No matter your romantic status—newly single, casually dating, perfectly in love—navigating the world of relationships is no easy feat. Making connections is hard, so we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you out. Read on to discover the communities to connect with and events to attend in hopes of meetingsomeone totally compatible.
Not Single?
Consider this the list of non-Netflix-binge-related ways to spend your time with the one you love to love.
Get Out There!
Trust us: If we could just “send a pin,” we would, but finding a soulmate is a little trickier than that. Depending on the future significant other you have in mind, how you’d prefer to make that initial introduction or based solely on your own interests, there are existing groups that could be the perfect catalyst to a new connection.
If you're looking for someone who...
Can Keep You on Your Toes
Looking for that chick who can kick it with the bros or a dude who can explain every rule of the game? The Valley is teeming with athletic facilities that are scheduled to host games and events throughout the summer.
Previously known as Lehigh Valley Sport and Social, Lehigh Valley Sports Leagues (LVSL) offers 13 different leagues with eight- to 10-week seasons, and garners 3,000 participants each year. Registration for their Outdoor Games league—for anyone who enjoys backyard favorites like quoits, corn hole, Kan Jam, etc.—is still open, and the season begins on May 16. Games take place on the patio at ArtsQuest on Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m.
lehighvalleyleagues.com | facebook.com
On Saturday, May 19, experience an on-the-field vantage point with the Lehigh Valley Food Truck Festival. This event brings more than 40 local and regional food trucks, along with dozens of craft beer and drink selections, to Coca-Cola Park. Enjoy live music with your date or meet someone new while participating in the day’s interactive activities. Tickets start at $15.
BONUS FUN:
This summer, the home to the IronPigs is slated to host Fourth on the Field, a Craft Beer Festival and, in the fall, a Cider & Wine Festival. Keep an eye on the website’s event page for further details.
lvfoodtruckfest.com | milb.com
If you're looking for someone who...
Can Connect With You on a Spiritual Level
If you’re looking to find a partner with similar beliefs or want to celebrate those beliefs with the person you’re already with, check out some of the local groups that have come together to do just that.
Dubbed a lifelong experiment, L24 Collective is a relationship-centric, faith-based community. To them, building relationships isn’t the byproduct of religious activity, it’s the focus. Everything that L24 does starts in a social setting, where deeper connections can build over time. Through intimate gatherings—in homes, at local breweries and art galleries—the group seeks to celebrate Jesus and His intentions. Join L24 for a lazy morning Family Brunch on Sunday, May 6 at 11 a.m. or their Reunion on Sunday, May 20 at 6 p.m., equipped with inspiring stories, a backyard campfire and live music.
Photo by M2 Photography
Bacon & Lox Society dinner in a creek
Established in 2009, the Bacon & Lox Society is a creative collective and celebration congregation dedicated to the concept of the shared table and the generosity of spirit. Founded by Alisa Tongg and Heather Arak-Kanofsky, the Society creates transformative, enlightening events that revel in personal significance and social meaning. Through extravagant dinner parties, arts and craft workshops, cultural celebrations and an overall sense of togetherness, the group creates meaningfulness and magic.
If you're looking for someone who...
Doesn't Live in Their Parents' Basement
Does your comfort zone exist within the confines of career norms? Don’t worry, there are plenty of others like you!
Geared towards those 35 and under, the Young Professionals Council (YPC) seeks to improve the quality of life for young professionals, while celebrating the Valley as a place to live, play and do business. The Council hosts monthly meet and greets for individuals to get acclimated—mark your calendar for May’s free event on the 16, taking place at Florence Italian Grille in Breinigsville, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
lehighvalleychamber.org | facebook.com
We host an Insider Happy Hour the second Tuesday of every month, uniting a crowd of roughly 200 readers, business people and influencers alike. Rotating from one Valley hot spot to the next, the evening promises drink specials, hors d’oeuvres and a (business-casual) good time. We’ll see you on Tuesday, May 8 at The Hamilton Kitchen & Bar, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Did you know...
