Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Speed dating advice from Dr. Steve


... a/k/a Dr. Stephen W. Simpson, professor and Director of Clinical Training in the School of Psychology at Fuller Theological Seminary, and one of Cache' Connections' experts:

1) You will give everyone you meet at least five minutes before forming a firm first impression. This means you don't dismiss anyone right away.
2) You will be in the moment. This means that you think about enjoying the conversation instead of trying to decide if you can marry the person you just met
3) will be honest but not necessarily transparent. This means that you are authentic and you don't change just to impress someone, But . . . you also don't hit them over the head with your most intimidating secrets, either.

Simple yet great advice given in the Cache' Connections chat room this past Monday night. We would add this advice on introducing yourself for the impending Cache' Quick Introductions events: keep it brief and common, such as city in which you live, your church, favorite ministry, work, family, marital history, etc.

Oh, and keep expectations low! Keep a mindset of enjoying the opportunity to make some new friends!

~ Linda

Monday, October 26, 2009

Dating Game "date feedback" :)


We received a note from Craig, who recently chose Phillis at the Peoria Dating Game on 10/16. Craig gave us permission to share:

As you requested, I’m keeping you informed about my dates with Phillis. The quick version is that we both enjoyed our first date very much.

Spending the evening with her last night confirmed my first impressions – she is a very intelligent, attractive, caring person with a lively personality. What’s not to like?

We have two more dates lined up ...

Thanks Kim and Linda for your good coaching and especially for caring about us singles who want to find someone. As Southern Baptists say: “God bless you real good”.


By the way, Phillis has checked in too and has great things to say also about Craig. We are praying for these two, as well as all of our current connections.

Blessings,
Linda

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Here's what's cooking ...


Thought I'd update you on some things that are coming down the Cache' pipeline.

1) We're happy to announce an advice column authored by our own "Expert Emily." Check out her blog here. Be sure to send your dating questions to her!

2) Emily Shupert is also offering personalized date coaching. For just $50, you can have a personal phone conversation with Emily and she will answer questions to your unique situation. Click here for details!

3) How does a Florida trip sound for this winter? We are considering a weekend singles conference in the Orlando area for January or February 2010. Will you come? Preliminary calculations indicate your cost, including hotel for two nights, would be around $150 plus airfare and food, if you share a room. We are currently securing accommodations, speakers, sponsors, etc. Stay tuned for details!

4) We look forward to meeting some Chicagoland singles pastors and leaders at a luncheon at Calvary Church this Friday. We're meeting to network on how we can better minister to Christian singles - together!

5) Don't forget the great October special - 50% off one month or more with this code: OCT1495.

~ Linda

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Feedback from other Christian sites ...



Here's an email we received from one of our members recently:

FYI, I also joined another Christian dating website, Love And Seek.com earlier this week. You might be interested to know that that site seems to have quite a number of people who are NOT Christians on there. In fact, some seem downright predatory, with less than honorable intentions. Apparently, there are no filters in place for ensuring that those who post profiles actually are Christians. In fact, some of the profiles even state "rarely attends church" or "only at holidays." I believe one man's profile I saw was an attempt to thumb his nose at Christians in general, as his photos showed him smoking cigarettes and cigars, as well as beer and wine. First line of his profile went something like this: "Must love Jesus Christ. If you're tanned, taut, tawny and tasty, send me an email..." Frankly, I find that shamefully astounding, and I took great offense at that. Looks like the enemy infiltrates everything! Why would you want to be on that website if you weren't interested in actually meeting a fellow Christian? My purpose in telling you this is to say that your site does a far better job in having filters in place so that there is a greater assurance that those who post profiles actually are Christians. Thanks so much for that! ... Have a blessed day!

~Linda

Friday, October 23, 2009

Dating Game Feedback

I remember the first time I went to a Christian concert. The atmosphere was relaxed like a church home. Being at the Cache Connections "Dating Game" event in Peoria had the same comfortable environment. I had the pleasure of volunteering as a greeter. From the start everyone was open and friendly. When the heart of a business is based on Biblical principles and Jesus Christ, then the motivation behind the events comes more from compassion than financial gain.

You can feel the difference and that alone helped me relax and prompt me to approach other singles. Founders Linda & Kim were friendly and always available to talk to us throughout the evening. The Dating Game itself was highly entertaining. There were door prizes and I liked how we sectioned off into age groups so we had a chance to break the ice and get to know others. We were all there for the same reason so there was no pretense.

The object of the evening was to enjoy ourselves & possibly make connections, and we all knew it. So if I approached someone I felt free to do so because I knew they were single.

