What's Happening?
Bored of Dating Apps (BODA), an organization aiming to counter the online dating culture, is hosting singles events in bookstores to encourage in-person connections. These events, held at venues like the Book Club Bar in Manhattan, offer a relaxed atmosphere where participants can mingle among bookshelves without the pressure of speed dating or structured activities. The events have become popular, with sessions selling out quickly. Attendees appreciate the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals in a familiar setting, using books as conversation starters. BODA, which began in London, now regularly hosts events in New York, leading to friendships, relationships, and even marriages.
Why It's Important?
The rise of BODA's bookstore events highlights a growing
dissatisfaction with online dating platforms among millennials and Gen Z, who report feeling burnt out by the transactional nature of dating apps. These events offer an alternative that emphasizes organic, face-to-face interactions, which many find more meaningful. This shift could influence the dating industry, prompting a reevaluation of how technology is used in personal relationships. The success of such events suggests a potential trend towards more traditional forms of socializing, which could impact how dating services are structured and marketed in the future.
What's Next?
As BODA continues to expand its events in New York and potentially other cities, it may inspire similar initiatives that focus on in-person interactions. The success of these events could lead to a broader movement away from digital dating platforms, encouraging more organizations to create spaces for organic connections. This trend might also prompt dating apps to innovate and incorporate more features that facilitate real-world meetings. Additionally, the popularity of these events could influence cultural perceptions of dating, emphasizing the value of personal interaction over digital communication.
