So this Ramadan we learnt a few lessons including the fact for us Iftari is more enjoyable in the company of others.
I’ve also discovered that you can never have too many friends, and being social doesn’t stop because it’s Ramadan, in fact a lot of people become more friendly during the month.
I’ve also noticed people do so much for Chaand Raat but we don’t do much around my area. Infact nothing much exists in terms of celebrations or any type of unity during this blessed month. Our local Masjid doesn’t hold events for women either.
So I was thinking about doing something positive next year InshAllah during Ramadan but I need your help guys in terms of advice and input!
As I live in an area where most people travel to other cities for their Eid clothes and accessories I was thinking of organising an Eid Market joined to an optional charity Iftari. I was thinking a Chaand Raat event would be ace, however in our area there is always two Eids so it wouldn’t work. Instead I was thinking of holding an event from say 12ish (noon) to iftari time. Of course some stalls would leave early ( to get home in time).
So here’s what I would attempt to organise:
clothes stalls (would contact shops in Birmingham to see if they would consider travelling to the market)
jewellery stalls-in particular bangle stores
stalls selling various items such as gifts
henna stalls-to get henna done (and to buy henna from)
mobile hairdresser (to do mini makeovers and to take bookings)
mobile beautican (to do whatever they need to do)
nail technicans (same as above)
Islamic book stall-well I wasn’t going to forget this VERY important stall!
Islamic art stall
cake stall (for the kids and for people to buy goods to takeaway)
Face painter-for the kids
art stall-for the kids to make Eid decorations and cards
balloon modeller and possible children’s entertainer if I can locate a female one.
Halal sweet pick and mix (for the kids)
Then there would be tombola/raffle for prizes (donated hopefully by local businesses)
Prayer facilities for sisters
Then there would be an option to purchase an ‘iftari’. I’ve been to events at the local community centre where they did preselected meal plates for a flat price and they sold out. So it’s something I know works for other events. Profits would go to charity.
ALL the stall holders would be asked to make a donation which would be the cost of their ‘table’.
Of course we don’t need music, will be playing Nasheeds in the background.
I was thinking second weekend during Ramadan. Or maybe even the weekend before Ramadan?
So can anyone see this working? I know it would be hard work to organise, however I’m hoping the event would be a success, and the event would raise some money towards charity.
The other idea I have and need help with is a pot luck Iftari party. Everyone brings a dish, and invites sisters (even ones we don’t really talk to) and everyone makes a small contribution towards charity (say 50 pence-£1.00 per family).
So over to you guppies, do my ideas sound good and could they work?
Princess