The last hour we all mingled and by then there was plenty of subjects for conversation. I felt it was fun, creative & well organized. I've tried Eharmony and a couple of other dating sites, but the reason I like Cache is because I believe in the K.I.S.S. factor, in this case it's "keeping it simple singles." This was my first event and I hope to attend another soon!
- Peg, Springfield, IL

Thanks Peg!

~Linda

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Cache' Quick Introductions - Price Reduction!


Sign-ups are already coming in for Cache' Quick Introductions parties. Now, they are more affordable for you! For just $20, members and non-members can attend one of these social gatherings to meet other Christian singles of all ages. (Appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages included.) The feedback is always great from these get-togethers. Read what Markita had to say:

"I just wanted to thank you, and tell you what an awesome time I had on Sunday! Not only meeting new people, but seeing those I already knew! I really appreciate what you are doing for us singles. There is none out there quite like Cache. I have searched, and searched. I am asking for God to bless you all especially for this reason. It's no secret that my personal life has been a roller coaster these past several months, however, when I get those emails about a new event, there is something in me that makes me want to give it another shot! I always know I'll have a great time even if I don't meet "Mr. Right." Who knows, one of these events just may lead me to "Mr Right."

... I also love the fact that I know with all certainty that you ladies love God and love God's singles. Christian Singles have been ignored for so long, it is refreshing to be a part of a singles ministry that has dedicated itself to connecting Godly, like-minded singles together, to give us an opportunity to meet people we may have never met! And to do this in such a tasteful, fun way! I had stopped going to singles events because honestly, they were quite lame!!! I pray that God would grant you both continued favor, many open doors, continued wisdom, fresh ideas, explosive membership, and abundant resources to carry it all out! I Know He has put a passion and fire inside you ladies to carry out this mission... I just wanna say "Thanks for answering the call"....

Times are 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Here are the venues:

Tuesday, November 3
Carrabba's, Cincinnati, OH

Tuesday, November 3
Pompei, Schaumburg, IL

Monday, November 9
Carrabba's, Detroit area, MI

Monday, November 16
Carrabba's, Atlanta, GA

Tuesday, November 17
Johnny's, Peoria, IL

Please pass this information along to ensure great turnouts at all venues! Click here for more details and to register.

~Linda

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Questions For Expert Emily


I few tidbits of advice from "Expert Emily" that she shared in the Cache' Connections chatroom last night:

Cache' Member: Ok, Here's my problem-- I'm 63 and divorced. I do't have any idea what the rules are now. First I'm in Ga. I'm not looking for long distance dating. I'm a very social person. I'd like someone to do things with like eat, etc.

Expert Emily: I would suggest that you contact guys on Cache while also making efforts to talk to at least 5 new guys a week....this can be in the groccery store, in the starbucks line, at church... If you can talk with more and more guys, the more you will see that they are out there. Over 50% of people in the nation are single and many of these are divorced folks. They are out there, but it takes several modes to see this sometimes .

Cache' Member: I've sent a few messages online.

Expert Emily: In regards to the message...i would state your name, where you live and what you like to do. Short, brief but letting them know "hey, I'm here and I'm interested in knowing more about you" I would suggest you put in a question so you are able to get them to respond. Like, what is your favorite thing to do in Georgia? or something like that....

Cache' Member: I'm getting one on one counseling.

Expert Emily: Good for you for doing that as well! It is so important to work on yourself as you go through the dating process.

This is just a small glimpse of the great advice that is given through the weekly expert chats in the chatroom at Cache' Connections. We invite our members to login and ask those questions that have been on your mind. Our experts are happy to help!

....and remember, love the people who treat you right, pray for the ones who don't. Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it.

-Kim-




Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Let's welcome the new kid on the block!



Hi friends,

We wanted to share some important information to new members, and ask existing members to reach out and welcome their new connections. It's always a great idea to mention something specific that you noticed in their profile!

1. Please make sure that your address is populated under My Account Settings so that the system can send all of your connections.

2. Post those primary photos as soon as possible! Photos are not required but highly recommended for a better experience at Cache' Connections. Remember, we need a recent headshot and bodyshot, then can approve your fun photos.

3. Take advantage of the expert-led chats, which you will find under Scheduled Events. Tonight, chat with Expert Emily on communication etiquette. So many people have asked her how to begin or end communication.

