One would think that in a city so overflowing with some of the world's coolest and most interesting people, it would be easy to, you know, actually meet some of them. But as even the most outgoing New Yorkers know, nights spent scanning the bar, or worse, swiping through apps, usually don't result in any meaningful connections.
What's a would-be social butterfly to do?!
Enter: The Shaka Club, our new favorite solution to navigating the Big Apple's social scene.
A membership club that truly values fostering community, The Shaka Club is all about bringing people together while making the most of the vibrant social landscape NYC has to offer. Since its inception last fall, it has become a go-to for twenty- and thirty-somethings looking to connect with a broader cross-section of their peers - and have plenty of fun while they're at it.
Whether they're seeking new friends, career contacts, or, ahem, something more, members are invited to meet and mingle organically at intimate IRL events at hot spots across the city. When everyone in the room is there for the same reason, meeting someone new becomes infinitely easier. Thanks to the pressure-free, relaxed nature of The Shaka Club gatherings, they feel more like a mutual friend's birthday party rather than an awkward networking mixer.
Which, of course, is precisely the point. Founders Kelly and Caitlin Stefanick were inspired to launch The Shaka Club after looking back at the breadth of social interactions they had in college, when they were surrounded by like-minded people their age and every day was an exciting chance to engage with someone new. Their goal was to bring that effortless, enthusiastic energy to the post-grad landscape for young adults.
Unlike most other status-obsessed social clubs that look for similar resumes from all members, The Shaka Club takes an unpretentious approach to membership, welcoming applicants from a variety of backgrounds, professions, and even native countries across the globe.
There's a straightforward interview and vetting process (to ensure the safety and comfort of all members), with no application or initiation fees. Since The Shaka Club has young professionals in mind, membership is kept affordable at just $20 - $30 per month and event prices are made to be more attractive than costs of a typical night out at $40 - $60 on average. The result is a diverse group from the worlds of art, entertainment, tech, finance, and more, that is bonded by the common goal of meeting new people and enjoying amazing experiences while doing it.
So, what can you expect as a Shaka Club member? For one, exclusive invites to curated events and unique activities around town, from private museum tours and comedy shows to boozy brunches and fabulous cocktail soirees. Designed to allow for maximum mingling potential, the weekly or semi-weekly gatherings are kept intimate, while larger events are hosted throughout the year for special occasions. As for the perks? Open bars, VIP areas, and skipping the line outside (naturally). We hear that The Shaka Club will even be popping up in the Hamptons this summer... oh, the elbow-rubbing possibilities!
Ready to broaden your social horizons? Apply to become a member of The Shaka Club in-crowd HERE!
[Photos courtesy The Shaka Club]