How singles are meeting today: a q&a with maria mirabela
Modern dating has never offered more options—or more confusion. With dating apps, social clubs, curated events, and professional matchmaking all competing for attention, many singles are asking the same question: What actually works anymore?
We sat down with Maria Mirabela, founder of Mirabela Executive Dating, to unpack how singles are meeting today, what’s changing in the dating landscape, and whether finding love has become easier—or harder—than ever.
Q: How are singles meeting potential partners today?
Singles today are meeting through a mix of both traditional and modern avenues. Dating apps are still the most common starting point, but we’re seeing a noticeable shift. Many people are feeling fatigued by apps and are actively exploring alternatives—whether that’s professional matchmaking services like Mirabela, curated singles events, or interest-based social environments.
What’s really driving this change is intention. People want to meet others who are genuinely looking for a serious relationship, and that’s become one of the biggest challenges with dating apps.
Q: Are dating apps still popular?
Maria:
Yes—online dating is still very popular, but it has evolved significantly. There are now countless platforms, many powered by AI and data-driven algorithms, catering to different demographics and niches—from mainstream apps like Tinder, Hinge, Bumble, and eHarmony to more exclusive platforms like Raya.
That said, many singles who are looking for long-term love feel increasingly disheartened. They often tell me they’re tired of conversations that go nowhere or meeting people who don’t share the same intentions. Interestingly, even those who step away from apps often find themselves returning—pausing and unpausing profiles—because they don’t want to close themselves off completely.
Q: Why are more people turning to matchmaking services?
Maria:
The biggest drawcard of matchmaking is shared intention. People who join matchmaking services are actively seeking meaningful relationships, not casual dating. For busy professionals especially, matchmaking offers a curated, human-led approach—where compatibility, values, and emotional readiness are prioritised.
At Mirabela, our clients are looking for quality over quantity. They want to meet someone who is genuinely aligned with their lifestyle, values, and relationship goals, without the noise and burnout that often comes with apps.
Q: What role do social circles and real-life interactions still play?
Maria:
They play a huge role—and they’re making a strong comeback.
We’re seeing people meet through:
Friends and family introductions, which still hold a lot of weight for serious relationships
Industry events and professional networking, although many professionals are now cautious about dating within their immediate work circles
Social and lifestyle clubs, such as golf clubs, tennis clubs, gyms, walking groups, and run clubs
Run clubs in particular have become incredibly popular. They offer a relaxed, low-pressure environment where people meet face-to-face, off-screen, and naturally connect over shared interests.
Q: What about curated singles events like speed dating?
Maria:
There has been a massive resurgence in speed dating and singles mixers. Almost every week, I hear from clients who’ve attended at least one. It makes complete sense—people are craving real-life interaction again.
These events offer something apps can’t: immediate chemistry, body language, energy, and presence. Singles want to feel the connection, not just swipe on it.
Q: Are lifestyle and interest-based connections becoming more important?
Maria:
Absolutely. We’re seeing more relationships form in:
Fitness and wellness spaces like gyms, yoga studios, and hiking groups
Hobby-based communities, including book clubs, wine tastings, travel groups, and creative workshops
These environments create organic connections because people are already aligned on lifestyle and interests—often leading to deeper compatibility.
Q: Do people still meet organically, by chance?
Maria:
Yes—and it still works. Cafés, bars, restaurants, travel experiences, retreats, even chance encounters at weddings or the grocery store still spark relationships. While it may feel old-fashioned, those spontaneous moments can be incredibly powerful.
Q: What are the biggest dating trends right now?
Maria:
Dating is always evolving, but the strongest trends we’re seeing now—and moving into the future—are:
Quality over quantity: Singles are moving away from casual swiping and focusing on meaningful, intentional connections
In-person encounters: People want to meet, not just message
Niche dating communities: From wellness enthusiasts to entrepreneurs, hyper-targeted platforms are making compatibility easier
Psychology-based matchmaking: Singles want better matches, not more matches
Intentional relationships: Emotional availability and values alignment are non-negotiable
Video screening before dates: To gauge chemistry and avoid wasted time
Emotional intelligence as a priority: Especially for women, communication and empathy now outweigh looks or status
Luxury dating experiences: High-calibre singles are seeking premium, curated experiences
Value-based dating: Shared life vision matters more than surface attraction
Q: Has it become easier or more difficult to find love?
Maria:
Honestly … it’s both.
Why it’s easier:
More ways to meet people than ever before
Access beyond your immediate social circle
Ability to filter based on preferences
Convenience for busy professionals
Why it’s harder:
Too many choices leading to indecision
Reduced face-to-face interaction
Normalisation of ghosting and non-committal behaviour
Mismatched expectations around commitment
What my clients consistently tell me:
50% say dating is harder now than it was a decade ago
70% say they can get dates—but struggle to find meaningful connection
1 in 3 relationships now start online, yet many still don’t last
Technology has made meeting people easier—but building deep, sustainable relationships remains the real challenge.
Q: So what’s the bottom line?
Maria:
Technology isn’t the enemy—but it isn’t the solution either. Successful dating today requires balance: using modern tools while prioritising real-world connection, emotional intelligence, and intention.
When singles know what they want and choose environments aligned with those values, dating becomes far more fulfilling—and love becomes far more attainable.
For those feeling disheartened by modern dating, the answer isn’t to give up—it’s to date smarter, with clarity, intention, and support.
Feeling unsure about modern dating?
Discover how intentional matchmaking can help you meet the right person with clarity and confidence.
Book a confidential consultation with Mirabela Executive Dating.
