I am delighted to be joined for this episode of One Amazing Experiences by Atul Lakhani, Managing Director and Founder of Sanjay Foods. Sanjay Foods have won no fewer than 17 Catering and Event Management Awards including Best Caterer in the British Asian Wedding Awards. Atul has also won a Pride of India Award for his for his company’s professional, creative, innovative and forward-thinking contribution to the hospitality industry in the UK.
He has also recently been nominated to Chair the Large-Scale Weddings Working Group representing the Government appointed UK Weddings Taskforce and takes a lead role in the promotion of the UK Hospitality and Events Industry.
Atul talks us through his beautiful and opulent Maharaja themed party taking place at The IXL, Dallas Burston Polo Club for 400 industry colleagues and friends to celebrate his 20 years in the catering industry.
A magical musical symphony of musical acts and virtual elephants welcome guests as they arrive in the opulent surroundings to be greeted with cocktails & mocktails, Laurent Perrier Rose and Whisky flowing freely. Sanjay’s exceptional Indian and Asian fusion food is served by traditionally dressed staff. They deliver succulent seafood and delightful vegetarian dishes, including the house specialty Chaat, plus breads straight from their in-venue tandoori ovens. Guests are entertained by numerous exceptional interactive entertainers, DJs and the performances culminate in George Michael playing live.
Atul also offers great insight into his career and how he has successfully built up his business. From standout moments such as feeding 40,000 people at Olympia to how fate played its hand in delivering an opportunity for him to buy into his own special events venue.
He talks through his learnings, through the good times and the bad, and the very varied and exceptional influences that have ensured he remains focused on delivering a quality product in an ethical, caring and commercially successful way.
He touches on the importance of continual investment into your product, of following your passion and putting your all into your business. All while learning from your mistakes, never taking yourself too seriously or allowing yourself ego trips.
It was an absolute pleasure to talk to Atul and as he says "when we come through this pandemic it will be time to be happy" and his party will make certain of that.
