Ten seats, one table: Newbury dinner brings people together
A Newbury business owner is inviting ten strangers to share a free dinner, bringing people together while raising awareness and funds for a local support group.
The Buick Table, hosted by Melissa Richards at Newbury coworking space Buick Mackane, offers guests the opportunity to enjoy good food and conversation with people they might otherwise never meet.
The next dinner takes place on Thursday 19 November and will support Not Alone Newbury, a local group helping people affected by pregnancy loss or baby loss.
The idea behind the community dinner is simple: nobody needs to bring a friend or know anyone beforehand. Ten guests are selected at random to share an evening around one table.
The initiative also highlights the importance of social connections. Research commissioned by charity FoodCycle, published in 2023, found that almost one in four people surveyed said they ate alone every day of the week.
At the first Buick Table, one guest’s experience particularly stayed with Melissa.
“She lived alone and told me she hadn’t been out to eat with other people for a long time. She left so happy, and that really struck me,” said Melissa.
“Going out for dinner often starts with finding someone to go with. I wanted to create an evening where that wasn’t something you had to worry about. There’s a seat at the table and people to talk to.
“I see the lift people get from sharing a space during the working day. The Buick Table brings that same feeling to an evening over good food.”
Each dinner also supports a local cause, with November’s event raising awareness of Not Alone Newbury.
The group was founded by Catherine Chessell following the loss of her twins after premature labour during her second trimester. Catherine established the group to provide a welcoming space where others experiencing pregnancy or baby loss could find understanding and support.
Melissa added: “The Buick Table is a chance to shine a light on smaller local groups doing important work. People can hear their stories, understand the support they offer and contribute if they would like to.”
How to take part
The next Buick Table takes place on Thursday 19 November in Newbury.
Entry and attendance are completely free, with ten guests chosen through a random draw.
Anyone wishing to attend can enter through the Buick Table booking page or contact Melissa on 07773 387945.
The closing date for entries is Monday 16 November.
Guests will have the opportunity to make a voluntary donation to Not Alone Newbury, although there is no obligation to contribute.
Further information about the support available through the group can be found on the Not Alone Newbury website.