When you join a quilt guild, the first thing you should do is ask the president, "what can I do to help" and you will meet people and they will know you by name and count you as a friend. I hear so many people say that they joined (whatever group that does whatever) that no one spoke to them and it was an "unfriendly" group. Sometimes, you have to start the ball rolling and the best way is to get actively involved. I love my quilt guild and all of the opportunities it offers...and if it doesn't offer something that interests me, I ask if there are some members who would like to start a small group that fulfills that interest. I have started 2 small groups in our guild and love them and the guild meeting. Good luck in your new venture.
PS:
If you want to see "eye rolls" and "eyebrows rise", just tell your non-sewing friends that you refinish and refurbish vintage and antique sewing machines (as I do). At my age (77), I guess that I am just supposed to sit in a chair and vegetate. NOT!!!