I started a small group for just show and tell and lunch. We met at different lunch places once a month. One year we decided we wanted to do a group project. Soon we were meeting for a potluck and sew along. We have 2 rules: 1. if you plan to come, and something happens, Call someone, we WILL worry! 2. You NEVER need to do the group project. Our group has ebbed and flowed a couple times ( we lost a few when they got miffed I would not assign a food to someone each time !) Anyone can invite a friend and we meet in a quilt shop class room. (I check the calendar with the owner to avoid holidays and scheduled classes) It took a while for our group to grow, but we are friendly and welcoming. The group that never wanted to invite anyone faded away. They got tired of me inviting people I met in a fabric or craft store! No new members leads to a dying group. I wish I lived closer to you, I would start up a group with you!