The Birth of Annamis

The Birth of Annamis: A Journey from Passion to Entrepreneurship

In the summer of 2023, an idea sparked that would soon transform into Annamis, a venture driven by passion, friendship, and a love for unique craftsmanship. This is the story of how Matt, Jen, Diego, and Michal turned a casual conversation into a thriving business.

The Spark of Inspiration

It all began with Matt, a renowned chef at the esteemed Lucky Cat, and his wife Jen, who shared a deep interest in cultural artifacts. Their travels led them to Vietnam, where they were captivated by the unique and high-quality crockery crafted in the villages surrounding Hanoi. What started as a personal hobby soon revealed a market opportunity: these exquisite pieces were unlike anything available in the UK and Europe.

A BBQ That Changed Everything

In September 2023, during a relaxed BBQ at Diego's house, Matt and Jen shared their newfound passion with friends Diego and Michal. Diego, an experienced sales professional with a strong startup background, was immediately intrigued. He recalled Richard Branson's famous mantra, "Screw it, let's do it," and proposed that they turn this passion into a business. With this, the four friends embarked on their entrepreneurial journey.

From Idea to Execution

Jen’s sister, well-versed in the local artisan scene, played a crucial role over the next few months. She helped the team shortlist the best artisan factories in a unique village near Hanoi, ensuring they had access to top-tier craftsmanship.

The Vietnam Expedition

By March 2024, the team—Matt, Jen, and Michal—traveled to Vietnam to visit these artisans. They meticulously selected pieces that would form their initial collections. Accompanying them was a young photographer from Hanoi, who captured stunning visuals of the process, providing essential assets for their marketing materials.

Building the Brand

April saw the near completion of their website and catalogue. With these tools in hand, the team began visiting restaurants to gather feedback. This trip, initially intended for feedback, turned into a pivotal moment for Annamis. They secured their first orders, over 1,000 pieces from three new clients in London, marking an early success for the fledgling company.

The First Shipment and Beyond

A few months later, their first airfreight shipment was en route, with the official launch just days away. Annamis was no longer just an idea; it had become a reality. This journey from a simple BBQ conversation to a burgeoning business is a testament to the power of passion, friendship, and the willingness to take a leap of faith.

To Be Continued...

As Annamis continues to grow, the founders remain committed to bringing the finest Vietnamese crockery to modern and fine dining restaurants across the UK and Europe. This is just the beginning of their exciting journey, with many more chapters yet to unfold. Stay tuned as Annamis continues to blend cultural heritage with modern dining experiences, one exquisite piece at a time.