Ideas on how to invite different groups of friends

[Tonya Hagan]

I don't have a group of girlfriends per se I have my best friend, my mother and some of the ladies she worked with (their like my friends I grew up with them around) ladies I play golf with ocassionally, then wives of my husbands golf friends. I have thought about inviting them all but am worried that since everyone doesn't really know everyone else it may make them divide into groups. Has anyone done this before and I am worrying myself about nothing? Should I just keep alternating who I invite each year?

[Cathie in PA]

Hi:

When I had my first exchange none of the gals knew each other.
All came from different backgrounds, type of work they do, and where they live. There was not 1 gal who did not join in conversation or have a good time. They all blended together beautifully. People are people and when you are sharing fun at this beautiful time of the year how could they not have a good time. Don't be concerned, everyone will enjoy it and your exchange will be a hit.
Cathie in PA

[Robin]

Hi Cathy,
I absolutely agree with you. I invited all different groups from my life, they all mixed well. They all look forward to seeing each other every year, this being my 19th exchange and my 14th in Maryland. They greet each other like old friends, even if they only see each other once a year. They recognize each other when out in public. Just yesterday my next door neighbor Angela told me she ran into Lisa at the dentist office. I hear things like at all year. Everyone enjoys expanding their friendships and acquaintances. Mix it up!

[greenzoesmom]

My mom and my sisters and I all host a swap together so our attendees span several generations and walks of life and everyone really seems to like meeting new people that they otherwise wouldn't get to meet.