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Yahoo
20 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Sick of online dating, NYC singles are looking for love via PowerPoint presentations
They've got some hot pitches At the buzzy new dating event Pitch and Pair, Gothamites try to sell the audience on their single friends with three-to-five minute PowerPoint presentations. 'I have a lot of shy friends who are single who are really great catches, and they kind of don't flourish in the typical dating apps or speed dating because they're introverted,' said the event's founder, Joe Teblum, a 33-year-old who lives in Chelsea and works in tech marketing. 'I also saw that there was this trend of people wanting to meet in person especially after Covid.' At an event last week at Slate in the Flatiron District, 16 locals gave presentations to a few hundred in the audience. There were bullet points, short videos and tickers. 'He can explain things without making you fall asleep,' Kedar Venkataramani's cousin told the audience of the 30-year-old, 5-foot-8 intellectual property lawyer who lives in NYC. 'He has a sharp mind, a sharp suit, and zero ego.' The cousin also praised Venkataramani as a soccer enthusiast and tasting menu aficionado. 'He will take you to a Broadway show including 'Hamilton' or 'Book of Mormon',' she said. 'He also Citi Bikes everywhere like it's his personal Tour de France.' The crowd was especially excited about the presentation for Chris Puch, a 33-year-old firefighter who lives in Staten Island and is a pseudo-celebrity on Tik Tok for being a hunky public servant. 'He will cook healthy for you even though I've seen him eat $50 worth of Taco Bell in one sitting, so you don't have to worry about him being too healthy,' said his matchmaker friend, laughing. 'If you guys like to travel, he loves it. He's a world traveler, and he's been all over the world, and he's looking for someone to go with besides himself.' Anand Tamirisa, a 33-year-old who lives in Chelsea and works in investment banking, was another one of the singles on offer. He admitted that he had authored much of the presentation himself, even though it was given by a dating guru buddy. 'I'm working in PowerPoint all day so it's easy for me,' he said. 'I made it in two hours. I even have a ticker on the top and stuff.' His deck included information such as 'Moved to NYC in 2018 after being inspired by Jay-Z,' 'Works in investment banking but doesn't wear a vest,' and, 'Has performed stand-up comedy at world-class dive bars.' It proved effective. By the time he walked off stage, Tamirisa had five new 'follow' requests on Instagram. (At the end of each presentation the matchmaker friend tells the crowd how to reach the single, whether it's via Instagram, email or text.) 'If I end up with one of them it would be a really good story,' Tamirisa said. Pitch & Pair takes place twice a month at venues round town, including City Winery in the Meatpacking District and Second City in Brooklyn. It costs $40 to $60 pitch — with two tickets to the event included — and $15 to $25 to sit in the audience. The next event is August 4th at Caveat on the Lower East Side. Events regularly sell out shortly after being announced — in as little as 34 hours. When Teblum first came up with the idea about a year ago, interest was limited. 'Only one person wanted to do a presentation,' he said of the first event, which was held at Kilo Bravo bar in Williamsburg and only attracted a few people beyond his friends. ts some early iterations, people tended to roast their friends in an attempt to be funny. Audiences sometimes erupted into 'boos.' Now, Teblum tells participants to keep it positive. 'The crowd gets so into it,' he said. 'Like the matchmaker shows a picture of someone's dog or hobby and everyone breaks out cheering.' Still, Sophia Demetriou, who was the first single presented at last week's event, said the experience was slightly uncomfortable. Her former roommate extolled her virtues, including the fact that she has never lost a game of backgammon, can 'serve looks' and is a Pizza Hut connoisseur. 'It was terrifying,' said Demetriou, a 26-year-old fashion designer. 'But I do think this is how people are going to date in the future. It just makes sense.' Solve the daily Crossword
Boston Globe
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Boston Globe
Their engagement began with two surprise marriage proposals on the same day
