We’ve all been there: staring at a glowing screen at 11:00pm, thumbing through a carousel of faces like we’re browsing a digital catalogue. Swipe left, swipe right, “Hey, how’s your week?” rinse, and repeat.
For many of us, the “magic” of dating apps has worn thin. It feels less like a romantic pursuit and more like a second job with very poor benefits. But as we head into 2026, the tide in Sydney seems to be turning. We’re moving away from the “game” and back toward the oldest technology we have: looking someone in the eye.
The “Can We Just Skip to the Good Part?” Phase
I’ll be honest with you, I’ve been single for a while. I love the idea of a relationship. I want the partner-in-crime for the Sunday morning coastal walks, the person to share a table with at that new fusion spot in Surry Hills, and the co-pilot for spontaneous weekend getaways.
But there’s a catch. I’m that guy. The shy one. The one who has “hidden crushes” but finds the prospect of a cold approach about as terrifying as a shark sighting at Bronte. If I could skip the awkward “interview phase” of a first date and jump straight into an adventure, I’d do it in a heartbeat.
That’s where the shift toward curated experiences changes the game for people like us.
Unwritten: Sydney’s New Script for Romance
Enter Unwritten, an elevated dating club founded by Laura-Jane Hawkins. It’s not an app; it’s a community. Since 2024, they’ve been helping Sydney singles ditch the digital scroll in favour of authentic, in-person connection.
The beauty of their approach? It removes the “pressure” of a date and replaces it with an activity. When you’re doing something, tasting a wine or focusing on your breath, the conversation happens naturally. You aren’t auditioning; you’re just existing in the same space as someone like-minded.
This Valentine’s Season: Take the Plunge
If you’re tired of the hollow messages and ready to reimagine romance, Unwritten has a pretty spectacular lineup for February 2026. Whether you want to test your mettle or your palate, there’s an entry point for everyone:
For the Brave Souls: The Singles Sunrise Breathwork & Ice Bath Mixer at Bondi Beach (14 Feb). Nothing breaks the ice quite like… actual ice. It’s vulnerable, endorphin-heavy, and definitely a story to tell.
For the Sophisticates: The Singles Wine Tasting at Wine Library, Paddington (11 Feb). A curated evening of premium pours where the focus is on sensory experience and easy mingling.
For the Intentional Seekers: If events still feel like a leap, their Matchmaking Service offers a “12-Week Challenge.” No algorithms here, just LJ Hawkins getting to know your story and hand-selecting matches based on values, not just a profile picture.
Unwritten’s premium matchmaking service provides one-on-one guidance and curated introductions based on values, lifestyle, and long-term compatibility; not algorithms. Founder and matchmaker LJ Hawkins takes time to understand you, your story, and what you really want in a partner.
Unwritten offers two membership tiers tailored to client needs from $120:
- Passive Membership: For singles who prefer to stay on the wider database, patiently waiting for a perfect match.
- Active Membership: For those ready to work closely with LJ and her team on a weekly basis, actively seeking a life partner based on detailed criteria, lifestyle, and values. Join the 12-week challenge or a 6 or 12-month membership.
“The apps have turned dating into a game. Singles are craving real, human connection.” LJ Hawkins, Founder.
A Call for a Wingman (or Woman)
I’ll admit, even with the “ice bath” metaphor literally staring me in the face, my shyness is still tugging at my sleeve. I love the concept of Unwritten. I want to be the guy who shows up to a sunrise mixer and finds his person.
I’m leaning toward drumming up the courage to attend. But, let’s be real, everything is better with a friend. Is there anyone out there who wants to be my wingman or wingwoman for an Unwritten event? We can brave the “real world” together, skip the swiping, and maybe finally get to those adventures we’ve been waiting for.
Are you ready to go offline?
