Ashley Sutterfield of The Local Table brought The Gathering Table to Brick Avenue Lofts on January 31st. The Gathering Table offers an opportunity to connect with people over local fare and guided discussion. For this event, Ashley asked us to consider the meaning of ‘home.’
Normally, Ashley’s table is capped at 12 seats. However, this event was set up a little differently. She arranged for there to be two tables, one upstairs in our coworking space and one in our lobby. Each table held 12 people. At the end of the night, the two groups came together to mingle and have dessert.
The format of the event wasn’t the only thing that differed from her usual set up though. Ashley commented on the energy as well. Instead of the quiet, introspective atmosphere she was used to, she found a table of excited, buzzing guests. Her attendees were already engaging in side conversations, eager to share.
A Forever Home
While everyone at the table had come from somewhere else, they now shared the same home: Brick Avenue Lofts in Bentonville, Arkansas. Home soon became about a sense of community, of belonging, which many agreed was built into NWA’s culture and was reflected in life at Brick Avenue Lofts. For the first time in many of their lives, they considered the place they were living a “forever home.”
The mood of the room had shifted to one of gratitude. This prompted everyone to think about ways they could continue to foster community outside of planned events and activities, with one resident suggesting a movie night and another offering up game nights at his place.
From there, the evening moved beyond a desire to just participate. The desire to help one another and work together sprung up. Being “home” became about finding ways to contribute and give back.
We had a chance to catch up with Ashley after the event, and she expressed that the evening was a testament to our efforts in growing and nourishing community. Days later, we have seen new relationships form, new people gathering together around the neighborhood. It is inspiring to know that we have the power to shape the experience of “home” for people, how “home” isn’t just about the food at the table but, more importantly, the food we feed our souls while there. It’s why when we asked Ashley what she made for the evening, she said the meal doesn’t matter as much as the conversation and connection that ensues. That is what people stay for.
What makes a home worth staying for? What makes a place a “forever home”? Let us know in the comments below
Residents get 10% off all experiences with The Local Table.
To check out other upcoming events at Brick Avenue Lofts, click here.