Eli Cotton — the friend of a friend she finally agreed to meet after months of hesitating — had turned out to be attractive, attentive, and a surprise. 'I remember seeing them and thinking, ' My god , I'm not prepared,'' the Baltimore native remembers. 'I felt like I was a little out of my game.' Their mutual friend Emily — Matoaka's childhood camp counselor, Eli's then-boss at a Charlestown non-profit — had been trying to set them up for months. Eli was game: 'Nobody likes first dates, but I really do.' The couple brought artichokes to the wedding venue, a food that had become tradition for them on special occasions. They wore flower-shaped pins instead of boutonnieres. Jasmine Jorges Photography/Jasmine Jorges But it took matching on Hinge before Matoaka, who had been wary of dating after a breakup, agreed to meet that Wednesday night. Matoaka remembers Eli asking a 'bajillion questions' over bubble tea and fried chicken at 'I'm usually the person who guides a conversation in my dating life,' she explains. 'I couldn't get one question in.' (When Matoaka debriefed Emily after the date, Emily replied, 'Energizer Bunny, right?') Advertisement 'I am an Energizer Bunny," says Eli, who grew up in Cambridge. 'I'm annoyingly one of those people that wakes up and doesn't need to snooze my alarm.' The questions, Eli chalks up to nerves, 'which was new for me.' The couple had custom suits made by Boston-based 9Tailors — each knew which colors the other had picked, but seeing each other in their full suiting was a total surprise on the wedding day. The dress code for guests was "vibrant and colorful cocktail." Jasmine Jorges Photography/Jasmine Jorges Three hours later, the two embarked across Seaport Boulevard for a stroll along the Harborwalk. 'I want to bring you to my favorite view in Boston,' Matoaka told Eli. Advertisement She stopped at an apartment building by the New England Aquarium. It was a clear night, but the sun had set hours before. They shared a darkened view and a welcomed kiss — with a fortuitous footnote. 'I didn't have the heart to tell her that she brought me to my parents' doorstep,' says Eli. (Eli told Matoaka as they walked to their respective T stops — assuring her that their parents would have been 'genuinely excited' to have accidentally crashed their first date.) The couple had a first look on the rooftop of an apartment building next to City Winery, but also did a first look with their families, who all turned to see the couple enter at the same time. Jasmine Jorges Three days later, they had their second date — tacos at They'd known each other for two weeks when Eli asked Matoaka to be their plus one at a friend's Washington, D.C., wedding. Thanks to a photographer who was 'a little obsessed with us,' says Eli, the new couple received dozens of photos from the dance floor. And 16 days after their first date, Matoaka and Eli exchanged 'I love you''s in her Watertown bedroom. 'And I know that we both knew before that,' Eli says. Eli with their parents Cathy and Harvey Cotton. Blocks from where Eli and Matoaka had shared a kiss on their first date, Eli's grandmother, Jeanne Smith, met her long term partner in 1977. The couple now live in what was once Jeanne's Cambridge home. Jasmine Jorges In January 2020, Matoaka began to chronicle their shared life in a journal. " You're cooking right now... I'm watching you cook, and this is what you're making... and it smells great, " she says, ad-libbing a sample entry. She continued to write, suspecting it was an instinct that the relationship was for the long-run. Advertisement 'I didn't write down the big moments, just the everyday. Those are things you don't remember, and they're the best memories.' Matoaka gave Eli her journal when she proposed one Saturday morning in June 2023. Matoaka and her mother, Jenna Weiss, a seamstress who made a custom chuppah for the ceremony. She also provided the rings the newlyweds exchanged; Matoaka notes they come from a long line of jewelers, and a family ring was a personal "must." Jasmine Jorges It was a quasi-surprise: both partners wanted to propose and a planned vacation and Pride month had narrowed their window to late June. The journal was three-quarters-full when Matoaka recruited Eli's childhood friend, Caroline, to hide a re-bound edition in the new releases stacks (under C for Cotton) at the Cambridge Public Library, where they planned to pick up books before a weekend trip. Eli spotted the journal right away, opening it to a marriage proposal from Matoaka, who watched Eli read the letter and