Returning To Speed Dating in Person - Our Top Tips

With restrictions lifting and life looking a little more ‘normal’ than it has in some time, singles events are back. But if you’re returning to speed dating in person, you may have some questions. What should you wear? How can you stay safe? And what should you be doing to prepare?

Here are our five top tips for coming back onto the speed dating scene.

Returning to speed dating in person

Virtual dating became the norm through the majority of 2020 and again into 2021. And while online mingling is still going strong (and is necessary for those having long-distance romances) we’re now able to return to our pre-COVID dating styles too.

Many of us are super excited about seeing new faces, connecting with potential future partners and chatting freely. Then again, being in a room full of strangers for the first time in what feels like forever, may fill you with dread. If so, take things slowly; begin by meeting a couple of friends for coffee and ease yourself into the public domain bit by bit. Then when you’re ready, you can book a speed dating event near you.

5 top tips for speed dating

Tip 1: Build your confidence

It’s totally understandable and natural that you may feel nervous about dating in person again. Maybe you’ve found yourself newly single and are venturing into the world of dating for the first time, in this strange mid/post-pandemic era. Or perhaps you have been meeting people exclusively online and now want to return to face to face first dates. Either scenario can be daunting. Work on building your confidence and you’ll look, feel and act more self-assured - a quality that’s actually proven to increase your own attractiveness.

Tip 2: Bring a friend

Having some moral support can go a long way. Do you have a single friend who you think might be up for joining you? Why not invite them to sign up on the same night. You can travel there and back together, add in a pre-event meal and make an enjoyable night of it. Although do be aware that there is a slight risk that you might match with the same person! If you don’t have any friends willing to take part, a couple of them might like to come along with you and have a drink in the bar, while you speed date. You can all re-group for a debrief afterwards.

Tip 3: Check if your wardrobe needs a refresh

First impressions really count when it comes to dating. So like it or not, wearing something that suits you and looks like you’ve made a bit of an effort, matters. But let’s be honest, many of us have spent the majority of the past year and a half in PJs and jogging bottoms.

Getting dressed up for a night out, styling hair and putting on some makeup may feel really quite alien at the moment. And it could be that your old wardrobe of smart casual, date appropriate clothing either no longer fits, is looking dated, or just needs a refresh. The shops are open and sales are everywhere, so there’s no excuse. Make sure you’re looking sharp and practise dressing to impress once again.

Tip 4: Take a lateral flow test

It may neither a fun nor romantic part of speed dating prep, but it is a worthwhile one. Rapid lateral flow testing kits are available at sites across the UK or to order online, and are completely free. Taking one takes a few minutes and will tell you whether you’re good to go in half an hour. While it’s not essential, we do recommend you test before coming to a speed dating event, for your peace of mind and to protect others. Similarly, getting vaccinated at least a few weeks beforehand (if you haven’t already) will give an extra boost of reassurance.

Tip 5: Relax and know that this is a safe way to date

If you’re worried about the risk of virus transmission by attending in-person speed dating, do rest assured that this is a very safe way to date. By nature, the setup of speed dating means that you maintain a certain distance from the other participants, while still being able to chat face to face. Hosts and venues take responsibility for sanitising the area you’ll be in and monitoring via Track and Trace. So you’re far better protected than you would be if you choose to meet singles by mixing randomly in a pub - something that’s gradually becoming possible across the UK, as restrictions lift.

Speed dating is also very safe when compared to going on solo dates. You’re part of a group, as opposed to meeting one one one. Your contact details will never be passed on unless you want them to be. And there’s always someone in charge, moderating and monitoring proceedings.

Getting back ‘out there’ can be nerve-wracking, especially when you’re trying to navigate the many changes and adaptations required for the current climate; you can find out more on how to date after a pandemic, in this article. Speed dating may be the best way to ease you into meeting new people, as everything is taken care of for you. All you have to do is turn up and chat. And you never know where that might lead...

Related Questions

Can you go speed dating alone?

Absolutely. In fact, most people do. You can come with a friend - provided you’ve both booked spaces - too though. Our hosts are trained to make attendees feel welcomed and relaxed because we understand that it can feel daunting if it’s your first time.

How does online speed dating work?

Online speed dating is a great alternative if you’re unable to get to a live event or feel more at ease chatting to people from the comfort of your own home. The host will place you in two-person chat rooms for several minutes at a time, rotating these until you’ve met everyone who’s taking part.