Defining the 'informal private club' for the Informal Private Club Journal

© Can Stock Photo / dotshock

A social club can have a definition as wide as all the oceans; stretching from any organized gathering of people to something specific, like the British Gentleman's clubs or college sororities and fraternities. This blog will be more specific, introducing (more likely re-introducing) the concept of an 'informal private club' to the social club vernacular. We'll gather inspiration from the old British private clubs, and their newer reincarnation in the United States, and make it accessible to everyone interested.

What is an informal private club?

An informal private club is a loosely organized group of people with similar interests, or can fit under a broad social or professional umbrella. The membership is curated, much like an established private club, and can include sponsorship and applications, if the club's leadership deems it necessary.

Also, the informal private club is just that, informal. There isn't a club residence or anything permanent. Instead, members take turns at hosting and planning events. The usual place where members meet would be at would in private residences. In essence, members' dining and living rooms become club spaces.

Events should fall within the club member's interests and tastes, but also maintain a minimum level of decorum, much like a formal private club. For example, if the club opts for a cocktail party, then proper attire should be requested. A club shouldn't only be about people gathering, it should also give folks an opportunity to practice finer social skills.

At the same time, an informal private club should be creative, and take advantage of its mobility. Events can take place there is an establishment willing to take a number of people. Events should be culturally uplifting, with plenty of opportunity for the club's members to interact with each other. Where's the fun if the club doesn't have a chance to be social?

The idea of the informal private club will be continually developed in this blog, with all hits and misses discussed.