How to Measure Success for a Popup Social Club? A Case Study of how @girlswhomeet builds community
- Julianna Woodland
- Apr 28
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 11
In a city like NYC, where connections can be both abundant and elusive, @girlswhomeet has emerged as a beacon of community for women seeking genuine friendships and meaningful experiences. Founded by Carola + Nithi : two women who were initially seeking some friendship themselves - this popup social club has rapidly become a phenomenon, filling a crucial gap in NYC's social landscape.
Literally how it started - two girls met in a chat room both feeling a bit lonely in a city full of millions. Oh how it's going you ask?? They just celebrated 3 years of not only their own friendship - but the matchmaking of countless other friendships of women across nyc + the globe!!
The Art of Community Building
Community building is more than just organizing events; it's an innate gift. While some aspects can be learned, the true essence of bringing people together often stems from a natural inclination towards human connection. Carola and Nithi exemplify this rare talent, understanding the profound importance of fostering relationships in an increasingly disconnected world.

Measuring the Immeasurable
The success of @girlswhomeet extends far beyond traditional metrics. The warmth of new friendships, the buzz of positive energy at events, and the sense of belonging cultivated in their chatrooms are intangible yet invaluable. However, for those seeking concrete evidence of their impact, the numbers speak volumes.
Quantifiable Success
Event Dominance: As of September 9, 2024, @girlswhomeet events comprised a staggering 26% of featured events on the first page of locals.org/new-york, a popular hyperlocal community app.
Explosive Growth: In just its second year, @girlswhomeet has witnessed an annual growth rate exceeding 300%.
Metrics for Popup Social Club Success
While @girlswhomeet's success is evident, other aspiring community builders can learn from their approach. Here are key metrics to consider:
Attendance and Frequency: Track not just the number of attendees, but also how often they return. Repeat participants indicate a strong community bond.
Social Media Engagement: Monitor mentions, hashtags, and overall social media buzz before, during, and after events.
Member Acquisition: Keep tabs on how many new members join and through which channels.
Event Diversity: Assess the variety and popularity of different event types to understand what resonates with your community.
Partnerships and Collaborations: Measure the number and quality of partnerships with local businesses or other communities
Member Feedback: Regularly collect and analyze feedback to ensure continuous improvement
The @girlswhomeet Phenomenon
What sets @girlswhomeet apart is not just their impressive numbers, but the genuine impact they're making on women's lives in NYC. From rooftop workouts to blind dinner dates, they've created a diverse array of events catering to different age groups and interests. Their success has not gone unnoticed. The attention they're garnering from other communities and brands is a testament to their growing influence in the NYC social scene
girlswhomeet x craftycitygirls x fabrik
girlswhomeet x litnlean feat. swoon
Lessons for Aspiring Community Builders
Authenticity is Key: Carola and Nithi's genuine passion for connection shines through in every event.
Diversity in Offerings: From fitness classes to dining experiences, @girlswhomeet caters to a wide range of interests.
Consistency: Regular events and active online presence keep the community engaged.
Leveraging Technology: Utilizing platforms like locals.org and Instagram has been crucial for their growth.
Brands see the authentic value in communities like girlswhomeet to leverage for tapping into their own audiences. This is why girlswhomeet has been incredibly successful in acting as a brand to consumer vehicle for many brands that they align and connect with.
In conclusion, while the true value of @girlswhomeet lies in the countless friendships formed and the support system it has created for women in NYC, its measurable success serves as an inspiring case study for popup social clubs everywhere.
As they continue to grow and evolve, one thing remains clear: in a world craving genuine connection, initiatives like @girlswhomeet are not just welcome – they're essential.
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