Looking for love
QUESTION: I am having trouble meeting people. As a single, professional woman looking for male friends, I have tried the dating sites, singles programs and church gatherings and going to many nonprofit events. Do you have any advice on how to find men in Oklahoma City?
CALLIE’S ANSWER: Well, it sounds to me that you’ve got a lot of ground already covered. Maybe look outside of just Oklahoma City? Do you have friends that could set you up? Good luck!
LILLIE-BETH’S ANSWER: I feel your pain, as a single, professional woman, too, so thanks for asking the question. I’m still trying to figure out the answer to that question and working on myself in the process. The best advice I can give, though, is to develop your own interests and keep your eyes open. Participate in community or hobby-oriented or church events that matter to you, for your own well-being, and you’re more likely to meet someone who shares your interests. Let your friends know you’re available, and tiptoe gently into the online dating waters from time to time (although I have never wanted to linger there for long). Just be open to new friendships, be you and enjoy your own life and the real people in it. And if you figure out a better answer to your question, please fill me in.
HELEN’S ANSWER: Keep going to church and the events and try some art exhibit openings. Maybe a friend knows someone that you could meet. Don’t give up. There are men out there that probably feel the same way. You might meet a new special friend at the grocery store. Or even at your workplace. Have fun looking!
GUEST’S ANSWER: Brandon Bixler, Commercial Lending Officer, NBC Oklahoma: Ladies, as a young and single professional male, please contact Helen for my information and give me a call. Honestly, when looking for male friends/ companions you have to frequent the places they will be. One of the best recommendations I have is to participate in athletic endeavors, such as through OSSO, which stands for Oklahoma Sports & Social. They host various leagues and events throughout the year which range from volleyball to kickball to softball. This is a great opportunity to make both male and female friends, all while having fun. Even if you don’t have a team, they will help you connect.
Another opportunity to make new friendships would be Leadership Oklahoma City’s LOYAL (Linking OKC’s Young Adult Leaders) program. LOYAL is an organization which focuses on skill development useful in community service activities. They develop groups of 64 individuals representing a broad mix of occupations and backgrounds. You would be making friendships and developing leadership skills to be used in the Oklahoma City community.
My last recommendation would be to grab some friends and head down to Bleu Garten on the weekend. Get up the courage to make some new male friends, and you will be well on your way.