Dating can be intimidating even for the most confident of people, but there are some hacks that can make finding the right person a little easier. London is a great place to meet people but it’s knowing where to start that can be daunting. The team at My Friend Charlie, a unique website that runs dating events in London, offer some of their tips to help you meet that special someone.
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1. Go to bars alone
Going alone to a bar would strike fear in many, but it’s a great way to meet people! It might feel intimidating initially but this really is a good way to break out of your comfort zone. Being alone will force you to make conversation with others rather than sticking by a friend- although, if you prefer, taking a friend with you can be helpful especially if they’re a good wingman or woman! Let them introduce you to people and branch off to make conversations of your own.
2. Know what you’re looking for
Dating can be a bit of a minefield, especially for those who have been out of the game for a while. Before going into a dating situation it helps to know what you’re looking for. Think about past relationships and what worked, and inevitably, didn’t work. This will help you to have a clear idea of what you’re looking for in a future partner- do you mind if your partner works long hours? If they live further afield? Are you looking for a long-term relationship or short fling? Having a clear idea of what you are looking for will help you feel more confident going into a date.
3. Join a sports club
Joining a sports club is a great way to meet new people and spark possible love interests. Many clubs hold social events throughout the year and that can be a great way to meet people who have the same interests. Running and tennis clubs often have well established social circles and are good for getting out and meeting people.
4. Use London based dating websites
My Friend Charlie knows that going out to events is the best way to meet people and find yourself a date. They hold events all over London and cover a range of activities from dining over the Thames, to sunset cycling and comedy nights. Use dating apps and websites for people living in your area and instead of keeping it online, suggest meeting up at events going on near you.
5. Go to concerts
Concerts are a great way to enjoy yourself dancing away to your favourite band with others who have a similar music taste. Go alone or with a group and make effort to strike up a conversation with people around you, try not to stick with just the people you came with. Who knows, when the crowd parts at the end, you might bump into the man of your dreams? Alternatively, go along to local pubs for open mic nights and listen to small, upcoming bands- it’s a great way to meet people who live locally and can likely introduce you to other new faces.
6. Ask friends to introduce you to people
Meeting a potential love interest through a mutual friend is a great way to find out more about them before jumping in and going for a date. If you are an inexperienced dater this is a good way of easing yourself into the dating world- London is full of great locations for group dates too, so get together a group together to play mini golf or go to a board game cafe.
7. Visit galleries
Galleries are full of interesting people! These places are a great place to strike up conversation if you have the courage to approach others and if art and culture is of interest to you.It’s a good place to interact with people on the same wavelength. Try the Barbican if you like a variety of photography, art and music - they even have a great cafe.
8. Volunteer
Volunteering shows that a person is caring and has time for others, it also shows that they are generous with their time. If these are qualities you look for in a potential partner, volunteering can be a great way to do your bit for society and meet the love of your life. Charities always need volunteers so take a look at your local animal shelters or elderly people’s home, your help will be appreciated and you can meet like-minded people.
To find out more about My Friend Charlie, visit www.myfriendcharlie.co.uk
tagged in Dating Tips London