Goodbye online dating - Hello Solo Connects!

A big thank you to Solo Connects member Kirsty for sharing her story about online dating (and why Solo Connects is soooo much better)!

Ask anyone about their experience of online dating and the majority of responses are negative. Sure, there are always examples of people who have met online, found that spark, made that connection and who have gone on to find lasting love. These success stories are always encouraging and hopeful for those still looking to find that special someone; perhaps even more so due to the fact that it happens so infrequently.

For the vast majority of those who have either dived headfirst or just dipped their toes into the murky waters of online dating, however, there are many more stories of disappointment, frustration and heartbreak. Many of us have struck up conversations with people online who have turned out not to be anything like they portray themselves to be - from those who actively mislead you about their height, weight, age, employment, living situation or marital status – to name just a few – to those who have turned out to have been a catfish, perhaps hoping that, once you turn up for a date that you will overlook the fact that the person who you find yourself meeting is completely unrecognisable from how they have described themselves.

Of course, delve deeper, and it becomes clear that people choose to misrepresent themselves for a wide variety of reasons - most commonly it comes from insecurity or feeling that they will have greater success by telling a little white lie or two. And, of course, who doesn’t wish to present themselves in the most positive light possible?

Many of us have regaled our friends and family with amusing stories of either disappointing or even disastrous dates with people we have met (or almost met) online. I certainly have a few... Yet, so many of us, have been lured back online (trying to stay positive) to try again. Better luck next time...

Another scenario of online dating, and one which is all too common, is that either you find yourself chatting online for ages, only to find when you meet in person that, there is just no connection, no spark or no chemistry - and this is something which can work both ways. And who hasn’t experienced the bewilderment, disappointment or frustration of being ghosted days, days or even weeks into messaging someone online? No apology, no explanation, no idea as to why they have decided to suddenly stop communicating with you... Nothing...

Others have simply found, to their dismay, that, despite frequently reaching out to others that spark their interest, that it is rarely reciprocated.

It’s no surprise then, however, that many people have chosen to give up on dating altogether. If only there were a way to meet others in real life and avoid all the pitfalls of online dating!

This was the inspiration behind Sam and Rachel’s groundbreaking idea – to launch an initiative enabling singletons looking to find love or friendship by meeting others in real life through hosting various events from walks, coffee and cakes to larger matchmaking events and so much more. Less than a year after launching their business, Solo Connects is thriving  - boasting in excess of 2000 members of all ages from a growing number of towns and cities across the Home Counties and already boasts success stories of couples who have met at their events.

We've already had several love matches, but the surprising thing is all the connection and friendship that has followed. Here's what a few members have to say about Solo Connects.

"Love our community, so many amazing wonderful people, I'm blessed to know you. ...it works people...get yourself booked onto events!!!" Justine

"Love the fabulous people I have met, the events and that I found my man." Bev

"I love how respectful and supportive everyone on here seems to be ….. or maybe that’s the admins getting rid of the trolls before they have the chance to make an impact? Either way - v impressed so far." Trisha

Whether you are looking to meet and make new friends, to date or maybe to meet someone special, why not come along to one of our events?

Take a look at our Event Page to meet more fabulous singles in real life.

Kirsty Law is a teacher, singer, hockey enthusiast and member of Solo Connects. Thank you for sharing your story about the perils of online dating and sharing the benefits of meeting people IN REAL LIFE.