Rising Popularity of Speed Dating
Speed Dating: After ending a three-year relationship in 2023, Kelly Carlson, a 28-year-old executive assistant, turned to a popular dating app but found the experience lacking. Seeking a more authentic way to meet people, she decided to try speed dating after seeing an advertisement at a California brewery. “I wanted to be excited about dating again,” she says, appreciating the chance to get a real sense of someone, akin to office or school crushes, rather than just online profiles.
Speed dating is resurging, especially among Gen Z and millennials, who are fatigued by dating apps. Eventbrite, a global events marketplace, reports a 63% increase in speed dating events from 2021 to 2022 and a 30% rise in singles and dating events in the U.S. from 2022 to 2023. Attendance at these events increased by 43% over the same period. Event organizers are also innovating with creative themes like board game speed dating, outdoor strolls, and singles karaoke.
Expert Opinions
Dating experts support this trend, seeing speed dating as a valuable opportunity for genuine connections. Blaine Anderson, a dating coach for men, endorses speed dating for meeting like-minded singles seeking relationships. Damona Hoffman, a dating coach and author, notes that young adults, especially Gen Z, are intrigued by the novelty of in-person dating experiences they missed due to the pandemic.
Dating Apps vs. Speed Dating
Despite the growing enthusiasm for speed dating, dating apps remain popular. A 2023 Pew Research Center report found that 1 in 10 partnered adults met their significant other online, with the figure rising to 1 in 5 for those under 30. However, 46% of people reported negative experiences with dating apps, and Gen Z seems less enthusiastic about online dating, with only 26% of users being between 18 and 29 years old, according to a 2023 Statista report.
Speed Dating’s Appeal
Speed dating often requires more investment, deterring casual users and attracting those serious about finding connections. Andrea Ramirez, who hosts the Love in LA speed-dating event, boasts an 80% match rate, with one couple even getting engaged nine months after meeting at her event. What was once seen as outdated is now a fun activity for groups of friends.
Personal Stories
Meg Wray, 35, attended a speed dating event in Vancouver with friends and appreciated the opportunity to consider matches she might have overlooked online. She found the randomness refreshing compared to the overthinking common in online dating.
Tips for Speed Dating
Experts offer the following tips for speed dating:
- Show up as you would on a normal date: Look your best and perform any pre-date rituals to feel confident.
- Keep the conversation interesting: Ask engaging questions to avoid the event feeling like a series of interviews.
- Treat it as practice: Understand that speed dating requires different skills and takes time to master. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself.
Conclusion
Carlson matched with someone “really nice” at her speed dating event and encourages others to try it. “Even if it goes terribly, you’re only with that person for about five minutes,” she says, highlighting the low stakes and potential for meaningful connections.