Our advertising executive Denise met her husband, Paul, at a Style Insider Happy Hour!
Mark Your Calendar
Tired of swiping right and whining that there are no opportunities to meet people organically? The Valley is abuzz with interactive events geared towards individuals just like you. Narrow down the search based on personal preference and begin making thoughtful connections this month.
If you're looking for someone who...
Doesn't Mind Getting Dirty
Does your idea of a good time involve a little bit of art? You’re not alone. There’s no shortage of creativity in the Valley, and sometimes, if you’re really lucky, it's accompanied with a little bit of alcohol.
Paper Marbling Technique
Get your creative juices flowing with like-minded individuals at the Banana Factory, a complex that's home to 30 studio artists, three galleries and multiple classrooms. The Banana Factory is the perfect place to get fully immersed, and this month, they’re hosting a Discover Workshop focused on paper marbling. The class will kick off at 9 a.m. on Sunday, May 6, and is slated to last five to six hours. Tickets cost $100 per attendee.
On Wednesday, May 23, join the Factory for a Wine’d Down Workshop from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Leave with a personalized, lidded wine tumbler and maybe some new friends. All materials for this one-hour class are included with the $50 ticket, and students must be at least 21 years of age.
bananafactory.org | facebook.com
Combine booze with some mindfulness and meditation at Weyerbacher Brewing. Arts, Crafts & Drafts is a regular occurrence at their Tap Room in Easton, allowing participants to unleash the artist brewing inside. This month, join them on Saturday, May 5 at 12:30 p.m. to tap into your creative side. Tickets are $35 at the door, and your first beer is included.
If you're looking for someone who...
Is Flexible
Mindfulness and meditation isn’t a hobby, it’s a way of life. If either is important to you, you might want it to be important to your current or future partner.
On Sunday, May 20, head to the Tap Room for a one-hour Pints & Poses yoga session, starting at 10 a.m. Ease your stress with a certified yoga instructor who tends to put a unique spin on traditional poses. Tickets are $20 and include a beer cocktail with snacks after the class.
BONUS FUN:
Stick around for Sunday Trivia, hosted by PartyMasterz later that afternoon. Running from 2 to 4 p.m., this free Sunday Funday event promises great beer, company and prizes.
Photo by Colin Coleman
Three Drinks from Greenmouth
On Sunday, May 20, head to the Easton Public Market for a one-hour gentle morning flow, starting at 9 a.m., followed by a nutritious breakfast, courtesy of Greenmouth Table. Tickets are $22 per person and seats are limited.
If you're looking for someone who...
Appreciates Music
Looking for somebody you can dance with, or, at the very least, someone who won’t change the station on you? Fall in love to a worthy soundtrack this summer.
Spend the first Friday of every month in Southside Bethlehem. Spearheaded by Lehigh Valley Underground, residents are invited to celebrate arts and culture through events that connect the local community and its musicians. Mark your calendar for Friday, May 4 from 5 to 10 p.m.!
Kicking off on May 3 and continuing through July 19, spend your Thursday nights jamming to Tunes at Twilight at the Sun Inn Courtyard in Historic Bethlehem. The gatherings run from 6 to 8 p.m., are free and typically bring 900 to 1,200 music lovers together each week. Come prepared with a blanket, lawn chair and some dancing shoes. Don’t forget to hit up the “Tunes Bar,” serving up wine and beer, courtesy of Allentown Beverage. Check out the 2018 lineup online.
Levitt Pavilion presents 50 free outdoor concerts each summer!
If you're looking for someone who...
Is Always Ready for an Adventure
Hoping to share your personal passion for outdoor adventure with the one you love? Nestled in nature, the Valley’s a great place to do just that.
Register ($40) by May 9 to participate in this scenic run through the vineyards. Run the Vineyards: Blue Mountain 5K starts at 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 12 and is followed by a reception that includes wine, live music, food vendors, awards and more.
Check out L.L. Bean’s Outdoor Discovery Schools’ website for an endless list of adventures happening right here in Center Valley. This month, choose to take kayaking, archery or stand-up paddle boarding at Nockamixon State Park or participate in a guided yoga hike in Emmaus. Courses generally range from free to $69.
