Kara’s Vegan Supper Club
In conversation with plant based chef Kara Hayward, founder of Kara's Vegan Supper Club in Bournemouth.
Hi Kara! Can you give us an introduction to Kara’s Vegan Supper Club and your journey so far?
Kara’s Vegan Supper Club started in 2016 whilst I was working at Cafe Boscanova in Boscombe with my husband, Jim Hayward, who was training me up to be a chef. One day I decided to ask my boss at the time, Joel from Bad Hand Coffee, if I could put on a vegan supper club one evening. The first one managed to sell out and from then on I have been holding supper clubs in our own space at Green Label Kitchen.
For me it's not just the food but creating an atmosphere where you can come along, make new friends and enjoy each other's company, or just have a lovely relaxed meal. I also love going round speaking to everyone, hearing their stories and sharing my knowledge on vegan meals and food ideas. I absolutely love putting on the supper clubs and have made so many friends from them, I’m incredibly thankful.
What lessons from your career did you bring with you when setting up your own catering company?
I’ve worked in many hospitality companies and have learnt what changes could have been made within the settings. For me it’s about creating a space away from home where people can relax and not have to worry. Service for me is very important. Making sure I really care about each and every person who comes into my space. Food is a big talking point too. Vegan food has been perceived to be bland and not tasty – I wanted to change the way people see home cooked healthy vegan meals.
Having your own business, has it been affected by the current changes?
I have adapted, and in situations we have delivered to people's homes. I’ve also helped with families who can't afford to feed their families which will continue where possible.
Website → @karasvegansupperclub
