Tech Cocktail DC Summer Mixer

What do you think about the concept of online dating in reverse? NYC-based Cheek’d is a clever new service that introduces real-life spontaneity to online dating.  The concept promotes the use of an intriguing and provocative set of business card-sized introductions used to engage a romantic prospect when feeling awkward, shy, or simply desiring a new approach.

This is definitely a fun idea: Cheek’d users can express their interest in someone by coyly handing them a small black card that contains a cheeky phrase such as “act natural. we can get awkward later” or “i just put all my drinks on your tab.” The recipient is invited to go online to check out your profile and decide whether he or she would like to make contact with you through the Cheek’d internal messaging service (personal information and privacy are protected).

When you compare the costs of popular online-only dating sites, Cheek’d is a pretty good deal.  It’s $25 to join; you get an online profile and a set of 50 cards each with a different phrase – and a unique ID number to direct those who receive the cards to the online profile to learn more about the card giver. Your first month’s service comes with your initial deck of cards. Each month thereafter, the fee is just $9.95. Trial decks of 5 cards are also available for $5 and also include your first month’s service.

The idea has taken off: they have customers in 39 states and 12 countries and won the TechStars Startup Madness Tournament for Best New Tech Idea 2011.

Cheek’d is one of the sponsors for our Tech Cocktail DC Summer Mixer tomorrow night, so be sure to look for one of the team members at the event.