[MR] garb, events and newcomers

[Dawn Davis]

It is always interesting to read discussions on these types of topics. Having been an official chatelaine for almost 10 years, I am fascinated by the different opinions on the idea of newcomers and such. That being said, let me throw my thoughts into the discussion. 
   
  I agree with those folks that say we are all chatelaines. The attitude of each person we interact with affects us in some way. For a newcomer the first person they meet can and often creates their entire impression of the SCA. You dont have to be their best friend, but you should be polite. Offer your help. If for some reason you cannot help that person, find someone who can. It is very easy to help someone who is new and you never know, that person could be someone who becomes very important in your life. 
   
  When your group holds an event, be prepared for newcomers. Have some loaner gear available at troll or with your local chatelaine. If you do not have a local chatelaine, have someone in the group volunteer to be one for that event. Having one person at the event can make it a lot easier for a swamped troll or that person interrupted while running to the bathroom in the middle of the night to point people in the correct direction. 
   
  Offer to occassionaly refill or repair the loaner gear. Remember, if it would embarass you, it will probably embarrass a newcomer. Loaner fear does not need to be fancy, but it should be decent. You can make several sized versions of simple outfits to handle people of different sizes. Or if you do not have a group gold key, find folks in your groups comfortable with loaning some of their items out. Many people will do that if asked. 
   
  If you bring newcomers, please tell them what to expect before hand. Help find them clothes and gear before the event. A little bit of organization on your part can make the whole experience a lot more fun for them and you. If you know you will be working or unavailable that day, ask a friend to help you out. Again, most people will gladly help when actually asked. 
   
  If you see a newcomer doing something out of bounds, i.e. smoking in your tent, not wearing garb, wearing a white belt, etc. you can mention it without being rude. Approach the person in a polite way, explain the conventions of the SCA and then offer a solution to the problem. If they have no garb, loan them some. If they are wearing a white belt, find someone with a black one they can borrow. Many people would rather know of an issue before offending people. It is only when we tell them in an ugly way or criticize that it becomes a problem. 
   
  Finally, if you have a question about newcomers, loaner gear, demos, etc....talk to the chatelaines. That is what they are here for. The folks who volunteer for that job (and it is a job) work very hard to create a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers and to educate all of us on ways to help. Just ask for help. You will be pleasantly surprised at the response. 
   
  Thank you 
  Hanim Kisaiya Zingara 
   

       
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