Just Couples

Relax and enjoy each other's company

Just Couples is a social and support group formed to address the needs of Gay & Lesbian couples.  Specifically, they offer a forum to discuss issues that are important to committed Gay & Lesbian couples.  Some of the topics have included discussions about family issues, legal considerations, household financial structuring, and vacation options (just to name a few).  The discussions are lively, informative, and timely.

Also, they offer a relaxed environment where they can get together on a social basis.  Many of their members have openly expressed the difficulty of finding other Gay & Lesbian couples that they can be friends with.  Bars, personal ads, message board postings, etc., have not been very successful ways of meeting others.  The atmosphere at their meetings and scheduled functions is light and extremely friendly.  With such a diverse group of quality people, they're certain you'll have a good time with us.

Some more of your concerns will probably be answered on their Frequently Asked Questions below.  Stay and explore their site for a while. Enjoy!

What is a typical Just Couples Meeting like?

A typical meeting starts with an introduction. Since they are a social group, they go around the room and state their names and how long we've been in their relationship. Then, they have an open discussion of a member suggested, or predetermined topic that is important to Gay and Lesbian couples.  When their discussion is over, many of us stay and socialize over coffee and other refreshments. This is a great opportunity to meet and talk to the couple that was sitting next to you during the discussion. Many times, outside plans are made to continue their time together over dinner in one of the many restaurants close by. They encounrage gay dating, and gay christians are always welcome!

How Is the Just Couples group organized?

Just Couples is led by a Steering Committee (currently made up of two couples), and several Member Committees. The Steering Committee and Member Committees are formed on a volunteer basis. Members participate in committees not only to fairly spread the responsibility of running their group, but also volunteer to continually make their group better. Also, serving on a committee is an excellent opportunity to perhaps get to know other couples better. 

How often does Just Couples meet?

Just Couples has a meeting once a month, usually scheduled on the first Sunday at 3:30 pm - 6:00pm.  they do not schedule meetings on holiday weekends. If you're unsure of an exact meeting date, just come back to this web site, or drop us an email message. Also, they try to organize at least one group activity per month.  Announcements regarding upcoming group activities will be made at their meetings and can be found posted at this site. 

Are there any rules for coming to a meeting or an event without my partner?

There are no rules regarding mandatory attendance by both partners for meetings or events.  If you'd like to take advantage of any meeting or social event and you're partner cannot come, you'd be most welcome to join us.  Also, if you'd like to attend a regularly scheduled meeting and cannot make it at the designated start time, just show up late...the door is open.  If you need to attend a social event later than scheduled, please let us know in advance so any special arrangements for you can be made ahead of time. 

Is there a charge for membership, and are there any additional charges?

The small, annual fee per couple to join Just Couples is $15.00.  The annual fee puts you on their mailing list and entitles you to receive their newsletter, and member address list.  There is also a meeting fee imposed by the NYC Lesbian & Gay Community Services Center for use of the facility, which they assessed to be $7.00 per couple, per meeting attended.  We only collect this fee from each couple at the end of the meeting; therefore those not attending will not be charged the "per meeting" fee.  All money collected goes to benefit the group and, committee members are not compensated in any way. 

How many couples are in the group?

Currently, they have about 50 couples as active members in their group. 

What is the age range of the couples in the group?

The couples in their group range in age from mid 20's to well into the 60's, the majority of which fall somewhere in between.   Please remember that they are not a group whose membership is based on age, appearance, race or gender.  One of the things they pride ourselves on and one of their greatest strengths is the tremendous diversity of their group. 

Where do the members come from?

Our members come from all over the New York metropolitan area.  Some of us come from Long Island and Westchester in New York, as well as several from New Jersey. 

Is participation in the meeting mandatory?

Participation in the discussion portion of the meeting is not mandatory at all. However, you'll get out of it exactly what you put into it. In other words, you'll have a much better time if you're active and participation is therefore recommended. Afterwards, one of the best ways to participate is to stay and socialize with us. A good suggestion is to formally introduce yourselves to another couple sitting near you. If you enjoyed someone's comment during the discussion, tell him or her. You'd be surprised how little it takes to break the ice.  

What kind of monthly activities are organized?

Some of their past activities have included Brunches, Lunches, Pot Luck Dinners, Museum Trips, Shopping Trips, Shows and participation in the Gay Pride Day march.  These activities are just examples and suggestions are always welcome. 

You mention anniversaries in your Newsletter, do you do anything special?

It's been a tradition at Just Couples that when attending a meeting in the month of an anniversary, the celebrating couple or couples bring some kind of refreshment to the meeting. This informal arrangement has been extremely nice because it reaffirms their unity as a group to share and celebrate in each other's happy times. 

How do they become members of Just Couples?

To become members, the first thing you need to do is attend one of their meetings. Then, you will be assured that their Group is right for you. Sometime during the meeting, an announcement will be made to see one of the members of the Steering Committee for a sign-up card. Fill out the card, pay the fee and that's it.