I first heard about “Our Family Dinner” a few years ago. I thought it was a great idea but never pushed myself over the edge to attend. They have one every six months though neighborhood dinners happen in between major ones. The Houston family dinner last Saturday at Paul’s Kitchen was sponsored by AARP, which made the price point an offer I couldn’t refuse.
I researched a couple of hours before arriving and realized we were not allowed to have our phones and could not shake hands, we had to hug. The dinner is as if you are out with family even if you have never met. We even took a family picture.
Many of the attendees are new to Houston (less than 3 years). The target audience are millennials, though I met enough Gen Xers to feel comfortable. The introductions were genuine and energy sincere.
I did not realize they are also international. An upcoming dinner will be in Lagos next month. If you want to add a dinner to your city (even if overseas), you can request here.
I was so excited to be a part of this movement. I planned to go home directly after…. Yet, I ended up at the after party and the after after party. I look forward to our next gathering!
Update: Featured video from the event