Speed Dating Events in Preston, VIC
Preston Speed Dating is like a rom-com on fast-forward! You’ll zip through 12 five-minute dates at hip spots like Stray Neighbour or Moon Dog World. Break the ice chatting about the Preston Market redevelopment or your favorite High Street coffee spot. After the bell, tick your matches on our app, it’s a whirlwind tour of Preston’s singles scene – way more fun than swiping!
Upcoming Speed Dating Events in Preston
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Speed Dating Social Events In Preston
Welcome to Preston, where love is brewing faster than a flat white at Blue Lily cafe! If you’ve been striking out on Tinder, it’s time to give speed dating a whirl. What’s that, you ask? It’s like musical chairs for grown-ups, but instead of grabbing a seat, you’re trying to snag a soulmate in just five minutes! Preston, a thriving northern suburb of Melbourne, Victoria, is the perfect backdrop for your romantic escapades. High Street is where the action happens, with our events taking place at some of the coolest spots along this bustling thoroughfare. Hop on the 86 tram or take the South Morang line to Preston station – it’s easier than finding a match on Bumble! With Thornbury and Reservoir folks joining the fun, you’ll have plenty of fish in this suburban sea. Ready to dive in? Book your tickets now and let’s get this love train rolling!
Our speed dating soirées kick off at 7 PM sharp, usually on a Wednesday or Thursday when the weekend warriors are still hibernating. Upon arrival, you’ll check in using our swanky Matching App 4.0 – it’s like Tinder, but with actual human beings! Then, brace yourself for a whirlwind of 12 five-minute dates. Gents, you’ll be doing the musical chairs routine, while ladies, you get to sit pretty and judge… I mean, chat! We’ll throw in a cheeky intermission to let you catch your breath and maybe sneak in a confidence-boosting wine. By 9:30 PM, you’ll be done and dusted, ready to head home and dream about your potential matches. The next morning, at 8 AM sharp, you’ll wake up to see who picked you back – way better than a hangover, right?
Now, what to wear? Preston Market’s got you covered if you need a quick fashion fix. Aim for “first date chic” – you want to look like you tried, but not like you’re trying too hard. It’s a delicate balance, much like crafting the perfect Tinder bio. Speaking of which, forget swiping right – at our events, you’ll be checking “Match” or “Friend” on our app, no need for cheesy pickup lines or filtered selfies. Book through Eventbrite and choose your age bracket – we’ve got everything from fresh-faced under 30s to the distinguished over 50s crowd. We even host specialized events for our LGBTQ+, Christian, and Asian singles. Still nervous? Take a pre-event stroll through Bundoora Park – it’ll calm your nerves and give you a great conversation starter!
How it works
Picture this: you walk into one of Preston’s coolest venues, palms slightly sweaty, heart racing. But fear not! Our friendly hosts will get you settled with a name tag and a welcome drink. You’ll have time to mingle and calm those nerves before the dating derby begins. Then, armed with your smartphone and our Matching App 4.0, you’ll embark on a series of five-minute dates. It’s like speed-running a relationship, minus the awkward “meeting the parents” phase. During the intermission, we’ll throw in some icebreaker games – think “Two Truths and a Lie” but with less lying and more flirting. With a perfect balance of 20 men and 20 women, it’s like Noah’s Ark, but everyone’s single and ready to mingle. Pro tip: Ask questions you actually want to know the answers to – your genuine curiosity is way more attractive than any pickup line!
Speed Dating Social
Meet Speed Dating Social, the brainchild of cupid-in-chief Darcy Todd. Since 2020, we’ve been playing matchmaker faster than you can say “swipe right.” With a track record of 787+ events and over 37,423 introductions, we’re like the grandma who’s always trying to set you up, but way cooler and with a better success rate. Early birds catch the worm and a bargain at $29.90, while last-minute Lotharios pay $34.90. Word to the wise: we’ve got a strict no-refund policy within 30 days of an event, so commit like you mean it! Need more info? Shoot us an email at matches@speeddatingsocial.com. But enough chit-chat – those matches won’t make themselves! Book your spot now and let’s turn your love life from “It’s Complicated” to “In a Relationship”!
