SCA Life

Here are some bits of advice from my own personal experience and that of my friends.

1 – Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to people. Don’t interrupt intense conversations, just as you wouldn’t in any other situation. Just wait for that comfortable moment and say, “Hi. My name is (???). I’m new to the SCA.” Most people will be nice and welcoming. Just remember to smile and be polite.

2 – I recommend attending at least three monthly meetings with your local group before plunging into difficult activities or offering yourself up for an administrative position.

3 – Star volunteering immediately! This may seem to contradict #2, but it really doesn’t. Just be sure you volunteer for short term activities that you have the skills to accomplish. A good example of this is offering to be a water bearer at an SCA event that includes combat. Fighters get hot very quickly in those personal ovens they wear, and they are always grateful for a drink. What’s more, volunteering for such an activity is an easy way to get talking with your fellow volunteers.

4 – In general, do not ask about anyone’s “real” life during an SCA event (defined as any gathering where everyone is in garb). That can break the suspension of disbelief that makes adult make-believe possible. On the other hand, feel free to ask people about their non-SCA lives at meetings, fighter practice and other such gatherings. I myself have made long term friendships with both men and women I’ve fallen to conversation with at SCA meetings.

5 – Ask for help if you need it. If you don’t understand what’s going on, get lost in a large campsite or just want to know the name of the current king or who’s fighting at the moment, just ask. I’ve had other friendships start in this incidental way.

6 – Finally, be polite and respectful, even to those who don’t want to include you in their discussions/activities/gatherings. They will look the worse for it, and you will get a reputation for a noble bearing and chivalrous demeanor.

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