Speed dating, like parachuting into the Orange Bowl or hijacking a cruise ship, is an exhilarating way to meet a large number of people in a short amount of time. Maintain a frighteningly fast social mileage with today’s Groupon: for $18, you get your choice of speed-dating event from 7 in Heaven Singles Events (up to a $38 value).

Voted the best dating service on Long Island by the resident romantics in the 2011 Long Island Press Best of L.I. poll, 7 in Heaven aids soulmate searches with low-pressure meet-ups. Organized by age group, each speed-dating event places a proportionate number of male and female hopefuls in intimate, upscale restaurants, replicating the romantic settings of memorable meet-cutes and President Nixon's Cabinet meetings. Upon arrival, participants mingle with the night’s participants while quaffing a complimentary drink and nibbling on stomach-settling appetizers. After a brief overview of the rules and regulations, speed daters set off for seven-minute rendezvous with a host of potential partners, fiancés, or plus-ones at the office's next mandatory square dance. Participants turn in evaluative score sheets at the end of the evening, with notification of matches coming within 24 hours of the event. Work off pre-arrival jitters with a trip to the 7 in Heaven's testimonials page, perusing comments from past events for insight into success stories, event reviews, or whether spats are still considered acceptable date attire.

7 in Heaven Singles Events offers discounts to patrons who refer or bring friends. However, this Groupon still provides the best deal.