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Speed dating tips for singles in Montgomery and beyond

Speed dating is the trend in many areas today.  It is a fun and exciting way that local singles are electing to meet a potential mate.  Since a speed date generally last from five to eight minutes, much of the date relies on first impressions.  There is only one chance to make or break it.  If one wants to make it, there are some tips to make it happen.

What is a speed date?

A speed date is a three to eight minute date where one participant meets another to have a face-to-face conversation.  The event coordinator sets up the format and signals when each mini date is over.  At this time, each participant scores the date on a scorecard as to whether or not a second meeting is desired.

Speed dating tips:

Dress appropriately.  One should dress in nice casual attire; no t-shirts or blue jeans.  Be well groomed.  Most importantly, bring some breath mints.

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Arrive early.  Arrive and check in early in order to mingle with other speed daters.  This will also allow time to relax before the mini dates begin.

Go alone.  Do not take friends to a speed dating event.  Friends are generally a distraction.  One of two will be tempted to eavesdrop or invite himself or herself into the other’s conversation.  This will defeat the purpose of speed dating.  Either leave friends at home or register to different events.

No cell phone.  Turn off your cell phone!  “Mini dates” are too short to be interrupted by a ringing phone.  

Limit conversations.  Keep the conversation to a minimum.  Speed dating is an introduction, not a date.  Talk about fun things.  A good tip is to have a list of subjects in mind beforehand.  This way, silence will stay an enemy. 

Limit note taking.  Do not take many notes.  If one of the daters is writing, then his or her attention will not be on the other.

Be courteous.  Make sure to compliment each everyone after each date.  Let him or her know that it was a pleasure meeting them.  This small gesture will leave a huge impact in regards to a second meeting.

Have fun.  Smile, have fun, and leave all expectations in the car.  Speed dating forces one to live in the moment.  Whether or not a connection is made, just enjoy each date. 

Ask for help.  To make sure that the scorecard is filled out properly, ask an event coordinator for help before the event is over. 

Wait for results.  The event coordinator will contact each registrant by private email within two days.  Be patient.  If a match is not made, do not get discouraged just try again.

Speed dating services available for Montgomerians:

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, Montgomery Dating Advice Examiner

Tanisha is the "go to" person others seek for relationship advice from family to friendship to romance. She will use personal experiences and honesty to guide you through today's dating scene. Contact Tanisha for advice or tips. Follow her on on Twitter at @tanadvicecolumn and like her on...

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