The founders of Chicago First Dates probably smile a lot while checking their emails. That's because they often receive grateful messages from the happy couples who meet through their speed-dating events. It's not hard to make a connection at the gatherings, which are themed to bring together people with common interests—one event may cater to adults with advanced academic degrees, for example, while another may focus on a particular ethnicity. The events are held at 32 lounges, clubs, and restaurants in Chicago and its surrounding areas and sometimes include a complimentary drink.