A Brisbane Local’s Guide To Dating In The Wild

It’s a truth universally acknowledged that dating right now is really, really hard. While apps propose themselves as a solution, swiping for your soulmate feels contrived and transactional. After all, sparks can’t fly on an algorithm. 

For Brisbane local Sarah Ellis, the loveless dating scene served as a call to action. What started as dares between her and friends in bars across Europe to talk to strangers turned into a real opportunity to meet new people and forge true connections. The result? A deck of cards full of prompts, conversation starters and icebreakers that you can take into the wild where the potential is endless. 

It’s a fun game with a prize that could change your life—the chance to meet that special someone. And when people inevitably ask for the story behind the match, it’s on the tin: WE MET AT A BAR. 

What inspired you to create WE MET AT A BAR?

People. Those in my life, those I’m yet to meet and those who inspire me. I believe that human connection is one of the most beautiful experiences in life. Everything and everyone is online now; I wanted to build something that centres authenticity, spontaneity and experience. 

I have found, especially in Australia, that the art of the flirt is dying. People find it harder than ever to approach people in the wild, and to be honest I don’t blame them. Social media and dating apps were designed to connect us, but in reality, we have never felt more isolated. As the romantic I am, I was dissatisfied with the current dating culture but felt like there was no solution. New dating apps with AI features have been released, alongside new expensive events that feel forced and awkward, this isn’t what we need. 

WE MET AT A BAR makes dating feel sexy again. It takes dating back to where it used to happen—out at the bar with your friends. Each card allows you a new opportunity to meet someone you may never have spoken to. It’s purposefully silly, light-hearted and fun, because single people don’t need to feel like dating is a chore. 

Image credit: WE MET AT A BAR | Supplied

Why do people prefer WMAAB over dating apps?

I personally hate how you must curate a profile to get “noticed”, it feels robotic, surface level and boring. People are so interesting, multifaceted and beautiful—it’s so easy to be looked over and missed on an app. There is something about the initial eye contact, butterflies and nerves when meeting in real life that can’t be replicated on an app. 

I think people have really resonated with WE MET AT A BAR because deep down we all want that romantic, spontaneous and sexy experience of having a “meet-cute”. Making the first move is scary and there’s no denying that; WE MET AT A BAR makes this action feel low-pressure and fun because at the end of the day, it is just a game. You have a physical barrier (the card) that you can hand to someone, to prompt conversation and it is so amazing how much easier this makes meeting people in real life. 

Image credit: WE MET AT A BAR | Instagram

What's your favourite card in the deck and why?

I have two favourite cards: “Grab a pen, write your phone number on this card and give it to a stranger that has caught your eye” and “Challenge a stranger to a staring competition. The loser buys the other a drink”. The first just reminds me so much of an old school romantic move—writing your phone number on a napkin and giving it out to someone at a bar. It’s bold, sexy and puts the ball in the court of the person on the receiving end. I have had so many success stories sent in from this specific card and seeing the screenshots of the initial text conversations always warms my heart. It usually goes along the lines of “hey you gave me your number on the card tonight it was lovely to meet you :)”. And the rest is history! 

The second card is a personal favourite because it creates a fun, flirty challenge for people to engage with. There is something about having a staring competition with a stranger that is so hot, plus then you can hit it off over a drink afterwards. It is such an easy way to get chatting with someone that has caught your eye and makes such a memorable experience. 

What are your favourite bars/restaurants for meeting people in Brisbane?

My absolute favourite place to meet people in Brisbane is Flying Colours in West End. It has the most cool, welcoming and retro atmosphere which makes interacting with others so easy. I love how they either have live music or a vinyl DJ playing, plus their food and drinks get a 10/10. 

Image credit: Flying Colours | Instagram

Felons, or any bar on Howard Smith Wharves is the perfect place to meet someone and play the game. It is huge, feels comfortable and people usually head there with a large groups of friends. I think when dating in real life, heading somewhere with a lot of room to move around is ideal. 

Patio in Paddington is the perfect neighbourhood pub to head to for the social but relaxed vibe. The food is phenomenal and the indoor/outdoor seating allows for a great place to meet someone. I know a lot of people who head there before heading into the city on the weekend, making it the perfect spot for a pre night out social fix. 

Another favourite for more of a low-key vibe is Niky in Newstead. The small wine bar creates a perfect place to meet someone who aligns with you and has great taste. The food is prepared and made by one head chef which feels homey and special. 

Image credit: Niky | Instagram

Where else do you recommend meeting people in Brisbane?

There are so many Brisbane based community groups that are perfect for meeting people in Brisbane. Run clubs, book clubs and even social groups have grown in popularity in the last year, showing the desire for real life experiences and connection. 

Otherwise, New Farm Park on a sunny Sunday is my favourite thing to do with friends, solo or even a date. I love going there and witnessing everyone enjoying themselves with those they love. What I have found is that everyone loves a chat—it’s in the Australian culture to say g’day and to connect. If you see someone reading a similar book, on a walk, or picnic, say hi, compliment their outfit, give them a smile. Connection is what makes us feel real. We are nothing without each other. 

What's your best advice for someone who's feeling nervous about approaching a person at a bar?

Approaching someone is scary but honestly your mindset is everything. Think about all of the people you are yet to meet, all of the experiences you are yet to have. One card, one move, one conversation with a stranger can lead to such a plentiful and fulfilling relationship. I reflect on the current relationships (romantic or platonic) in my life and think about if one little thing had changed, if I was/was not in the right place at the right time, how different my life would be. Put yourself out there, we are rich because of the people in our life.