THREE YEARS ago, on Aug. 11, 2021, Angela Averett planted the seeds for a harbor of connectivity in the Franklin County community. Her simple post on the Nextdoor app aimed to connect newcomers, particularly women, seeking friendship and inclusivity. This initiative flourished into what many know as the Golden Friends. Something magical happened as these women gathered over extraordinary moments and clinking glasses.
The women began to form bonds, and the barriers of age, background, and class began to fade away. A wave of inclusivity, connectivity, joy, and the soothing comfort of kindred spirits emerged in its place. The Golden Friends evolved from a simple idea into an intimate community where everyone who joined found solace in the warm embrace of genuine connection.
Jennifer Whites, drawn in by Angela’s original Nextdoor post, felt an immediate connection. Sharing the same Southern roots as Angela, with both women hailing from Atlanta, they bonded quickly.
Group member Barb Seilheimer’s invitation to watch “The Golden Bachelor” sparked unique bonding experiences, like wearing wedding dresses in public and striking a pose for thrilling photoshoots. Nights like these, along with their famous potlucks and trips, strengthened their connection and shaped the group’s identity.
An illness eventually forced Angela to step back, and she later died, but her legacy lives on through her beloved friends. The women later renamed their group from “Cocktails and Conversation” to “Coffee, Cocktails, and Conversation” after transitioning from evening restaurant meetups to coffee shop adventures. From there, the group began gathering at the new coffee shop on the Winchester square.
The Golden Friends are 14 women in their late 50s to early 70s, united by life stories, mutual hobbies, and a passion for living life to the fullest. Whether discussing their love for their grandchildren, taking on new cooking adventures, or bonding over book recommendations, the judgment-free atmosphere gives everyone a safe space for authentic connection.
Potlucks are for celebrations of culinary adventures. Festive celebrations become heartwarming gatherings, like their first Christmas together, where they filled the air with holiday cheer. That year, the group extended the same cheer that flooded their hearts to children in need through the special gifts they donated to a local elementary school.
The group cherishes Thanksgiving and New Year’s gatherings, where gratitude and excitement travel from the table to the living room. For a brief moment, spouses become honorary members of the “Golden Circle.” These special moments, brimming with tasty meals and merriment, quickly become the ties that bind and strengthen their sense of belonging and community.
“I moved around a lot growing up and never had a true best girlfriend. And now I have over a dozen, all of whom would answer my call at any time of the day or night for anything — large or small. And there are no words to explain the impact that feeling has on my life,” emphasized group member Sherri Bell.
In moments of adversity, the group forms a circle of strength, offering shoulders to cry on and ears that listen without judgment. Callie Adkins shared how the group helped her navigate grief and isolation, expressing the impact on her mental and physical well-being.
“I lost my son very suddenly four years ago, and then my home. Holidays are hard. This past December, I was dreading pulling out my Christmas decorations,” said Callie. “So, three friends came over, and we made it an event. I fixed lunch, and they went to town decorating. My place has never looked so good during the holidays!”
The magic this group shares isn’t merely anecdotal. Research consistently shows how impactful healthy relationships are on health and well-being. Be it family, close friends, co-workers, or community, strong connections lead to healthier decisions and improved mental and physical health. The Golden Friends prove the positive influence of social connections on well-being in every interaction.
“Not only does it provide more opportunities to spend time with friends, but knowing there are people who truly care about your well-being — and you reciprocating — is invaluable,” Callie added. “It means you are not alone. You will have the support you need to navigate the hurdles life throws your way.”
The group has tons of fun planned for the future. Cruises, trips, and adventures are on the horizon. Along with even more thrilling adventures, the Golden Friends are inspired to continue uplifting and supporting each other.
The Golden Friends group proves that genuine bonds can form between people even in the most unexpected circumstances. They exemplify the power of genuine human connection, and their story reminds us that friendship can bloom in unexpected places.
So, grab a cup of coffee, reach out to some of your fellow community members, and see what beautiful connections await you. GN
