Ravenswood's Garden Of Collective Blooms as Innovative LGBTQ+ Community Hub
By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Ravenswood ·
A vibrant new community space is flourishing in Ravenswood as the Garden Of collective celebrates its successful first months of operation at 4619 N Ravenswood Avenue. Founded by Eden Strader, who moved to Chicago in 2024, this innovative venture combines a cozy coworking studio with friendship-forward social events designed specifically for the sapphic community.
The fully furnished studio officially launched in August after Strader acquired the space in July 2025. "It's been really, really wild and really beautiful," Strader shared about the collective's rapid growth. The coworking space fulfills her vision of creating "a third space, almost like a coffee shop, where you can know that you're entirely surrounded by sapphics" and offers an alternative to the nightlife-focused aspects of queer culture. Open weekdays from 11am to 6pm, the space provides members with access to a matcha and coffee bar along with complimentary snacks in a welcoming environment. Beyond coworking, Garden Of hosts diverse community events ranging from craft nights and bouquet making classes to clothing swaps at various locations throughout the neighborhood.
"Here at Garden Of we celebrate all things and all humans under the Sapphic umbrella," states the collective's mission. "We believe Queer community is holy, and the intention of all of our events from the wildest parties to the calmest of lake nights is to connect you with your chosen family." The space represents a significant personal journey for Strader, who started the business after leaving the Mormon church, divorcing her husband, and coming out as queer. Ravenswood residents interested in experiencing this unique addition to the neighborhood's diverse business landscape can visit the collective's website for information about membership options and upcoming events.
Sources:
1. https://windycitytimes.com/2025/12/02/new-ravenswood-collective-aims-to-create-friendship-forward-sapphic-spaces/
2. https://www.gardenofcollective.com/journal/chicago-queer-coworking-studio
3. https://www.gardenofcollective.com/