then presented a ring. While an app helped them plan an official first date, the couple attribute the first person that tried to set them up, Emily Grilli-Scott, center, as their true matchmaker. Emily co-officiated the wedding with Eli's childhood rabbi. Jasmine Jorges 'It's a library,' says Eli, 'but anything can happen in the library, obviously.' It was joyfully unexpected, but Eli was, in part, distracted by Caroline hiding in a nearby stack to capture the moment on camera: 'I played it really cool because I was like, 'My god, you're supposed to be at my apartment setting up my proposal !'' Related : Unaware of Mataoka's plans, Eli had asked Caroline to prep the couple's Cambridge apartment while they were out. Eli rushed to open the front door first and took a knee when they, relieved, found the pair's well-used Scrabble board set up to spell out 'Will you marry me?' (Caroline had recruited another friend, Maddie, to sub in for her.) Getting engaged and married during Pride Month was important to the couple; as was hiring queer- or people of color-owned businesses and vendors for their wedding. This included coordination and DJ team, MadLove, and 9Tailors, who created custom suiting for the couple. Jasmine Jorges Photography/Jasmine Jorges Matoaka, 31, and Eli, 32, wed on June 15 at Advertisement Inspired by their love of live music and large guest list, the couple chose the venue for its central city location and stellar sound system. The ceremony was co-officiated by Emily and While neither partner identifies as religious now, Eli grew up Jewish, and both prioritized incorporating traditions that reflect their values. 'I think for a lot of people, religion and queerness is not always a great relationship. ... but [Rabbi Andy] was so willing to work with us to change the language to be gender inclusive,' explains Eli. Their friends (from left: Caroline Rosa, Maddie Freeman, Michael Freeman, and Colby Kyes) performed 'The Lonely Goatherd' from "The Sound of Music" for the newlyweds. The act was to make good on a text Eli had (jokingly) sent early in their courtship, requesting Caroline and Maddie perform the song at their future wedding to Matoaka. Jasmine Jorges The newlyweds wore pins in the shape of cosmos flowers by DJ Melinda Long of For their first dance, the couple took dance lessons from a teacher in Cambridge. Their teacher was from Denmark, and was "so offended" when the couple asked if she had heard of ABBA. They remember her reply: "I am ABBA." Jasmine Jorges Photography 'It was hour four, and there were still a hundred people on the floor,' remembers Matoaka. The exhausted newlyweds left around 1 a.m. while the karaoke played on. But Matoaka and Eli are already dreaming about their next chance to tear up the dance floor. Advertisement 'I hope we keep having parties to celebrate community,' says Matoaka. 'I think that everyone should have a reason to throw a party. It doesn't necessarily need to be marriage, but marriage is a really good reason to do it.' Read more from , The Boston Globe's new weddings column. Rachel Kim Raczka is a writer and editor in Boston. She can be reached at
Time Out
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
These NYC bars are hosting 'Love Island USA' watch parties ahead of the big finale
If you've been emotionally invested in every dramatic dumping and head-turning Casa Amor twist this season, you're not alone. Love Island USA is barreling toward its explosive season 7 finale on Sunday, July 13, and New York City's bar scene is going full villa mode to celebrate. From Manhattan to Brooklyn and Queens, venues are throwing themed watch parties all weekend long, giving fans a chance to sip, scream and speculate in real time. Over in Manhattan, City Winery is going all in on Thursday night with a ticketed event hosted by none other than BradXBrad, bestie of Love Island host Ariana Madix. Think cozy theater vibes, themed cocktails and live audience reactions at whatever delightfully nonsensical thing Amaya Papaya says next. Just a few blocks away, The Comedy Shop is making it a full-on week of love, with nightly watch parties followed by comedy shows, giving you a place to laugh through your heartbreak if your favorite couple doesn't win the big bucks. If you're craving something more upscale for Sunday's grand finale, Fushimi Times Square is hosting a full-blown fundraiser watch party featuring a sushi buffet, complimentary champagne, speed dating, giveaways and even a photo booth. Proceeds go