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

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-

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

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

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

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?

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

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

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

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

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!

First CC Conference a Success!

Well, we did it. We had our first singles conference in connection with National Singles Week this past Saturday at the Hilton Garden Inn in Schaumburg, Illinois. We had approximately 60 people attend, the vast majority of which were female. Guys, you missed out! And yes, it was more than sitting and taking notes :)

We had four great speakers: Pastor Lincoln Washington from Rock of Our Salvation Church (Chicago) spoke to us about the importance of having an intimate relationship with Jesus first and foremost. Wow, he is an annointed preacher! Next up was Dr. James Bedell, Cornerstone Counseling, Cary, IL who showed us what the Bible says about singleness. Very enlightening. So, just to reiterate, marriage is not the continual state of bliss that it is sometimes idealized to be. (I can attest to that.) After hearing the grim divorce rates, we were happy to see that everyone returned after the lunch break!

Cathy Conway, a licensed psychologist from Meier Clinics, helped us to identify and address the lies that the enemy tells us and society confirms. Guests turned in anonymous cards of the lies that hinder them from entering into relationships, then guests formed groups to dispel these lies by applying the truth of God's word.

Finally Carol Conway, another licensed psychologist from Meier Clinics finished up with her lively discussion of intimacy in dating and gave us practical steps on how to progress from one stage of intimacy to the next, referring to the RAM scale (I think.) We decided there is no magical formula to know if he/she is Mr/Mrs Right, but it takes a lot of time spent in all kinds of circumstances, and sometimes seeking advice from a trusted friend or relative who is not wearing those same rose-colored glasses that you are!

With extra time, Carol and Cathy were brave enough to field questions from the singles. A lively discussion ensued for approximately 20 minutes. All in all, everyone seemed pleased with the day.

A few hours later, we entertained about 28 Christian singles at a Connection Party at nearby Pompei restaurant. In a private room, we played a sort of "musical chairs meets speed dating" affording everyone an opportunity to meet and chat with everyone else in the group. This activity was followed by a nice Italian dinner buffet. We heard that the party went on long after we headed back to headquarters in Central Illinois. We received some lovely comments from our guests the next day, which is always great to hear.

What a privilege to work for you in this most personal area that is so dear to your hearts. Please continue to pray for Cache' Connections as we pray for you.

~ Linda

First CC Engagement Announced!

Dan and Debbie, who gave a testimonial for us at our recent Dating Game in Naperville on 8/28 have made it official! They have announced their engagement and look forward to a wedding at Disneyworld around Christmas time this year.

Dan and Debbie met through the website and have expressed much gratitude toward Cache' Connections. We wish them a very happy new life together with God in the center!

~ Linda

Sales Position Available

Since we would like to double the amount of monthly events next year, it is necessary to hire a few people to help on the Cache' Connections sales team. We are looking for someone who totally embraces the concept of the business. First of all, this person must be a committed Christian. Of course sales ability, confidence, persistence and resilience are crucial. The position is strictly commission based at this time. Here's the beginning of the job description:

The Partner Relations Manager will be responsible for helping Cache' Connections reach new markets, church venues for events and for securing sponsors for events. He/she will help Cache' Connections maintain and foster healthy relationships with partnering churches. The Partner Relations Manager will seek hosting church sites by researching viable churches in areas approved by CC....

Interested? Contact Us

God provides for Speaker Replacement for Conference

JR Kerr, Pastor from Park Community Church, was going to be one of our featured speakers for our upcoming conference in Schaumburg, IL on 9/26. Unfortunately he had a situation arise in his family that will prohibit him from participating. This left us scrambling to fill his two time slots in the morning for our very first conference.

We have recently made contact with Bob and Cheryl Moeller, who have been quite active in marriage (and now singles) ministry. Bob also has a TV program and is often featured on WMBI. So we asked Bob if he could speak, but he was already engaged. Cheryl quickly got on her thinking cap and prayed along with us. She gave us several good tips for speakers that they know.

I followed a trail of suggestions which naturally led to a lot of professionals who are already booked. We actually received referrals from these referrals, however, and now have two speakers who are happy to fill in the gaps! God is so good!

We look forward to hearing from Pastor A. Lincoln Washington and Dr. Jim Bedell. Check out the details here!

