Despite Bridget Jones’ recent foray into online dating in her latest movie, London’s singles are closing the apps and looking for ways to meet people in person. The digital dating fatigue is real, and the numbers back it up. According to Ofcom’s annual Online Nation survey, the number of UK adults using dating apps has declined for the first time, with platforms like Tinder losing 600,000 users in a year. This shift reflects a growing desire for authentic, in-person connections – a trend that has given rise to experience-based dating events.
One such ‘experience-based’ event is First Glass Wine Events, a unique concept that brings singles together over a shared love of wine. Guests are guided through a selection of premium wines by expert hosts, who also provide wine-related entertainment to keep the atmosphere lively. The event uses unique “palate pairing technology” to match attendees based on their wine preferences, adding a fun and innovative layer to the dating experience.
For many guests, these events are a breath of fresh air. One attendee commented, “It was great to come wine tasting that wasn’t aimed at couples. I had some really interesting conversations and learned a lot about wine. I don’t feel like I wasted an evening on a date I knew wasn’t going to go anywhere!” Feedback like this highlights the ongoing appeal of experience-based dating: the chance to enjoy an enriching activity while meeting like-minded people.
This trend towards experience-based dating isn’t just about wine. Across London, singles are flocking to events that combine socialising with activities like cooking classes, art workshops, and even escape rooms. These events offer a relaxed, pressure-free environment where people can connect over shared interests, making the process of meeting someone feel more organic and less transactional.
The appeal of such events lies in their ability to foster genuine connections. Unlike the curated profiles and endless messaging of dating apps, experience-based dating allows people to interact in real-time, revealing their true personalities and busting the ghosts. It’s a refreshing change that resonates particularly with younger generations, who are increasingly seeking “IRL” (in real life) experiences over digital interactions.
For those tired of the dating app grind, events like First Glass Wine Events offer a promising alternative. They combine the thrill of meeting new people with the joy of discovering new experiences, all while sipping on a glass of something delicious. So, whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just someone looking for a more meaningful way to date, perhaps it’s time to raise a glass to love – offline.
First Glass Wine Events upcoming wine tasting and dating nights are 21st March (Fitzrovia) and 25th April (London City) book online www.firstglasswineevents.com
