Supper clubs are intimate, pop-up dining experiences, often held in someone’s home or a community space, where guests donate money in exchange for a carefully curated meal.
But beyond the food and company, supper clubs can also be a fantastic way to raise funds for charity while fostering connection and community.
Here’s how you can start your own charity-focused supper club and make a real difference—one plate at a time.
1. Choose Your Cause
The first step is deciding which charity you want to support. Whether it's a local food bank, a health charity, an animal rescue, or an international aid organisation, make sure it’s a cause you feel passionate about. Reach out to the charity in advance—they might offer promotional support or materials to help you share their message on the night.
Tip: Look for charities that align with your supper club theme (e.g., a Mediterranean menu supporting refugee aid, or a vegetarian night raising funds for an animal sanctuary).
2. Plan the Supper Club Experience
Think about what kind of supper club you want to create. Will it be a cosy home-cooked meal around your dining table, or a garden feast under the stars? Keep the atmosphere relaxed and friendly—people are there to support a good cause and enjoy themselves.
Key elements to decide:
Number of guests: Start small (6–12 people) to keep it manageable.
Theme or cuisine: A consistent menu adds flair—think Italian trattoria, curry night, plant-based tasting menu, or seasonal British fare.
Date and location: Choose a time that gives you space to plan and promote.
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Rather than charging for tickets, ask for a suggested donation. Let guests know all proceeds go to your chosen charity, and be clear about any costs you need to cover (though ideally, try to keep expenses low or find sponsors/donors to help offset them).
Ideas for handling donations:
Set up a JustGiving or GoFundMe page linked to the charity.
Use a QR code for easy digital donations on the night.
Offer a ‘pay what you feel’ model with a minimum suggested amount.
4. Create a Memorable Menu
Your food should be the star of the evening—so plan a menu that showcases your strengths, accommodates dietary needs, and suits the theme. A simple three-course meal or sharing platters can be just as impressive as fine dining if it’s made with care.
Menu planning tips:
Use seasonal, local ingredients to keep costs down and flavours fresh.
Offer a welcome drink or mocktail to start things off.
Include a printed menu card that features the charity and cause you're supporting.
5. Spread the Word
Promoting your supper club is key to getting bums on seats. Use social media, word of mouth, and local community boards to attract interest. Tell people what makes it special—home-cooked food, good company, and the chance to support a great cause.
Promotion ideas:
Create an event on Facebook or Eventbrite with all the details.
Post teaser photos of your test dishes or table setup.
Encourage guests to bring a friend or share the event online.
6. Add a Personal Touch
People love to know who’s behind the food and the fundraiser. Share your story on the night—why you chose this charity, what the cause means to you, and how their donations will help.
Consider including:
A short talk or video about the charity.
A printed leaflet or takeaway postcard with info and donation links.
A thank-you gift, like homemade biscuits or a recipe card.
7. Follow Up and Share Your Impact
After the supper club, thank your guests and share how much you raised. Post photos and updates online and tag the charity so they can see and share your support. This not only celebrates your success but builds momentum for the next one!
Hosting a supper club for charity is a beautiful way to turn your passion for food into tangible impact. Whether you raise £50 or £500, you’re making a difference—and chances are, your guests will leave feeling inspired, well-fed, and eager for the next invitation.
So roll up your sleeves, set the table, and cook for a cause—it’s one of the most rewarding meals you’ll ever make.
