Like many people before me, my decision to fly solo came after being pushed off the corporate ladder. A few years ago I was made redundant from an exciting new editorial role at a renowned science publisher (Nature, I'm still proud to say!). Admittedly I was in way over my head at times (I do not have a science degree, let alone a PhD!), and often dreamed of another life in which I bake cakes and entertain relaxed revellers in my own little vintage café.

 

Since abandoning office life (and the salary, sick leave, pensions and paid holidays), I've been paying the bills with freelance writing, all the while considering how to realise my vintage café vision... Step into The Cornucopia – a cosy, lounge-like venue with abundant ephemera where everyone can assemble to eat delectable edibles, drink lavish libations (from vintage crockery of course), and enjoy the occasional evening event. Sounds delightful, I know.

But, as you can imagine, it will be a long perambulation to this permanent space, and I am strangely thankful that I was not prepared for take-off prior to the pandemic pandemonium! As such, my business plan is still afloat but bobbing down a rather different river of dreams...

​

The Cornucopia Carriage: Delectable edibles, elegantly delivered

So for now, in lieu of The Cornucopia café itself, I have launched a local delivery service in South London, touting homemade treats and afternoon teas from a revamped vintage cargo bike that I have humbly named “The Cornucopia Carriage”. And quite frankly this is a sublime solution as it combines my love of bicycling (I've been propelling myself around London for nigh on eight years), and baking (to which my Granny introduced me before I even had eight years!).

​​

Ah yes... you may well ask how one woman on three wheels can service all of South London. The truth is, she can’t and it would be tomfoolery to try. So, I'm sticking to pedalling my wares within a limited postcode range that I hope to expand. For now I deliver to SW2, SW4, SW9 and SW12 on Thursdays, and SE5, SE15, and SE24 on Fridays. And if you look at these on a map, the SEs form a wonky croissant!

​

So, please go for a forage around The Cornucopia's online food aisles and with any luck, you or someone you know is within range to receive some elegantly delivered delectable edibles... baked and biked by yours truly.

​

Until we meet over tempting treats, I remain cordially yours,

​

Emily