How Vellum works
Seven quiet steps. Some intentional friction at the start, so everything after it can feel calm, private, and worthwhile.
Apply & verify your number
Vellum is membership by application. Enter your mobile number, confirm a one-time code, and agree to the club rules. Your number is never shown to other members.
Tell us about you
A short application in a few gentle sections — your zones, relationship status, work, interests, and why Vellum. Optional fields stay optional. Referrals are considered, but anyone thoughtful may apply.
A quiet review, then pre-approved
A real person reviews every application, usually within 24–72 hours, for balance and fit. If you're a fit, you're pre-approved — you can preview Circles forming and express interest right away. We'll text you when there's a decision.
Passport & private verification
Complete your Vellum Passport and take a quick selfie to confirm you're a real person — it stays private, seen only by a Vellum admin, never other members. This activates your membership (some members add Credit to activate).
Find my Circle
Tell us your week, your mood, and the kind of people you want around you. Vellum places you in a Formation Pool and forms a Circle from compatible members — you don't browse, we place you when the fit is right.
Hold your seat & warm up
When a Circle forms and you're invited, hold your seat with a small refundable commitment — the Circle itself is free. The Circle Room opens beforehand (sometimes a virtual warm-up first), so the table isn't strangers when you arrive.
Circle Picks, introductions & continuation
After a Circle, privately choose who you'd be open to continuing with — a mutual pick opens a private introduction. You can also say whether you'd meet the whole Circle again; if enough would, Vellum forms a Continuing Circle. One-sided picks always stay private — there's no visible rejection.
First shared context, then private selection. You meet people because you were already in the same room — never by browsing strangers.
Ready to apply?
It takes a few minutes. The rest can take its time.
Apply for Membership