PowerPoint dating is the new wingman: A less awkward way to connect

Swipe fatigue is real, and Gen Z is over it. Endless swiping, ghosting and recycled bios? Yeah, a lot of young singles are simply done.

As dating apps lose their spark, London's Gen Z and younger millennials are experimenting with something that feels equal parts chaotic and genius, letting their friends pitch them like a startup...in a pub...using a PowerPoint. Wait, does this remind you of "Haveee you met Ted?" from How You Met Your Mother? Let's find out more.

But what does that really mean? Well, picture this: a packed pub, drinks flowing, and instead of awkward one-liners, someone's best friend is presenting a two-minute slideshow on why they are the ultimate catch. Think holiday photos, inside jokes, mild roasting and a surprisingly convincing sales pitch.

It's chaotic, it's hilarious, and it's selling out fast. These events are popping up as a full-blown trend, not just a one-off gimmick.



Let's be honest, approaching someone IRL can feel painfully awkward. What do you even say? With this format, the pressure shifts.

You don't have to 'perform' immediately; your personality is introduced for you, and the vibe is already playful, not forced. On the other hand, instead of fumbling through small talk, you already know a bit about the person, their quirks, their interests and even their red flags (thanks to their brutally honest friends.)

It makes starting a conversation feel way more natural.



The real twist? You are not selling yourself, but your friends are.

And honestly, who better? They will hyper you up, call you out (lovingly), and make you seem way more interesting than your dating app bio ever could. It's like having a built-in endorsement system, but funnier and more chaotic.

There’s something almost old-school about it. Meeting in a pub, being introduced through mutuals, actually talking instead of texting, it’s giving pre-dating-app energy.

But the PowerPoint element? That’s peak Gen Z. It turns dating into a shared experience, something social, ironic, and low-key performative in the best way.



Maybe not the future, but definitely a sign of where things are heading. People want less pressure, more authenticity and actual human interaction.

And if that comes with slides, memes and a slightly embarrassing childhood photo? Even better.

Because honestly, getting pitched by your best friend in a pub might just be less awkward and way more fun than "hey :)" on a screen.