It’s our 3rd Anniversary!
Three years ago today—on Thursday, February 10, 2022—I hosted the first-ever We Met IRL event. I was excited, confident, and certain we would succeed. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous, but my vision for We Met IRL was crystal clear. I knew exactly where we were headed.
Below: Photos by Kyle Lui, from our first event
Because of the success we’ve had, and the way society tends to highlight only our wins, I think a lot of people don’t realize the hurdles I’ve faced over these past three years. It’s easy to forget how different 2022 was, but when I think about that first event, I remember all the uncertainty that was still very real at the time.
Events weren’t happening like they are now. People were still getting vaccinated, and the Omicron variant was spreading across the U.S. I went back and forth about whether to cancel, but ultimately, I decided to move forward and require COVID tests upon entry. That decision was a leap of faith, and looking back, I’m so glad I took it.
Below: A photo of our first event flyer, and another photo from our first event.
One of my favorite memories from that night was filming clips for a TikTok recap I planned to post. I kept saying, This video is gonna go viral!—even though I had no real idea how that would happen. And then, to my shock, it actually did go viral that weekend. I was stunned. Excited. And honestly, relieved. I always say that video was the confidence boost I needed to keep going. It’s one thing when your friends and family support your idea, but when thousands of strangers on the internet are asking when your next event is? That’s a whole different level of validation. If that video hadn’t taken off, who knows—maybe I would’ve quit before We Met IRL had the chance to become what it is today.
Below: our first TikTok
Three years later, I’m beyond grateful that I bet on myself and this idea. What started as a simple yet radical concept—bringing people together to connect in real life—has grown into a community, a movement, and a thriving business. We’ve sold out events across New York City and D.C., created countless connections (and love stories!), and redefined modern dating in a world that too often relies on swipes and DMs.
These past three years have been filled with lessons, growth, and, of course, love. I’ve had moments of doubt, exhaustion, and wondering if all the hard work was worth it. But every time I see the magic that happens at our events—the laughter, the instant sparks, the deep conversations—I’m reminded exactly why I started this journey in the first place.
Event producer, David Bonny, and Maxine greet guests at a We Met IRL event
To everyone who has attended an event, told a friend about us, shared a post, or supported We Met IRL in any way—thank you. Your belief in real connection is what keeps this going. And to my incredible team, the friends and family who have encouraged me, and the venues and partners who’ve trusted in our vision—this wouldn’t be possible without you.
If you’re reading this and sitting on an idea of your own—just start. Start with the ugly flyer. Start with the friends who show up to support. Start with the fear, the nerves, and the excitement. You never know where it might lead.
Three years down, and we’re just getting started. Here’s to more love, more connections, and more meeting IRL! 🎉