Dating Game Roundup

1. Special Guests. Check.
2. Contestants. Check.
3. All opposite sex. Check.
4. All bio's. (C'mon ... it never happens that fast.)
5. Applause sign people. Check.
6. Emcee - Amena - Check.
7. Sound-lights-refreshments-travel arrangements. Check.
8. Daisies and logo en route to First Baptist Atlanta - Check.
9. Got the music on CD? ? ? ? ?
10. What to wear? Good question.
11. Volunteers .... errrr. Need a little help.
12. Have we driven Pastor Keith crazy yet? Check.

These are just the tip of the iceberg of details we go over and over prior to an event. We are looking forward to another popular Cache' Connections version of the old TV show, "The Dating Game" at First Baptist Atlanta on 10/2/09. Our first panel is all on their twenties, and our second panel is in their forties. Whoever gets chosen for both winning dates will enjoy a very special dinner at AquaKnox followed by ... we can't tell you everything!

Round up your friends, or just plan on coming alone and meeting some new people! Join the audience and enjoy the show, which is scripted just like the old TV show, except YOU get to help the special guests make their choice. Tickets are $15 if you pre-purchase them, $20 at the door. If you wish to volunteer and enjoy free admission, please contact us ASAP! ... and plan to be at FBA by 6:00 pm.

We'll be back in 2. (Is that what he said?)

~ Linda

A note from a member

Dear Linda, Kim, staff, and members of Cache Connections,

I am writing this because I just read the comments from a unhappy and skeptical man. I too was once skeptical about dating sites but, sometimes we need to think outside of our comfort zones. When I say this I also mean our comfort zones of what we would classify as someone we would date. Thanks to Cache Connections and two faithfull friends I am involved in a relationship with a wonderful woman. But, the thing is I had to think outside the box and comfort zone. You see I typically dated women in my financial range and women who were 5'2"-5'5". When I met this wonderful woman at a Cache Connections event I was a bit leary. She was from a higher financial income then myself and she is 5'10". Both were out of my comfort zone but, I gave it a shot and am very glad I did. But, she also went out of her comfort zone. She typically dated men who are over 6' and 200lbs or more and in her income range. I am 5'11", 160lbs, and make less money then her. So, you see we all have to stop ourselves from limiting ourselves as to who we would give a second look at. She and I gave the other a chance and I can with all certainty say we are both happy and love one another. In the short while we have been dating I lost my job, her mother died, she found out that she is loosing her job, and other trials in life have occured but, with God at the center of our relationship we are still together and love one another. So, I simply ask to those who are discouraged about not meeting up with someone just yet. Are you being open minded and willing to step outside your comfort zone, are you praying about it, and are you putting God first in your relationship? Also, you must be patient.

First Time - Public Chats Tonight and Thursday!

Take time out tonight or Thursday to chat with some past Dating Game participants - including a winning couple who are enjoying getting to know one another!

Tuesday: Chat with Jessica and Annette
Thursday: Chat with Steve and Sara!

Here's how:

go to: www.cacheconnections.com
click on: Community and Advice
click on: The Meeting Room
click on: Java screen
enter your username and the password: cachebox

Chats begin at 8:00 p.m. CST. See you there!

Click here for more details.

~Linda

The Plan is in Motion

From the inception of Cache' Connections, it's been our plan to have close partnerships with churches and singles leaders. Although, we have found it's not as easy as it seems. Our business is definitely "out of the box" for most pastors, as we are all aware that online dating has somewhat of a negative stigma attached to it, and rightly so. Having a one-on-one conversation with the powers-to-be can be quite an accomplishment. But, if we can get through the gatekeepers, i.e., the assistants and secretaries, we explain to them that we are taking a modern-day trend (online dating) and helping Christian singles strengthen their faith and hopefully help them find a mate. Of course, there are those who understand the importance of being relevant in today's society and then there are those who are slower to come around to new ways of thinking.

We are most excited about a possible new partnership with Perimeter Church in Atlanta. Their leadership team attended the pastor's luncheon last week since one of the leadership members has been quite insistent about Perimeter hosting an event. She came to both our events in Atlanta and had a great time and thought this would be a great boost for their one-year old, re-established singles group. We are looking forward to developing a proposal for them and hopefully - an event partnership!

On another note, sign-ups are increasing for the National Singles Week Conference and Connection Party which is only 2 weeks away, September 26th in Schaumburg, IL. You can take a look at the information here

Have a wonderful week and enjoy this beautiful weather!

Kim