When Savannah Mahaffey found herself longing for friendship and meaningful connections, she decided to do something about it. In May 2025, she founded Girl Gathered — Cullman’s newest social club, designed to bring together women in their 20s and 30s looking for genuine connections, community and fun.
“About a year and a half ago I was feeling so lonely and was praying to the Lord, ‘Please, I want and need friendship’ and he answered me abundantly,” she said. “I want to create a space where people who have felt what I felt can come, feel welcome, can socialize, can network and just hang out and meet other girls in our area.”
With a mix of affordable social gatherings, networking opportunities and hands-on workshops, Girl Gathered is all about cultivating authentic relationships and empowering women — all while supporting local businesses and having a good time.
Mahaffey shared, “My goal with this group is to host two events per month: a paid event and a free event. It will never be an expensive thing we do; the cost will just cover supplies so that we can do some fun activities.”
Reflecting on some of the group’s successful events, Mahaffey discussed its first summer event, “Money Talks,” saying, “Our June event was a great night of learning and connections as we talked about what it means to be financially free as young women. Dr. Nicole Wadsworth spoke to us about all things money, as well as a little politics, since she is now campaigning for lieutenant governor! It was great networking and learning. We are also partnering with Gracie Barra for our July event for a women’s self-defense class, which is set to be a success!”
Mahaffey not only encourages women to participate, but also local businesses. “We love partnering with local businesses and building meaningful connections in our community!” she said. “We are always looking for spaces to gather together and would always prefer to support locally owned businesses as we host.”
Remaining summer events include pickleball at Ingle Park on Aug. 9 and a trinket dish creation night (time and place TBD) in September.
“I would love for young women to know that Girl Gathered is a place they can come and make genuine friendships. It can be hard to be a post-college, or never-been-to-college, girl in their 20s and 30s, trying to navigate friendships based on who you truly are – often without common ground like school or kids,” Mahaffey explained. “My goal is to provide space for women to have fun and learn new things – from crafting to money talks – we’re open to trying anything!”
Cullman women in their 20s-30s interested in getting involved in Girl Gathered can request to join the Facebook group at https://tinyurl.com/girlgathered.
