Frequently
Asked Questions
How do I join? What does it cost?
Maka Connect doesn't charge a membership fee. You simply register for the events you want to attend. Reservation fees range from $20–$50 per event, with special pricing for special events. We offer discounts for registering early, bringing friends, or accepting community invitations.
What's the difference between a $20 and $50 event?
Pricing reflects what goes into running the event. Mixers and dinner parties tend toward the lower end — they're more flexible on venue and require less specialized hosting. Speed dating and trivia nights involve more preparation and specific venue requirements, so they run a little higher.
Our premium events are hosted at upscale venues that require a minimum revenue guarantee. We cover that guarantee upfront, which is reflected in the higher ticket price. In return, every guest receives drink or food credits to use at the venue — so the higher price comes with something tangible. Whether you use the credits is up to you.
Do we guarantee attendance?
We go to a lot of trouble to ensure every event has sufficient attendees and a balanced gender mix — but when the day arrives, turnout isn't entirely in our control. We've established the following minimums for heterosexual events (we're still calibrating for gay and lesbian events):
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Dinner Parties: 3 men and 3 women
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Speed Dating: 7 men and 7 women
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Mixers and Trivia: 10 men and 10 women
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If minimums aren't met, we'll refund all event fees to your original payment method. The event continues as a free social for anyone who wants to stay.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before an event for a full refund to your original payment method. Same-day cancellations receive credit toward a future event. No-shows and guests who leave before the event begins are not eligible for a refund or credit.
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Three last-minute cancellations within any 90-day period, or three no-shows at any time, will result in permanent account cancellation.
How do the age brackets work?
Each event is set for a 10–15 year age range, and those brackets shift over time — so an event for ages 21–35 will be followed by one for 25–39, and so on. This keeps the mix fresh and gives different age groups a chance to attend as the schedule rotates.
The app allows a small buffer of ±2 years at registration, giving a little flexibility without letting the group drift too far outside the intended range. Anyone outside the bracket and buffer won't be able to register or join the event. The goal is to keep events feeling balanced so everyone's comfortable being there.
Is the app required?
Yes and no.
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The app handles many of our administrative functions and provides essential guidance during speed dating and trivia events, so we strongly recommend having it. That said, you can still approach people and start conversations the old-fashioned way — the app doesn't run the room, it just makes things smoother. If there's mutual interest, we do ask that you use the in-app contact exchange rather than swapping numbers directly. It's how we track our success rates, and it keeps things cleaner for everyone.
What if I don't click with anyone?
Some guests match with someone on their first event. Others attend a few before they meet someone special. If you've been to several events without finding a connection, you might just be a little out of practice — and that's okay. We'd be happy to refer you to a dating coach in your area.
How is Maka Connect different from a dating app?
Dating apps keep you swiping. We get you in the same room.
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Maka Connect is built around real, in-person events where conversations happen face to face — not through a screen. Instead of matching first and hoping it turns into something, you meet people naturally, with built-in structure that makes starting and ending conversations easier.
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We also take the pressure out of follow-up. If there's mutual interest, we handle the connection — no awkward asks or guessing what to do next.
Less time swiping, more time actually meeting people.
How is Maka Connect different from other singles events?
Most singles events are either completely unstructured or overly rigid. We sit in the middle.
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Maka Connect events have a built-in flow, so you always have a reason to engage and you're never stuck in one conversation too long. You're not left figuring out how to approach someone — or how to exit politely.
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We also improve the quality of conversations. Your profile is built around real topics, so you have better ways to start than small talk.
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And when there's interest, we remove the most awkward moment. Instead of asking for a number on the spot, you can simply like someone. If the interest is mutual, we handle the connection.
Can you host a Maka Connect event at our venue?
Definitely maybe — we'd love to have that conversation. Please reach out to support@maka.social.
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A few things we look for in a venue:
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Capacity for 25 or more guests
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Parking for at least 30 guests
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Music kept at a conversational volume during the event
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No venue reservation fees, minimums considered
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A menu diverse enough to serve a mixed crowd — many of our guests are non-drinkers, so a venue serving primarily alcohol may not find our events the right fit
How do you become a host?
Finding good hosts is a high priority for us as it is the biggest limiting factor to add new events. The Maka Connect app handles most of the duties of organizing events, but we're looking for people who can give a good introduction and think on your feet if things don't go as planned or when guests misbehave. We pay our hosts $75 to $100 per 3 hour event. and you get in free. You can even participate in mixers and speed dating events.
If this sounds like fun to you, please send an email with your phone number and availability to support@maka.social