I need help! Short version- I have new friends who don’t know each other well and want activities. Also need timing help.
I am in a friend-making phase of life, as I only have a couple of close friends in town. I have new ish friends from a moms group, for moms of babies and toddlers. I have my small group from last year and my small group from this year, but they don’t know one another. I then have my sister and a longtime close friend. I really want to do something for my birthday because I love to host and love any excuse to socialize, and because I really enjoy all these women and would like to invest in their friendship, but I feel like just a dinner or drinks would be really awkward when people don’t really know each other!
My only idea so far is a bunco night with heavy apps. That way people are moving tables and meeting people in a fun way. I could even make it themed but can’t decide if that will add some fun and lower inhibitions or if will just require more effort for the guests and make them less comfortable.
Any feedback or other ideas?
I could always have dinner and drinks but I just feel like it would be uncomfortable to make small talk out of nothing with women you have never met. Even the groups I’m a part of we only meet once a month. I don’t want it to feel like a baby shower or other obligation.
The other piece I need help on is timing. My kids go to bed around 7:30 so 8 would be ideal for me, but at our age (and with babies/toddlers) that does feel late to start. It would be mid June so at least the sun would be out late.
Looking for any feedback thank you!