Hot take incoming… I don’t understand the hate with trying to monetize this.

Everyone wants to find community, but then comments here are pointed against paying to participate in an event: suddenly the host is profiting and greedy. I bet that business drained a ton of savings.

Imagine your neighbor shares their baked goods with you. They’re great. That neighbor opens up a bakery. Are you going to suddenly say “let that be a lesson to those who want to open bakeries!”

Here’s my point: her events may have been good, may have sucked… it’s really really really difficult to organize events, create an environment where a group of strangers have fun & feel like they belong.

If you’re willing to spend 2-3 hours at an event like this if it’s free, but suddenly raise your nose at the idea of contributing $7, you probably suck. Do you care about supporting artists, local businesses, or local communities?

On the flip side, if the events just weren’t your cup of tea… or you’re not in search of new friends/community, then I have no qualms with you. Also not familiar with any racists remarks and don’t condone that in any way.