Soul Food
She Speaks Supper Club is an inspiring new space founded by local PR and mum-of-two, Jessie Wales
How did She Speaks Supper Club begin?
“In truth, over spicy margaritas with my friend Amy, chatting about how hard it is to find genuine, in-the-room connection as women, especially outside of London. That chat lit a spark and the next morning I had the name, a logo and a sense of purpose that gave me goosebumps.”
So, is it an all-women networking club?
“Not to network or pitch – but to be real, share stories, support and eat amazing food! It’s for women locally, to connect and feel inspired. Whenever I’ve sat with women around a table, I leave feeling inspired. I want every woman to be met with the same warmth, “You belong here.”
Local connections are so important, aren’t they?
“Yes, because they’re the ones you can build on. These dinners are a starting point of new friendships, collaborations, even new ideas. But mostly, to leave feeling uplifted. This isn’t about proving anything, it’s about reminding each other that we’re not alone and we don’t have to ‘perform’
to be worthy of connection.”
Former Glamour magazine Editor, Jo Elvin is a speaker at your launch event…
“Jo is real, honesty and inspiring, she completely embodies the She Speaks ethos. That kind of rawness just resonates. I’ve worked in PR 20 years+, mostly in fashion and retail, representing brands at top agencies; Jo and I crossed paths professionally and we’ve stayed in touch ever since. We share a similar outlook – unfiltered and always rooting for other women.”
What’s on the menu?
“Keeping things local and female-led, Zia Zilka at The Secret Garden, Ewell is serving freshly made Pintxos – beautiful little plates – while Deana Mackechnie from Three Layer Baking Co has created three bespoke desserts while creative talent Jenny Cobb will tablescape and set the scene for a beautiful evening. While food is a big part of She Speaks what’s really being served is nourishment in every sense; laughter, vulnerability, inspiring stories
and the power of community.”
Words by Fatima Truscott
Photography by Jayne Saunderson