I certainly didn’t expect such a positive response when I announced the change in direction for Single & Mingle® late last year (from being all about dating and finding “the one”, to being part of a friendly community and enriching your social life).
Have you ever heard people say that your social circle is everything? Those you spend time with influence how confident you feel, how connected you are, and how you show up in the world. That is exactly why in 2026, I am putting a huge focus on helping people to enrich their social lives through authentic, in-person connection.
It's not about dating or finding "the one"
One of the biggest lessons I learned by chatting to people at our events last year, was that dating is harder than ever. The pressure is real. Many mentioned that they’d met new people through a close friend, rather than online or at a dating event. And so from January 2026, Single & Mingle is no longer about dating. It’s not about pressure or expectations. It is about being part of a friendly, welcoming and supportive community, exclusively for singles who want to get out, meet others and feel part of something special.
Welcome to The Social Club for Singles – join for free
People always leave one of our meetups having had a lovely time. Most make new friends each and every time. Many leave with new plans in the diary.
And honestly, that is exactly what it is all about.
I made lots of new friends last night and we have already set up a WhatsApp group.
So nice to be out, chatting and laughing with people instead of sitting at home scrolling
Feedback like this makes it all worthwhile.
So in 2026, I am committing even more to helping you enjoy more real-life human connection.
Why real, in-person connection matters
There’s something special about face-to-face interaction. Proper conversations. Shared laughter. Being in the same room as other people who are open, friendly and welcoming.
When you regularly put yourself in social situations, confidence grows naturally. And that confidence doesn’t sit neatly in one box. It often shows in other areas of your life too, such as work. Face-to-face socialising helps you feel more grounded, more capable, and more connected to the world and people around you.
Use technology as a stepping stone, not the destination
I am a big advocate for meeting people in real life, but I also understand that everyone has to start somewhere.
Technology (such as social media) can be helpful when used gently. It can ease you into conversations and help you feel more comfortable before stepping out into real-life situations. Just remember that screens are a starting point, not the end goal.
To help you continue the conversation after attending our meetups, members have the ability to message other members via their online account – removing the need to share your contact details until you’re ready.
The magic happens when conversations move into the real world.
Reconnect with interests and shared experiences
One of the easiest ways to feel comfortable socially is to be around people who enjoy similar things. Whether it is casual socials, creative interests or simply enjoying good conversation, shared experiences make connection feel natural.
Trying new things can feel nerve-wracking at first (I was so nervous when I went to my first ever salsa class), but almost everyone in the room has felt the same at some point. Showing up is often the hardest part. After that, it gets easier.
Don't underestimate the connections you already have
Sometimes enriching your social life is not about adding lots of new people. It can be about nurturing existing friendships or reconnecting with people you have lost touch with.
Many of our members have been attending our meetups for years. Not always to meet new people, but to catch up with friends they’ve made at previous socials.
Remember, a simple message or invitation can open doors you did not realise were still there.
Confidence grows when you invest in yourself
Personal growth does not have to be dramatic. It can be as simple as saying yes to more experiences, showing up when you would normally stay home, or putting yourself in social situations that make you feel supported.
As your confidence builds, socialising becomes easier and more enjoyable. Conversations flow more naturally and you start to relax into being yourself.
Step gently outside your comfort zone
You don’t need to jump in at the deep end. Dipping your toe is just fine. Turning up. Staying for one drink. Saying hello to one new person.
That is how confidence builds. Quietly and consistently.
A community where you can just be yourself
Single & Mingle is a members-only community for singles who want real-life connection without the pressure. No dating. No expectations. No awkwardness. No need to impress anyone.
Just friendly faces, relaxed environments and the chance to be part of something special.
Membership is completely free. Simply sign up and choose the socials you’d like to attend – you only pay for the ones you come to. No subscription. No lock-in. No obligation.
So if 2026 is the year you’d like to have more connection, more confidence and more real-world experiences, we’d love for you to join us.