to youth leadership programs, so your screaming at the screen can be for a good cause. For a more casual drop-in, spots like The Black Sheep and The Ainsworth Midtown are airing episodes most nights leading up to the finale, with no tickets required. Over at The Ritz Bar & Lounge, happy hour runs from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. with BOGO Love Island –themed cocktails and $12 caipirinhas, plus back-to-back episodes starting at 7 p.m. And for those who want to pair their viewing party with a cheeky spritz and a kale Caesar, Twenty Three Grand is offering a 'Girl Dinner' combo available only during screenings. (Definitely better than those bogus avocado toasts the boys have been making all season.) Brooklyn isn't sitting this one out either. The Yard at 3 Dollar Bill will host a Sunday finale bash hosted by iconic drag queens Vampy Von and Thickums, complete with performances by Nicky O and Bertha Vanayshun. Meanwhile, Mugs Ale House will keep things low-key with back-room screenings. And in Queens, Cobblestones Pub & Biergarten is pulling fans in with a 180-inch TV wall and $7 frozen drinks, while The Rabbit Hole ups the fun with themed cocktails, popcorn and even Love Island trivia next week. Whether you're rooting for Nic and Olandria's billionth recoupling or raging over Huda and Chris's toxic situation, there's no better way to close out the season than watching with your fellow fanatics—and maybe a frozen marg in hand.
Time Out
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
These NYC bars are hosting 'Love Island USA' watch parties for the big finale this weekend
If you've been emotionally invested in every dramatic dumping and head-turning Casa Amor twist this season, you're not alone. Love Island USA is barreling toward its explosive season 7 finale on Sunday, July 13, and New York City's bar scene is going full villa mode to celebrate. From Manhattan to Brooklyn and Queens, venues are throwing themed watch parties all weekend long, giving fans a chance to sip, scream and speculate in real time. Over in Manhattan, City Winery is going all in on Thursday night with a ticketed event hosted by none other than BradXBrad, bestie of Love Island host Ariana Madix. Think cozy theater vibes, themed cocktails and live audience reactions at whatever delightfully nonsensical thing Amaya Papaya says next. Just a few blocks away, The Comedy Shop is making it a full-on week of love, with nightly watch parties followed by comedy shows, giving you a place to laugh through your heartbreak if your favorite couple doesn't win the big bucks. If you're craving something more upscale for Sunday's grand finale, Fushimi Times Square is hosting a full-blown fundraiser watch party featuring a sushi buffet, complimentary champagne, speed dating, giveaways and even a photo booth. Proceeds go to youth leadership programs, so your screaming at the screen can be for a good cause. For a more casual drop-in, spots like The Black Sheep and The Ainsworth Midtown are airing episodes most nights leading up to the finale, with no tickets required. Over at The Ritz Bar & Lounge, happy hour runs from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. with BOGO Love Island –themed cocktails and $12 caipirinhas, plus back-to-back episodes starting at 7 p.m. And for those who want to pair their viewing party with a cheeky spritz and a kale Caesar, Twenty Three Grand is offering a 'Girl Dinner' combo available only during screenings. (Definitely better than those bogus avocado toasts the boys have been making all season.) Brooklyn isn't sitting this one out either. The Yard at 3 Dollar Bill will host a Sunday finale bash hosted by iconic drag queens Vampy Von and Thickums, complete with performances by Nicky O and Bertha Vanayshun. Meanwhile, Mugs Ale House will keep things low-key with back-room screenings. And in Queens, Cobblestones Pub & Biergarten is pulling fans in with a 180-inch TV wall and $7 frozen drinks, while The Rabbit Hole ups the fun with themed cocktails, popcorn and even Love Island trivia next week. Whether you're rooting for Nic and Olandria's billionth recoupling or raging over Huda and Chris's toxic situation, there's no better way to close out the season than watching with your fellow fanatics—and maybe a frozen marg in hand.
Boston Globe
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Boston Globe
Crave live music? These nine music venues in Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville will keep you grooving.
