Hi Anthea, I enjoyed reading your last article about online dating. I’ve been curious about speed dating. Do you have any words of wisdom? – Thomas, 29
Hi Thomas,
That’s great that you are curious about trying speed dating. Successful online entrepreneur and speed dating maverick Anoush Stevenson is the owner of SpeedLA Date. She has been bringing together singles searching for love for almost a decade. Check out my interview with Anoush where she answers your most burning speed dating questions!
How did you get involved in the speed dating industry? Why were you interested in this business?
I organized successful events back home in London. In 2007, I noticed that speed dating in the U.S. tended to be more about function rather than a fun night out, set in coffee shops and less-than-chic restaurants. I wanted to bring a new way to meet others. We did away with name-tags, whistles, and over-the-top party trimmings while offering the hottest spots in town to meet others. Add in lovely British hosts, complimentary appetizers for the guests, lovely touch ups for the ladies by a certified make-up artist and you have a lovely event that attracts singles that others want to meet all tied together in a UK bow. Now in 18 cities across the US and Canada – the fun hasn’t stopped!
Can you describe a speed dating event for those who have never experienced it.
Our events tend to be a bit more relaxed, restrained, and sophisticated than your typical speed dating event. The ladies sit for the duration of the evening, while the lads move from lovely lady to lovely lady every six to seven minutes.
As we don’t use whistles – our hosts gently tap the lads on the shoulder to let them know it is time to move on. Dates write down whom they fancy and if they have a match – they get notified the next day with details.
What would be the benefit of speed dating verses traditional ways of meeting people, say going out to a bar with friends?
With such busy lifestyles, speed dating is a highly efficient way to meet the most amount of people in the shortest amount of time. With us, you can combine elements of trying out the local hot spot with friends while you meet others just like you.
Is speed dating different from online dating?
We’re fans of anything that gets us connecting with each other. With speed dating, you do away with the wonder of what they’re really like. Feeling a connection in person can’t be substituted.
What are some tips for someone who is new to speed dating?
Think of it as a lovely night out and be yourself. Don’t fret about what to ask or what to say – let it happen.
What are some things to avoid doing at a speed dating event?
Treating the dates like job interviews and jumping on the tables in excitement. Both are frowned upon.
Anthea Kerou is a Certified Holistic Health Coach based in Santa Monica specializing in datingcoaching. She is available for private coaching sessions, email antheakerou@gmail.com. Alternatively, visit heartfacewellness.com or facebook.com/heartfacewellness for more information.
• Do you have a dating question you would like answered? Email your question to editor@smmirror.com.