The Young Professionals Council is involved in a host of other events that don’t involve a suit and tie. Grab your running shoes and gear up for the second annual Wine-K: Dash for the Glass, taking place at Franklin Hill Vineyards on Saturday, May 19. The run benefits ProJeCt Easton and is followed by a wine festival that will include food trucks, vineyard tours, wine sampling, raffles and games.
lehighvalleychamber.org | facebook.com
If you're looking for someone who...
Likes it Doggie Style
Before one finds their human match, companions often come in the form of four-legged friends. If finding someone with a soft spot for animals is important to you, don’t miss these upcoming events.
Bark Bash is back! This festival is free to animal lovers and furry friends alike. Guests can shop pet-friendly crafters and vendors, talk to local rescue and adoption agencies, partake in fun activities and enjoy live music atop the Valley’s highest vertical on Saturday, May 5 from noon to 5 p.m.
While there won’t be any animals present at this extravaganza, they are not far from mind. Wine to the Rescue, hosted by Historic Hotel Bethlehem, will benefit the Center for Animal Health and Welfare. Tickets are $60 and include five wine tastings, two glasses of wine, appetizers and dessert, live music, raffles, a keynote speaker and more. Mark your calendar for 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, May 6.
We Asked, You Answered!
Here’s some reader insight (and advice) on dating in the LV.
Warning: Cynical Responses Ahead
I’m still single because…
“There simply aren't many good men in the world. This is 30 years of dating experience talking.”
“I've chosen to remain single until I've found a compatible partner. So far, that hasn't happened.”
“It's still fun to mingle.”
“Not enough quality single men.”
“It is hard to find a system and enough time to weed through prospects. Need the opportunity to meet a lot at once.”
“I like it.”
“I’m picky and not willing to settle.”
“I prefer it that way.”
“No one wants to take a chance on the dating apps and I don’t go out to bars much.”
“I haven’t met my person yet.”
“Went through a divorce.”
“It's better than being around what's out there.”
“Many men here lack ambition, live at home and don’t want anything serious, because they can't afford anything serious.”
“Dating is extremely difficult.”
“Good question.”
The best place to meet someone out in the Valley is…
Dating in the Valley described in one word…
Slow, Sucks, Insular, Selective, Awful, Awesome, Spectacular, Painful, Interesting, Frustrating, Challenging, Non-existent, Horrific, Difficult, Dry, Bleak
A good first date location is…
53% Prefer Tinder to Bumble | 83% prefer Match to eHarmony
Style APPROVED DATE SPOTS
Photo by Shelbie Pletz
Sangria at Tapas on Main
Flubbish
Regardless of the scenario, first dates can be uncomfortable as all heck—even worse if the place is a bust. For casual ambiance, relaxed vibes and little to no awkward silence, we recommend Tapas on Main in Bethlehem. Choose a few dishes to share, and definitely consider going on a Thursday night, when their legendary sangria is just $5.
Casual Catchups
Keeping things light with a cup of joe? We recommend Tucker at the Silk Mill in Easton, an Aussie café totally worth the stop. The coffee is from a great place in Brooklyn, New York—get your lattes, flat whites, espressos and more here. Any tea drinkers out there? Tucker offers endless variations of Kusmi tea, from Paris, which can be served in a pot for one, two or many! If the date goes well and you want to stick around, the food menu is totally worth a gander.
Swap out coffee for an açai bowl or smoothie at Playa Bowls, with locations in Bethlehem and Easton. The place is spacious, with a laid-back vibe, and guests are welcome to hang around, play some ping-pong, Connect Four or whatever else is available.
Easton: instagram.com | Bethlehem: instagram.com
DJ at Vision
Danceable Dates
If you’re looking to let your hair down and party the night away, there are a few Valley hot spots known for their nightlife scenes.
There’s always something to celebrate at Vision at the Sands! Head there for themed events and holidays of every kind. They’re sure to pull out all the stops for Cinco de Mayo this month!
