Q: With all of the social networks already on the Web, what got you interested in creating your own site?
A: The concept came about after my relocation to Denver six years ago. Knowing not a soul in the Denver area, I was using the workplace as my main channel for personal relationships. Although it was somewhat successful, I thought there had to be a better way to cultivate new friendships.
Unfortunately, most of the existing sites focus on finding a romantic interest or linking with folks you already know. is the first social network I’m aware of that allows women to interact individually with other women who, via their personal profiles, represent someone who may become a good friend or activity partner.
Q: Why create a social network just for women?
A: There are a host of studies that show that women respond to and have a need for friendships that differ widely from men’s. It aids women both emotionally and physically.
The goal of is to make the process of finding and connecting with other women for friendship fast and simple. As a women’s-only network, we keep things simple and stay focused on our one purpose. Our members like that. It makes them comfortable, secure and sure of the site’s purpose.
Q: How do you market a startup social media site?
A: is truly a one-woman shop — or at least a one-woman shop with a huge reliance on contractors and other specialized vendors.
Currently the site is marketed only through Google pay-per-click ads. And frankly, we’ve been pretty successful with this approach, as about 600 women join the site each month. We now have over 5,000 members across the U.S.
I recently signed on with a firm in Westminster (Booyah) to handle the marketing of the site for me. This arrangement is in preparation for the move from beta to commercial, set to roll out in September. The site will then be subscription-based with forums and articles from experts in the field of women friendships.
All current members will have their free memberships grandfathered in, with new memberships $20 a month. Free trials also are available.
Edited for length and clarity by staff writer Steve Raabe.
