When Alexandra Hunter moved to San Diego in 2021, she didn’t know a single person. What started with casual brunch invites and chance meetups eventually grew into something much bigger: IRL.SD, a community where friendships come first and networking happens naturally.
Her journey wasn’t about building a business plan. It was about overcoming isolation, embracing connection, and creating a space where people could feel safe, welcome, and seen.
The Start of IRL.SD
At first, it was simple. Alexandra would ask strangers she met — at the grocery store, on apps like Bumble BFF — if they wanted to grab brunch. The response was overwhelming. Soon, those brunches turned into beach days, Padres games, and larger gatherings. By 2024, IRL.SD had grown far beyond her expectations. What started with nine followers on Instagram suddenly became a fast-growing community, powered mostly by word of mouth and the algorithm.
Friendship Before Networking
Unlike traditional networking events, IRL.SD has always been about friendships. Alexandra describes the group’s core value simply:
“Treat everyone with love and respect.” She wants IRL.SD to feel like walking into her own living room — a place where everyone, no matter how different, feels safe and included It’s casual, it’s warm, and it’s real. Instead of name tags and business cards, you’ll find laughter, empathy, and authentic conversations.”
Challenges of Growth
As IRL.SD gained momentum, Alexandra faced the challenges that come with building something bigger than yourself. From managing sign-ups and collaborations to creating systems that keep events running smoothly, the behind-the-scenes work has been a constant learning process.
She compares it to raising a child:
“Before, it was like a newborn stage — just me and the baby. But now the baby’s learning to walk, and it’s time to set up the daycare.” Still, she embraces the growing pains, knowing they’re signs of progress.
Social Media & Staying Authentic
Part of IRL.SD’s growth has come from Alexandra’s authentic approach to social media. She shares freely, treating her posts less like marketing and more like talking to friends.
“On IRL’s page, I feel free — here I am, take me or leave me. That’s helped me post more often and stay authentic.”
That authenticity has paid off. Whether it’s through Threads, TikTok, or organic search, people are finding IRL.SD because they’re looking for something deeper: real connections in real life.
Looking Ahead
Alexandra dreams of IRL.SD expanding beyond San Diego — to other cities, and eventually, internationally. But no matter how far it grows, her vision remains the same: to fuel community through connection, empathy, and genuine friendships. For anyone walking into an IRL.SD event, Alexandra has one promise:
“You might not know anyone in the room right now, but I’ll bet you money you’ll walk away feeling comfortable. And you always know at least one person — me.”
Final Thoughts
Alexandra Hunter’s story is proof that community doesn’t have to start with strategy — it can start with brunch. Through IRL.SD, she’s shown that when we lead with empathy, friendships naturally follow, and those friendships have the power to change lives.
Connect with IRL.SD
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