Back to the PRL – cocktail descriptions and the concept of a photoshoot for Pilipalili


CONTEXT


Pilipalili is a drinkbar in Tarnów that specializes in signature cocktails, offering guests unforgettable taste experiences and a unique atmosphere in a cozy interior.


GOALS

The owners of the venue asked us to create descriptions for their signature cocktails. Our task was also to develop a concept for a photo shoot inspired by the Polish People's Republic, referring to iconic elements of that era and evoking nostalgia. A key element was to assemble props and wardrobe to best reflect the atmosphere of the Polish People's Republic. The entire project also included coordination of the shoot.

 


SCOPE OF WORK

  • Developing a coherent narrative that would introduce guests to the atmosphere of the Polish People's Republic.
  • Preparing cocktail descriptions.
  • Development of the concept of a photo shoot.
  • Preparing a detailed list of props and wardrobe items.
  • Selection of accessories, which were intended to emphasize the character of the drinks.
  • Photo shoot coordination.


Detailed scope of work

  • Developing a coherent narrative, which would introduce guests to the atmosphere of the Polish People's Republic, referring to memories from that period, while maintaining high quality mixology.

     

  • Preparation of cocktail descriptions, which would combine humor, nostalgia and creativity. Each description was to capture the essence of the PRL spirit and attract the attention of guests.

     

  • Development of the photo session concept, which aimed to capture cocktails in an authentic PRL setting, with attention to detail.

     

  • Designing a detailed list of props and wardrobe items (e.g. PRL tracksuits, elegant shoes, wigs) to introduce the models to the atmosphere of the 60s and 70s.

     

  • Selection of accessories, which were intended to emphasize the character of the drinks, such as vintage glasses, old porcelain, ashtrays, as well as PRL-style wardrobe elements – from wigs to elegant fur coats.

     

  • Photoshoot coordination – our team acted as coordinators during the entire photo session. Together with the photographer, we selected the best angles, compositions and stylings to best capture the atmosphere of the Polish People's Republic and the aesthetics of the drinks. We helped arrange the shots, taking care of details such as the right amount of props, the poses of the models and the way the cocktails were arranged in the glasses.

Creative concept


Our goal was to create cocktail descriptions that not only taste exceptional, but also tell a story. The names of the drinks were inspired by sayings, objects and events characteristic of the Polish People's Republic. Each cocktail had not only a unique taste, but also a story that referred to memories from a bygone era.


Cocktail name examples:

 

  • "Absentee" – a reference to a lazy life without obligations, inspired by the PRL heroes "on vacation".

     

  • "It's kind of luxurious here" – a reference to a popular saying from the Polish People’s Republic, in which luxury meant something completely different than today.

     

  • "Basket Republic" – a reminder of the times when Sunday tea in a basket was a symbol of family moments.

     

  • "Sugar Strengthens" – a twist on a popular alcoholic drink from the 70s and 80s.

     

  • "Apple" – a tribute to cheap fruit wines that reigned at every house party in the Polish People’s Republic.


Here are some sample cocktail description suggestions:



It's kind of luxurious here.. – Imagine the times when luxury meant a crystal glass and some marmalade. Strange, isn't it? That's why we're improving this version and adding gin, frizzante and strawberry marmalade with Aperol, and finishing it all with vanilla foam! Thanks to this, we create a truly luxurious cocktail that will transport you to a movie from the times of the Polish People's Republic.


Slacker – Do you know what it's like to sneak through life as a secret agent on an indefinite vacation? Then Bumelant is just for you! With it in your hand, your lazy evenings will turn into a festival of memories of how great it was to do... nothing. Inspired by the most creative slackers of that era, it's a real hit in the "how to get away and have fun" category. And best of all, it's served in a stylish literary glass and with banana ice!





Vodka and a snack
A tribute to male meetings in the times of the Polish People's Republic. The cocktail is served with bacon chips, combining strong vodka with the sour taste of pickled cucumber. Characteristic and dry, like the Polish People's Republic itself - perfect for conversations about big politics and even bigger plans.




They drank CocktaIf you didn't drink Cockta in the PRL, try our version! This cocktail, served in a stylish bottle, is a twist on the classic, strong Old Fashioned. In our version, it is a combination of Bulleit Bourbon with homemade Cola-flavored syrup. Pili Cokta tastes like the PRL - a bit nostalgic, a bit with a bang. 

 

Props and wardrobe


To ensure that the cocktail photos were authentic and full of the PRL atmosphere, we created a detailed list of props and wardrobe items that were intended to reflect the characteristic style of that era. As part of the session, we also worked with Mr. Mirek,
owner of the shop, which provided us with numerous interior design elements from the PRL era, such as furniture, record players, vinyl records and other decorations.

Sample props list:

  • Armchairs, tables, carpet in the PRL style
  • Old TVs, record players, vinyl records
  • Flowers for a vase, a newspaper from the Polish People's Republic
  • Accessories: ashtrays, fruit plate, old camera
  • Elegant PRL-style jewelry, retro flip-flops and shoes

     

Examples of items from the wardrobe list:

  • PRL-style tracksuits and shirts
  • Elegant high heels, fur coats, satin shirts
  • Head scarves, wigs in the PRL style
  • Dresses and suits, classic handbags and retro sunglasses

 

 

Photo session


We organized and coordinated a photo shoot to capture cocktails in an authentic setting that reflected the atmosphere of the Polish People's Republic. The shoot featured models who played a variety of roles, from slackers to luxurious women to tough guys drinking "vodka and snacks." Each cocktail was photographed in an appropriate setting, with props and wardrobe emphasizing the cocktail's theme.

Sample shots with models: 

  • Absentee: A man or woman in various outfits – in tracksuits, flip-flops, with relaxation in their eyes.

     

  • "It's kind of luxurious here": Mature woman with an elegant hand, in a fur coat, with a crystal glass in her hand.

     

  • "Rzeczpospolita Koszykowa": Two women having tea, in classic PRL costumes.

     

  • "Jabol": A group of people in the style of the 80s, with wafer on a glass and cheap fruit wine in their hands.

Application of PRL aesthetics


The photo session was prepared in such a way as to reflect the unique atmosphere of the Polish People's Republic, with attention to detail - from lighting, through framing, to details in the background. Each cocktail was presented against the background of authentic elements of the Polish People's Republic interior: wallpapers, furniture, old devices and everyday objects. The aim was to arouse a sense of nostalgia in the guests, while adapting the aesthetics to contemporary expectations.


Session results, sample photos: 


Summary

Collaborating with the Pilipalili drink bar was a very interesting challenge. Our task was to develop a coherent narrative that would introduce guests to the atmosphere of the 70s and 80s, while emphasizing the uniqueness of each cocktail.

We developed creative cocktail descriptions that captured the spirit of the Polish People's Republic, and we also created a concept for a photoshoot inspired by that era. A key element was selecting the right props and wardrobe, as well as choosing accessories. By coordinating the entire photoshoot, we made sure that the final effect was coherent and eye-catching.

The new menu has become an experience that takes guests on a sentimental journey to the times of the Polish People's Republic, offering them a unique combination of nostalgia and modernity.

 

Let's talk about what requires the fastest action in your company

 

We provide:

  • we will only send you an offer once we understand your business
  • modular offer
  • experience in B2B marketing
  • close contact with top managers
  • consulting approach
  • knowledge of marketing and technology.
Aleksandra Dzwierzyńska

Aleksandra Dzwierzyńska

Head of Social

ola@komukoncept.pl

Michał Opydo

Michal Opydo

Managing Director

michal@komukoncept.pl