Originally Posted by
nhweaver
I just joined a local quilt guild, I attended one meeting and enjoyed all the items on the agenda, but no member actually spoke to me in kind, except for another new member (it was her 3rd meeting). She joined to be able to attend the classes, but she felt uncomfortable with all the "clicky friends" and insider "remarks" also. Quilt guild board members should have a "welcome committe" who would explain all the "normal" stuff - like the black bag challenge, all the other "stuff" that they do, sit next to the "newbie" for a meeting.
I hope you enjoy the guild you joined. Our guild meets at 7 pm and there is socialization prior. My friends save me a seat. We have tables for community service and special projects and anyone can just walk up during the socialization and inquire. I still don't know all the people in my guild and I have been going since 2007 when I moved to Texas. Since the new members and visitors aren't announced until our business meeting starts at 7 I would have no way of knowing you were a new member until then and I would not feel comfortable getting up and moving away from my companions on the chance someone new would like me to sit near them. Like any group it takes a while to meet people and get to know them. My guild meets from 7 - 9 pm one night a month. I attend with friends and while I want everyone there to have a good time I focus on a few minutes catching up with my friends and then I listen to the program.
I am not meaning to sound argumentative I just want to show you a different perspective.