A year ago I received a phone call from a London PR agency asking if I was available to photograph the launch of the new Giggling Squid in Berkhamsted; I came highly recommended as the best person for the job in the area – no pressure! Pleased with my work, they have since asked me to photograph the launch of several other Giggling Squid restaurants countrywide and I’ve got to tell you, the attention to detail and the standard of food is as beautiful in every one I’ve photographed.
Owners Pranee and Andy Laurillard take great care in the choosing of the their restaurant locations, the renovations and attention to detail in the décor is just perfect. The beautiful orchids and blossoms together with the woodwork stripped back to their original state is their trademark style. They also took inspiration from their 3 children, who used to collect pieces of smooth driftwood, stones and shells from Brighton Beach; these are now turned into mosaic-type artwork for the walls which are just beautiful.
The salt and pepper squid is always a winner at these events. On one occasion, I almost lost hold of my camera in the stampede to reach the tray of squid on offer from a Thai waiter! A huge amount of thought and effort has gone into the menus and sourcing of Thai ingredients. Owner, Pranee, designed the menu and sources the best ingredients which are sent of from Thailand especially for them and all food is freshly prepared on site and cooked from scratch. My personal favourite are the Thai tapas at lunch time, I love being able to choose things I’ve never tried before together with the tried and tested favourites.
I think you can tell the authenticity of a place by their staff and I can indeed confirm that all the chefs are Thai chefs and most of the waiting staff too. Thai people are known for their friendly nature and that’s part of what always makes this event a pleasure to photograph – that and the perk of trying some of the food on it’s way past!
The Giggling Squid is growing at a phenomenal rate, currently there are around 22 restaurants. Londoners will be pleased to hear that one in Wimbledon is being launched next week, and another restaurant will be opening in Beaconsfield on 5th December, so I will see you there!
Hi Rebecca
We attended the opening of Giggling Squid, Beaconsfield earlier this week. Wondered if you were the attending photographer for this event? If so, I loved the 5 people photo of my Kaptcha team (Film Production Company). Wanted to get back in touch with GS PR agency. Wondered if you could help?
Many thanks Caroline Farmer -Kaptcha TV (Beaconsfield). PS love your website – very stylish