In trying to find local people that are into wine tasting, a few years ago I entered the meet-up website, searched wine and groups that were within 10 miles of Santa Clarita. I found, and joined, two. I have since been to their events (They’ve also supported the non-profit wine events Eve’s Wine 101 has worked on.) and think that the formats they present are pretty darn interesting.
And though I’m married and not a “partier” these two groups were perfect for people like me…and maybe for you. I learned that though most meet-up people are single, and looking to meet-up with other singles, it wasn’t mandatory.
Santa Clarita Valley Wine Enthusiasts
http://www.meetup.com/Santa-Clarita-Valley-Wine-Enthusiasts/
Members: 356
Past Meetups: 58
We’re About: Night Life · Social Networking · Wine Tasting · Fun Times · Singles · Meeting New People · Adventure · Friends · Fitness · Dining Out · Wine · Wine education · Wine and Food Pairing · Wine Lovers · Personal Growth
Organizer: Douglas since August 2010
Doug’s comment: When I started SCV Wine Enthusiasts I had in mind the spirit of Wine. To make new friends, connect with old ones, enjoy food, conversation, and always looking for that next great glass of wine to try, all in an environment that facilitates fun, learning and levity, while making sure all feel welcome from the neophyte to the oenophile. And I think we are doing just that!
My comment: I’ve known Doug for a few years now, we’ve dined and drank together well before I joined his group. Seeing Doug greet/entertain/educate during one of his many meet-ups is always fun. (In fact I envision him as the wine God Bacchus, complete with an ivy headdress.) He treats everyone as a long-lost friend as they arrive, tells funny stories that always seem to involve a little wine education; some unknown wine fact. He runs a great group that is good for either singles or couples.
Past events included a Red, White and Blue Party where guests were prompted to wear white and have inexpensive wine showered on them, limo trips to wineries, local wine events, and painting a mural on the wall of a home!
Wine-y Women Unwind
http://www.meetup.com/wine-ywomenunwind/
Members: 219
Past Meetups: 80
We’re About: Social · Working Women · Meeting New People · Moms · Stay At Home Moms · Singles · Friends · Fun Times · New In Town · Dining Out · Women’s Social · Wine.
Organizer: Kathy Lockhart since March 2010
Kathy’s comment: It all happened like this: I had just moved to the area and was looking for a way to make friends. I found Meetup.com and thought this would be great way to do that. I love planning events, so I thought…why not start my own group? After a good bottle of wine and some brain storming, the Wine-y Women Unwind was born. It started as a wine group, but has developed into so much more.
My comment: Kathy is a welcoming host whether her events are held in her home like her annual Oscar Dress-Up Party, movie nights, local wine tastings and business mixers. (Kathy also sells Lia Sophia jewelry and her guests sometimes sell their wares as well.) I like the “women’s only” group format very much. It would be great for singles or married ladies that want to let their hair down and relax for an evening in or out.