New Member Luncheon

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

The New Member Luncheon at St. Andrews Country Club is one of the most memorable and talked about events. This is a new, modern take on your grandparents “New Member Social Event”. The New Member Luncheon occurs once a year and attendees include New Members, the Membership Committee, their spouses, the Board of Governors and their spouses and Department Heads. New Members coming in to a new community no longer want to be placed on display in front of the entire membership. The exclusive, New Member Luncheon provides a comfortable and intimate setting for new members and seasoned members to get to know each other and extend invitations to golf or tennis, dinner, etc.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

The New Member Luncheon date is picked a year in advance. It is communicated to all of the new members during their orientation and via e-mail. Each year a new theme is selected in order to ensure a unique and special experience. The new and seasoned members that attend the New Member Luncheon are consistently blown away by this event. The new members feel special and welcomed, without being singled out or put in the spotlight and the seasoned members enjoy getting to know the new members on an intimate level.