Plugging In: Social Groups

Each issue, WILMA includes a Plugging In directory to help you connect locally. This time, we’re focusing on social groups in the area to get newcomers and longtimers alike to connect through shared activities. Keep an eye out for future lists about volunteering opportunities and entrepreneur resources. Let us know about your organization by emailing editor@wilmingtonbiz.com.

SUN CLUB Sun Club ILM formed this year as a way for women – mostly in their twenties, though the group says all are welcome – to connect through activities and exploring Wilmington. Meetup activities range from cocktails and craft nights to book swaps, volunteering, and more. The group holds a weekly Mermaid Monday Sunset Swim at either Wrightsville Beach or Carolina Beach. (Read more about founder Delaney O’Brien’s plans for the group here) Info: Instagram @sunclub.ilm

GIRLS HAVE HOBBIES Doodling in the park, painting along with Bob Ross, making slime, making tiny terrariums – the Girls Have Hobbies group meets two to four times a month for creative activities as well as active outings such as indoor rock climbing and sunset yoga. But the main focus is hanging out, meeting new people, and trying out activities around the city. Info: Instagram @girlshaveh0bbies, TikTok @girlshavehobbies

THE WILMINGTON GIRLS CLUB “For the girls who romanticize their lives, love to make reservations, and want to make new friends” is the description for this group. Past events have included a Coastal Cowgirl Market with food trucks and a flower bouquet bar at Oak + Fennel Farms; sunflower maze meetup; and tasting event at Wine Knot. Info: Instagram @thewilmingtongirlsclub

WANDERLUST WILMINGTON This Facebook group posts about local events and community updates from live music to family friendly outings. Info: Wanderlust Wilmington 2.0 on Facebook to join the private group

ILM SILENT BOOK CLUB Love reading but want to be social but also don’t want to join a book club discussion? So did Nancy Smith, organizer of ILM Silent Book Club, and the 3,000 members who follow the local chapter on Facebook and hundreds of other followers on Instagram. The club holds several in-person meetups a month, including at the public library, Azalea Station in the Cargo District, and Bitty & Beau’s coffee shop for a variety of settings for peaceful page turning. Info: Instagram @ilmsilentbookclub and facebook.com/groups/ilmsilentbookclub    

WILMY WALKS FOR ALL For those who prefer to meet new people while also getting their steps in, Krysten Gross, who works from home, started Wilmy Walks for All. The walking group meets at Wrightsville Beach Loop, local parks, and even along the downtown Riverfront to the weekend farmers market. Walks are typically between 1.5 miles to 4 miles, depending on the trail. INFO: Instagram @wilmywalksforall

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