Modern Dating: Get ready to Swoon
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Face-to-Face online-dating…sounds confusing, but here’s the low down.
Imagine yourself being matched online then meeting at a hosted event at a local hotspot that’s safe and secure, where you meet multiple dates, all on one night…
It’s the perfect cross between a matchmaker, online dating and speed dating.
Some of you reading this may be active in the dating world, the world of swipe-and-match based on looks with basic preferences or perhaps being matched by answering questions and scrolling through profile after profile.
While speed dating and online matches may be somewhat stressful, the only thing you need to worry about at this particular event is which shoes will match your outfit.
I had the pleasure of co-hosting one such event in Sydney last month. It was such a great and successful evening. So successful in fact, that this new way of meeting your potential ‘one’ is now coming to Canberra on Thursday November 17.
As the current Guinness World Record holder for the Biggest Blind Date, held at the Sydney Opera House last summer, CitySwoon knows a lot about how to get people together on matched dates. They have developed a new algorithm which will match you to your dates, is guaranteed to never double-match you and ensures you have some really great dates on the night.
“Our participants love the fresh take on dating face-to-face,” says Brett Coulson, CEO of CitySwoon. “Although it’s hi-tech, the focus and excitement comes from discovering that spark with people you click with live at the event.”
Is it speed dating? Maybe think of it more as ‘slow’ speed dating with a twist.
Here’s how it works…
Firstly, you register for free at CitySwoon and answer some questions and RSVP for your city’s next event.
When you arrive at the venue, it’s as easy as checking in with your smart phone so you can be matched up with CitySwoon’s formulated algorithm. The matched dates come through one at a time to their phone, with image and name so it’s easy to find each other.
HOW LONG IS EACH DATE?
Each date is given 15 minutes to connect and get to know each other a bit, then once the time is up the next match hits the phones and off everyone goes again. This happens four times before a break is allocated with delicious food and a chance for everyone to mingle. After the break, the matches begin again. You have a chance to sit anywhere with your date at the venue, which often has different areas to choose from.
WHAT’S THE ATMOSPHERE LIKE? IS IT AWKWARD?
In Sydney, it was a great atmosphere and everyone was so happy and enjoyed the night. Everyone had a chance to stay back and continue to connect if they wanted to, chat some more with their dates or meet dates they weren’t matched with, and I was surprised how many did.
WHAT IF I LIKE MY DATE BUT DON’T HAVE THE COURAGE TO ASK FOR THEIR NUMBER?
The following day everyone receives an email and can rate if they wished to meet up with one or more of their matched dates through the CitySwoon website.
I really enjoyed talking to the ‘daters’ after the event, some of whom were new to dating and found it a great way to meet new people and to gain some confidence as they get back ‘out there’. Others liked the simplicity of the new dating concept, especially if they don’t have the time to swipe or read through profiles, or to have continuous chats prior to arranging for a meeting. Here, all the hard work is done via CitySwoon’s algorithm, admin team and the host. Speaking of hosting, I’ve been asked to be Canberra’s first CitySwoon host, and, I can’t wait to have Canberra getting out there – swooning.
FIVE THINGS TO TALK ABOUT ON A MATCHED DATE
- If you had to choose between the super powers of invisibility or the ability to fly, which would you choose and why?
- What are you most excited about in your life right now?
- If you could only keep one book you currently own, what would it be?
- What was the last mistake you made that you’re sure you’ll probably make again?
- What is a misconception others often have about you?
GIVEAWAY
We’re giving one lucky reader the chance to attend CitySwoon on Thursday 17 November.
Simply email us at editor@hercanberra.com.au and let us know why you think this event would be perfect for you!
Entries close 10/11/2016. The winner will be notified by email on 11/11/2016. Only successful entries will be notified.
the essentials
What: The first CitySwoon event in Canberra is held on at TreeHouse Bar in the city for the age group of 25-39, with guaranteed matches within a 10-year age range.
When: Thursday 17 November from 7pm
Where: TreeHouse Bar, 32 Northbourne Avenue
Age Range: 25-39
Find out more and sign up: www.cityswoon.com
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