Celebrating Community Through Connection: Behind the Scenes of Kindred LCR’s 5th Birthday Celebration
When Kindred approached us to help deliver their fifth birthday celebration, we knew straight away that this wasn’t just about marking a milestone. It was about celebrating the people, partnerships, and shared values that have shaped Liverpool’s social economy over the past five years, as well as looking forward to what the next five years might bring.
From the start, our goal was simple: to design an event that felt like Kindred. That meant finding the perfect balance between creating a slick and formal event that felt memorable, whilst also creating a warm, welcoming space where everyone could connect easily, feel seen, and celebrate their collective achievements in an authentic way.
Relationships at the Heart
Relationships are at the core of everything we do at Little Umbrella Events, and this event was a perfect reflection of that. Guests were personally greeted as they arrived at St George’s Hall, creating a friendly, informal atmosphere that set the tone for the evening.
As each guest speaker arrived, they were shown to the designated Green Room and introduced to the other speakers and compere for the evening, so everyone felt comfortable and confident before their allocated slot.
The speeches, music, and programme were all carefully planned to highlight Kindred’s incredible network of socially-trading organisations and the real impact they’ve made together.
Through open communication and collaboration with the Kindred team, suppliers, and venue staff, we created a seamless experience that allowed guests to focus on what mattered most: genuine connection.
Celebrating Liverpool’s Community Spirit
Community is something we care deeply about, and this event showcased some of the city’s most inspiring socially-trading organisations (STOs). As guests entered the gorgeously appointed Concert Room, they were greeted by Gateway Collective, B4 Biodiversity, and Farm Urban’s fabulous table displays dotted around the perimeter of the space, which encouraged ample opportunity for networking and mingling.
As more guests began to arrive, Yamama, Cafe Laziz, Homebaked Bakery, Treaty Pie, and the Gluten Free Pie Company brought in a delicious array of canapes and small plates for guests to sample. Dietary requirements had been asked of guests in advance, and there was something for everyone to enjoy. One attendee said it was the best event food she’d ever had!
The atmosphere throughout the evening was one of collaboration and pride. Conversations flowed long after the official close of the event, and for us, that’s the true measure of success: people leaving inspired and more connected than when they arrived.
Looking Ahead
Kindred’s fifth birthday was more than a celebration; it was a reminder of what happens when relationships, community, and shared purpose come together, and we were proud to play a part in bringing that vision to life.
At Little Umbrella Events, we believe every event is an opportunity to do good — to build community, foster connection, and create something memorable without costing the earth.
If you’re planning an event that deserves the same care and purpose, we’d love to chat.
👉 Book a free 30-minute consultation to see how we can help you create an event that feels meaningful, inclusive, and true to your values.
Photography by Emma Case for Kindred