Offline Dating
By Sanchia Saunders
Graphics by: Ellie Hamilton Miller
Introduction: The Limitations of Online Dating
Online dating is like flicking through the Argos catalog at Christmas, as you are spoiled for choice, like a kid in a candy store. However, that does not and definitely did not always mean that you would get what you want. As with so many options, it was often hard to narrow down your list, as some things you needed, some things you wanted, and some things were just on the list for the fun of it.
The Overwhelm of Choice in Digital Dating
This lends itself nicely to online dating, as even though there is so much choice, which once upon a time would have enticed singles, it may now be having the opposite effect. According to reports, "People say they're deleting their dating apps, citing terrible experiences and 'oversaturation' on platforms like Hinge and Raya," which suggests that singles are becoming overwhelmed by the influx of potential candidates that the online dating world has to offer.
The Appeal of Offline Dating: Back to Basics
This is why instead of wading through candidates online, singles are now changing their ways and beginning to opt for an offline approach when it comes to love. Definitely making Gen Z live up to the famous ‘We outside’ TikTok which has amassed over 200,000 likes; as it is a testament of where singles are heading. Outside. As outside is where it's at when looking for your perfect match.
https://www.tiktok.com/@sidetalknyc/video/6958205513205107973?lang=en
The Growing Disillusionment with Online Platforms
Online dating was once leading the race when it came to helping singles find love, as reports state that back in 2023, ‘1 in 10 adults were using online dating services’. Tinder led the way, as it was the top reaching dating service in the UK with 2.49m adults using it. However, it looks like things may be shifting, as in more recent news it appears that singles, Gen Z in particular, are beginning to get the ick when it comes to online dating.
Graphics by: Ellie Hamilton Miller
How Singles are Finding New Ways to Connect
This is because they are struggling with dating app fatigue, as reports from Savanta state that 21% of young people who are single and actively looking for a partner, no longer use dating sites they’re registered with. Suggesting the buzz and excitement around finding love online is depleting. Instead, singles are seeking meaningful connections and are ultimately prioritizing real-life interactions to obtain this.
Group Dating and Social Experiences
Group dating is another dating trend we have seen and it is definitely on the rise, as it almost acts like a safety net when finding love outside, as it is a safe, low-pressure, fun alternative to single dating. It provides singles with more confidence when looking for love as well as a strong support system when it comes to tackling the current dating scene.
The Future of Dating: Hybrid Approaches
I’d definitely recommend double dating, especially with one of your friends, as you have a built-in wing woman/man who will have your back and give you the boost to put your best foot forward and go get your lover. Therefore, by ditching the boring first-date dinners and stepping outside, singles are starting to level up and regain the love and adventure of meeting new people and establishing long-lasting relationships.
Conclusion: The Renaissance of Offline Dating
So yes, there is still love in the air, however, this is the air found outside of your house and not inside on your phone. The importance of memorable experiences. With singles now changing up the scenery and heading outside to find love, it reaffirms the importance of compatibility over just physical attraction. As by partaking in activities such as concerts and festivals or tennis and golf it allows for deeper connections to be formed.
Well it looks like dating is going to get a lot more Evntful, as a new, fun, unique dating app is set to launch very soon. So keep your eyes peeled to find out how you can find love online again in a safe environment with people with similar interests who are best suited for you.
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Credits:
- Business Insider. (2024, January). [Why people are deleting dating apps and opting for offline encounters instead]*Business Insider*.
- Office of Communications (Ofcom). (2024). [Swipe right this Valentine's Day: Top 10 online dating services revealed] Ofcom*.
- Savanta. (n.d.). [Gen Z's dating story: Pre- and post-pandemic trends(https://bit.ly/3LDbsRx). *Savanta*
- https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/may/31/a-friend-said-it-gave-them-hope-four-ways-to-find-love-without-the-apps
- https://www.relationshipelements.com/dating__relationship_advice/group-dating-relaxed-encounters-power-friends/
