Going to your first event
MEMBER GUIDE
Every single one of us started exactly where you are now, wanting to attend an event but unsure of what to expect. We know it can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re coming alone – which, by the way, many women do! In fact, most of our members attend their first event solo, so you’re in good company. Whether you’re naturally outgoing or take a bit to warm up, there’s no “right” way to be. Trust that you’re in a space where your authentic self will attract likeminded people.
The beauty of this Club’s events is that everyone is there for the same reason – to organically connect with others. At the same time, you’ll meet women from different backgrounds, careers, and experiences, so every conversation is an opportunity to learn something new.
Here’s what our members have to say:
What was your first event like?
“My first event was attending the first run club meet up in the Marina! I was so so nervous at the start but was instantly welcomed by other girls who has also shown up alone. It was so nice chat with a bunch of women, and the environment was so welcoming and not competitive.” - Haley A.
“My first event was photographing the Nike X SFWSC Collab! I came to “work,” but I didn’t know that I would meet so many very lovely people along the way. No matter what circle I stepped into everyone had a smile on their face ready to welcome me. Also, since I had a camera in my hand and spent a lot of time observing the groups. In that time, I noticed that no one stood alone for too long. Even women who showed up completely alone were met with a whole new group of friends within minutes.” - Olivia B.
“My first event was both exciting and slightly nerve-wracking. I felt a bit out of my comfort zone at first, but everyone was so welcoming and friendly that I quickly felt at ease. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet a diverse group of women, and the conversations were inspiring. The energy of the group made it easy to connect and feel like I belonged.” - Pallavi G.
What has your experience been like going to events alone?
“I think an important part of growing is showing up alone. It forces you out of your circle and opens up your world to so many more incredible people. Every time I’ve gone to an event alone I’ve left with at least two new friends.” - Olivia B.
“Going alone is always a bit nerve racking, but it is not as awkward as you think! There are maybe like 2 minutes at the start when entering the event space when it might feel a bit awkward, but then you will see there are other women there who are also alone, and also looking for someone to spark up a conversation with! I will say from experience, events that have some form of hands on activity (ie. yoga or pottery) can feel a bit easier to go alone to because they don't require as much standing around conversation, and it is really easy to find something to relate on when you are all doing the same thing! I have also messaged in the slack before to find other women who are going to the event, and planned to meet up with them an hour or so beforehand! That way, I can meet someone ahead of time, and go in together.” - Haley A.
“It's been great! I've gone to a couple events alone but always make new friends and now we can go to events together and/or I see more and more familiar faces each time!” - Brittany A.
“At first before meeting my friends, I would get so nervous before an event but once I got there I always immediately met people to chat with and always left an event feeling so fulfilled.” - Mandy F.
How do you typically prepare for an event?
“I usually pick out my outfit the day before so I am not stressed trying to make the decision right before! I recommend wearing what you feel the most comfortable in, but I also love wearing something that could be a conversation piece (ie. a funky cardigan, my Oddli t-shirt with my name on it, oversized colorful sunglasses, a fun bag, etc.). I notice when I include a piece in my outfit that is a bit more interesting, it often invites women to approach me to ask about it and then we can start having a conversation! Depending on the event, sometimes I'll have a little drink at home before heading out. (Doesn't even have to be alcoholic! Just something sweet to get me excited!). I have also messaged in the slack before to find other women who are going to the event, and planned to meet up with them an hour or so beforehand! That way, I can meet someone ahead of time, and go in together. I always listen to music that hypes me up while I am getting ready, and think about topics that I am excited to talk to the girls about (usually things I can't talk to my bf about; the new Sabrina Carpenter album, pop culture, fashion, etc). Basically the whole time I am getting ready, I just have a little private party to get me feeling my best and excited for girlhood!” - Haley A.
“It’s kind of like getting ready for a first date, but way more exciting because you know that your outfit will be more appreciated.” - Olivia B.