Who you'll meet
Imagine a melting pot of Preston’s finest singles, and from neighboring Coburg and Northcote all in one room. You’ll find everyone from La Trobe Uni students dreaming of their future empire to corporate hotshots from the Bell Street business district. There’s the artsy crowd fresh from a gig at Preston City Oval, rubbing elbows with fitness fanatics who’ve just finished a run along the Darebin Creek Trail. You might bump into a teacher from Preston North East Primary School, or a tech whiz from one of the startups popping up along High Street. It’s a mix as diverse as the food offerings at Preston Market. First-timers mingle with seasoned speed daters, creating an atmosphere that’s part excited buzz, part nervous energy, and all possibility.
For those looking for more specific connections, we’ve got you covered. Our LGBTQ+ nights are as colorful as the rainbow flags flying proudly at Preston Pride. Christian singles can mingle with fellow believers, perhaps bonding over their favorite hymns from Preston Church of Christ. Our Asian singles events are more popular than a Gong Cha bubble tea on a hot day, while Jewish and Indian singles nights are gaining momentum faster than a Bollydance Dipti dance. Single parents, we see you too! Drop the kids off at Preston West Childcare and join us for a well-deserved night out. And for that follow-up date? Ray Bramham Gardens is perfect for a family-friendly picnic. Trust us, meeting people face-to-face beats endlessly scrolling through profiles any day of the week!
What to wear
Alright, fashion fans, let’s talk threads! For the ladies, why not rock a cute sundress from one of the boutiques in Preston Market? Pair it with some comfy yet stylish flats – you’ll thank me when you’re doing the speed dating shuffle. Gents, keep it smart casual with a crisp button-down and dark jeans – Northland Shopping Centre has got you covered. Before the big night, treat yourself to a fresh cut at The Bearded Man on High Street – nothing boosts confidence like a sharp ‘do. Remember, we’re going for “effortlessly attractive,” not “tried on every outfit I own.” Choose something that makes you feel like a million bucks but won’t have you fidgeting every five seconds. And please, for the love of all that is holy, go easy on the perfume or cologne – we want to spark romance, not allergies!
What to talk about
Stuck for conversation starters? Fear not, we’ve got you covered faster than a Preston local can spot a parking inspector! Kick things off by asking about their favorite spot in Preston Park – bonus points if you’ve got a funny dog-walking story to share. Sports fans can debate whether the Collingwood Magpies or the Preston Lions FC have the more passionate supporters. Foodies can discuss the best pho on High Street (hot tip: try Phi Yen for a bowl that’ll knock your socks off). For the spiritually inclined, chat about the beautiful stained glass windows at All Saints Anglican Church. Got a furry friend? Bond over your shared love of Preston Pets in the Park event. Fitness buffs can compare notes on the best classes at Preston’s Reservoir Leisure Centre.
Remember, the key to great conversation is genuine interest. Listen more than you talk, and don’t be afraid to dig deeper on topics that spark your curiosity. And if all else fails, there’s always the trusty “If you could have dinner with any three people, dead or alive, who would they be?” Just be prepared for some interesting answers – this is Preston, after all! As the night progresses, don’t be shy about suggesting a follow-up date. Maybe a stroll through the Preston Market, or a coffee at one of the cute cafes on Plenty Road? Who knows, you might just be planning your wedding at the Preston Shire Hall before you know it!
Our Most Popular Venues In Preston
Stray Neighbour: Where Hipster Meets Heart
Nestled at 463/467 Plenty Road, Stray Neighbour is the cool kid on Preston’s block. Originally a warehouse in the 1950s, it’s now a trendy restaurant and bar that screams “first date material.” The industrial-chic decor, with its exposed brick and hanging plants, creates an atmosphere that’s both edgy and intimate. Three things that make Stray Neighbour perfect for speed dating? The long communal tables that make rotations a breeze, the soft lighting that flatters everyone (hello, natural Instagram filter), and the noise level that’s just right for close conversations. Try their signature ‘Stray Dog’ cocktail – it’s got bite, just like your best pick-up line. Pro tip: Arrive early and snag a seat near the bar. It’s the perfect spot for a quick liquid courage top-up between rounds.
The Raccoon Club: Cozy Connections in a Hidden Gem
Tucked away at 145 Plenty Road, The Raccoon Club is Preston’s worst-kept secret. This former 1920s haberdashery has been transformed into a cozy bar that feels like your coolest friend’s living room. What makes it speed dating heaven? First, the intimate booths that make you feel like you’re in your own little world. Second, the eclectic decor that provides endless conversation starters (is that a stuffed raccoon?). And third, the impressive whiskey collection for those who need a little Dutch courage. Their ‘Raccoon’s Revenge’ cocktail is a must-try – it’s sweet, spicy, and full of surprises, just like your ideal match. Insider’s tip: If you’re feeling a connection, suggest moving to the courtyard. The fairy lights add a touch of magic that might just seal the deal.