4. Let us know if you would like to lead a chat sometime. It's fun and easy!

5. Check out the most recent newsletter here

Don't forget the awesome October special for those who are on a short trial period or those whose subscriptions are nearing an end - 50% off one month or more! Promotion code: OCT1495. Remember, ALL subscriptions will automatically renew at the regular rates unless you cancel your subscription.

1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

~Linda

Monday, October 19, 2009

Peoria Dating Game Connections



Although the crowd was smaller for the Peoria Dating Game event than what we commonly experience, the event was an overall success! Special guest, 23-year-old Kari, from the first panel of contestants exuded a confident, lively personality and asked some pointed questions of her good-looking, charming contestants. It was a battle-to-the-end, but Scott was the lucky winner of a date with Kari to Touche' Restaurant and Peoria Players Theatre. The second panel presented a more "experienced" tone to the evening as they were all in their 40's and 50's. Craig was a distinguished special guest who is a Vice-President of a large corporation. His three panelists were quite spunky and witty. They had already become friends by the time they appeared on stage which led to some lively banter between the three. Phillis was his date of choice to a dinner at Johnny's Italian Grille and Peoria Players. Both couples seemed pretty excited about each other. Kari and Scott took off after the event to go Salsa dancing with some friends.

There were also some connections going on in the crowd and we've heard of date plans from a few who met that evening.

On another note, Linda and I were quite excited to get an email that evening from a contact at a church in San Diego who confirmed the church had given their blessing in proceeding with a Cache' Connections event. Of course, we suggested February or the beginning of March as we have been hoping for warm climates for the winter months.

Enjoy your week!

-Kim-

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Dear Cache Connections,



Sometimes we need to remind our members that a little love and understanding goes a long way. Here's an example of an email we received:


Hey gals!

Listen, the last 4 or 5 matches you've provided have no pictures and in several cases no location.

If I recall, you were very specific in terms of PHOTO REQUIREMENTS. I followed your directions and am wondering why you would even post these connections if they are that incomplete.

If their photo is still under review, perhaps you can indicate that and then notify when they are approved.

It seems really odd that matches don't even have to indicate where they are from. That doesn't seem right......


Here's our response:

Hi Member X,

Thanks for your note. Please review carefully "The Matching Method" which explains that photos are NOT required, but preferred. You are correct that we have primary photo requirements and sometimes it takes members a while to get help getting their photos. The email we send to the new members specifically asks them to post their city and zip code.

Keep in mind that this site might be the first experience a lot of people have with online dating. I would suggest handling the new members with grace and patience by sending them an email such as this:

Hi ________, Welcome to Cache' Connections! I hope you will make some great connections and enjoy this experience. I look forward to seeing your photos as soon as you can get them posted. I am also curious about where you are from. I believe you can enter that information under "Account Settings." I have reviewed your profile and I think it's really great that you have an interest in ___________. Let me tell you a little bit about myself: ______________. I look forward to communicating with you soon.

Make it a great weekend and spread the love!

Kim

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Finishing touches on the final Dating Game


We are looking forward to our final episode of the Cache' Connections Dating Game. This event has always received rave reviews and guests seem to have a very good time. Aaaahhh, but all good things must come to an end. We have found that what we've been doing in putting on this show is just outside of the edge of "Impossible!"

Putting these panels of contestants together, and keeping them, AND getting their bio's in a timely manner (ahem) has been quite the challenge. Soliciting the date prizes has been a challenge, too, in these tight times. We are so grateful for our sponsors!

So, as I sit here listening to the original music (Kim just looped it onto the CD again because we ALWAYS leave it behind at the host church), it is with a bit of sadness mixed with relief that we look forward to the final Cache' Connections Dating Game goodbye kiss!

Off we go to Richwoods Christian Church to stick the daisies on the wall, and pester the nice church people like we do.

Be sure to come out for the final DG gig!

-Linda

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Sneak Peek Week


We feel as though we want to "give back" and show our support of Christian singles. Therefore, Cache' Connections is offering a SNEAK PREVIEW of the matchmaking site and its members through Friday, October 16th until 8:00 p.m. CST. We will open up their account for one week with no strings attached.

If you're interested or would like to spread the word to your single friends... here's how to receive one week free:

*Email us at contact@cacheconnections.com and request the SNEAK PREVIEW promotion and include their first and last name.

They will then receive an email from Cache' Connections that their account has been opened up for their use for one week.

We have had a great response from this offer and are busy welcoming all the new members:)

We look forward to seeing some of you at the Peoria Dating Game on Friday!

Blessings - Kim


Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Single women prudish?

