It all started with a simple Facebook post asking if there was a Pilates class in Mineola.
That post led to the creation of GLDN Gather, a women’s group serving East Texas. On July 14, the group held its launch party at Logan’s Place in Mineola.
Hailee Farren is the founder of GLDN (pronounced Golden) Gather, a group launched on social media to connect women across East Texas through social events and activities.
“I wanted to see if there was a pilates class available in Mineola,” she said. “Almost immediately there were so many women commenting about how they wished we had something like that. For me, that was when the wheels really started turning; it wasn’t just about me, it was about us.”
“I personally was very encouraged by the amount of women who stepped out of their comfort zone to attend the first event,” Farren said. “A few drove from Mount Pleasant to join, that to me was a huge encouragement to me because of the distance they drove to be here.”
“I took a few moments to stand in the background while everyone was mingling, that was when it really hit me, I got a little emotional about it,” she said. “Women from their 20s to 80s, talking and laughing together. I believe we aren’t as different as it seems, we’re all just girlies at heart.”
“Whoever you are, whatever you do, you are welcome here,” Farren said.
Farren, a wife and stay-at-home mother, said while that role is “a blessing and a privilege,” it can also be isolating at times. That’s what motivated her to create “a space for women in small-town East Texas to build community and make connections.”
Farren said the group plans to host future events including paint parties, pickleball, coffee dates, winery visits, workouts and “everything in between.” She said the group is open to women of all ages and backgrounds.
“GLDN Gather is for women in East Texas, in any walk of life, who want to build community, collaborate and connect! Whether you’re a SAHW, working woman, mom, grandma, new to town, or been here forever; this is for us.”
For women who may be nervous about attending, Farren encourages them to take the first step.
“When we’re together, none of us are alone,” she said. “Also, I would encourage them to join our facebook page to start getting connected; we have a post where women are sharing their names, hobbies, etc and already making some connections that they can build on at the events.”
Farren said Hebrews 10:24-25, emphasizes that community is essential to growth, encouragement, support and friendship.
“I truly believe we were not meant to do life alone; We are designed to gather together, encourage each other, and spur each other on in love.”
Upcoming GLDN Gather events include Paint Night at Lottie Bug Farms on Aug. 28, Morning Match Pickleball at the Mineola Civic Center on Sept. 14, and Coffee Date at Cafe U on Oct. 24.
“From the bottom of my heart, I am so grateful for the women who have joined the group, who came to our launch party, and who are continuing to build community through GLDN Gather,” Farren said. “It wouldn’t happen if it wasn’t for each of you, stepping out of your comfort zones, taking the leap, and being here, so thank you.”
Additional information is available on GLDN Gather’s Facebook and Instagram pages.