Moon Dog World: Where Love is Out of This World
Blast off to love at Moon Dog World, located at 32 Chifley Drive. This spacious brewery and bar is like Willy Wonka’s factory for adults – if Willy Wonka was really into craft beer and finding you a date. Built in 2019, it’s a relatively new addition to Preston’s scene, but it’s made a big impact. What makes it stellar for speed dating? The sheer size means you’ll never feel cramped, the retro-futuristic decor is a conversation starter in itself, and the on-site brewery means the beer is always fresh. Try their ‘Lunar Lover’ brew – it’s out of this world, just like your chances of finding love here. Pro tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, challenge your date to a quick game of pinball between rounds. Nothing breaks the ice like a little friendly competition!
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Post Event Date Night Ideas Preston
Tallboy & Moose: Craft Beer and Crafty Conversations
Fancy a pint with your potential partner? Tallboy & Moose is your go-to spot for a laid-back first date. This Preston brewpub on Raglan Street is a hop lover’s paradise, with a rotating selection of house-brewed beers that’ll give you plenty to chat about. The industrial-chic vibe sets a relaxed tone, perfect for those post-speed dating jitters. Grab a booth, order a tasting paddle, and let the conversation flow like their small-batch brews. Pro tip: Their ‘Soup of the Day’ (yes, it’s beer) is always a great ice-breaker. Visit on a Wednesday for their famous trivia night – nothing says romance like showing off your useless knowledge!
Preston Market: A Feast for the Senses
For a date that’s quintessentially Preston, take a stroll through the vibrant Preston Market. This bustling hub on The Centreway is a smorgasbord of sights, sounds, and flavors that’ll give you plenty to talk about. Start with coffee from Cirelli & Co, then weave your way through the stalls, sampling everything from fresh oysters to artisanal cheeses. Challenge each other to find the weirdest vegetable or the spiciest sauce. The market’s lively atmosphere is perfect for breaking the ice and getting to know each other’s tastes – literally! Visit on a Wednesday or Saturday for the full experience, and don’t miss the street performers. Who knows, you might even end up doing an impromptu salsa dance!
Raccoon Club: Cozy Vibes and Crafty Cocktails
If you’re after something a bit more intimate, the Raccoon Club on Plenty Road is your ticket to romance. This hidden gem offers a cozy, speakeasy vibe that’s perfect for getting up close and personal with your speed dating match. Sink into one of their comfy couches and let the warm lighting and eclectic decor set the mood. Their cocktail list is a conversation starter in itself – try the ‘Raccoon’s Revenge’ if you’re feeling adventurous. The friendly staff are always happy to offer recommendations, giving you a chance to bond over your drink choices. Visit on a Thursday for their live music nights – nothing beats a serenade to spark that romantic flame!
How It Works
Ever wanted to try or wondered how a speed dating event works? It’s easy, just follow these 6 steps:
Book A Ticket
Simply book a ticket through our website or Eventbrite to secure your spot
Hosts Greet You
Turn up and be greeted by friendly hosts who help scan you into our matching portal
Get Your Own Table
Be assigned your own table where you can comfortably mingle one on one
Enjoy 12 Fun Mini Dates
Be rotated every 5 minutes and enjoy 12 fast 5minute dates
Tick Yes To Anyone On Your Phone
Anonymously tick yes on anyone you like from your phone
Matches Sent The Next Day
Receive your matches and contact details of everyone who selects you the next day
Speed Dating Age Ranges: Love Has No Expiration Date
Whether you’re a bright-eyed millennial or a wise baby boomer, Preston’s speed dating scene has something for everyone. It’s like the Preston Market of love – there’s a stall for every taste!
Over 50s: "Silver Foxes and Golden Opportunities"
Who says love is just for the young? Our over 50s nights are as lively as a Preston Bowls Club tournament, but with better chances of scoring! You’ll meet silver foxes and elegant vixens who’ve traded in their midlife crisis for a new lease on love. Picture retired teachers from Preston South Primary School mingling with local business owners who’ve handed over the reins to the next generation. The vibe? Think less desperate housewives, more confident go-getters. We host these at The Junction Hotel on High Street – their classic cocktails and retro tunes set the perfect mood. Ditch the dating apps that make you feel like you need bifocals and join us for some real face-to-face fun. Pro tip: Mention your favorite spot in Preston Historical Society – nothing bonds boomers like a bit of nostalgia!
