Q: How does speed dating work?
A: Participants will have timed dates (usually 5 minutes but could be anywhere from 3-10) and mark on their provided "Match Sheet" whether or not they would like to get to know each person more. The Match Sheet is given to the host at the end of the event, who will secretly compare them to see if there are any mutual matches. This means BOTH people must have indicated that they would like to see the other person again. Every participant will get an email within 2 days notifying them if they had any matches, and if so, contact information will be shared.
Q: What if there are way more women than men or vice-versa?
A: I carefully monitor ticket purchases leading up to the event to make sure everyone’s time will be well spent. If the group looks like it will be severely unbalanced or too small, the event will most likely be cancelled or re-scheduled the day before. Anyone who has already purchased a ticket will have the option of transferring it to another date or getting a refund. My #1 goal is for everyone to have FUN and ultimately... find love!
Q: What if I can’t think of anything to say in 5 minutes?
A: You’re in luck! Every Match Sheet comes with optional ice breaker questions to get the conversation flowing. They usually aren't needed, but just in case - they are there for you! You could also come prepared with your own questions, but avoid looking at your phone during the time you have with your dates to stay present and attentive.
Q: Will there be people there my age?
A: Most events are advertised with a specific age range in mind. For example: 21-35, 30-45, 45-60, or 60+ This way, when you purchase your ticket, you know you will be spending your valuable time meeting with other singles in your desired age range. The only exception are “Anyone for Anyone” events for all ages and sexualities. These are typically for ages 21 and up. Feel free to send feedback if there is a certain demographic you'd like to see!
Q: Is there a dress code?
A: There is no dress code, but consider the venue hosting the event and dress like you would for any other first date at a location of that caliber. You want to make a good first impression, but first and foremost - come as yourself! It’s always a good idea to show up showered and in wrinkle-free clothing.
Q: Why do I have to pay for this?
A: Have you ever paid for a dating app subscription? Even just one month? The average dating app user spends about $19 per month, with some subscriptions costing $600! How much time and energy have you spent swiping and messaging others? How many dates did your time and effort actually result in? There is almost universal agreement from users that this process is NOT. FUN. Even if an in-person date does get scheduled, they typically cost over ~$100 just to get to know one person.
Speed dating is a fantastic alternative because you can have up to 20 in-person dates in one day, and there is no awkward question of whether or not the other person would like to see you again. The host does that part for you by comparing matches and notifying each person of their shared feelings.
Also, making these events ticketed discourages no-shows, which is extremely frustrating to those who do show up and are serious about meeting people. It’s unfair to those who wanted to come, but didn’t get a spot before the event sold out. The ticket cost also compensates the host for time spent organizing and advertising.
Q: Will there be an event for [fill in the blank]?
A: If there is ANY specific group you’d like to see an event scheduled for, please don’t hesitate to email NorthshoreSpeedDating@gmail.com with your request or suggestions. I’m always looking for new and different ways to accommodate the amazing but single people of the Northshore. Other than different age groups and sexualities, I also hope to schedule events catered to sober singles, single parents, and pup parents (bring your dog!).
Q: What happens if I don’t show up?
A: Your ticket price is non-refundable and you could miss out on multiple possible matches… how depressing! No-shows are also very disruptive to the event itself, which is carefully planned around the number of registered participants.
Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite here. Please be sure to purchase your ticket in advance to ensure a smooth dating experience.
Q: I am a local business and would like to host an event. What should I do?
A: I love partnering with local business owners and am open to all kinds of locations - bars, coffee shops, breweries, book stores, etc. If you are a local business owner on the Northshore and are interested in hosting an event, please email NorthshoreSpeedDating@gmail.com