Introduction
Welcome to The Gates' Crowdfunder campaign! We are excited to bring you the first dedicated lesbian bar and community space in Brighton. We aim to create a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant environment specifically for lesbian, queer women, and their transgender and non-binary friends. To make this vision a reality, we need your support to raise £100,000 within 12 weeks. Your contribution will help us cover the essential opening costs and transform our venue into a cornerstone of the community.
Why This Campaign is Crucial for Brighton
Brighton: The LGBTQ+ Capital of the UK
Brighton is renowned as the LGBTQ+ capital of the UK, with 21% of its population identifying as LGBTQ+. Despite this, there is currently no dedicated venue for queer women in Brighton. With over 11 million tourists visiting Brighton each year, the city is a vibrant and dynamic destination that deserves a space where everyone feels welcome and celebrated.
Filling a Critical Gap
Currently, there are only three venues in the UK dedicated to queer women: two in London and one in Manchester. The Gates will be the first in Brighton, addressing the specific needs and preferences of queer women, trans, and non-binary individuals. This space will provide a safe haven for socializing, networking, and community building.
The Vision of The Gates
Versatile and Inclusive Space
The Gates will offer a versatile environment that transitions from a daytime social café to a cozy dining area by evening, and transforms into a hidden speakeasy-style bar at night. Our venue will host a variety of events, providing entertainment and a safe space for everyone to enjoy.
Locally Sourced Menu
Our food selection will emphasize locally sourced ingredients, featuring a mix of British cuisine with diverse spices. We will cater to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets, reflecting Brighton's eco-conscious and health-focused community values.
Innovative Beverage Program
We will offer an innovative beverage program with creative cocktails and fruit-based beers, including popular choices like Jubel's fruit-infused beer. Our Instagram-worthy drinks will not only taste great but also attract social media attention.
Exclusive Membership Program
For £25 per month, members will enjoy exclusive benefits, such as discounts on food and drinks, a complimentary daily coffee, and access to private events. This program will foster a sense of belonging and community among our patrons.
Impact on the Local Community
Economic Growth and Job Creation
By supporting The Gates, you are contributing to Brighton's economic growth. Our venue will create jobs for local staff, performers, and suppliers. We will work with local food and drink providers, boosting the local economy and supporting small businesses.
Cultural Significance and Community Building
The Gates will celebrate and honor the rich history of lesbian culture, inspired by the historic 'Gateways Club' in Chelsea, London. This cultural significance will provide a platform to educate the community about lesbian history and offer a space for like-minded individuals to connect and share interests.
Safe Space for Queer Women
Queer women often face challenges in finding safe and inclusive spaces to socialize and network. The Gates will fill this void, providing a welcoming environment where everyone can feel safe and celebrated. Our venue will host events and activities tailored to the interests and needs of queer women, fostering a strong sense of community.
How You Can Help
We invite you to join us in creating a landmark venue in Brighton's LGBTQ+ scene. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Donate: Every contribution brings us closer to opening our doors.
- Share: Spread the word about our campaign on social media and within your networks.
- Engage: Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated with our progress.
Rewards for Your Support
To show our appreciation, we have a range of rewards for our supporters:
- £25 : Donate £25 an receive a free drink at The Gates to be redeemed within the first year
- £100 : Purchase a £100 voucher and get a limited edition 'The Gates' t-shirt, plus a £100 to spend when you visit with a booking!
- £500 : Contribute over £500 to 'The Gates' and get a £500 voucher to redeem in site. You will also unlock an exclusive membership which grants you discounts, a free coffee every day of the week, priority event access, and invitations to exclusive members-only gatherings for an entire year. Thus, they will become part of our inner circle. To redeem the £500 voucher, it must be used with a booking.
- £1000 : Donating over £1000 will get your name on a 'Founders plaque' which will be displayed within the venue. You will also receive VIP treatment with a free drinks package at our grand opening and a lifetime subscription membership worth £25 a month.
Conclusion
By supporting The Gates, you are helping to create a safe, inclusive, and vibrant space for queer women in Brighton. Your contribution will make a lasting impact on the community and help us celebrate and honor the rich history of lesbian culture. Let’s build something extraordinary together!