Over 40s: "Love Begins at Forty"
Hey there, fabulous forties crowd! Remember when dating involved actually calling someone on the phone? Well, welcome to the new world of romance, where you can meet a dozen potential partners in one night – no Nokia 3310 required. Over 40s events often happen at The Raccoon Club, where the vibe is as smooth as a fine whiskey. You’ll mingle with divorcees, never-marrieds, and widowers, all bringing a wealth of life experience to the table. Forget Plenty of Fish – this is Plenty of Possibilities. After the event, why not suggest a sophisticated first date at Stray Neighbour? Their wine list is almost as impressive as your dating pool.
Under 30s: "Swipe Right on Real Life"
Calling all Preston millennials and Gen Z-ers! Put down your avocado toast and listen up. Speed dating for the under 30s crowd is like Tinder, but with actual human interaction – shocking, we know. You’ll find these events at trendy spots like Moon Dog World, where the craft beer flows as freely as the conversation. Expect to meet a mix of uni students, young professionals, and creative types, all looking for someone to share their smashed avo with. Tired of being ghosted? Here’s your chance to make a real connection. And if things go well, why not suggest a follow-up date at Preston’s Retro Lane Cafe? Nothing says “I’m quirky and interesting” like sipping a latte surrounded by vintage knick-knacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dress to impress, but keep it Preston-casual, mates! For the fellas, a smart casual shirt from Torr Fashion on Plenty Road paired with well-fitted jeans strikes the perfect balance. Ladies, you can’t go wrong with a cute top from The Picke Collective on High Street and your favorite jeans or skirt. Accessories? Less is more – you want your sparkling personality to be the main attraction, not your bling. And for the love of all things romantic, leave the Ugg boots at home (unless you’re specifically looking for someone who appreciates cozy footwear). Remember, confidence is the best outfit, so wear something that makes you feel like a million bucks!
Typically, our Preston speed dating events are bustling with around 40 love-seeking locals. We aim for a 50:50 ratio of men to women, but sometimes Cupid throws us a curveball. We actually book 50 spots, accounting for the inevitable 15% who get cold feet (or a better offer – it happens!). So you’ll usually find yourself mingling with about 20 gents and 20 ladies. And it’s not just Preston singles – we get a fair few from neighboring Thornbury and Northcote too. Don’t worry, there are always plenty of potential matches to chat up. It’s like Preston Market on a Saturday, but with less produce and more flirting!
Preston’s got more to offer than just great coffee and hipster bars! Try mentioning the Preston Parkrun if you’re into fitness – nothing says “relationship goals” like sharing sweaty Saturday mornings, right? Or if you’re more of a culture vulture, bring up the latest exhibition at the Darebin Arts Centre. When chatting during your mini-dates, casually drop these into the conversation. “So, ever done the Parkrun? Fancy giving it a go this weekend?” Boom – potential first date idea right there! Remember, common interests are great, but it’s the chemistry that counts. You might both love Ceres Park, but if there’s no spark, you’re just two people staring at trees.
Preston’s speed dating scene is as diverse as the food options at High Street Takeaway! You’ll find professionals from the nearby Darebin Council offices, uni students from La Trobe Uni (probably there to study human mating rituals), and teachers from Preston High School (hopefully not looking for parent-teacher conferences). Our Thornbury neighbors bring a touch of hipster charm, while Reservoir folks add a dash of down-to-earth realness. And let’s not forget our Northcote friends – they’re known for being as quirky as the street art on High Street. It’s a melting pot of singles, each hoping to find their perfect blend. Who knows? Your soulmate might be just a 5-minute chat away!
Look, speed dating isn’t all roses and violins. For starters, if you live more than an hour’s drive from Preston, you might want to rethink your life choices (or at least your GPS settings). Our events are 18+ due to being held in bars – sorry, youngsters, stick to TikTok for now. No-shows can happen, but we handle it smoothly with a 5-minute chill session (perfect for a quick selfie or panic text to your bestie). There’s also the pressure of making a good impression faster than you can say “smashed avo.” And let’s be honest, it can sometimes feel like a human meat market. But hey, at least it’s not as bad as trying to find parking at Northland Shopping Centre on a Saturday!
