If today’s weather is anything to go by, summer is definitely on the horizon! Melbourne-based catering and events social enterprise, Merchant Road, is launching their ‘Summer Series’ of pop up dining events around Victoria in secret locations released 48 hours prior.

Founder of Merchant Road, Jane Marx describes the dining series as an opportunity to ‘bring to life the dinners of our dreams.’ The first event is a Spring Garden Party, held on a private estate in the Dandenong Ranges, against a ‘backdrop of floating flowers and giant ferns.’ The series of dinners is a collaboration with chefs Lucy Whitlow and Ella Ruxton (of Osteria Ilaria) whose menus will showcase local produce and reflect the changing seasons paired with wine from Chalmers. 

The dinners are supported by Lightly design studio who have donated tableware, In Bed Store who have provided linen, and Wingnut and Co plates are featured. 

Offering a training and support program for young women from refugee backgrounds, Merchant Road’s Many Hands program equips its participants with experience in the events and hospitality industry. After completing floral training with Mel and the team from Cecilia Fox, and service training with Congress Wine, the young women from refugee backgrounds will bring their new skills to staff this exciting event.

If you are interested in welcoming summer with a secret dinner party, tickets are selling fast! Book here for first in this ‘Summer Series’, of a four-course family-style feast with matched local wines, in an incredible setting, served by up-and-comers in the industry who are undertaking traineeships.

Merchant Road’s Spring Garden Party
Saturday, October 12th 
1pm-3.30pm 
Location to be announced