I say go for it! I always go to retreats "alone" as my personal quilting buddies don't go, I enjoy myself thoroughly. One time I sat beside a much older retired lady (her oldest grandchild wasn't much younger then me) who I never met before. Next retreat she asked if she could sit by me, I took it as a great compliment. I am very shy so each time I go I am pushing myself and its so worth it.