Speed Dating: An Easy and Fun Way to Connect

Speed Dating began in California when a Jewish Rabbi hosted the first event, presumably to bring young members of his congregation together. The concept spread like wild fire throughout the US, Canada and even jumped across the pond to the United Kingdom. And now it’s being offered by Chicago First Dates on Wednesday, January 22 at the Eastgate Café, 102 Harrison St., Oak Park for single professional men and women in their 30’s and 40’s.

Chicago First Dates is the number one speed dating company in Chicago and specifically choose the Eastgate Café to introduce their services to singles in the western suburbs. Conveniently located in Oak Park’s Arts District, this full-service restaurant and bar has an intimate, charming ambiance that makes it the perfect venue for speed dating.

At the start of the evening each person will be given a Match Card. During the session, each of the 10 women will be seated at separate tables while the men will visit each of the tables in turn, one at a time. Every couple will have five minutes to greet, meet and exchange some information about each other. After each encounter, the “daters” will note on their Match Cards if they’d like to meet that person again.

At the end of the night the host will collect the Match Cards and note the couples who mutually picked each other. The next day Chicago First Dates will send each of these couples the contact information of the other so they can get in touch. Sometimes people meet several “dates” they’d like to see again. Sometimes they have no interest in seeing anyone again. But they’ve still had a chance to exercise their interpersonal skills in a relaxed atmosphere. And, since the Eastgate Café has a full bar and kitchen, participants can also order anything from a cocktail and appetizers to a full meal before, during or after the event.

If you’d like to register for this event, please click the link below to make your reservation:

https://www.chicagofirstdates.com/Register_Session.aspx?eventId=6951

Five Tips to on How to be a Successful "Speed Dater”:

1. Make a good first impression.

Remember, although the mood is causal, this is still a social event – so dress accordingly. Wear clean, pressed clothes that flatter you. Take a shower, brush your hair and freshen your breath. Above all, put a smile on your face so you’re more likely to get one in return.

2. Order a drink when you come in but don’t overdo it.

The Eastgate has a full bar. So, you can order your favorite cocktail as well as the usual wine and beer. If you’re a little nervous, a cocktail might help you relax. But sip don’t gulp. Try to nurse your drink through the first few “dates” until you get into the swing. Have another if you like. You might want to order some appetizers to nibble on as well.

3. Ask interesting questions and LISTEN to the responses.

They should give you an idea of who you’re talking to in a way that’s fun for both of you. Share your take on the same topics. Don’t forget to note who gives answers you really relate to on your match card.

4. Give brief but informative answers when a “date” asks you about yourself.

And, if you can, add a joke or two. Laughter is not only the best medicine; it will make you more memorable.

5. At the end of the evening, check out the Eastgate’s menu.

The Eastgate is known for its delicious entrees and desserts as well as its bar. If there is someone you’d like to continue talking to, it’s easy to do so at the Eastgate by having dinner together. But whatever you do, enjoy the moment and have fun.

Speed Dating - Wed., Jan. 22 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at the Eastgate Café, 102 Harrison St, Oak Park. Click on https://www.chicagofirstdates.com/Register_Session.aspx?eventId=6951 to reserve your place now. Reservations required.