From October 4-11, Paloma’s #DateWeek transformed Los Angeles into a dating haven, breaking away from the usual app-based approach and providing singles with engaging, real-world experiences. Hosted across the city’s top spots—from cocktail lounges to fitness studios and social clubs—#DateWeek offered singles a chance to make meaningful connections without the swipe.
Paloma, a dating platform focused on relationship-ready singles, crafted #DateWeek to fill the gap in today’s dating scene, offering curated experiences for those seeking more than just a quick connection.
“We wanted to bring back the excitement of meeting face-to-face,” says Luba Yudasina, Paloma’s CEO and Founder. “People are craving something real, and #DateWeek gave them that opportunity.”
Highlights from #DateWeek
Throughout the week, #DateWeek brought together an eclectic mix of activities, from high-energy fitness sessions at Barry’s and SoulCycle to dumpling-making classes and pottery workshops. Each event allowed singles to connect in environments that sparked conversation and encouraged fun interactions. Social mixers at places like 1212 Santa Monicaand Winston House quickly became the hotspots of the week, drawing singles eager to mingle over cocktails and music.
Attendees also appreciated the diversity of events that made #DateWeek feel more like a festival of community than a traditional dating event. As one participant shared, “It was refreshing to meet people in such a casual, engaging way without the pressure of a formal date.”
In Conversation with Luba Yudasina: The Vision and Reception
I had the chance to catch up with Luba to discuss her vision for #DateWeek and how it played out.
Lorenzo: What inspired you to create #DateWeek for singles?
Luba: “Honestly, it’s all about connection. People are social beings, and finding a partner isn’t just about romance—it’s about finding someone who enhances your life. I wanted to create a space where singles can connect meaningfully, whether they’re looking for love or simply wanting to meet new people. There’s so much value in getting out of the digital world and connecting face-to-face.”
Lorenzo: Luba, how does it feel to see #DateWeek come to life?
Luba: “It’s been incredible! The energy was exactly what we hoped for—singles connecting, laughing, and genuinely enjoying the experience. We wanted to give people a real alternative to app swiping, and seeing how people responded was just so rewarding.”
Lorenzo: What made #DateWeek unique compared to Paloma’s usual approach?
Luba: “#DateWeek was about giving singles a variety of choices. Paloma is generally focused on relationship-ready individuals, but #DateWeek allowed us to cater to a wider audience, including those who might not be actively looking but were open to connecting in a meaningful way.”
Luba’s insights highlight her vision for Paloma as more than a platform—it’s a community. Her background in community building and personal passion for connecting people drove her to create this event series, which she envisions growing in new cities in the future.
Beyond the Swipe: What Sets Paloma and #DateWeek Apart
Paloma’s approach to dating extends beyond the short-term mentality of many dating apps. On the Paloma app, an application-based process filters candidates based on their values and relationship goals, which include questions about life timelines and personal intentions. This structure ensures that members are truly relationship-ready, making the experience far more intentional than the swipe-right culture.
For Luba, it’s about “fostering communities that feel safe, intentional, and built on shared values.” She explains that DateWeek is designed for people with a range of interests, emphasizing fun experiences that bring people together authentically.
#DateWeek’s Closing Party and Future Expansions
As #DateWeek wraps up with a closing party at The Waterfront, the excitement doesn’t end here. Next up, Paloma is set to launch #DateWeek in San Francisco from November 1-2, bringing the experience to Bay Area singles. The goal is to keep the momentum going, fostering local dating communities that prioritize in-person connection.
With #DateWeek, Luba and Paloma are reshaping modern dating—taking singles from screens to social spaces, where sparks can fly and conversations happen naturally. Whether it’s a pottery class or a rooftop cocktail, Paloma’s events give singles the space to step out of their routines and meet new people face-to-face.
“Dating should be joyful,” Luba says. “With #DateWeek, we’re creating experiences that remind people just how fun and meaningful it can be to connect in real life.”
Join #DateWeek and Rediscover Real-World Dating, for more information Click Here
Photo credits: Courtesy of Date Week and Lorenzo Dela Rama
