Jeffersonian Dinner
A Jeffersonian Dinner is a dinner for a small group built around one shared conversation on a question announced in advance, with no side conversations. A moderator keeps the whole table in a single discussion and makes sure every guest speaks. Jeffrey Walker developed the format while chairing the foundation that runs Monticello, modelling it on the whole-table dinners attributed to Thomas Jefferson, and described it with Jennifer McCrea in the book The Generosity Network as a way to draw people into a cause without making a pitch.
Facilitation script
- 1
Guests arrive and are introduced informally. Seat everyone at the one table before the conversation starts.
20 min - 2
The host welcomes the table, names the theme, explains the single-conversation rule and introduces the moderator. The announced finishing time is repeated.
5 min - 3
Opening round: each guest answers the question sent in advance, one after another, without interruption.
30 min - 4
Whole-table discussion over the main course. The moderator picks up threads from the opening round, brings in guests who have said less and holds back those who have said most.
45 min - 5
Closing round over dessert or coffee: each guest names one thought they are taking away or one thing they would like to do next.
15 min - 6
The host thanks everyone, says that they will be in touch individually and ends on time.
5 min
Tips
Write an opening question that asks for a personal story connected to the theme and not for an opinion, because stories get everyone in and put experts and newcomers on the same footing.
Brief any senior or talkative guests beforehand that the evening depends on hearing everyone.
Enforce the single-conversation rule kindly within the first ten minutes; if two side conversations are tolerated early, the table splits for the rest of the night.
Common pitfalls
Allowing side conversations to start, after which the table breaks into pairs and the shared discussion does not recover
Inviting people who all know each other or all share a profession, which produces a pleasant dinner and no new thinking
A question so broad or abstract that guests give speeches instead of talking with each other
One prominent guest holding the floor while the moderator hesitates to step in, so half the table leaves without having spoken
Skipping the individual follow-up, which wastes the interest and goodwill the evening created
Variations
Guest numbers vary between write-ups, and some hosts go a little above twelve; beyond that a single conversation becomes hard to hold. Inside an organisation the format works for a leadership team with invited outsiders, or for a project group with stakeholders, at lunch as well as dinner. A virtual version keeps the rules, one question, one conversation, everyone speaks, with guests on video and a shorter running time. Separating host and moderator lets the host look after food and guests while the moderator stays with the conversation.
Where it fits
When to use it
You want people from different fields to think together about a cause or question and to get to know each other while doing it
An organisation needs to deepen relationships with supporters or stakeholders without presenting to them
A leadership team wants outside views on a strategic question in a setting that is not a meeting
A new network or initiative is looking for its first circle of committed people
Receptions and networking events have produced plenty of small talk and few real connections
When not to use it
You need a decision, a plan or documented output by the end of the evening. Use a workshop format with a clear result
The group is larger than one table. World Café or Conversation Café keep conversation going across several tables
You intend to pitch or ask for money on the night. Guests who were invited to a conversation will feel ambushed, so keep any ask for the individual follow-up
The guests are in open conflict with each other. A dinner table has no structure for that; use a facilitated dialogue such as Council Practice or Restorative Dialogue
Several guests cannot attend in person and the venue cannot include them properly, which splits the single conversation
Related methods
Frequently asked questions
What is Jeffersonian Dinner?▾
A Jeffersonian Dinner is a dinner for about eight to twelve people who hold one conversation as a whole table on a question shared beforehand. Side conversations are not allowed, and a moderator sees that everyone takes part. The format was developed by Jeffrey Walker and is named after the dinners Thomas Jefferson is said to have hosted.
How many guests should you invite?▾
Eight to twelve is the range given by the format's originators. With fewer the mix of perspectives gets thin, and with more it becomes difficult for everyone to hear and to speak in one conversation. Aim for variety of background over seniority.
What makes a good opening question?▾
One that every guest can answer from personal experience and that connects to the evening's theme. Questions that ask for a story or a formative moment work better than questions that ask for a position. Send it in advance so nobody is put on the spot.
Why are side conversations not allowed?▾
The point of the format is that everyone hears everyone, so ideas can build across the whole group. Once neighbours start talking to each other, the table splits and quieter guests drop out. The rule is stated at the start and the moderator enforces it.
Can a Jeffersonian Dinner be used for fundraising?▾
It was popularised in philanthropy as a way to engage potential supporters, but no ask is made at the dinner itself. The evening builds interest and relationships around a cause. Any request comes later, in the individual follow-up conversations.
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Try it freeMethod descriptions on Workshop Weaver are original content written by our team, based on established facilitation practices. This method was inspired by work from Jeffrey Walker and Jennifer McCrea, The Generosity Network.