Dating apps had their moment, but we all know the most time-tested way to form new connections is with the help of people who know us best. Dating can feel tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to reimagine a dating landscape that’s supportive, accountable, and a whole lot of fun.
At our events, you have to bring a +1 of the orientation you’re interested in dating (for example, if you’re a woman interested in dating men, you have to bring a man interested in dating women). This ensures that everyone is vetted, our events are always balanced, and no one has to go through the experience alone.
"It was so fun to have the experience with your friend and not have to do it alone. The hosts were incredible and warm and made it feel light and pressure free."
“There’s no question of whether or not you should go talk to someone – it’s exactly what you (and everyone else) is there for. It’s a nice confidence boost and free pass to get to know people in earnest. New York is a big city, and it’s special to feel such a sense of trust and comfort in a room full of strangers.”
“I love the idea of bringing a friend of the opposite sex because it’s less intimidating meeting people when you’re not alone. The people I met were really interesting, age appropriate, and outgoing.”
What Our Friends Have to Say
Met Through Friends started as a series of apartment parties for founder Elle Wilson’s real single friends. It began with the insight that she knew so many wonderful, “dateable” people weren’t finding luck on the apps–what would happen if they and their friends got offline and into a room full of others looking for the same thing? Since 2022, it has grown to welcome thousands of friends from across NYC and beyond who are looking for more social, fun ways to connect.
Elle is also a certified dating coach who works with individuals who are looking to build meaningful, productive, fun IRL dating lives. If you want more support to get “un-stuck” fast, we’d love to work with you.
Like a personal trainer for your dating life: get support to build an in-person dating life that works for you.
The only dating events where everyone’s vetted by a friend.