When Sarah met Ben

AUCKLAND

I wanted to write some words for anyone sitting on the fence for online dating. My partner and I are the same age but from different parts of town. Even if either of us were social butterflies our paths probably wouldn't have crossed! He messaged me asking what my favourite song is (by my favourite band, as advertised on my profile), conversation ensued, and a week later we were meeting for a nervous beer.

Both of us had tried online dating before, so it wasn't too bad. I liked that you can get to know someone a bit before meeting, and he liked that you can search for someone with common interests, ie plays music, likes sci-fi, in our case. I also think its like everyone's cards, and (hopefully) intentions are on the table, not like if you were meeting someone randomly and trying to figure out whether they are a) single, and b) interested, and c) interested in the same level of commitment, etc. It can be really helpful if you are naturally quite shy, or don't have a wide circle of friends who can introduce you to people.

Anyway, things went well, we chatted like we'd known each other for ages, helped by the beer, of course. I really liked him, and obviously hoped that he felt the same...turned out my phone was bugging out and I didn't receive the follow up text he sent asking me for another date. Luckily he (somewhat belligerently) sent another and we realised what had happened!

After 6 months we moved in together, and now almost 2 years later, have recently gotten engaged.

 

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

  • What attracted you first about your partner?

    Similar interests, and great email conversations.

  • How long did you chat online before meeting up?

    About a week. If online chatting goes well, may as well get down to it and see if its as awesome in real life!

  • Were you nervous about online dating at the start?

    Yep, and then I went on a few unsuccessful first dates, but you just have to keep trying.

  • Any advice to other singles still looking for their special someone?

    Never be afraid to be yourself. Talk to or meet up with as many people as you like, you never know who you will hit it off with!