Get connected at The Broadway Social. For a younger crowd and jam-packed dance floor, this is where you want to go to relive your college days—you know, back when meeting someone was supposed to be easy!
Photo by Donovan Roberts Witmer
Bar at Corked
Head to Corked Bar, Grill & Night Club any Friday or Saturday night and celebrate with drink specials or exclusive bottle service. DJs from Vegas, Philly, New York City and beyond will be there keeping the party going from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Photo by Donovan Roberts Witmer
Red Velvet Pancakes at Griddle 145
Boozy Brunch
We’ll take any excuse for brunch, and a date is definitely one of ‘em! Cheers with a mimosa in hand and a bite of eggy goodness in mouth. Many of the Valley’s finest establishments offer brunch specials every Sunday.
Still dreaming about that spiked OJ? On Sundays, Griddle 145 offers a complimentary mimosa to its diners. They’ve got tons of dessert-for-breakfast options that scream “boozy brunch indulgence.”
If you can get a reservation at Hotel B, make it. Famous for their musical Sunday brunch, guests can enjoy a gourmet buffet complemented by live jazz. The magic runs from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Photo by Colin Coleman
Bowling at Revolutions
Group Gatherings
It’s hard to remember which came first, bowling or dating. This clichéd pastime is an elevated experience at Revolutions in Saucon Valley. Split the cost among a group and delight in the fact that you can get dinner (and drinks!) delivered directly to your lane.
Fancy Fun
Want to impress your date or simply splurge with your partner? There are plenty of places to choose from in the Valley, but for special occasions, we recommend Bolete or Top Cut, depending on your style.
Top Cut sits pretty on level three of Melt at the Promenade. With floor-to-ceiling windows, the ambiance is a can’t-beat. They carry an expansive range of expensive and hard-to-get wines for you to pair with your 100 percent USDA Prime or Black Angus steak.
Photo by Alison Conklin
entrée from bolete
Located in a rustic, elegant inn, Bolete only serves the best of the best, and they’ve been doing so for 10 years. They've been nationally recognized for excellence on multiple occasions, and consistently push the boundaries of farm-to-table dining.
Local Dating Success Stories
Sometimes, all one needs to get back out there is a little inspiration, right? We called on our readers to share their local dating love stories with us. Here are two of our very favorites!
John and Kayla
John & Kayla
John and Kayla grew up five minutes away from each other, but they never actually met due to a county line dividing their neighborhoods. Kayla went to Whitehall High School and John to Parkland High School. After graduating from college, they both moved back to the Valley. One night, through mutual friends, sparks flew over boneless Buffalo wings and Blue Moons at P.J. Whelihans.
Shortly after meeting, John was offered a job (that would pay for his master's degree) in Northern Virginia, and the two moved out there, under one condition: when John finished his program and met the retention policy, they could go wherever Kayla wanted. After four years and one fur baby (a French bulldog named Knox) later, they talked about what would be next for them. They married in October 2017, honeymooned right after and moved to New York City—where Kayla had dreamt of living ever since she was a little girl.
Though they’ve lived in three different cities over the course of the past five years, their roots in the Lehigh Valley are a constant reminder of staying humble and remaining true to themselves.
Zachary & Angela
Zachary & Angela
Despite being the vice president of the business and diversity councils for the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, Angela never expected to meet her boyfriend at a YPC meet and greet. She now admits that it's actually the perfect place, as the events bring together local professionals with similar lifestyles: career-oriented, mature and social, a combination that is sometimes hard to find.
Angela and Zachary met (and instantly hit it off) at YPC's June 2016 meet and greet, which took place at Bell Hall in Allentown. He initially reached out via a message on LinkedIn, asking how he could get involved with the Council. She stayed afterwards to have a drink with him, and they’ve been inseparable ever since! They share a passion for traveling and live in Downtown Bethlehem together, with their two cats, Aaron Samuels and Stevie Nicks. They also share an alma mater, Moravian College, but because of their four-year age difference, never knew each other during their time at school.
