Speed Dating 101

 Speed dating can seem like a scary idea at first! 

Even though it is getting more popular there are still so many people who have never done it before. This post is here to answer any questions you might have about speed dating. 

What do I wear?

This is one of the most common questions we hear when people are about to go speed dating. It is normal to want to make a good impression so naturally, we want to dress our best. Some worry that they will be overdressed and feel silly or worry they look too casual compared to everyone else. 

My top tip is to be YOU. Do not worry about what other people are wearing (90% of other people will also be thinking the same as you!), wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable no matter what. You will feel so much better on a date when you are feeling confident in what you are wearing. If that means getting dressed up full glam or wearing something more casual, then do what is best for you!  Your date will appreciate being able to see the real you.

An added bonus of speed dating online is you can wear anything you want since only the top half will be shown on screen, if you want to stay in your pyjamas then go for it! This can also be a great talking point on your date.

What questions should I ask?

Most people find it easy to talk about themselves, after all, it is the topic they know best! It can show you are interested in them and you can get to know them better too. There are loads of easy questions to get the conversation flowing, for example, ask if they have any pets, any hobbies or their favourite kind of music.

Which topics should be avoided?

While everyone is different, there are some topics that are usually a good idea to avoid discussing when on a speed date. Here are some common ones we suggest avoiding:

Crime (e.g., drug use)

Your exes

Talking negatively about your previous date

Bragging (e.g., how rich you are, how expensive your car is)

Politics 

These topics are not completely off-limits from dating conversations but maybe hold off until after a 3-minute speed date, keep this kind of discussion for when you know someone a bit better.

How will I remember each date?

It can be a bit overwhelming sometimes, the thought of meeting lots of different people in one day can make some of us panic. As you will be focusing on one date you might completely forget about the one you just had. It is a good idea to make some notes after each date, that way you can make sure to pick the ones you really like. These notes don’t need to be detailed, just a little reminder about whether you liked them or any key details so you can remember who's who.

Does speed dating actually work?

Definitely! There have been loads of success stories of people finding dates from speed dating events. It is becoming more popular and more accessible as it moves online. It is important, however, to keep an open mind you might not find your one true love in the first 10 minutes of your first ever speed date event. Don’t lose hope if your first event doesn't go the way you imagined. Don’t be afraid to take part in multiple events, you never know when your person might be there! 

What if the date isn't going well?

Don’t worry too much if you and your date don’t have instant chemistry, you won't get on with every single person you meet. Just remember to be respectful and polite even if you know you do not want to see them again. The date’s only last for 3-5 minutes so you won't have to be stuck for too long.

More information:

https://copperdating.com/speed-dating-guide

https://www.meetmindful.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-speed-dating/

https://cityswoon.com/uk/speed-dating-tips.jsp

https://www.originaldating.com/blog/2018/5/4/does-speed-dating-work/