Behind the Scenes: Sandbox Creatives and the SNA’AP Abu Dhabi Chocolate Launch
In curating the SNA’AP Abu Dhabi Chocolate Launch Event, Sandbox Creatives applied the same principles that guide all its events: intentional design, quiet storytelling, and a focus on what matters.
Following their success in captivating chocolate lovers in Dubai and Mumbai, SNA’AP by Chef Nouel Catis introduced its newest creation, the Abu Dhabi Chocolate, at Rain Café Muroor on November 7, 2025. This release reflected the city’s warmth, elegance, and cultural roots.
Overall, the launch, curated by Sandbox Creatives, combined craftsmanship and cultural narrative through thoughtful details and a calm, meaningful atmosphere.
A Concept Built on Storytelling
The concept was built around a simple idea: let the story of the chocolate guide the experience. Specifically, warm tones, natural textures, and understated design choices created a space for guests to connect with the origins and craft behind the product.
A key part of the narrative was the invitation postcard. Designed with care, it had a cultural, vintage feel and featured visual cues inspired by Abu Dhabi and the UAE. Alongside these details, stamp-like motifs, hand-drawn textures, and illustrations highlighted the ingredients that shaped the chocolate. Meanwhile, the event flyer showed chocolate, dates, and nuts above a subtle city skyline. Together, these elements blended artistry with heritage.
Crafting the Moment
At the heart of the experience, a calm, curated setting placed the Abu Dhabi Chocolate in focus. Guests moved naturally from inspiration to craft, while Chef Nouel led a live chocolate-making demonstration, showing the meticulous artisanal process from tempering to molding. Throughout, every detail highlighted the story and craft behind the chocolate.
To deepen the experience, guests were treated to an exclusive Chocolate Tasting, discovering the balance between Arabic fusion flavors and SNA’AP’s signature artistry.
The atmosphere was shaped by an Arabic Fusion Vinyl DJ Set, adding rhythm and warmth to the room. Performed by Mckie Alvarez of WYWY, one of the UAE’s most loved indie acts, the set also introduced a sense of creative familiarity, modern yet rooted.
An exhibit of “moving postcards,” presented by Kristine Abante, founder of Sandbox Creatives, offered photographic impressions of Abu Dhabi’s energy, texture, and everyday poetry. As guests explored the space, the visuals became quiet companions to the tasting experience. At the same time, they reflected the city’s spirit in motion.
Together, these elements shaped an event that felt intentional, grounded, and connected to the place that inspired it.
Where Community Shapes the Experience
The experience centered on the people behind the craft, the cultural roots that shaped the product, and the connection between Chef Nouel and the guests who gathered to celebrate his work.
At Sandbox Creatives, events are shaped with thoughtful design, intentional storytelling, and spaces that invite connection.
