Meet the member groups that make Soho House Portland
With regular run clubs, wine tasting socials and art gatherings, our Oregon-based House is the perfect spot for communities to come together
Wednesday 17 July 2024 By Yasemin Celepi Photography The Morrisons
Earlier this year, we opened the doors to Soho House Portland, welcoming members who use the space to meet and socialise. Community is at the heart of what makes Portland such a special city – and we see that replicated in the House each day, as like-minded groups come together to engage in sporting activities, embrace their artistic side, or simply unwind.
The House of Roses
Unique to Soho House Portland, the House of Roses initiative was created to champion local artists making a positive impact on the city. Each quarter, a panel of members comes together to select a member of the wider artistic community in the city, recognising their talent and contribution to Portland’s creative scene by hosting an event at the House. The winner is given a one-year Local House membership and a platform to present their craft to members and guests, as well as the opportunity to mix with other professionals in their industry and network over a cocktail.
‘I’m a culture and diversity strategist, and I got into this work because of my love for people – no matter our differences,’ explains member Zanele Mutepfa Rhone, who sits on the House of Roses panel. ‘While our City of Roses is naturally beautiful, it’s the people who give it heart. We created this initiative to celebrate the people who, despite their challenges, use their talents and creativity to make our city better. We wanted to show gratitude to the core of our community, who truly make Portland thrive.’
Portland is also famed for its national parks and expansive nature reserves, which the House Run Club makes good use of when it meets once a week. The club gathers at the House to warm up (and cool down) in the gym or outside the club, before heading out to run around the local area, including the nearby Forest Park trails. Afterwards, the group gathers to share post-run smoothies.
‘The club has become part of my Portland family,’ says member and Olympic middle-distance athlete, Raevyn Rogers. ‘It’s a safe space for everyone to feel accepted, included and comfortable being themselves.’
It’s no secret that Oregon produces some of the best wine in the world, so it was only a matter of time before the House was full of producers and experts. With an extensive menu of local wines available to enjoy at the bar, members meet for a monthly Wine Club. Here, they sip new offerings and learn more about local vineyards and producers, heading to the rooftop in the warmer weather to enjoy views across the city.
For Soho House Portland member Flavia Cervantes, who hosts the monthly event, the club isn’t just about what gets poured into the glasses. ‘It has given me a platform to connect and network,’ she says. ‘We have conversations about the local wine industry, but we also get to know each other on a more personal level. It’s given me a way to tap into my community.’
