Speed dating has recently become a popular alternative to blind dates or going to singles bars. It’s a fun, efficient way to meet several people in one evening instead of spending lots of time and money on one date with someone you’ve just met and may not hit it off with.

Speed dating is popular because it’s so much fun and gives you so many opportunities in one evening. Generally in one evening you’ll have the chance to meet about eight different people for “mini dates” that are not longer than ten minutes each.

You have just enough time to talk to them, find out the basics and see if there’s any chemistry, then it’s on to the next date. At the end of the evening, you mark down the first name of anyone you’d like to get in touch with and if they also express interest, you are given each other’s information.

There’s an intermission when you can mingle and meet other people you weren’t matched with, and if you came with a friend the two of you can compare notes over drinks and appetizers. It’s a great girls or guys night out combined with the opportunity to safely “meet and greet” others who are interested in dating.

So for the cost of one evening out, you’ve met at least eight people you know are interested in the same things you are and are open to dating. You’ve had a few drinks and some great food, and when you leave you may be looking forward to a real date with the third speed date of the night, but the next time for the whole evening. No wonder it’s popular!