission and it will always be the ethos of Rolling Social Events.”

* Sip-Along: Rum is on Friday 12th June at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £20. Six samples of Rum will be delivered to your home free of charge. Ticket holders will receive a link to join the gathering on the evening. Book tickets - ticketarena.co.uk/events/Plantation-Rum-S

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