Moving to a new place can be a thrilling adventure. You’ve got a fresh start, new opportunities, and a chance to explore everything your new city has to offer. But there’s one challenge that often doesn’t get talked about enough: finding your people. Especially here in Central Florida, where so many of us are transplants from other areas, it can feel overwhelming to make new connections and build the kind of friendships that feel like home.
If you’ve ever found yourself longing for a circle of girlfriends to grab brunch with, plan spontaneous beach days, or just chat over a glass of wine, you’re not alone. Making friends as an adult is hard. Between work, family responsibilities, and the general busyness of life, it’s tough to find the time and opportunities to connect with others. But the good news is, it’s not impossible, and the rewards of finding your girl squad are absolutely worth it!
Why a girl squad matters
Having a group of girlfriends isn’t just about having fun (although that’s a huge part of it). It’s about creating a community that uplifts and supports you through life’s highs and lows. Friendships can act as a safety net when times are tough, providing emotional support and reducing feelings of loneliness. According to research from the Mayo Clinic, friendships can:
- Reduce stress: Emotional support from friends can help you navigate challenging times more easily.
- Improve mental health: Sharing your thoughts and experiences with close friends can boost your mood and combat loneliness.
- Extend your lifespan: Studies show that strong social connections are linked to better physical health and longevity.
For many women, a girl squad offers a sense of belonging and camaraderie that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. Whether it’s sharing a laugh over brunch, venting about a stressful week, or celebrating life’s milestones.
Having a close-knit group makes life’s journey more meaningful. It’s about having people in your corner — those who cheer you on, celebrate your wins, and lend a listening ear when you need it most.
Benefits of finding your girl squad
- Emotional support: Your squad becomes your go-to for advice, encouragement, and understanding during life’s ups and downs.
- A sense of belonging: In a new city, having a group that feels like “your people” helps you feel more connected and grounded.
- Shared adventures: Whether it’s exploring Orlando’s vibrant restaurant scene or planning impromptu beach trips, shared experiences bring joy and excitement.
- Personal growth: Friendships inspire you to try new things, from taking a salsa class to joining a wine-tasting tour.
- Stress relief: Laughter, shared moments, and simply being around supportive friends help alleviate daily stresses.
Here in Central Florida, where many of us are navigating new jobs, relationships, and the unique pace of life, having a girl squad can anchor us. Beyond emotional benefits, there’s the sheer joy of shared adventures and creating memories with your chosen family.
Tips for building your girl squad
Building a girl squad in a new city can feel daunting, but with the right approach, it’s completely doable. Here are some simple tips to help you connect with like-minded women and start creating lasting friendships.
- Say “Yes” to invitations: Even if you’re tired or nervous, accept invitations to events or gatherings. For example, if a coworker invites you to a happy hour or a neighbor suggests a block party, go ahead and give it a try! You never know who you might connect with.
- Join local groups: From book clubs to fitness classes, local groups are a great way to meet like-minded women. For instance, joining a yoga class at a nearby studio could introduce you to people who share your interest in wellness and relaxation. If you’re an entrepreneur or thinking about it, joining a women in business group is a great idea!
- Get social: Social media isn’t just for scrolling; it’s also a powerful tool for connecting with others. Try joining a local Facebook group or following hashtags like #CentralFloridaWomen to find events or communities tailored to your interests.
- Attend community events: Farmers’ markets, art walks, and festivals are perfect opportunities to strike up a conversation and meet new people. (check out or Instagram for more information about what to do each week in Central Florida!)
Introducing Girlfriend Getaways: More than just a travel group
This is where Girlfriend Getaways comes in. Girlfriend Getaways is more than just a travel group; it’s a community designed to bring women together, both locally and beyond, with no set theme in mind other than friendship and connection. While our focus is on planning amazing girls’ trips to beautiful destinations, we also understand the importance of building connections close to home.
That’s why we’re introducing Girlfriend Getaway meetups right here in Central Florida. These gatherings are a chance to meet other women in the area, share a drink or two, and start building those connections that can lead to lifelong friendships, both at home and on future trips.
One meetup might be a casual wine night at a cozy local spot. The next, it could be a fun mixology class or a beach day meetup. These events are all about creating a relaxed, welcoming environment where you can connect with other women who love travel, adventure, and just having a good time.
Join the movement!
If you’re ready to find your girl squad and start creating amazing memories, we’d love for you to join us! Girlfriend Getaways is here to make it easier for women in Central Florida to connect, bond, and experience the power of friendship, both at home and on the road.
Join our Facebook group here to learn more about our upcoming meetups, trips, and all the exciting plans we have in store. Let’s make Central Florida feel a little smaller and a whole lot friendlier, one Girlfriend Getaway at a time!
