When ninety-nine girlfriends started the Summer Socials back in 2017, they were an instant hit with members who wanted an opportunity to meet others in a casual, intimate, non-goal-oriented ambience. In 2018 and 2019, a growing list of hosts opened their homes to Girlfriends, making it possible to connect even more members with as-yet-unmet friends.
After cancelling in 2020, Summer Socials were back this year. On Sunday, September 12, eight hosts welcomed about 60 members to small, outdoor happy hours, and the lively conversations picked up where they left off two years ago.
Kat Schon and Penney Stephenson have hosted all four years in their NoPo back yard, assisted by their magnificent dog, Akuna. Susan Rinker, hosting for the third time, offered a selection of Spanish tapas and sangria on the terrace at her downtown condominium. First-time hosts this year were April Hasson, Atiya Mansoor, Kim Curtis, Margie Sunderland (and her three sisters, all members) and Maureen Wright. Awesome event organizer Heidi Yorkshire also welcomed Girlfriends to her home.
Hosts report that conversation ranged widely, from reports on summer travel to a topic dear to Girlfriends’ hearts, philanthropy. After the last 18 months, there was much joy in having the opportunity to meet new and old friends in a safe environment.