Check Out Nicole McAteer’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole McAteer.

Hi Nicole, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey began in upstate New York, where my husband and I, seeking a fresh start, decided to embark on a new adventure together. Intrigued by the allure of Colorado’s vibrant city life and breathtaking natural landscapes, we visited the state in March of 2018.

Over a long weekend, we explored the cityscape and ventured into the serene wilderness, checking out the beauty of Red Rocks and Garden of the Gods, and indulging in some of the well-known hikes in the foothills. The experience left an indelible mark on us, and we knew that Colorado was where we wanted to build our future. Its unique blend of energy and outdoor activities resonated deeply with our values and aspirations.

In our quest to find a place to call home in Colorado, I stumbled upon a Denver Facebook group predominantly composed of women, serving as a hub for apartment inquiries, networking opportunities, and social recommendations. Through this community, I was lucky enough to discover an opportunity to take over a lease, providing us with the perfect chance to embark on our westward journey. Thus, in October 2018, we made the momentous decision to relocate to Colorado, embracing the excitement of new beginnings and endless possibilities.

Shortly after settling in, I found myself drawn to a post in the Denver Facebook group by a member named Haley, proposing the idea of starting a book club. Intrigued by the prospect of connecting with new people and a goal of mine to read more in the upcoming year, I eagerly joined the initiative. Our first meeting in November of 2018, centered around Delia Owens’ “Where the Crawdads Sing,” marked the beginning of a remarkable journey of friendship, intellectual exploration, and personal growth.

Navigating the ups and downs of adult life and the struggle to make new connections in a new city, I really leaned into the book club. It wasn’t just about reading; it became my go-to for friendship and support, especially when things felt uncertain. As our gatherings evolved from quaint cafe discussions to lively park meetups and virtual Zoom sessions during the pandemic, the Mile High Book Club emerged as a tight-knit group, bound by a shared love for literature.

Over time, I assumed a leadership role within the club, organizing engaging events and leveraging my background in Computer Art to curate an immersive online presence through Instagram. Our platform, @milehigh_bookclub, not only chronicled our literary adventures but also served as a catalyst for community engagement and growth. With a following of over 1,600 individuals, we’ve expanded our reach beyond book discussions, hosting events, and fostering connections among avid readers across Colorado.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been the enduring friendships forged within the Mile High Book Club. Beyond the pages of our chosen books, we’ve shared laughter, tears, and countless memories, enriching each other’s lives in ways we never imagined. These bonds, cultivated over five years of shared experiences, have transformed my relocation to Colorado into a profoundly enriching chapter of my life, filled with friendship, fulfillment, and a shared love for books.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Our journey with the Mile High Book Club has been filled with both joys and challenges. While we’ve experienced tremendous growth and formed lasting friendships, we’ve also encountered obstacles along the way. One significant challenge we faced was the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic shortly after our club’s creation in November 2018.

Just as we were beginning to bond and get to know each other, the need for social distancing forced us to adapt our meetings to a virtual format. Initially, this shift posed a threat to the cohesion of our group. However, through determination and commitment, we persevered. Despite the distance, we maintained regular meetings and discussions, ensuring that our sense of community remained intact even in the face of adversity.

Another hurdle we encountered was managing the size of our book club. In the early days, our gatherings attracted over 20+ enthusiastic members. While this was a testament to the club’s popularity, it also presented logistical challenges. As the group grew, scheduling meetings and finding suitable venues became increasingly difficult. Moreover, as our membership grew, we faced the challenge of maintaining the close-knit atmosphere that had initially bonded our core group.

To address this challenge, we implemented several strategies. We organized special events to welcome new members, providing opportunities for them to integrate into our community in a more relaxed setting. Additionally, recognizing the need for a more inclusive platform, I established The Reading Den.ver—a spin-off group that hosts monthly book club meetings for anyone interested in joining. This initiative not only allowed us to manage the size of our original club but also expanded our reach, creating opportunities for more individuals to connect over their love of literature.

Though we’ve encountered our fair share of obstacles, each challenge has served as an opportunity for growth and innovation. By adapting to changing circumstances and fostering a spirit of inclusivity, we’ve not only overcome adversity but emerged stronger and more united than ever before.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m deeply passionate about fostering a vibrant reading community and bringing people together through the power of literature. As the social media manager, graphic designer, and event planner for the Mile High Book Club, I wear many hats in curating engaging content and memorable experiences for our members.

In my role, I’m responsible for crafting captivating social media posts that range from book reviews and recommendations to fun trending book discussions and interactive features like March Book Madness. Through these platforms, I strive to ignite conversations, spark enthusiasm for reading, and foster a sense of camaraderie among our followers.

Beyond the digital realm, I also take great pleasure in organizing a variety of events for both the Mile High Book Club and The Reading Den.ver Book Club. From paint and sips to sushi-making workshops, Valentine’s Day celebrations, and park meetups, I aim to create diverse and inclusive experiences that resonate with our community members.

My background in computer art and computer science has been instrumental in shaping my approach to this role. It’s incredibly rewarding to leverage my artistic skills to promote a cause I’m deeply passionate about and contribute to the local reading scene in a meaningful way.

What I’m most proud of is the joy and sense of belonging that our content and events bring to people’s lives. The reading community is not only strong but also incredibly welcoming, and it’s truly fulfilling to play a part in amplifying its positive impact.

Overall, I believe what sets me apart is my genuine dedication to creating meaningful connections and memorable experiences within the reading community. I’m committed to fostering an inclusive and engaging environment where everyone feels valued and inspired to explore the world of literature together.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to several individuals who have played integral roles in the success of the Mile High Book Club and my journey within it. First and foremost, I must acknowledge my dear friend Haley, whose vision and initiative were instrumental in the creation of the Mile High Book Club. Without Haley’s initiative in starting the Mile High Book Club by posting in a Facebook group, I wouldn’t have the opportunities, experiences, and friendships I cherish today.

Additionally, I am incredibly fortunate to have the unwavering support of the amazing women who make up our book club. Their enthusiasm, encouragement, and willingness to participate in all our endeavors have been truly humbling. Whether it’s supporting our social media content, attending our events, or simply offering their insights and ideas, they have been instrumental in shaping the vibrant and inclusive community that the Mile High Book Club has become.

Their trust in me to lead and innovate, their willingness to collaborate and contribute, and their unwavering belief in the power of literature to bring people together have been the driving force behind our collective success. I am immensely grateful for each and every one of them, and I am honored to be a part of such a supportive and empowering community.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milehigh_bookclub/ and https://www.instagram.com/thereadingden.ver/

Image Credits
Anna McCree