How We Gather
About this Event
Historically, salons brought interesting people together around ideas, art, literature, culture and conversation. And Black women have long created gathering spaces of our own. We have been thinking about what a space like that could look like for Black women today-not networking, not another thing we're supposed to accomplish, but somewhere to encounter interesting women, interesting ideas and things we might not otherwise discover.
The Modern Salon Society: Founding Salon No. 1 — How We Gather
What happens when interesting women gather around something worth talking about?
You're invited to the first gathering of The Modern Salon Society, a new cultural and conversation salon created for Black women across generations.
Think of the literary and cultural salons of the past, reimagined for today—a beautiful, relaxed afternoon of interesting conversation, cultural discovery, light refreshments and women you might never otherwise have encountered.
Our first Salon is called HOW WE GATHER.
We'll begin with the rich history of Black women's gathering traditions—from literary societies and women's clubs to beauty shops, kitchens, porches and the cultural gatherings created by women like A'Lelia Walker and Georgia Douglas Johnson.
But this isn't a history lecture.
The history simply gives us somewhere interesting to begin.
From there, we'll turn the conversation toward our own lives:
Where are you a regular?
Where do people know you, recognize you or notice when you haven't been around?
Where do Black women find one another today?
What have we gained—and perhaps lost—in the way we gather?
And what would make you become a regular somewhere now?
What to expect
Come in, get something to eat and drink, settle into the room and meet women naturally.
We'll have a little whole-room conversation, then let the Salon open up. Move around. Have another bite. Pick up a book. Discover a question on the table. Join a smaller conversation. Meet somebody you didn't arrive with.
There is no networking agenda, no workshop, no homework and no presentation to sit through.
And definitely no going around the room giving elevator pitches.
You also don't need to know anyone before you come. That's part of the idea.
You don't need to be a historian, academic or expert in anything, either. Curiosity is enough.
If you enjoy learning, culture, thoughtful conversation, hearing different perspectives and discovering something—or someone—you didn't know before, this room was created with you in mind.
Sunday, October 11, 2026
3:00–5:30 PM
The Normandy Clubhouse
315 E. Long St., Columbus, Ohio
Founding Salon Admission: $20
Light refreshments and a signature nonalcoholic beverage will be served.
Seating is intentionally limited to approximately 20 women. Advance registration is required.
Interesting women. Interesting ideas. In good company.
Come curious.
Ideas Deserve Company.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 23.18
