Started in 2003, OneKeyAway mixers were envisioned as events where people could meet and mingle face-to-face in a relaxed atmosphere and not have the pressure of talking to everyone or sizing someone up in 5 minutes or less. OneKeyAway was founded with the knowledge that people, particularly professionals, were tired of the bar scene, and were looking for a new way to meet like-minded individuals.

To this end, OneKeyAway formed an alliance with MatchlinC Technology and began hosting mixers using MatchlinC's compatibility devices. Part psychology, part technology, these devices serve as both an icebreaker and an amazingly effective matchmaking tool.

The MatchlinC gadgets were developed in the late 1990's and are the first of their kind. The MatchlinC has a microcomputer chip that uses a proprietary algorithm designed by a group of university professors. The algorithm compares two guests' responses to a personality/lifestyle questionnaire and then gives them a rating of their compatibility

The questionnaire assesses information a person might not normally reveal to someone - at least not right away. The information is known only to the person holding the device, unless they choose to reveal it. This creates a pressure-free way to walk away from someone if the devices show they're not compatible or an opportunity to discuss what the rating might mean if they're interested in each other.

Unlike online dating services, OneKeyAway participants get to meet face-to-face, and unlike the various speed dating services out there, there is no obligation to speak to a certain person, and there are no time limits on conversation. Normally held in a relaxed bar or lounge environment, OneKeyAway mixers allow guests to interact freely and offer a pressure-free way to walk away from someone if they feel they're not compatible or an opportunity to discuss what their compatibility rating might mean.

Currently, there are mixers in Southern California, the San Francisco Bay Area and New York. If you want OneKeyAway to come to your city be sure to let us know!