Alex

Q: What inspired you to leave the West Coast and move to NYC?
Growing up with a mom who was raised in Annapolis gave me just enough of a tie to the East Coast to want to live here for a few years... and when I started traveling to New York on business while living in San Francisco, I knew that this was a city in which I had to live! This is not an original thought, but the pure energy of this place was, and continues to be, my inspiration. That, and the potential here-- the fact that, really, anything can happen once you step out onto the street.

Q: In your experience what was the biggest challenge you faced as a single woman in a new and big city and how did you tackle it?
The biggest challenge for me has definitely been finding companionship- not necessarily in the form of a boyfriend, but in any form. As a transplant, who moved to New York not knowing a soul, I've found it really tough to make close friends here. Although it's very easy to meet people and find acquaintances to go out with or do things with, it's definitely difficult to make strong, solid friendships. Not having family nearby as a resource also makes this difficult. I am very close to my family and back in CA it was very easy to rely on them for companionship. I've been able to find amazing people and make them my close friends by having friends elsewhere connect me. The great part is- almost everyone knows someone who lives in New York!

Q: How do you think the singles scene differs from California to New York?
You know- New York is a tough place to be single- especially as a woman, but I am not entirely convinced it is tougher than anywhere else. I lived in San Francisco for 6 years in my early-mid 20's and I remember it being pretty tough as well. I think the biggest difference are the interests of the people you meet. In New York people's lives really revolve around work and going out socially. People are always out- at restaurants, in bars, etc... In San Francisco people are more likely to meet at a dinner party or during the day doing some sort of outdoor activity. I definitely miss that vibe.

Q: What advice would you give to other singles who want to relocate?
I would say definitely think about why you are moving to New York. Don't move here expecting to find a mate. In my experience, the New York singles scene is a playground, and although it can be very fun, I wouldn't say it is chock full of people ready to settle down. Oh-- and definitely network. The more friends of friends you can connect with, the more social options you will have.

Q: What’s the best place to meet new people?
Parties. In New York there is always someone having a party. New Yorkers will use any holiday or celebration as an excuse to throw one... so go to as many as you can find and meet great people!

Q: Favorite solo escape, restaurant or bar?
The park on The West Side Highway. In the summer, it is my beach and my treadmill on weekends when I can not escape The City.

Q: What is the funniest, craziest or worse date you ever had?
I went to play tennis with this guy and his friends up in Connecticut when I first moved to New York. I wore a tennis skirt and collared shirt. Although not white, I felt like I was dressed appropriately. I had, after all, played in CA my entire childhood. But, when I got out of the car, the friend's wife took one look at me and said, "Well, I guess we aren't playing at The Club today." I was mortified... Welcome to New York!

Q: Any tips for dealing with friends and family when they pressure you to “get married”?
I just say I'm still looking for the right guy- and I'd rather be looking than be married to the wrong one. I know he's out there-- it's just taking us longer to find one another.