Speed Dating Helps Break the Ice in Palm Springs Area

There are plenty of adult playdates to be had in the desert

Ebony March Social Scene

One of the more common questions I’m asked, aside from “What’s going on this weekend?” is “Do you know any eligible women/men for me to date?”

I do. In Los Angeles – where I last lived. Unfortunately, that’s about two hours too far for most people.

When it comes to dating in the Coachella Valley, love isn’t always an easy thing to nail down for any demographic. The statistic often used was a woman over the age of 36 had a better chance of dying in an accident than finding a husband.

But the desert communities, with their distinctive blend of silver foxes, chic 30somethings, and cool young things, have set a new standard for adult playdates that just doesn’t exist in larger markets like New York and L.A.

Coachella Valley seasonal resident Allison Norwich is thrilled about having the chance to meet new people in the area. The 37-year-old lives in the area eight months out of the year, as she tends to her physically encumbered mother.

“I tried speed-dating when I lived in Seattle,” she says. “You guys should have that here. It was fun.”

Seek and ye shall find: LuLu California Bistro in downtown Palm Springs is hosting Speed-Dating4U’s next live event, July 15. Locals ages 40-54 can enjoy good times starting at 6 p.m.; Valley residents age 25-39 get to know each other when your event kicks off at 8 p.m.

Speed dating works like this: A room full of eligible locals gather. Each dater gets a ballot and the opportunity to rotate around several tables, “dating” each person they encounter for a few minutes at a time. Ask questions, flirt, smile – find out about the person sitting across from you.

Be sure to take thorough notes so you remember whether you’d be willing to get to know them better. When the bell or buzzer sounds, that signifies the end of each date. You’ll have the opportunity to approach your favorite new acquaintances for an extended date later on – if he or she is amenable.

The host or hostess is always there to answer any questions or give helpful advice about the evening’s proceedings. RSVP for this week’s event, or for any of the upcoming ones at by calling 760-565-8416, or visiting www.speed-dating4u.com

If you’re a 20-or 30something looking to make friends with others your age, but don’t know where to start mingling, head to Meetup.com

This website is the perfect resource for finding fun in the Greater Palm Springs Area. Past events included the Yard House Mid-Valley Happy Hour, as well as an Improv night at the Purple Room at Club Trinidad.

Head to The Crazy Coconut for a raucous Karaoke Night at 8 p.m. July 13. The event is hosted and organized by Stacy W., and is the perfect way for Millennials and Generation X to congregate in a safe yet fun environment.

The site also offers valuable resources for single seniors and other residents looking for platonic fun or light romance.

Finally, for folks who find the dross of infinite flirtation on dating sites like eHarmony and Match.com insufferable, try HowAboutWe.com

HowAboutWe is predicated on getting away from the computer, and going out on an actual date. Head to the website and start your profile. Be honest. People want to meet the real you, not the fictional ideal of yourself.

There is a minimal fee with this site, as with all the major dating services. Next, come up with a date that you’d like to go on. For example, how about we eat our weight in doughnuts, then go to the movies and watch a horror flick.

Somewhere in our community is another person who would love to experience your date with you. If so, he or she will reply. You’ll meet, and, if all is right in the world, will fall in love and live happily ever after.