11th Jul 2025
Meet the Member – Ali Mitchell – Glasgow & Ayrshire Social Events
Name, business name
Ali Mitchell – Glasgow & Ayrshire Social Events
Tell us about your businesses, the inspiration behind it and when you launched it?
Glasgow & Ayrshire Social Events was born from a simple idea: to bring people together in a welcoming, no-pressure environment. I launched the group over 17 years ago as a monthly Sunday Brunch group, inspired by the need for more inclusive, friendly spaces where adults could make genuine connections—whether moving to a new area, going through a life change, or just looking to expand their social circle.
Since then, it’s grown into a thriving community that hosts everything from relaxed coffees and meals out to book groups, comedy, theatre & cinema nights, and big social days like race days and brunches. When the pandemic hit, we adapted by moving everything online—quizzes, virtual drinks, even online book group—and kept the community spirit alive during such a disconnected time.
What’s driven it from day one is the belief that everyone deserves to feel included and welcomed – nobody should be sitting at home alone, and I’m incredibly proud of the friendships and fun we’ve helped along the way.
Best piece of advice you were given at the start of your business journey?
“Create the kind of event you’d want to go to.”
What has been your biggest lesson/ challenge faced so far and how did you overcome it?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in running the group over the years has been balancing inclusivity with boundaries. In a social group built on openness and warmth, it can be tricky to navigate situations where things don’t quite go to plan—whether it’s a miscommunication, differing expectations, or even difficult behaviour.
What helped me overcome it was learning to trust my instincts while still being fair and transparent. I developed clear guidelines, kept communication open, and made space for feedback. Most importantly, I learned that setting boundaries isn’t about exclusion—it’s about protecting the positive experience for everyone.
It’s definitely been a learning curve, but one that’s strengthened the group and made me a more confident and thoughtful organiser.
What is your number 1 business tip for success?
If I had to pick just one, I’d say: Consistency over perfection.
Success—whether in building a business, running events, or growing a community like ours —often comes down to showing up again and again, even when things aren’t perfect. It’s about putting in the effort on the good days and the not so good ones, learning from the mistakes and trusting that the small, steady steps will take you somewhere amazing!
What are the big business goals for the next year?
Keeping the group growing & thriving, enhancing communication between members and simplifying some areas of our website, expanding our reach & engagement on social media platforms (and keeping myself up to date with new areas of this!), exploring more online events for Autumn/Winter 2025.
How can the GGC Business membership help?
I need help in strategy and growth, refining my membership model, streamlining my marketing, fresh ideas & feedback, accountability & support
What’s the dream?
The dream for Glasgow & Ayrshire Social Events is to create a community where no one ever feels like the odd one out. Whether you’re new in town, newly single, starting over, or just ready to say yes to life again, this group is here to offer connection—with no pressure and no pretence and no drama.
The vision is for events that keep evolving—lunches that go on for hours, evenings full of fun and laughter, and moments where strangers become friends. It’s about creating a sense of belonging to something special.
Over time, the hope is to reach even more people across Glasgow and Ayrshire, create meaningful partnerships with local venues, and keep the spirit of fun, warmth, and inclusivity at the heart of every meal, chat and adventure.
Fave mantra to get you buzzed up for business
“With every email, every event, every ‘yes’ to my events I am building a strong community.”
Shout out to another local business you admire?
Lomond Leisure
Three fun facts about you!
I’ve just celebrated 40 years in my day job, I’ve been married to my first husband for almost 34 years, My guilty pleasure is reality TV
