A question I'm often asked when hosting speed dating events: Don't you ever get bored?
To be fair I've hosted over 300 Speed Dating events so the question shouldn't come as a surprise but I can honestly say that I don't. This is partly due to the fact such a wide range of people attend events. Who wouldn't want a job where you get to meet such a broad spectrum of professionals from all sorts of backgrounds?
The other reason is the sheer variety of events I host. I'm lucky enough to work for a very professional but relaxed company who know the value of variety. So for those of you who are curious as to what Original Dating do, or perhaps those who've attended an event but are looking for something different, here are my pick of events over the last year.
Ever popular Speed Date events run throughout the week so grab some friends, pick a date and venue and get booking:
Wednesday finds us in the opulent surrounds of the justifiably famous Mahiki near Green Park. Think rambunctious royals and celebrating celebrities.
Thursday we run two events. The ever-popular Exhibit in Balham boasts a private room, bar and bar staff, while for those North of the river Islington is the destination. XOXO is situated 2 minutes from Angel tube opposite Islington Green. Come early for some amazing Thai food or simply indulge yourselves in their stunning cocktails.
Friday is time to date in the city amidst the plush surrounds of Dion right next to St Paul's Cathedral. Again, we have a private room, bar and bar staff and, as if that wasn't enough, live blues, rock and jazz plays upstairs until late leaving with you with no excuse not to stick around.
Saturday finds us in the West End in the media hub of Fitzrovia. Black & Blue is the destination boasting a great wine list and the possibility of any cocktail you can imagine. And if you want to carry on after hours, the vibrant and welcoming London Cocktail Club is just 20 steps away.
The highlight of this year has to have been our Jubilee boat party. A 28C day, our regular band The Gremlins kicking out some awesome tunes, Speed Dating try out sessions on the lower deck and our unique lock and key ice breaker offering up fabulous prizes meant this was a classic boat party of which there will be many more. Not to mention the three massive jubilee themed cakes that lasted about thirty seconds.
For those wanting a less formal, more traditional bar like atmosphere we ran a number of increasingly popular Mid-Week Socials across London. No icebreaker, just 50-80 like-minded single professionals in venues such as Soho House, Mahiki and The Exhibit. I have to admit getting home a little late after more than one of these events after being asked to lead a bunch of guests onto further night time adventures.
And finally, we're looking to revive our very own Comedy Dating event, TFI Sundays. 80-100 singles dating in groups of ten for 10-15 mins, interspersed with some of the UK's finest comedy talent.
So that was the year so far, but don't worry we don't plan to sit on our laurels. We have a few surprises coming up in the next few month so make sure you're on our mailing list and keep checking the website. And if you have any ideas you think may work, drop us a line. Who knows, perhaps you could be responsible for the next big thing in dating.
So to conclude, no I don't get bored hosting these events. How could I?
JOHN DAVIS