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

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.