Maddi and Nick just clicked with online dating
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ONLINE dating isn't for everyone, but it certainly worked for Mt Crosby mum Maddi Martin and her partner Nick Winsor.
The busy single parents are six months into a relationship that's blossoming as Valentine's Day approaches.
"We've been researching the engagement ring market," Ms Martin said.
"I'd been on four dates before I met Nick.
"We went to a posh restaurant in the city. I'd never been anywhere like that before.
"Nick's very funny and very handsome. He's also got goals.
"He's family-oriented and caring, and great with my son."
Maddi's "wackiness" appealed to Nick.
"She's also very caring, funny and beautiful, and we have the same sorts of opinions," he said.
"Our relationship was perfect from the word go - there was no awkwardness.
"I wanted to share my life with someone and I didn't like being alone a lot of the time. I wouldn't mind having more kids."
Before they met, the couple had little time outside study and work to find potential partners the conventional way.
So they opted to rely on the eHarmony online dating service for introductions.
"You get matched to someone whose values are compatible with you," Ms Martin said.
"They have advice about being cautious and safe.They can organise secure phone calls"
An independent survey of more than 2000 Australians conducted by eHarmony found technology was key in the courting practices of people of all ages.
Sixty per cent of baby boomers (aged 55-64 years) say they rely on Google for planning the perfect date, and the same number of Gen Z (aged 18-24 years) use SMS as the main form of contact following a first date.
While Nick and Maddi are planning a quiet Valentine's Day, other couples will be looking forward to romantic dinners and visits to the florist. Online or in person, it's all about love.
