FERNDALE SOUP
A Community Dinner Built on Connection
Food • Conversation • Community
Founded by Eric Martin & Nitasha Fox
Join Us
People Want Community — But Don't Know Where to Find It
Ferndale is full of creatives, entrepreneurs, neighbors, and community-minded people. What's missing is a consistent, welcoming place to actually meet each other.
Ferndale Soup was created to fill that gap—starting with something simple: a shared meal.
What Is Ferndale Soup?
A Monthly Gathering
Recurring community dinner where people come together
Low-Pressure
No agenda, politics, or pitches required
Simple Connection
Just food, conversation, and community
Why It Matters
Strong Communities Are Built Through Relationships
We believe:
  • People connect best over food
  • Conversation creates opportunity
  • Community grows when people feel welcome
Ferndale Soup is designed to slow things down and create space for real human connection.
What Makes Ferndale Soup Different
Intentional by Design
Apolitical
No political discussions
Inclusive
Everyone welcome
Relationship-First
Connections matter most
Easy Access
Simple to show up

This is NOT: A networking event, debate forum, or sales platform. This clarity protects the culture and keeps people coming back.
The Experience
What Attendees Can Expect
Delicious Food
Soup, bread, and baked goods prepared with care
Welcoming Environment
A casual, comfortable atmosphere where everyone belongs
Diverse Connections
People from different backgrounds and industries
Genuine Conversation
Talk without pressure or expectations
Suggested donation: $10
Helps fund the event and future gatherings and support local charities
January Launch Focus
Start Simple. Build Intentionally.
One Focus Only
The first Ferndale Soup gathering will focus on getting to know each other.
No presentations. No community issues. No voting.
Building Foundation
This sets the foundation for trust, familiarity, and organic growth.
Long-Term Vision
Relationships First. Impact Second.
Phase 1 (Now)
  • Monthly dinners
  • Consistent attendance
  • Core community formed
Phase 2 (Later)
  • Light community spotlights
  • Collaboration opportunities
  • Shared initiatives
Phase 3 (Optional)
  • Micro-grants or community support
  • Local partnerships
  • Expanded programming
Nothing is rushed. Growth happens when the group is ready.
Founders
Local. Invested. Intentional.
Eric Martin
  • Ferndale resident
  • Realtor & community connector
  • Host and organizer
Eric brings structure, continuity, and a deep commitment to Ferndale as a place to live and belong.
Nitasha Fox
Founder, Sweet Sage Baking
  • Culinary partner
  • Creative anchor
  • Hospitality lead
Nitasha brings warmth, creativity, and food that makes people feel at home.
Partnerships
Built With the Community
Local Restaurants
Collaborating with neighborhood eateries
Bakers & Food Makers
Artisan creators bringing their craft
Small Businesses
Supporting local enterprises
Creatives & Organizers
Community builders and artists
Partners Gain:
• Visibility
• Authentic community engagement
• Relationship-based exposure
Ground Rules
Keeping Ferndale Soup What It's Meant to Be
To protect the experience and maintain our welcoming culture:
1
No Political Discussions
No political discussions or advocacy
2
No Debates
No debates or confrontational topics
3
No Sales Pitches
No sales pitches from the floor
4
Respectful Conversation
Respectful, inclusive conversation only
Ferndale Soup exists to bring people together—not divide them.
Why This Works
Sustainable. Scalable. Human.
Low Overhead
Simple, affordable model that's easy to sustain
High Trust
Built on genuine relationships and authenticity
Repeatable Format
Consistent structure people can count on
Community-Driven
Growth through word of mouth, not marketing hype
Join Us at the Table
Ferndale Soup is open to anyone who wants to connect with their community.
Whether you're a longtime resident or new to Ferndale, there's a seat for you.
First Gathering
January [Date]
Come hungry.
Leave connected.