At the end of the event, each participant submits a list of people they would like their contacts given to. The organizer then looks for matches. If two people want to share their contact information, there is a match. Matchmaking is done after the event, to avoid facing rejection. Speed Dating is ideal for those who lead busy lives, don’t have much time and want to meet new people in a fun, safe environment. Those in favor of speed dating claim it is a much better, cheaper and safer method of meeting people than going into a bar. They also point out that it is much more efficient than other dating services, such as online dating, since you meet each person face-to-face and can gather information on them quickly. Also, physical attraction – or chemistry – is much easier to judge in person than it is simply looking at pictures online.

Most speed dating services charge between $25 and $60 per person. The fee normally includes a couple of free drinks or a meal or snacks. Sessions typically have between 50 and 150 participants, half male and half female. Lesbian and gay events do exist also. Critics of speed dating claim that you are forced to spend your time on “dates” with people you are not attracted to and have no interest in, wasting both your time and money. Of course it’s only a few minutes and if you end up meeting that special at an event, it is well worth it.