.bofbpic img { width: 100%; height: auto; } City Winery City Winery. Nathan Klima for The Boston Globe Equal parts wine bar and concert venue, City Winery appeals to the taste buds and the ears. At this 300-seat venue, music is wide-ranging, encompassing R&B, jazz, alternative rock, hip-hop, and more. Enjoy shared plates of risotto balls and duck tacos as well as pizza during the show; table service means you never have to leave your seat to ask for another glass. It's the best of both worlds for music-loving foodies. Address: 80 Beverly Street, West End Phone: 617-933-8047 Find online: .bofbpic img { width: 100%; height: auto; } Crystal Ballroom at Somerville Theatre Crystal Ballroom at Somerville Theatre. Dylan Ladd Opened in 2021, this recent addition to Somerville's live music landscape occupies an upstairs corner of the Somerville Theater, which had served for years as two small movie theaters. With a fancy chandelier and a big, welcoming bar, the room has become a destination for indie rock, world music, and alternative comedy. Address: 55 Davis Square, Somerville Phone: 617-245-2900 Find online: .bofbpic img { width: 100%; height: auto; } The Jungle The Jungle. Martin Lightfoot With a capacity of just 85, The Jungle's footprint may be small, but its roar resounds far beyond Union Square. The independent Somerville club is an affordable gateway to Boston's music scene for performers and patrons, with offerings ranging from monthly 'Bars Over Bars 1st Sundays' hip-hop showcases to lineups stacked with staples from the area's rock scene. Don't miss the lively, free karaoke and open mic on Wednesdays. Address: 6 Sanborn Court, Somerville Phone: 617-718-0204 Find online: .bofbpic img { width: 100%; height: auto; } The Lilypad The Lilypad. Aram Boghosian for The Boston Globe More performance space than club, The Lilypad has a standing-room capacity of 80 (60 seated). But the mural-decorated space hosts some of the best jazz and cutting-edge improvisational music in the area, serving as home base to local masters such such as saxophonists George Garzone (with The Fringe) and Jerry Bergonzi; and hosting notable musicians from New York in addition to estimable locals. Address: 1353 Cambridge Street, Cambridge Phone: 617-955-7729 Find online: .bofbpic img { width: 100%; height: auto; } The Middle East The Middle East. Jim Davis/Globe Staff Once the favored haunt of such Boston music luminaries as Billy Ruane and Morphine's Mark Sandman, Central Square's Middle East remains a hub of the region's live music scene. There has been talk about demolishing the complex and Address: 472-480 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge Phone: 617-864-3278 Find online: .bofbpic img { width: 100%; height: auto; } Paradise Rock Club Paradise Rock Club. Nathan Klima for The Boston Globe The Police, R.E.M., and U2 all played at the Paradise before they hit the arenas. Its prominent marquee along the Green Line's B branch has featured the names of thousands of beloved bands since, both indie and soon-to-be superstars. That this no-frills space is still thriving is a testament to the city of Boston's continually replenishing fan base for rock 'n' roll. Address: 967 Commonwealth Avenue, Allston Phone: 617-562-8800 Find online: .bofbpic img { width: 100%; height: auto; } The Sinclair The Sinclair. Ben Stas for The Boston Globe Part of the constellation of venues operated by Bowery Presents, the Sinclair can host about 500 music lovers of all stripes most nights of the week. Its wraparound balcony provides plenty of sightlines for a compact space. Since Address: 52 Church Street, Cambridge Phone: 617-547-5200 Find online: Related : .bofbpic img { width: 100%; height: auto; } Wally's Cafe Jazz Club Wally's Cafe Jazz Club. Barry Chin/Globe Staff The history of Wally's goes back to 1947, when Address: 427 Massachusetts Avenue, South End Phone: 617-828-1754 Find online: Boston Globe Best of the Best winners for 2025 were selected by Globe newsroom staff and correspondents, and limited to Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, and Brookline. We want to hear from you: ? 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