The Everyday Interview with the Rum Runner, Sam Paget Steavenson

T’is the season of much cocktail shaking and at the forefront of the most imaginative creations is Sam Paget Steavenson, owner & founder of The Rum Runner, a bespoke cocktail service that designs cocktails that perfectly compliment any event, bar or restaurant.

With an enviable client list which includes Ralph Lauren, Larsson & Jennings, The Design Museum in association with Vogue and Paul Smith, you can also see Sam popping up at events around the country in his bespoke Rum Runner Airstream.

Over one of his signature, fantastically boozy creations ‘Dusk Till Dawn,’ we asked Sam our 7 Everyday Interview questions.

What did you want to be growing up?

When I was younger I wanted to be an astronaut and would still do almost anything to go into space. Unfortunately, my understanding of maths and physics let me down.

Where did the idea for your brand come from and how did you bring it to life? 

The idea came from my sister, who I also have to thank for my first client. Thanks sis! My company’s name came from the rum runners of the prohibition who imported all sorts of spirits to the shores of America. Of course, what we do is completely above-board, but our job description is fairly similar.

The best thing about The Rum Runner is that it didn’t require any terrifying start-up capital or investment to get it off the ground. All I needed was a cocktail shaker and my first client.

What has been the greatest challenge to your brand/work? 

I think the greatest challenge has been endurance. Especially during the summer months when we are doing events back-to-back and might not get an opportunity to relax for months!  If I am awake, then I am working. This might sound quite grim to most people, but this intense period only makes up for two-thirds of the year and I am fortunate to love what I do.

Who was or is your greatest influence?  

I have so many people I admire and respect in a number of different industries, from chefs to sportsmen to artists. But in reality, my greatest influences are the people around me. Friends and family are the ones I turn when I need inspiration or just general life advice.

How would you describe your personal style? 

I am definitely not known for my sense of fashion and used to go shopping out of necessity once a year. Saying that, in recent years I’ve come to appreciate well-made, quality clothes. I’m drawn to simple, relaxed pieces and avoid anything overly stylish. You’ll pretty much always find me in jeans and plain t-shirts.

Tell us something no one knows about you?

I used to work as a Christmas Elf in Harrods when I was 18! The perks of the job included wearing red tights and getting laughed at by children…. and of course, all of my friends.

7 words to describe yourself  

Curious, practical, hospitable, enthusiastic, kind, childish and friends might say, a little bit weird!

therumrunner.co.uk