Why Meeting Singles in Person Could Be the Secret to a Happier Love Life

New research suggests that when it comes to lasting love and relationship satisfaction, meeting face-to-face might be better than meeting online.

While online dating has certainly become mainstream and has it's benefits, the study found some clear differences in relationship quality between online and offline beginnings.

A recent international study led by Dr Marta Kowal from the University of Wrocław, with contributions from The Australian National University (ANU), found that people who met their partners online reported lower levels of marital satisfaction and experienced love less intensely than those who met in person.

The research examined data from 6,646 individuals across 50 countries, collected by the Being Human Lab at the University of Wrocław.

It revealed that 16% of participants had met their partners online - a figure that rises to 21% for relationships formed after 2010.

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The key differences: Online vs. in-person meetings

Participants who met in person reported higher satisfaction and stronger feelings of intimacy, passion, and commitment. The researchers suggest a few reasons why this might be the case:

1. Shared backgrounds matter.
Couples who meet in person are often share similar social, educational, and cultural backgrounds. This common ground can make it easier to connect, communicate, and build a shared vision for the future.

2. The ‘paradox of choice’ - choice overload.  
The internet provides access to a seemingly limitless pool of potential partners. While that sounds like a dream scenario, in practice it can lead to choice overload. Too many options can make it harder to commit, second-guess your decisions, or cause you to constantly wonder if someone “better” is just a swipe away.

3. Seeing the whole picture.
Meeting face-to-face gives you access to non-verbal cues, body language, and the “feel” of someone’s presence - all of which can help reveal red flags that might be missed online. It can also reveal a chemistry or connection in person that you may miss online. 

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A Cultural Shift in Online Dating

The research also uncovered a striking cultural change in how online dating is approached.

In its early days, these platforms were often used by people seeking a lifelong partner.

Today, however, the rise of “swipe culture” has reshaped the landscape. Quick, image-driven choices and a greater focus on casual connections often take priority over deeper compatibility and shared values.

While this instant approach can feel exciting, it may also help explain the lower levels of long-term relationship satisfaction and love intensity reported by online daters in the study.

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Why in-person connection still shines

At A Table For Six, we’ve always believed there’s something special about meeting people face-to-face.

When you’re sharing a meal with others, conversation flows naturally. You see how someone interacts with the group, how they treat the waitstaff, and how their personality comes to life beyond a carefully chosen profile picture.

These in-the-moment experiences make it easier to assess compatibility on a deeper level.

You’re not just reading a list of hobbies - you’re laughing at their quick wit, noticing the way they listen intently, or discovering shared stories that make you feel instantly comfortable.

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The confidence factor

For some, meeting new people in person can feel intimidating at first. But as one of our recent dinner guests shared in a Google Review:

“It’s confronting and challenging, but well worth the effort … it gets you out of your comfort zone and above all, away from those dating sites. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.”

There’s truth in that. Stepping into a real-life social setting allows you to build confidence, social skills, and genuine connections - skills that will serve you well in dating and beyond.

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How to set yourself up for success in offline dating

If you’re ready to step away from endless swiping, here are a few tips to make the most of in-person dating opportunities:

1. Choose the right environment.
A relaxed, welcoming setting — like a dinner party or small group gathering — is ideal for getting to know people without pressure.

2. Be open-minded.
Sometimes the best connections come from people you least expect. Avoid narrowing your options based on rigid “must-have” lists.

3. Focus on shared experiences.
Activities or events where you can interact naturally help conversations flow and reveal more about each person.

4. Be yourself.
Authenticity is magnetic. You don’t need a polished “dating persona” — just genuine interest, kindness, and curiosity.

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The takeaway

The findings from Dr Kowal’s research are a reminder that while online dating has its place, the magic of in-person connection is hard to replicate on a screen.

Shared experiences, chemistry, and seeing the “whole person” in real time can create the foundation for deeper, more satisfying relationships.

If you’re single in Australia and tired of swiping, why not try something different? At A Table For Six, we bring singles together in a safe, friendly, and well-organised environment over dinner at hand-picked restaurants.

You’ll meet like-minded people, enjoy great food, and maybe even leave with a new friend - or more.

After all, lasting love often starts with a simple hello across the table.

Start now - register for a seat at the table!