Okay, so tomorrow evening I am going to my first quilt guild meeting, and I am nervous. I don't know anyone there and I don't know what to expect...but I would really like to find other quilters in my area and have a place to learn and exchange ideas.

Any thoughts about what, if anything, I should bring? What I should expect? The website says there will be a program with a trunk show.

Anyway, I guess I am just looking for encouragement so that I don't chicken out!

Good for you. I am still "thinking" of going. Proud of you!

Introduce yourself to the other people and let them know you are new. It'll help them get to know you and you them.
I've found that most quilters don't bite. In my guild we have members that help newbies so that they feel included. :-D

I'm going to my first on Wednesday...have similar feelings, but we'll get through it. It's not the first 'first' for me, and I doubt it is for you, either. :wink:

Good luck!

Walk in with a smile and start chatting. Don't sit in the back. The president will be very busy and most officers will have duties and may not get around to welcoming you personally, so don't take it personally if they don't. Usually an introduction of visitors will be made during the start of the meeting.

If there is a trunk show and a program, you probably won't be doing any sewing. Some ladies bring handwork to do while they sit. You might want to bring a notepad, and/or a camera. Always ask - before photographing someone's quilt, it's only common courtesy. If they have a library, check it out! It's a great place to find patterns and information for nothing!
Once you start to feel comfortable, volunteer to be on a committee. Any committee. It allows you to become close to the other people in that committee and then you have a core group of "I know you's" set up.
Spread your wings and fly!

Just have fun!

I went to my first Guild Meeting last week. What a great time! So many nice people, great ideas, beautiful quilts. I sat with a group of ladies that I knew one of them, so a bit easier. But go anyway and someone will take you under their wing. Let them know you are new to the Guild.

You will love it and be glad you went! I cannot wait for next months meeting.

Don't feel intimidated, everyone there was once a newbie and many others have come into the guild the same way, not knowing anyone. I have been in three guilds and was warmly welcomed into all.

Go for it! Look how much fun you have here!

Sorry, I see now that you are a new user! What I was trying to say is that quilters are a great bunch! Spread you wings and fly, as someone else said!