The 4 Most Popular Ways to Meet a Spouse

Finding the right person to share your life with can be an intimidating task, especially when you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for. But, with a bit of effort and luck, it’s entirely possible to find the perfect person for you.

First, it’s important to know what qualities you’re looking for in a partner. Consider what traits you want your significant other to have and write those down. It can also help to think about people you’ve dated in the past and what you liked or disliked about them. Knowing what you’re looking for will help you to identify potential partners.

The next step is to figure out where you’re likely to meet someone who has these qualities. This could involve trying out new hobbies or attending different events. It might help to volunteer at an organization or join a club or gym. You can also reach out to friends and family to ask if they know someone who might be a good fit for you.

Once you’ve identified some potential partners, the next step is to take the plunge and get to know them. Most people have nerves when it comes to starting a relationship, but it’s important to be yourself and be open to new experiences. Going on dates, getting to know each other, and having honest conversations are all essential steps in finding the right person for you.

The Top Dating Apps for Couples

In 2019, dating apps became the most popular way couples meet a spouse according to The Knot. If you're searching for advice on how to meet someone online, Tinder could be the solution. The colossal online dating app facilitated 30% of all app-based couples who eventually became engaged. 

Another well-established online dating site, OkCupid, which has been around since 2004, saw 14% of couples find success. While, the third most popular app for engaged couples was Bumble, founded by a woman entrepreneur, with 13% of couples meeting their future partners through it.

For city residents, dating apps utilizing algorithmic science like Hinge, which allows for customization based on preferences and proximity, were somewhat more appealing, representing 3% of all engaged couples. While Coffee Meets Bagel, which emphasizes in-depth conversation prior to a date, was equally represented with 3% of the pool. 

Additional popular dating apps throughout the United States included Match (12%), Plenty of Fish (9%), eHarmony (3%), and Facebook (2%).

Here are the most popular ways that couples today find a spouse.

1. Dating Apps

It's no secret that technology has revolutionized the way we date and form relationships, and dating apps are now the most popular way to meet a spouse. From Tinder to Bumble, there's an array of apps available to make your search for a special someone easier and more enjoyable. Whether you're looking for a casual hookup or a committed relationship, dating apps have something for everyone.

Not only do dating apps provide an array of options to choose from, they also make online dating more accessible. Instead of spending time in bars or clubs, you can find someone to connect with simply by downloading an app and swiping. Plus, most dating apps are free to use, meaning you don't have to break the bank to get started.

Dating apps are a great way to meet potential spouses because they provide a wider range of choices and make it easier to find compatible matches. They also allow for more flexibility when it comes to connecting with people from different backgrounds and locations. Additionally, they provide a safe environment for users to explore different types of relationships without having to commit to any particular one. Finally, dating apps provide an avenue for people to get to know each other better before deciding whether or not to pursue a deeper connection.

So if you're single and ready to mingle, don't hesitate to explore the world of dating apps. You may just find the person of your dreams!

2. Mutual Friends

Although dating apps are currently dominant, many couples have discovered their lifelong partners through personal connections. Meeting your spouse through a mutual friend is a time-honored tradition that is still alive and well today. It involves being introduced to someone by someone you both trust and respect, which can ease the process of getting to know each other.

Mutual friends are often great resources when it comes to getting to know your partner better, as they can provide insight into their values, interests and lifestyle. Often times, mutual friends can be a great source of support and guidance throughout the relationship.

Furthermore, having your spouse be introduced to you by someone you both know can add a sense of comfort and assurance that this is a person you can trust and rely on. Although meeting someone through a mutual friend may be slightly less convenient than a dating app, it can be much more rewarding in the long run.

The story of future spouses meeting through mutual friends closely followed online dating, accounting for approximately 19% of all couples. This commonality could involve a direct introduction from a friend or a friend of a friend. If you're seeking to find a partner without resorting to online dating, turning to your social circle can be an excellent alternative.

3. School or Work

Meeting your spouse at work or school can be a great way to find your future partner. It can provide the opportunity to get to know each other in an environment where you can both thrive and support one another. You may have common interests that you can share and explore together. Having a shared environment may make it easier to communicate and understand one another more quickly. This can be a great source of comfort and familiarity, providing a strong foundation to build a relationship on. Also, having a shared group of peers and colleagues may also provide a social support system to help you both stay connected and build a strong relationship.

In the survey conducted, it was discovered that approximately 30% of couples met their future partners while carrying out their daily activities. Of the respondents, 17% revealed they met in school, with the majority being in college or graduate school. Additionally, 13% of couples disclosed they met through work, either as colleagues or at a work-related event. These findings align with the results of our previous survey in 2017, where 15% reported meeting in school and 12% cited work as their initial meeting point. 

4. At a Bar

If you're wondering if you're able to snatch up your significant other at a bar, the simple answer is yes. From the individuals surveyed, 11% of engaged couples disclosed that they first crossed paths in a social setting, such as a party, a bar, or a concert, and even at a wedding. Another 6% chose the "other" option, which implies that these participants may have met their future partners through a chance encounter, such as bumping into each other at the gym or on public transportation. Whether their initial meeting took place during a spinning class or on a subway train, couples have a plethora of unique and special stories to tell about how they first met.

How long do most couples date before getting married?

The length of time couples date before getting married varies greatly, depending on the age of the couple and the culture and community in which they live. For example, couples in their twenties may date for a few months before getting engaged, while couples in their fifties and older may date for several years before getting married.

Generally, couples who date for longer periods of time before getting married are more likely to stay together and have a successful marriage. In the United States, the median length of time couples date before getting married is around two years. However, this length of time can vary greatly depending on the couple’s culture, religious beliefs, and individual preferences.

If you’re looking for a serious relationship, it’s important to take things slowly. Don’t rush into anything that you’re not comfortable with and make sure you’re both on the same page. With patience and effort, it is possible to find someone who is right for you.