STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

greendiamond · Marc Jacobs

The Junior League

Mandy · Kate Spade

I too have considered joining JL and would like to hear feedback from anyone thats a member or knows about the organization.

Thanks for posting green diamond! I didn't think to ask about it here.

sfclinevandy · Coach

I'm not an expert but I know a little because my mom used to be really involved. I think 22 is the age when you can be put up. It used to be, but it could have changed, a member recommends you for membership. Once you're a member you're expected to fulfill so many volunteer hours. The League sponsers tons of projects... in Atlanta for example they have a Nearly New thrift store and began the Atlanta Speech School. There are also tons of social activities where you can network and meet people.

It's a good way to meet people. I'm not into that scene because I wasn't a fan of being in a sorority. Depending on your area, it definitely attracts the former sorority-types and future soccer moms so I'll always keep my distance. Also, it depends on where you live what exactly the League does/ what it's like. I know in smaller towns it's more social and they throw lots of parties but in larger cities like Atlanta (where I'm from) there's more emphasis on community involvement.

greendiamond · Marc Jacobs

Sfclinevandy, did you feel like your mom was overwhelmed with project? Sometimes I think that these sorts of things are concocted by people that have a lot of time to fill, and I really just want a nice group of ladies to volunteer with and have some fun with. I don't want to be stressing about getting it all done. That would defeat the purpose for me.

Any one else want to weigh in?

-gd

sfclinevandy · Coach

Greendiamond-

When she first started she wasn't overwhelmed because we were living in a smaller town and the League was mainly just a social thing. She always said she only joined because everyone else did and it was the thing to do. After my dad finished school we moved to Atlanta and it was a MUCH bigger obligation. First they wanted her to work at the thrift store during the day but she had 4 small kids at home so that wasn't going to happen. Then she became some sort of "leader" with younger, newer members who she "mentored." Anyway, my mom didn't have time and realized that it just wasn't for her so she resigned or something like that which allowed her to leave in good standing.

My best friend's mom always worked as a docent at the art museum through the League and loved that. I have no idea how you get your assignments or if you pick them. Anyway, I would look into it at least. You don't have anything to lose.

There is one I really like about the Junior League. Every city makes a GREAT cookbook and my mom has a cool collection of those.

Chic · Marc Jacobs

A girl I worked with joined at 30 to make more contacts in Atlanta, she was exhasted. There were get togethers once a week and something to do every weekend. If you are new to a city and don't know anyone I would recommend it, or if you like to be busy then it might be for you. I declined doing it in Atlanta just like SFC, b/c even though I look like a soccer mom I am not one.