Are you tired of dating apps? Try a more unique approach with billboards to find a date.
In a unique twist on modern dating, David Cline has taken a bold step to find romance beyond dating apps. Instead of endlessly scrolling through profiles, Cline rented a billboard in Philadelphia to appeal directly to potential matches.
While driving with a friend in Philadelphia, Tara was surprised to see a unique billboard. It features a long-haired man wearing glasses and giving a thumbs up, accompanied by a cat. The message read: “Dave is single. You want to go on a date with Dave? Message him on Instagram: @Date_Dave_Philly.”
“I found it both humorous and brave,” Tara said when she saw the billboard. “I decided to send him a text.”
David Cline, 28, believes that personal connections are more meaningful than digital interactions. He shares that dating in the digital age can be frustrating, leaving many people feeling inadequate due to the superficial nature of swipe-based apps. “Dating apps often don’t allow users to express their true personalities,” he explains. “People who may not fit traditional standards of attractiveness will find it difficult to match.”
Cline’s decision to use billboards was inspired by his belief that face-to-face meetings provide a richer experience than timeless, impersonal messages. “I don’t think everyone needs billboards, but understanding the limitations of dating apps is important,” he says. “You need to figure out the best way to market yourself.”
Tara, 26, was impressed by Cline’s creativity and confidence. She sent him a message on Instagram and also participated in real-life social activities like dance classes and local meetups. “I love interacting with people face-to-face, like in the old days before there were dating apps,” she says. “It feels like I’m looking for love like my grandparents did. How wonderful.”
Jeff Guenther, author of Big Dating Energy: How to Create Lasting Love by Tapping into Your Authentic Self, criticizes dating apps that focus too much on physical attraction. “Dating apps only help you impress with your appearance. Physical attractiveness on a dating app does not guarantee a long-term relationship,” Guenther said, emphasizing the importance of meeting people in real life.
This trend of finding love through unique means is attracting attention. This spring, an older single in Texas also used billboards to find dates, while singles in San Francisco passed out flyers introducing themselves. Running clubs and coffee shop events are increasingly being used as platforms for first dates.
Since his billboard went up, Cline has received messages from all over the world, including from as far away as the Philippines. He was also thanked by people who found his billboards uplifting.
Despite some negative reviews, Cline plans to take down the billboard as soon as he finds a promising match—Tara. He described her as “kind” and “funny,” and they were planning a second date to enjoy a comedy show together.
Cline’s innovative approach to dating highlights the growing desire for real connection in a digital world.
