Rosebud resident Krystyna is a recently single 40-year-old returning to the world of dating. She admits it’s tricky finding like-minded people hoping for something more than a casual fling, and often feels hindered by the lack of suitable meeting places in her area – but she’s not giving up.
“I try to stay on the Peninsula, hoping to find someone local to date,” she said. “For a night out, I’ll sometimes head to Mornington with the girls. It’s the closest place with lots of options in the one spot: pubs and clubs for all age groups. (But) by the time you add the cost of an Uber, drinks, food and nightclub entry, it can come to more than $300 to $400 for one evening.”
Her preference is always to meet in person. “It’s not easy finding someone online. It can be a bit of a minefield, and you need to be careful who you communicate with. On dating apps, it’s all about appearances. You’re judged mainly by how you look, not your personality.”
Near home, she’s a regular at The Milbri, often enjoying a meal and cocktails at the popular Rosebud bar and restaurant with friends. Known by staff for her vivacious personality, she was one of the first people they thought of when promoting their upcoming speed dating night.
“One of our team members came up with the idea after attending a similar event in the city,” said owner Chris Fabri. “We thought it would be a good initiative to start in winter, giving singles in the area a chance to meet in a safe, supportive environment.”
Participants will be given 10 to 15 minutes to speak one-on-one, with ladies seated and guys moving from one table to the next. Prompts will be on hand if conversation threatens to dry up – cards with fun discussion topics. Then, after the ‘speedy’ part, everyone can mingle and enjoy drinks and roaming canapés, exchanging details with whoever they clicked with.
Restaurant manager Jacob, who realises blokes can be less brave about putting themselves out there, offered some words of encouragement. “Get yourselves out of your comfort zone instead of sitting alone with a beer. Who knows what might happen? You might even find love.”
The night is something out of the ordinary that Krystyna is excited about. “It’s a really good opportunity to meet others whose intentions are the same as my own.” She thinks singles should take a leap of faith and sign up for it. “If you do find love, you’ll have a great story to tell, and it won’t be ‘I met them on a dating app’.”
The Milbri launches its first speed dating night this month. For more information, visit the Instagram page @themilbri. To register, email bookings@themilbri.com.au or phone 5982 3901.
