Are you tired of swiping left, and right? If so, consider trying something different. Speed dating could be the refreshing change you need—an old concept brought back to life, but is speed dating worth it?

Speed dating is a concept you might have encountered in movies or heard about from your parents or even grandparents. It gained significant popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s as a method to meet potential partners.

The Evolution of Speed Dating

Traditional Speed Dating:

• Organized through advertisements in magazines or newspapers.
• Women remained seated while men rotated around them.
• Participants filled out cards to indicate compatibility.
• Attendees waited to receive their cards back to see who wanted to meet again and exchange contact details.

Modern Speed Dating:

• Organized through websites and dating platforms.
• Participants' next date's picture appears on their phone, and they locate each other.
• Feedback is provided via phone, indicating interest and reasons.
• Complimentary drinks are provided upon arrival and at the end of the event.
• Participants can mingle after the event with those they did or did not date.
• The following day, participants receive an email indicating mutual interest, allowing them to connect through the website and exchange details.

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Personal Experience

I have attended two events so far, both catering to the 30–44 age group and “straight” events. However, events are available for various age ranges and include both gay and straight events. These were gender-normative events.

One event was smaller, with 16 participants (8 males and 8 females), resulting in 8 dates each. The other event was larger, with 80 participants across two age ranges. My age range included 40 participants (20 males and 20 females), and we went on 8 dates each, missing out on a few people. However, arriving early and staying afterward allows for additional interactions.

How the event works

Upon arrival, a host provides an overview and explains the check-in via phone. Participants receive a complimentary drink by activating a button on their phone and showing it to the bartender.

Participants mingle until they receive a text message indicating their first date is about to start. Each date lasts 10 minutes, followed by a text message with the next date's details.

Participants rate their dates using a scale of smiley faces, which helps the company match them with suitable partners at future events.

Honest feedback is encouraged, as only positive responses are visible to the other person. This is also the time to report any inappropriate behaviour to the staff, ensuring a safe environment for all attendees. So be honest.

The cycle of dates continues, with each event comprising eight 10-minute dates, followed by another complimentary drink and mingling. Participants can leave at their own pace.

Is Speed Dating Worth It

Overall, my experiences were positive, with one exception. I did not find a match I liked enough for another date, but I enjoyed the events and plan to attend again. The one negative experience I had was handled professionally by the company. My report was taken seriously, and the offender was banned from future events, making me feel that future participants will be safe and believed if something went array for them too.

I highly recommend trying speed dating. It offers a unique experience, allowing you to meet new people and engage in meaningful conversations. Unlike online dating, where the guessing game of their intentions can be frustrating, speed dating provides a direct and interactive approach to meeting potential partners.

Give it a try, you have nothing to lose, and possibly everything to gain.