How to Set Up a Speed Dating Event

Speed dating events are becoming popular all over the world. Not only do they provide a chance to find love, but they are also great for socializing and making new friends, and they can be very fun, too. Speed dating events can be run by large companies such as bars or clubs, or by local individuals who have time to spare. Either way, they can become very popular and regular events.

Explore different venue options. Try to find a venue which is easily accessible, both for people who drive and for those who don’t, and that can provide refreshments. You are likely to need a large amount of floor space, too.

Negotiate with the venue. Some venues may have a standard charge to book the premises for the night, or an hourly charge. You may be able to obtain a discount, due to the large number of people likely to spend money at the venue while at your event.

Advertise the event. Consider where you may find people who are interested in finding love. Place an ad in the local newspaper, both in the Events section and on the Lonely Hearts page. Tell radio stations about the event so they can publicize it on-air, and make pages on social networking sites where you can invite people, too.

Purchase some labels to write people’s names on, and cards with a list of names on. Provide space for the person to write short notes about people they meet, and somewhere to tick or cross to show whether they are interested.

Set up the venue. Usually, speed dating events have a line of tables, with a chair on either side. You will also need a bell or whistle, to sound when a minute has passed. Place a table by the entrance, with labels and cards.

Greet each person at the door, asking for their name. Write this both on a sticky label for them to wear, and onto the cards. Give each person a card and pen, and allow them to relax until the event begins. Ask the person to note down their email address and telephone number, for you to pass on to matches.

Welcome everybody to the event, and confirm that all attendees have provided contact details which can be passed on to matches, and that everybody is wearing a name label. Explain that when the whistle/bell chimes, you must move on to the next person to your left, and fill in the form with a tick or a cross.

Conduct the event. When the night is finished, encourage the guests to stay and enjoy themselves in the venue, and give details of the next event if you are planning one. Within a week after the event, study the cards and pass on the contact details of any matches.