Let's make 2026 Amazing! (Please read)

Exciting Times Ahead – Let's Make 2026 Amazing! 🎉

Dear Spades Family,

I’m beyond excited as we approach our 3rd year of rocking and rolling together in Spades in Sandy Springs- ish! Looking back to September 2023, I never imagined we’d make it this far—and here we are, heading into 2026. Thank you all for being such a great group of people who value fun, friendship, and safe connections. My goal is to make it to 5 years, and with your support, I know we’ll get there!

To keep things smooth, respectful, and fun, I’m asking for your help starting January 1, 2026:

1. Safety First: With everything going on in the world, it’s important we look out for each other. Please update your Meetup and GroupMe profiles with your real name and a current photo by January 1st. This helps us stay connected and safe. If you're removed for this, you can always rejoin once your profile is updated. (Imagine if I had a Spades symbol as my photo and didn’t use my real name! 😅)
2. Arrive on Time: Starting January 2026, please aim to arrive on time for our events. Our goal is a prompt 8pm start for Friday Spades and Saturday Spades. (If I need to move it to 8:30pm start time- I can). We want to respect everyone’s time, so if you arrive solo, I’ll pair you up; if you have a partner please walk in together—but please be on time. We’re going back to the days like in 2023 when we had 3-4 tables ready to go when the start time was 6:30pm ( 50 people rsvp and 50 people showing up). Your punctuality will make a huge difference and would be my Christmas wish come true. 🎄
3. No Drama: Let’s keep it fun and positive! If there’s any drama or negativity, it doesn’t have a place here. This is a zero-tolerance group for toxic behavior, and if it doesn’t apply to you, great—if it doesn't apply let if fly! Let’s focus on playing Spades, enjoying good food, connecting with one another and getting home safely! (you will be removed)
4. RSVP/Un-RSVP: Life happens, and if you can’t make it, just change your RSVP to "not attending." If you’re unsure, please RSVP as soon as you can. The more accurate our headcount, the smoother everything goes. (For spades and non spades events)
5. 800 Members and Counting!: Wow, we’ve grown to 800 members! As much as I love the challenge, I want to make sure I’ve met everyone. If you joined in 2023 or 2024 and I haven’t had a chance to meet you yet, I’ll be removing inactive members to make room for those who can join us regularly. But don’t worry—if you get removed, you’re welcome to come back when your schedule allows! I'm looking for active members!
6. Thank You & Happy Holidays: Thank you for making these past years so amazing! I truly appreciate each and every one of you. Let’s make 2026 our best year yet. Happy Holidays, and let’s keep rocking!

Warmly,
Vanessa