Amsterdam is a city that quickly won me over. Biking around like a kid again, sailing the canals in summer and the city's unique vibe weren't like anything I'd experienced elsewhere. I knew from my first visit that I wanted to live here.
Upon the first opportunity, I took a role in Amsterdam at a large tech company. I moved in autumn of 2021, meaning there were still covid restrictions and a real lack of social interaction. I had watched videos about moving to the Netherlands and heard tales of how hard it was to make friends, particularly with Dutchies. But I didn't even have the opportunity to try. Then, the Netherlands went back into lockdown over Christmas (the only EU country to do so), so the chance of finding friends was pretty hopeless. I couldn't help feeling silly for leaving my family and friends behind to move to a place where I felt isolated.
As restrictions loosened in the new year, I started putting myself out there. The only way I knew how to do so at the time was through Bumble BFF. Luckily, I have made life-long friends because of this app, but I can't help but think of the friends I didn't make. The ones that instantly judge me based on pictures and little information and vice versa. We all make snap judgments about people, but how often are we proved wrong when getting to know them? How does swiping on someone affect the chances of community?
Cut to four years later in Amsterdam, I've found a community that fills up my cup. Friends who are there for the hard times and good. It took me a long time and it wasn't always easy, but I'm so grateful that it happened.
So I have friends now, no need to keep putting yourself out there, right? Until last year in September, I went to a supper club where I had so many inspiring conversations with people in different industries and different ages. I left feeling elated. I had met some wonderful people, exchanged numbers and profiles.
At the supper club, I heard many people say they struggled to find moments like this to meet people. It got me thinking about my friends and how they met people. One of my best friends here met three of her best friends at a run club (Amsterdam Coffee Run), and another met some at a book club (Hardcovers & Hard Takes).
And it's not just supper clubs or running groups, creativity has become another powerful connector in the city. That's where people like Maria Zatopi, founder of Amsterdam DIY Club, come in.
Meet Maria
Maria has spent years crafting communication strategies for global companies like Booking.com and Kraft Heinz. But these days, you'll find her in cosy Amsterdam studios, leading workshops where people make Y2K-inspired bag charms, beaded jewelry and rediscover the joy of creating with their hands.
What started as informal crafting sessions with friends has evolved into Amsterdam DIY Club - a space where curious makers gather to unplug, create and connect.
"It began with friends wanting to learn my crafty hobby," Maria says. "At the time, I was burnt out from my corporate job, and these little sessions became my pockets of calm and meaning. My friends kept saying they couldn't remember the last time they'd made something with their hands, and how grounding and joyful it felt to create with others. That feeling became the seed for Amsterdam DIY Club."
When asked to describe the vibe of her typical workshop in three words, she doesn't hesitate:
"Creative, calming, communal."
And that's exactly what it feels like to walk into one of her sessions - a mix of soft chatter, laughter, and the rhythmic clink of beads.
"I want people to rediscover what it's like to lose track of time (but not in the way we do when scrolling)," Maria says. "Many tell me it's the first time in ages they've spent hours completely offline without noticing it. And I hope they leave realising how accessible crafting can be; some even message me later saying they've ordered their own materials to continue at home."
Her advice to anyone thinking of starting their own club or collective?
"Do it. Don't overthink it or worry about others doing something similar – we're not competing. There's plenty of space for everyone, and your version will carry its own meaning and energy."
Maria's story is a reminder that connection can come from the simplest things. E.g. sitting side by side, creating something tangible and letting conversation flow naturally.
Amsterdam has no shortage of places to meet people, but finding your people, those who inspire you and remind you to log off, can take time. Whether it's through a run club, a supper club, or a crafting circle like Maria's, it's clear that the city is full of ways to build real connection.
That's why Weeknights was made: by locals, for locals. To help make it easier for them to find their community in Amsterdam. Whether they just moved or are looking for unique conversations and fresh perspectives. Maybe they'll even learn a new skill while they're at it.
Follow along for progress on Weeknights. I'm excited to see where this journey takes me!
Sandy Co-founder, Weeknights