Originally Posted by Scissor Queen
I belong to three guilds. Two good size and one really small.
I will say it's nearly impossible to actually get to know people you only see 2 hours a month. Join in the activities and you'll get to know people a little better.
As to cliques, groups of friends sit together and visit with each other. So would you. As soon as you get to know some of them you'll be included because they're not really cliques, just groups of friends.
So true about groups. Quilters are human and get excited seeing their buddies. Several times a year I have new members stand up. this reminds the other members, "we are all the welcoming committee". This seems to wake us up to how a new member may feel. Group activities that new members join in make them feel right at home with everyone.
But in truth, there are guilds that are too large and unfriendly. That does happen everywhere. Keep looking, guilds are quite inspirational and there are great ones everywhere.