Speed dating is like Tinder in real life, but with less swiping and more actual conversation. Picture this: you’re at The Raccoon Club on Plenty Road, surrounded by other singles, all nervously clutching their drinks. You get 12 five-minute chats with potential partners, just enough time to decide if you want to see them again or if you’d rather date your houseplant. It’s a bit like musical chairs for adults, but instead of losing your seat, you might just find your life partner. Fun fact: this whole shebang was invented by Rabbi Yaacov Deyo and his students in 1998 in Los Angeles. Who knew rabbis were such romantics?
Does speed dating work? Well, does a koala sleep for 20 hours a day? (The answer is yes, by the way.) Research shows there’s a 69% likelihood of reciprocity in liking – that’s better odds than finding a park on High Street during peak hour! Many Preston singles have found mutual attraction during our events, proving that sometimes, love at first sight only needs five minutes. It’s like shopping at Preston Market – you might not always find what you’re looking for, but you’ll definitely have an interesting experience. And who knows? Your perfect match might be just a “hello” away. Check out the science behind it.
Calling all Preston believers! Christian speed dating is like regular speed dating, but with more “Oh my God” moments (pun intended). You’ll meet singles from various denominations – Anglicans, Catholics, and even the occasional hip Hillsong type. It’s a chance to find someone who shares your values faster than you can say “Amen.” We’ve hosted events at St. Mary’s Parish Hall, where the only thing stronger than the coffee is the faith. Forget Christian Mingle – this is where real connections happen. And if you hit it off, why not suggest a follow-up date at Little Henri café? It’s close enough to the church that you can claim you’re just going for a post-service latte if anyone asks!
Ni hao, namaste, and konnichiwa to Preston’s Asian singles! Our Asian speed dating events are like a pan-Asian feast for the heart. You’ll meet folks from China, India, Japan, and Korea, all looking for their perfect match. We often host at Moon Dog World, where you can break the ice over a ‘Lunar Lover’ brew. It beats endless swiping on EastMeetEast, that’s for sure! And if you click with someone, why not suggest a bubble tea date at Gotcha Fresh Tea on High Street? Nothing says “Asian romance” like debating the merits of tapioca pearls versus jelly. Just remember, love transcends borders – and sometimes, language barriers too!
Gone are the days of scribbling names on napkins – welcome to the digital age of love! When you arrive at our Preston events, you’ll scan a QR code faster than you can say “swipe right.” This magical portal leads you to our Matching App 4.0, where you’ll enter the event code, your name, starting table number, and email. As you chat with potential soulmates, use the app to mark ‘Match’ or ‘Friend’ – it’s like Tinder, but with real people and less catfishing. At 8am the next day, you’ll receive your matches. It’s like Christmas morning, but instead of presents, you get phone numbers. May the odds be ever in your favor!
Fitness speed dating in Preston? You betcha! It’s like regular speed dating, but with more endorphins and less guilt about skipping leg day. Forget discussing your favorite Netflix shows – here, you’ll bond over your squat PRs and protein shake recipes. Mention your crossfit sessions at F45 Training Preston or your yoga practice at Preston Yoga & Pilates to find your swolemate. For a first date, why not suggest a workout at Goodlife Health Clubs followed by a protein-packed smoothie at Boost Juice in Northland Shopping Centre? Remember, the couple that sweats together, stays together. And hey, if love doesn’t work out, at least you’ll have killer abs!
So, you’ve scored a match at our Preston speed dating event – congrats, Casanova! Now, where to take your potential soulmate? For a casual vibe, Tallboy & Moose is your go-to. Nothing says “I’m cool and cultured” like debating the merits of craft IPAs. If you’re feeling fancy, Stray Neighbour offers a more upscale experience. Pro tip: their charcuterie board is perfect for sharing – and stealing glances at each other. For the adventurous types, why not suggest a picnic at Darebin Parklands? Pack some Preston Market goodies and let nature be your wingman. Remember, the key to a great first date is being yourself – unless you can be Batman. Always be Batman.
Listen up, Preston singles! Our refund policy is stricter than the dress code at Chasers nightclub. In short: no refunds, no exceptions. But don’t worry, we’re not complete heartbreakers. If you give us at least 7 days’ notice (because we’re not mind readers), you can transfer your ticket to another event of the same age range. Just shoot an email to matches@speeddatingsocial.com – sliding into our DMs won’t cut it. And no, it’s not an untimed credit – use it or lose it, like your gym membership. Remember, commitment is sexy, even when it comes to event bookings. Who knows? The night you almost cancelled might be the night you meet “the one”!