Another note of contention between the sexes ... read these excerpts from a chat we had with a single man who shall remain anonymous:

Him: (referring to a mutual friend) She's sexy though (...in the purest sense..haha...) Yeah, I must clarify that because some christian women are so prudish. Probably the reason a lot single christian guys have hard time wanting date some of them. The mention of anything close to sexuality they short circuit and freak out. Hence, the reason why some struggle with seeing non-christian women.

Linda: Ah, um, maybe find a more Christian-version of saying that she is a very pretty lady or something like that. I'm sure you are right that Christian single women have their radar on high alert. They are looking for something/someone less "of the world" but you ARE men ...

Him: Interesting? Respectfully, I somewhat expected a "churchy" response like that. A lot of "non-christian" women think most christian (single) women are boring. I agree to an extent. My heart's and passion is for Christ and Christ alone. However, I've yet to find a christian woman who's cool, sexy, intelligent, virutious and passionate for Christ.

Most seem to prudish and predictable, missing the whole picture.

In my view and some christian single guys I know, that those "combination/qualities" are seemingly a rare find in a lot of single christian women. I don't mean to offend and pardon me it seems that way, but it isn't my intent. I'm being open and honest and not giving a typical "churchy" response.


Linda: Interesting comments. Well we have a gap to fill. Ahhh, the ever-increasing list of mountains to climb in this battle of connecting Christian singles. (And I thought it was just going to be a website :)

Him: I've been a christian for several years. It just bores me to hear churchy cliches, etc., etc. It would make any non-believer think.. "what world are these people living in"? I do think it's important to be discreet, discerning, wise and honest.

Real issues never get resolution when christians are churchy and not real, or they don't have a personal relationship with Christ enough to stand on their convictions. Most or I should say some singles are being influenced by their pastor's personal views, or peers.

We should upfront and honest in the proper forum, or single small group settings.

My Thesis is done :) Wait until you read my Dissertation. That's really thought provoking..haha. No, really I'm done. It was nice talking with you. Again, I apologize if I have offended you in any way, and I meant any no disrespect.

Your thoughts on this topic?

Monday, October 12, 2009

Meet this special guest at The Dating Game!


The Peoria Dating Game is this Friday night, Oct. 16th and there are just a few more days to save $5 by registering early. Preregistration is $15 and tickets are $20 at the door. Don't forget that preregistration will cut off at 9:00 pm on Thursday, Oct. 15th. You can also save money by getting together a group of 8 or more for a group rate of only $10 a ticket. We'd appreciate it if you could spread the word about this event. If you would like a flier to email your friends or church group, reply to this email and let us know. We expect all ages from the 20 - 60's. Be ready for some laughs and a great time!

Here's a little inside scoop on one of our special guests for the Peoria Dating Game:

"I'm a "born again" Christian who is serious about his relationship with God. I am an active/athletic person and have been so all my life. I enjoy motorcycling, bicycling, working out at the gym, walking the dogs, hiking, canoeing, etc. I'm enough of a romantic to want it all -- a companion, a best friend, a partner and eventually a wife".


For those of you outside of the area, stay tuned for information about an affordable connection party coming soon in Detroit, Cincinnati, Schaumburg, Atlanta and Peoria!

Also, don't forget this months special which is 50% off a one month subscription using the promotional code OCT1495. You can find all subscription prices at Cache' Connections here.

We hope to see you all at an event soon!

Blessings,
Kim and Linda
Cache' Connections

Friday, October 9, 2009

Meet Kari - Peoria Dating Game Special Guest


Our special guest for the Dating Game Peoria is a graduate of Bradley University and works as a Human Resource Representative. She considers herself an upbeat person who is trusting God to define her as the woman he designed her to be. Aside from taking night classes such as French or sewing, she enjoys anything outdoors, traveling, volunteering, reading and spending time with family and friends. Her passions include cooking and baking and trying anything new. Looking for a guy who both challenges her and makes her laugh.

Kari is just one example of the quality Christian singles at Cache' Connections. To view members and their profiles Click here

The Peoria Dating Game is one week from today and registrations are coming in. Here's the scoop:

When:
Friday, October 16th
7:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Where:
Richwoods Christian Church
8115 N Knoxville Ave.
Peoria, IL 61615
(309) 691-5252

7:00 Doors open
7:30 Welcome by Jamie Markley, WMBD Radio
7:45 The Dating Game
8:45 Cache' Connections
9:00 Community Connect (meet and greet)
9:15 Socialize (refreshments included in ticket price)

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER FOR THE PEORIA DATING GAME Click Here

If you are outside of this area, we would love to bring an event to your church. Feel free to pass along contact information for your singles leader.

