Love and Star Wars: Speed dating in costume

Orlando - It was speed dating Star Wars style when costumed fans got together to find someone special during the recent Star Wars V convention in Florida.

Two speed dating events had been planned for the four-day convention, but the event was so popular that a third one was added. There were still 600 people who had to be turned away. More than 260 fans joined the speed dating sessions, which were open to heterosexuals and homosexuals. During the three minute “dates” people are identified only by a number. Those taking part, record the number of anyone they would like to get to know better, and they are provided with contact information later. Ryan Glitch suggested the speed dating idea and, following communication with the convention organizers, found himself hosting the dating event. "It was an accident," The Christian Science Monitor quoted Glitch as saying. "Well, it was pure luck – a will of the Force, you could say." He received positive feedback and knows of nine possible success stories to come out of the experience. A “chapel” area was set up so that fans could profess their love to one another in commitment ceremonies, and Glitch heard that there were two ceremonies involving people who met through the speed dating. He said that he didn’t think he would receive much attention as the host, but he had three or four girls per session leave their contact information with him because they would like to see him in the future.