By: Lennard James
In the heart of Memphis, a new community is blossoming that is redefining what it means to connect, engage, and thrive. Olive Social, founded by Memphis native and multi-hyphenate creative Jessica Murden, is more than just another social club—it is an intentional movement designed to cultivate authentic relationships and curate meaningful experiences for millennials who are eager to see the city in new and exciting ways.
Launched in February 2025, Olive Social is a proud extension of JM Creative Suite (JMCS), Murden’s boutique creative agency that sits at the intersection of design and experience. JMCS has long been rooted in creativity, purpose, and excellence, with a mission to create, elevate, and connect. Olive Social embodies that mission while carving out its own space as a vibrant hub for millennials in Memphis seeking community, growth, and fun.
At its core, Olive Social was born out of a deep understanding of what it means to crave connection. Murden, who previously lived outside of Memphis before returning to her hometown, recalls how difficult it can be to establish friendships or find new circles in a city. That personal journey of creating a community from scratch inspired her to ensure that others wouldn’t have to face the same obstacles. Instead, they could find an immediate home within Olive Social’s carefully curated network.
Each event hosted by Olive Social is thoughtfully crafted to spark connection and elevate the participants’ experience. Murden brings to the table her professional background in interior design, marketing, project management, and event planning, combining these skills to orchestrate gatherings where no detail is overlooked. From selecting local businesses and venues that reflect the vibrancy of Memphis, to the décor, music, and interactive elements, every Olive Social experience is designed to leave an impression.
Since its launch, Olive Social has introduced Memphis millennials to mixers, meet-ups, and DJ sets that blend entertainment with engagement. Yet this is just the beginning. Plans are already in motion to expand into new offerings such as workshops, co-working sessions, and collaborative events that appeal to the city’s growing demand for fresh, community-driven experiences. These events are about more than just a night out; they are spaces where friendships, partnerships, and creative collaborations take root.
Photo Courtesy: @olivesocialclub / Jessica Murden
Murden emphasizes that Olive Social’s target audience is millennials for a reason. This generation, now firmly in its adult years, is navigating careers, family life, and community involvement in ways that require authentic support networks. Especially in the wake of the pandemic, many millennials are actively seeking welcoming spaces where they can meet like-minded people and build lasting relationships. Olive Social provides exactly that.
“It’s about community over cliques,” Murden affirms. “We’re not just putting on events—we’re creating opportunities for people to grow together, to meet people who inspire them, and to connect with Memphis in ways they never expected.”
The cultural relevance of Olive Social cannot be overstated. Memphis is a city steeped in history, known globally for its music, soul, and resilience. Yet for many millennials, it has lacked a central hub that bridges tradition with a new era of creativity and lifestyle. Olive Social fills that gap by shining a light on the city’s potential and creating a platform for people to gather, exchange ideas, and celebrate the richness of Memphis culture.
Readers are encouraged to see Olive Social not just as an event series, but as a movement with a mission. Its ethos reflects the belief that people of Memphis don’t have to search outside the city for meaningful connections or high-quality experiences; they already exist here, waiting to be discovered and nurtured. By participating in Olive Social, millennials are joining a community that prioritizes good vibes, growth, and shared success.
The initiative has already started to make a visible impact. Attendees consistently leave Olive Social events with not just memories but meaningful connections that carry forward into their professional and personal lives. Partnerships have been born, friendships have flourished, and attendees are reminded that Memphis is a city filled with potential when people come together with open hearts and minds.
The spirit of Olive Social can be summed up in a powerful quote Murden embraces: “The greatest opportunity you have is the one you create for yourself.” These words serve as a guiding principle for the club’s mission, encouraging millennials to take charge of their social and professional growth while supporting one another in the process.
As Olive Social continues to grow, it invites Memphis millennials to join the movement and experience the city in a whole new way. With curated events, intentional community building, and a commitment to elevating the social landscape, Olive Social is proving that connection, creativity, and collaboration are the true cornerstones of Memphis’ next chapter. For more information, visit Olive Social Online or connect via Instagram at @olivesocialclub and @suitejessica.
