Matchmaking, multiplied

A new service, The Dating Ring, has set out to “make dating fun again” by blending old-fashioned matchmaking with group dates. The premise is that there’s strength in numbers: the wider you cast your net, the increased chances you’ll connect with someone. Plus, as the site points out, online dating can be tedious (I’m only a week in, so I can't judge just yet), and the worst that can happen is you'll meet a bunch of new friends.

But in this context, aren’t group dates just that—hanging out with friends? I guess it begs the question of what a “date” is, to begin with, and how comfortable you are in knowing that there are other people potentially gunning for the guy or girl you have your eye on. The Dating Ring claims their group dates aren’t competitive, but I beg to differ. Who hasn’t called dibs on a piece of eye candy to claim their stake? It's an easy way for things to get real catty, real fast.

Readers, it’s your call. Do group dates make connections easier—or is four (or more) a crowd? Share your thoughts in the comments below.