If traditional book clubs for women have ever felt like another deadline to meet or another Zoom call to stress over, we hear you—and we’ve created something entirely different. The B.A.B. Virtual Kickoff Ceremony is the heart of a self-paced reading experience designed for real women with real lives. No pressure, no deadlines, no guilt. Just beautiful moments, meaningful reflection, and genuine connection—all from the comfort of your own space.

What Is the B.A.B. Virtual Kickoff Ceremony?

Hosted monthly, the B.A.B. Virtual Kickoff Ceremony is a soul-stirring, joy-filled gathering created to help women across the country begin a new reading journey together. Whether you’ve been with us since page one or you’re just discovering us, this experience is a beautiful way to reconnect with your love for reading—and yourself.

It’s not a typical book club. There are no required chapters, no deadlines, and no pressure to read a certain number of books each month. Instead, we focus on what truly matters: inspiration, intention, and the joy of stories that connect us.

Why We Do It (and Why You’ll Love It)

The world moves fast. Women carry so much—jobs, families, relationships, responsibilities. Sometimes, the only time we get to ourselves is a quiet moment with a book. The B.A.B. Virtual Kickoff Ceremony honors that sacred space and helps you make the most of it.

Here’s what makes it so special:

  • It’s Meaningful: From opening your book together to taking a quiet moment to set your intentions, the ceremony is filled with symbolic rituals designed to help you reconnect—with yourself, with others, and with the power of story.
  • It’s Flexible: You don’t have to finish a book by a certain date. In fact, you don’t even have to start reading before the ceremony. Catch up when you can—your story unfolds on your schedule.
  • It’s Recorded: Can’t make it live? No worries. Every ceremony is recorded, so you can watch it whenever it fits into your life. Early morning coffee? Late-night wind-down? You choose.
  • It’s Comfortable: You’ll never be asked to turn on your camera or microphone. You can join in anonymously, quietly, or fully engaged—whatever feels right for you.

What to Expect at the Ceremony

Each virtual kickoff lasts around 30 minutes and is led by one of our warm, welcoming hosts.

Here’s what you’ll experience:

  • A heartfelt welcome and chat prompts to ease in and feel part of something special
  • A group moment to “crack the spine” and begin your reading journey with intention
  • A candlelight pledge that symbolizes lighting the way forward
  • An optional shared reading of the first page (volunteers only!)
  • A bookmark blessing to mark the moment
  • A toast to new beginnings
  • A journal prompt to set the tone for your month ahead

Every element is thoughtfully designed to help you slow down, tune in, and feel connected—even if you’re participating silently.

What You’ll Need for the B.A.B. Virtual Kickoff Ceremony

To make the most of your experience, we recommend having a few simple items on hand:

  • This Month’s Featured Book (or any book you want to read—you’re in control)
  • A Candle or Flameless Candle App (for the Candlelight Reading Pledge)
  • A Favorite Drink (tea, mocktail, wine, or sparkling water for the toast)
  • Your B.A.B. Reading Journal (or a simple notebook for reflection)
  • A Bookmark (to mark your first page and bless your journey)
  • Headphones or Quiet Space (optional, but helps create a peaceful moment)
  • Your Presence (no camera or mic required—just show up as you are)

Everything else? We’ll guide you through it.

Not a Book Club—A Reading Experience That Grows With You

While we’re proud to show up in searches for “book clubs for women,” what we offer is something deeper and more personal. B.A.B. isn’t about keeping up—it’s about coming home to yourself through books, community, and reflection.

You can start any time. Pick up a book you’ve been meaning to read. Join the next ceremony. Rewatch a past one. There is always something for you to do, discover, or feel part of—no matter where you are in your reading journey.

If you’ve ever wanted the community of a book club without the pressure, the inspiration of a reading circle without the rules, or a way to reconnect with yourself through story—this is it.

Join the next B.A.B. Virtual Kickoff Ceremony and see what it’s like to start the month with intention, connection, and a story that speaks to you.

Because around here, we don’t just read books. We live them.