I’m not what you’d call a traditionalist when it comes to dating. I’ve been set up by coworkers, friends, and yes, even Mom. These dates have been with some pretty strange characters, including one man who considered the lady in his life to be his car. Another chap happened to be in a serious relationship that later resulted in marriage. (My “friend” left that part out.) And yet another guy spent an evening trying to convince me to convert to Scientology.

They’re all funny stories, but they’re also mildly disturbing. And while it may be fun and perhaps interesting to be set up by someone, it’s not too often that such dates result in a spark.

This is why you need to act on your own instinct when it comes to finding that special someone. But if your instinct is in hibernation, there are a few venues that will jumpstart it just in time for next year's mid-February holiday. So put on your walking shoes and get ready to look for love in all the right places.