NEXT SLIDE, PLEASE! The Pitch-A-Friend series – which first popped up in Philadelphia, Pa. – will soon arrive to the western Wisconsin on Aug. at the Pablo Center (pictured) in downtown Eau Claire. The event invites locals to share PowerPoint slides that, ultimately, hype up their single friends searching for love (and friendship, too).

Perhaps you've run into flyers scattered across coffee shops in downtown Eau Claire, introducing the premise of “Pitch-A-Friend.” Or, you might be among the local crowd of singles seeking new social outings with a priority on authenticity over the transactional nature of traditional speed dating.

On Aug. 29 at the Pablo Center at the Confluence (128 Graham Ave., Eau Claire), monthly Pitch-A-Friend events will begin in the Chippewa Valley.

The free-to-attend series will emphasize local venues as event organizers intend to bring not only new customers through the Pablo Center’s doors, but create new networks for locals in search of love – who might just need an extra confidence boost.

“At its core, Pitch-A-Friend is a free, fun, low-key singles event where people can either pitch a single friend in a short, entertaining presentation or simply come to mingle,” Pey Carter, event organizer and area author, said. “Instead of relying on dating apps or carefully curated profiles, you get to hear a friend describe someone – their personality, quirks, interests and best qualities.”

The Pitch-A-Friend series first popped up in Philadelphia, Pa., where its creators – Melissa Schipke and Ariana Brogan – invited locals to share PowerPoint slides that, ultimately, hyped up their single friends.

Driven by its blend of humor and authenticity, the event has expanded across Pennsylvania, nationwide and globally with more than 30 Pitch-A-Friend chapters.

“I believe that when we take the time to learn about others, we often learn something about ourselves in the process.”

Pey Carter

ORGANIZER, PITCH-A-FRIEND CHIPPEWA VALLEY

Here in the Chippewa Valley, Pey hopes the series finds success not only as a way to create new relationships, but by modeling environments where folks get off their phones and share conversation face-to-face.

The event isn’t just limited to singles of the region, Pey noted. “I moved to Eau Claire in 2021 and like many people who relocate to a new community, I quickly realized how challenging it can be to build meaningful friendships and connections.”

“I believe that when we take the time to learn about others, we often learn something about ourselves in the process,” Pey continued. “That feels especially important right now, when genuine connection can sometimes be difficult to find.”

What to expect as an attendee: PowerPoint presentations are just one element of Pitch-A-Friend. Guests will also have the opportunity to play other games and enjoy drinks while mingling.

Presentations are required to be less than five minutes and they must portray the person in a positive light, the event guidelines reads. Pitching oneself is also off-limits; having a friend vouch for another person enhances the overall mission of the series.

FAQs about Pitch-A-Friend Chippewa Valley:

What happens during an event?

At each event, friends who have signed up to pitch take the stage to introduce their single friend to the audience. As the night continues, organizers have built in breaks to give attendees a chance to chat, grab a drink and meet new people. To make things easy, stickers are provided so guests can quickly tell who is single and who is there to support a friend.

Do I have to be single to pitch my friend?

Guests don't have to be single to pitch – just willing to hype up a friend and brave enough to do it in front of a crowd.

Can I pitch myself if I don't have someone who is willing to pitch me?

Pitch-A-Friend doesn't allow people to pitch themselves. Singles are typically pitched by a friend, colleague, neighbor, or family member. That said, you don't need to be pitched in order to attend. Locals are welcome to attend and socialize with all the other single attendees.

What should be included in my pitch?

You've got up to five minutes to win some hearts (on behalf of your friend, of course). Most attendees keep it simple with 8-10 slides – and maybe a couple of jokes. As long as it's positive and shows your friend in their best light.

By the end of the night, you may find yourself with a fresh date on the books or perhaps a romantic moment with a forever partner.

Specialized events – tailored to different age groups and interests – are already in the works, Pey said, including a Pitch-A-Parent series. Organizers can also partner with local animal rescues through its Pitch-A-Pet initiative.

At Pablo Center on Aug. 29, for example, Hoppy House Rabbit Rescue is slated to introduce an adoptable bunny to the crowd for attendees to share a few cuddles with – and to learn more about the org’s services.

Pitch-A-Friend will continue on Sept. 25 at The Phoenix Taproom (402 Graham Ave., Eau Claire). The event series remains in active search of other local businesses to sponsor future events and support its mission to nurture connection in the Chippewa Valley.

Sign up in advance for recurring Pitch-A-Friend events (free to attend) in the Chippewa Valley, as spots are limited. Visit pitch-a-friend.com/chippewavalley to learn more and follow along for events updates on social media (@pitchafriend.chippewavalley).