Speed dating takes place face to face in intimate surroundings at a fast furious pace, offering a round of dates from between 3 minutes and 10 minutes with each partner. It is similar to Cilla's classic 'Blind Date' method of matching, but rather than having 3 questions, couples have approximately 3 minutes to ask those all important questions. It could be the boring classics such as 'What do you do?', or the practical 'How many kids do you want?'. The more bizarre questions will serve as quick indicators of the type of character you are sitting across from, such as 'What type of biscuit would you describe yourself as?' or 'What is the craziest thing you've done in the last 3 months?'.
This brief date is believed to provide the perfect opportunity to chat without the possibility of conversation drying up and awkward silences. It lets participants gain an initial impression and either leave them tantalised and wanting to know more, or ready to move onto the next date. Attendees are given a score sheet on which they indicate their interest with a tick stating whether or not they would like to get to know any of their dates a little bit more after their initial taster. Then the organisers compare score sheets, and pass on contact details to any happy hopefuls of whom the attraction was mutual.
Started by the Jewish community for fast efficient dating, speed dating was extended and redesigned for executives. It was initially marketed for those who didn't have the time to meet and entertain dates, often involving lunch time sessions. The concept is now quickly spreading throughout the world, including people from a huge variety of backgrounds and personalities.
Many people may be put off attending this kind of event for fear of awkwardness. However, since everyone is there for the same reason it is a much less scary experience than approaching a stranger in a bar surrounded by their entourage of friends.
The benefit of speed dating is that no-one is in any doubt where they stand, with a clear 'yes' or 'no' response given to everybody. There's no embarrassing rejections, or hanging around wondering for days afterwards.
What more could you ask for in a night out than to meet up to 30 potential partners in under 2 hours, more than you would dream of in a month, never mind in one evening? Past events have reported high success rates with two thirds of the singles getting a proper date from each event, far higher odds than a bar or club.
If nothing else, it's a fun night out, and you never know, you might just end up meeting your perfect match!
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