Quick Answers to Common Questions about Bald Girls Do Lunch
Do I have to be bald to attend?
No. Every woman over 18 with any type or duration of alopecia areata (AA) is warmly welcomed. You could have patchy hair loss, re-growth or no hair anywhere. It doesn’t matter.
Then why is the group called Bald Girls Do Lunch?
The first BGDL event was in New York in 2005. It was organized for women with AA who previously had shied away from “formal” groups, and for those who wanted to be bald in public but didn’t want to do it for the first time alone. The idea caught on and since incorporating as a nonprofit 2007 we’ve held lunches in 38 cities in 17 states, beginning with Los Angeles, Salt Lake City and Detroit.
Is your goal to encourage women with alopecia to go out bald in public?
No, but we do promote and encourage your freedom of choice. We want to help you feel comfortable with a variety of ways to go out in public, so if you are new to the bald look, be assured we have a lot of experience and tips to share with you.
Do I have to take off my wig?
It’s very important that you always be comfortable. Come with any kind of head covering that you like - a hat, wig or scarf - or no head covering at all. You can even come one way and leave another way. It’s your choice. One of the things you’ll learn at a BGDL lunch is you have many more choices than you may have realized.
Do you have to become a member to come to a lunch?
At this time, BGDL doesn’t have “members” — we have friends! Please join our email list so you’re updated about our lunches and events. Our community and programs are growing very fast so please check back often for new opportunities.
Is this a support group?
Support groups have members and meet at set times. BGDL is different. While we are drawn together by common experiences and the desire to share and learn, the atmos-phere is relaxed, friendly and empowering. You will not have to sit in a circle or be put on the spot. It’s “lunch.” And it’s fun!
Do I have to talk about private things?
Come to talk or come to listen – there’s never pressure to disclose private things. Many women find our informality and discussions to be just what they need to make changes in how they think about themselves or talk to others about their alopecia. You may find exactly the same thing.
Do you have events in addition to lunches?
BGDL holds special events from time to time in addition to our typical lunches, such as the Bobbi Brown Beauty Event and Origins Store Awareness Day. These events are another way that women with alopecia can get together, learn, share and have fun. Please check back frequently for upcoming events and workshops.
How much does a lunch cost?
Usually $45. This covers the meal itself (including your beverage and tip) plus a $20 tax-deductible contribution that helps us bring our program to your community. Keep in mind that a BGDL event is much more than a meal: it’s an organized, lively discussion about important issues that matter. That’s why we choose venues that are conducive to small group discussion (low or no music) and tend not to attract children.
Will I be pitched to purchase products during the lunch?
No! Businesses frequently contact us about sponsorship opportunities so that they can have a captive audience — but this will not happen. While accepting sponsors would lower the cost for attendees, it would also distract from our mission. On the other hand, you will have the benefit of helpful demonstrations, including how to use wigs, make-up (such as brow products) and fashion accessories, like as hats and scarves. The all-time favorite scarf to date? A medium-weight cotton square that measures about 30 x 30 inches.
Does it matter how long I have had alopecia areata?
Not at all. It’s often a mixed group – those with AA since childhood getting to meet those with newer onset.
I don’t see a lunch scheduled for my city — when will BGDL come here?
To make sure you’re alerted about events in your area, please join our email list. Next, send an email or call us at 800.578.5332. There may be an event in the works that hasn’t made it on our Events Calendar yet because a date and/or restaurant has yet to be confirmed.
How can I sign up for a lunch?
Visit our Donate Now page or email us at rsvp@baldgirlsdolunch.org. We look forward to meeting you!