Congratulations Tim and Beth

Yesterday we received a call from a member, Tim, who told us he wouldn't need the remainder of his subscription. He was happy to report that he and Beth are getting married in a few weeks!

Although Tim and Beth didn't meet through Cache' Connections, Tim feels that CC was very instrumental in helping him to get out of his "funk" and get back out into the dating scene. He also began to address some issues that were holding him back. Tim and Beth attended Cache' Connections Live! in Chesterton, IN in May and took in the wisdom of Drs. Tom and Beverly Rodgers, who challenged men and women to date intentionally, and to drudge up and deal with past hurts and disappointments so that they can face new relationships with a healthy, clean slate. Watch for a future right-up that he promised.

~Linda

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

To Shark or To Go Alone?


The last two weeks may go down as the most stressful in Cache' history for Kim. Throughout the summer months, I have been building a new house which required two moves in 3 months. In other words, I have had two full-time jobs. I have felt like a one of those gummy toys that's being pulled by both arms from different directions. The good news is the worst is over and things should be settling down.

We are thrilled to report the office staff will be celebrating the payoff of a bank loan this week. We are praising God for getting us through this last year and a half since we launched the online services and are happy to report Cache' is growing and thriving.

We had an opportunity to speak with an investment banker when we were in Atlanta and we have been toying with the idea of approaching investors in order to take this business to a larger scale. We feel pretty good about the model we have built and have had confirmation and affirmation from Christian singles that they are interested in what Cache' has to offer. We have some work to do to prepare ourselves, but are most excited about this possibility - although, "let your will be done" - all in His plan:)

May God's favor reign upon you the rest of the week.

Kim

Monday, October 5, 2009

Cache' loves Atlanta....


...and it seems Atlanta loves Cache'. We were back at First Baptist Atlanta on Friday night for The Dating Game. We had two wonderful panels of contestants who were quite witty and lots of fun. The crowd was smaller than the previous event, but it was still a special night. Here's a comment that sums it up:
"Thank you Linda and Kim for coming back to Atlanta to encourage us once again.  It was smaller gathering but the message was more meaningful, like Jesus wanted to spend time with few of his people!"

The last few months have been pretty stressful for Kim and Linda as Kim and her husband sold their house and have been contracting and building a new home. After a move 3 months ago to a rental home, the real estate madness culminated in another move into the new home after arriving home from Atlanta Saturday afternoon. Thankfully Linda has been holding things together and things will calm down shortly.

Have a wonderful week!

Kim





Thursday, October 1, 2009

Here's some blog fodder from Sunday night's chat!

"Long distance relationships get fueled by a lot of fantasy and romantic weekends, etc. The person has to be around enough to get on your nerves." (more good stuff from Sunday night's chat with Dr. Stephen W. Simpson and the Cache' Connections Facebook Fan Page)

Mark: "That may be true. So the question now is when dating someone that lives 700 miles away how do you solve that? ...(I ask for those that don't know) ... because my girlfriend and I do not seem to have that problem. We have nice dates when together but we do normal stuff too like cooking, running to the grocery, other shopping, watching TV. We do ... Read Morestuff around the house, whatever we need to get done, we do. When we see each other it's usually for 2 to 4 days in a row. We do get the romance in but the whole visit is not filled with romance. We fly to see each other once or twice a month.

We have been talking and seeing each other 3 mos. now. Perhaps part of the key is talking and praying together on a daily basis. We do bible studies together over the phone and are totaly transparent with each other. That is an important aspect of relationship. Transparency. Feelings, emotions, etc. good or bad need to be expressed openly. The ... Read Moreidea is to realize we are human and with faults and not to idealize or place someone on a pedestile. What I suggest is not easy but if you are emotionally healthy this can be done. Another key is to always keep Christ at the center and honor Him in all you do. We give the relationship over to the Lord daily."

Vicki: "I too am in a long distance relationship, but mine is only about 150 - 200 miles. We get together a few times a month. Sometimes, for a couple of days in a row and sometimes a few hours. We spend lots of time talking and getting to know one another. We have been able to keep physical temptations out of our relationship just by not going there... Read More. We have fun and we have deep conversations as well. We speak on the phone through the week, e-mail and text. But, it is very difficult without the day to day get on your nerves kind of thing. Although, because of the distance, our conversation is much more meaningful and to the point. Not the superficial stuff which I had when I dated someone who was just a few miles away. Our communication is way more meaningful."

Check out our expert-led chats on Sunday and Monday nights. Click here for scheduled events!