30+ group finds fabulous way to connect

An age-focused social media group is rapidly gaining popularity with Kiwi women.

The New Zealand Facebook group '30+ and Fabulous' aims to give advice and beauty tricks to women between 35 and 55. It has been running for nine months and has already drawn 18,322 members.

Founder Natalya Purchase said inspiration came after becoming tired of watching YouTube make up tutorials by 15-20-year-old girls.

“I got a bit sick of watching them apply makeup to perfect and dewy skin, wearing midriff tops, shorty shorts and handing out diet advice.”

Ms Purchase said she wanted a community of women she could relate to.

“I decided to start a group where we could talk about how to speed up slowing metabolisms, where to buy Spanx, what the best products are to cover those greys, and if all else failed, where to find all the good wine sales!”

Member Gill Young said she believed the group had gained so many followers due to women wanting to know they were not alone, and to have somewhere to share some of life’s joys and struggles.

“Women are so busy juggling a variety of life expectations: kids, work, business, yet crave friendship and connection. The group allows us to connect for a few minutes each day, to celebrate other women’s successes and highs and laugh about the mundane and silly stuff.”

Auckland psychologist Linda Watson said it was important for women to be a part of support groups.

“Women need women, we are wired to understand from a female perspective. When we are stressed we talk, which is a very necessary way for women to work through their problems, as otherwise we build anxiety by ruminating.”

Ms Purchase said the group took off almost immediately, gaining 3000 followers in its first week and growing steadily since.

“The ladies are loving that they have this group of instant friends from their own age-group who understand them and who they don't feel intimidated by. They are enjoying meeting up and socialising with them, taking their online friendships into reality.”

Ms Purchase plans to hold meet-ups in every town and city within New Zealand, and eventually throughout the world.