How to Prepare for Your Group Dating Singles Event

So, you’ve signed up for your first Eight at Eight event—congrats! You’re about to dive into a fun, laid-back evening where you’ll meet some new people, enjoy great food, and maybe even spark a connection. But before you head out, let’s make sure you’re prepped and ready to make the most of it. Here’s your easy-breezy guide to getting ready for your first 8 at 8 event.

Get the 8at8 Vibe

First things first: what’s this 8at8 thing all about? Think of it as a dinner party, but with a twist—eight people, four men, and four women, all coming together to share a meal and some good conversation. It’s less about finding “the one” right off the bat and more about enjoying the company, having fun, and seeing where things go.

No need to stress about making a deep connection right away. The beauty of 8 at 8 is in its simplicity—just relax, be yourself, and let the night unfold naturally. You’re here to meet new people in a laid-back setting, so keep it light and enjoy the ride.

Keep Your Expectations Real

Let’s get real—your first Eight at Eight event might not lead to instant love, and that’s totally okay! The goal is to have a great time, meet some cool people, and see what happens. It’s important to go in with an open mind and realistic expectations.

Remember, everyone at the table is coming from different backgrounds and experiences. You might not vibe with everyone, and that’s part of the adventure. The key is to embrace the diversity and enjoy the variety of conversations. Who knows? You might make a new friend, get some great restaurant recommendations, or find a new hobby to try out.

Dress to Impress (But Stay Comfy)

Now, let’s talk outfits. Picking the right look for your 8 at 8 event is all about striking that balance between stylish and comfortable. You want to look good, but also feel good—because confidence is key!

Ladies: A chic dress or a stylish blouse with your favorite pair of jeans is a great go-to. Pair it with some comfy heels or cute flats, and you’re set. Don’t forget to accessorize—a statement necklace or a pair of fab earrings can really pull your look together.

Gents: You can’t go wrong with a crisp shirt and well-fitted jeans or chinos. Throw on some polished loafers or nice sneakers, and you’re good to go. Remember, it’s better to be a tad overdressed than underdressed.

And one last thing—dress for the venue. If you’re hitting up a fancy spot, step it up a notch. If it’s a more casual setting, keep it relaxed but sharp. The goal is to feel confident and comfortable so you can focus on having a good time.

Conversation Starters: Your Secret Weapon

So you’re all dressed up—now what? It’s time to bring your A-game to the dinner table with some engaging conversation starters. The trick is to keep things light and fun while also being genuinely interested in getting to know your fellow diners.

Ask about travel—everyone loves talking about their favorite vacation spots or dream destinations. Or dive into hobbies and passions—whether it’s a recent book they read, a new workout routine, or a cool hobby like photography or cooking. Sharing your own interests can also help the conversation flow naturally.

Steer clear of heavy topics like politics or religion—those can be conversation killers. Instead, focus on common ground and things that bring out smiles and laughter. And hey, don’t be afraid to toss in a light-hearted joke or two—humor is a great icebreaker.

Mastering the Art of Dining Etiquette

Okay, so you’re dressed to impress, and you’ve got your conversation starters ready. The final piece of the puzzle? Nailing your dining etiquette. Don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds!

Start with the basics: your bread plate is on your left, and your drink is on your right. Remember the “BMW” rule—Bread, Meal, Water. Use your utensils from the outside in, and when you’re not using them, place them neatly on your plate.

Take your time eating—small bites, chew with your mouth closed, and never talk with food in your mouth. Pass dishes to the right, and always offer to serve others before yourself. These little touches go a long way in making a good impression.

But dining etiquette isn’t just about the food—it’s about the conversation, too. Make eye contact, listen actively, and keep the chat flowing. The goal is to make everyone around the table feel comfortable and included.

Follow-Up Like a Pro

So the night’s over, but the fun doesn’t have to stop there. Following up after your Eight at Eight event is key to keeping those connections alive. But don’t rush it—give it a day or two before reaching out. You don’t want to seem too eager, but you also don’t want to let the connection fizzle out.

Send a friendly, thoughtful message—something simple like, “Hey, it was great meeting you at dinner! I really enjoyed our chat about [insert topic]. Would love to grab coffee sometime and continue the conversation!”

If you didn’t feel a romantic connection, that’s cool too. You can still stay in touch as friends—who knows where that could lead? The main thing is to be honest and respectful in your follow-up.

Ready to Roll?

Now that you’ve got the lowdown, you’re all set for your first Eight at Eight event. Just remember to keep it fun, stay relaxed, and be yourself. This is your chance to meet some awesome people, enjoy a delicious meal, and maybe even find a spark.

And hey, if you haven’t signed up yet, what are you waiting for? At Eight at Eight Dinner Club, we’re all about bringing people together in a fun, pressure-free environment. Whether you’re looking for love, friendship, or just a great night out, we’ve got you covered. So come join us—your next great connection could be just a dinner away! Check out our Singles Events in Atlanta page for more information