The dinners take place at different locations each time. A “host” will offer up their home to hold the dinner, and together we invite friend’s and family to attend. Anyone is welcome to host the dinner. We believe that having dinner in someone's home creates a welcoming environment to both the Syrian women and dinner guests. As the majority of the menu is prepared the day before, all the host has to provide is a space to entertain and basic kitchen utensils. As a host you are welcome to decide how many people you want to invite. Or whether you would prefer to host a private event for you and your friends, or an open invitation for anyone interested.

Syrian women who have sought refuge prepare the entire menu. The majority of preparation takes place prior to the dinner, though they will arrive 2 to 3 hours before the guests at the host's home to add the finishing touches

When Food for Thought was founded, there was much debate over whether or not to have the dinners mixed or women only. Prior to the pilot dinner the Syrian women raised their concerns, that in a social scenario they felt more comfortable in an women only environment. Also as most have young children at home if their partners were to attend, child care would be an an issue. After the pilot dinner it was clear that by keeping the events women only these circumstances also applied to many guests and created a relaxed, inclusive and respectful environment for everyone attending.

Since arriving in Austria all of the women have enrolled in German courses. We want to support and encourage this by offering the opportunity to practise conversational German. The majority of our guests are expats and therefore native English speakers, we believe that speaking German at the table is a great way for everyone to improve their German in a relaxed environment.

Instead of bringing the traditional dinner party gifts of flowers, wine or chocolate we encourage guests to make a cash contribution to help cover the cost of ingredients. If you want to show your gratitude to the Syrian women, who have put a considerable amount of time and effort into preparing dinner for us, please feel free to contribute a gratuity.

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