I know a lot of folks on this board belong to the SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism). I have been wanting to get involved for years and a while back attended a few events. However as a single person who did not know anyone involved I really did not feel “welcomed” by the other members. Everyone broke into their little groups and guests seemed more tolerated than welcomed. Now with the Renfest going on I still would like to get involved. What is the best way for a newbie to get started. I know each group will be different but I still would like to give it another shot. Any comments or suggestions would be appreciated.
TIA
Have you checked out the SCA website for the local groups? Usually there’s a person listed called the “Chatelaine” who’s supposed to help out newbies.
The SCA wasn’t all that fun for me when I started. I already knew people who belonged when I joined so that helped, however I got pretty bored with the boozing and sleeping around that seemed to dominate that household and was ready to quit before I finally met some people that were more interesting. It took a few years!
I’d say just keep on going to events, try to do your best to “be period” and ask a lot of questions. Sooner or later someone may take you under their wing.
Do you have any interests in any of the crafts? Chatting with people about armouring, sewing, embroidery etc is also another way to meet people. Also, there should be some mailing lists for your area. If you join and post as a newbie looking for guidance you should get some responses.
Good luck. 
(I’m in An Tir!)
Does SCA have “Freinds of” groups?
Just wondering, as I’m with a group called Friends of Faire and one of our primary purposes is to be an entry point for people looking to be more involved with Faire.
The best thing I can recommend is searching on the web for your local SCA group’s website. Most groups have websites that list links to the officers of the group, calandar of upcoming events and scheduled meetings. Contact the Chatelaine of the group, that is the officer responsible for helping new people get involved.
I’ve been a very active member of the Society for just over 18 months, and I have to say it is the best group of people I’ve met in a very long time. I’m in the Kingdom of Meridies, Principality of Gleann Abhann.
Cormac