In 17th century Paris, Catherine de Vivonne, marquise de Rambouillet, known as Madame de Rambouillet, established the first literary salon, creating a space where intellect and creativity could flourish. Her legacy continued centuries later when a literary salon called "Beckett's" sprang to life in the West Village of Manhattan about a year ago.
As one might imagine, Beckett's quickly became a hub for young writers, critics, artists, theater actors, and filmmakers. A modern-day Manhattan version of the 17th-century marvel that began in Paris.
Unfortunately, Beckett's had its final gathering on March 18, 2023, and many artisans are hard at work to revive the community in the fertile grounds of the island of Manhattan.
Almost as if they were cued by the last days of Beckett's, three women – Nikki Baidwan, Sharon Perez, and Suzanne Zahr – came together with a shared vision in Mercer Island. They wanted to create a sanctuary for Gen X women, a place where they could rest, renew, and shine. Thus, Salon NUR was born, a literary salon dedicated to fostering connections, nurturing growth, and providing a sense of community for women at a crucial phase in their lives.
All three founders bring their unique strengths to the table. Nikki, who started a literary salon called "ThinkFiends" a decade earlier, feels the need to revive the concept. She has a passion for thoughtful journalism and creating spaces where people can discuss important topics. Sharon, with her background in marketing and promotion, helps shape the message and reach the right audience. Suzanne, an artistic entrepreneur, contributes her creative spirit to the mix.
Together, they choose the name NUR, which means "light" in several languages, symbolizing enlightenment, and the joy of being. Rooted in Middle Eastern and Indian cultures, NUR also signifies the beginning of nurture, nourishment, and the light within every individual. The founders aim to create an environment where women can rediscover their inner light, dimmed by the challenges and transitions they face in life.
Focusing on Gen X women, Salon NUR caters to those experiencing various transitions, such as career changes, family shifts, spousal loss, retirement, and dealing with elderly parents. These women have often spent years as caretakers, volunteers, and givers, putting their own needs on the back burner. Salon NUR offers them a space to rekindle their light and reconsider how to spend the next chapters of their lives.
The salon is designed to be an intimate, curated experience. Each gathering centers around an article for intellectual discussion, curated creativity, and "prompts" that encourage self-reflection. The founders spend weeks deliberating on each aspect of the event, from the venue to the prompts, ensuring that everything is carefully chosen to create a unique and enriching experience.
Membership is selective, inviting only those who share the same mindset and are willing to engage authentically. The salon is not a professional networking group; it is a community where people can grow and thrive.
The women who attend the salon leave feeling lighter, more connected, and rejuvenated. Salon NUR succeeds in nurturing their minds, spirits, and bodies, helping them find meaning in their lives and rekindling the light that has been dimmed for so long.
In a world that often moves too fast, Salon NUR is a sanctuary, a place of community, and a reminder of the power of light and connection.
Salon NUR becomes a beacon of light on Mercer Island, where women can find solace, support, and inspiration. The founders, with their complementary skills, have created something they crave: a space where women can rediscover who they are and who they want to be.