Struggling to build a portrait portfolio

I am a beginner and I'm really interested in getting into portrait photography. I don't intend on photography turning into a major source of income, but it's more so a creative outlet for me.

Since I'm new, I offered free sessions on facebook and had several sessions booked for this weekend, but unfortunately every single person cancelled on me due to the overcast/cold. I have found that many people take advantage of my schedule and they expect me to travel 40+ minutes to take photos near them, rather than them meeting me in the middle. It's frustrating that I'm excited to build my portfolio and it never ends up happening. I have taken some photos of my friends, but I'd really like to start getting spring photos in so that I can get some summer paid gigs (senior photos, graduation, etc.)

Does anyone have advice on getting sessions booked (free/paid) for the intent of portfolio building?