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Home Blog The Evolution of Speed Dating: From Then to Now 

The Evolution of Speed Dating: From Then to Now 

Wednesday September 18, 2024

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Speed dating has come a long way since it first burst onto the dating scene. What started as a fun experiment to help people meet their perfect match in minutes has now evolved into a global phenomenon. Let’s take a look at how speed dating has transformed over the years and why it’s still one of the most exciting ways to meet new people. 

 

The Early Days of Speed Dating 

Believe it or not, speed dating originated in the late 1990s, thanks to Rabbi Yaacov Deyo in Los Angeles. His goal was simple: to help single Jewish men and women meet potential spouses quickly and efficiently. In the beginning, it was all about bringing people together in small, structured groups, allowing them just a few minutes to talk before moving on to the next person. The concept caught on, spreading beyond its initial community roots to become a pop culture phenomenon. 

 

The Rise of Speed Dating 

By the early 2000s, speed dating was everywhere. From nightclubs to coffee shops, singles were flocking to these events in hopes of finding their match. The fast-paced, no-pressure environment was a hit, allowing people to gauge chemistry within just a few minutes. It offered an antidote to long, awkward first dates, giving singles a chance to meet several potential matches in one evening. The fun, social nature of speed dating made it an instant success. 

 

Speed Dating in the Digital Age 

As online dating began to dominate, many predicted the end of speed dating. However, the exact opposite happened. Speed dating adapted, offering a refreshing alternative to endless swiping on apps. In the 2010s, events started catering to niche groups, such as vegan singles, LGBTQ+ communities, and even professionals looking for love. 

With the rise of virtual speed dating during the pandemic, the format found new life, allowing people to connect from the comfort of their homes. Today, both in-person and virtual speed dating events thrive, giving everyone the opportunity to meet face-to-face or online, whether they’re looking for love, friendship, or just a fun night out. 

 

Why Speed Dating is Here to Stay 

Speed dating remains a popular and effective way to meet new people because it brings back the human connection that many apps lack. In a world where digital communication often leads to ghosting or endless text conversations, speed dating gives people the chance to experience real-time chemistry. Plus, it’s a great way to get out of your comfort zone, try something new, and meet people you might not encounter otherwise. 

 

Ready to experience the magic of speed dating for yourself? Book your next event today at Original Dating and see how quickly sparks can fly! 

 

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HOW IT WORKS

The beauty of Speed Dating London lies in its no-nonsense approach. You take an equal number of single girls and guys, put them in a room and give them a few minutes to chat with every other member of the opposite sex.

When you get there

Original speed dating events in London normally begin at 7.30pm. You will need to register with our hosts and to begin with they will issue you with a score sheet. This will help you to keep track of the singles that you would like to meet again and perhaps go on a date with. After a short period of mingling, your host for the evening who will run through detailed instructions and give you your starting position if you are a guy or table for the event if you are a girl.

Meet & Mingle

A London speed dating event is split into two halves, each lasting around an hour, there will be an interval at half time of about 15 minutes for speed dating London. You will have between 4 and 5 minutes with each person, after which you need to tick a box on your score sheet - "yes, I would like to meet this person again" or "no. Thanks but no thanks". Or "friend" if you'd like to get to know them platonically. Make sure that you do this after each date to keep track. Afterwards there is an opportunity for everyone to meet and mingle informally - this is often where the real action begins, so make sure you don't disappear too quickly!

Complete your score sheet

After the event you simply tick who you liked on the Original Dating website and the site works about your matches automatically. If the dates you have ticked as a "yes" have reciprocated you have a match. You will be able to view the first names and message them via our site online without revealing your email address until you are ready to. You'll be having proper first dates in no time.