🔵 Concept
Dating Updated January 15, 2025

Manifest

Picky matchmaking app that prioritizes self-understanding and quality over quantity

Feasibility:
Excitement:
Seriousness:

The Problem

Dating apps overwhelm users with endless options and superficial matching. People need to understand themselves better before they can find meaningful connections.

The Story Behind This App

Manifest

Quality over quantity dating that starts with knowing yourself.

Key Features

1. Criteria-First Matching

What: Define your non-negotiables before seeing any profiles

Why: Prevents settling and encourages intentional dating

2. Self-Discovery Journey

What: Guided exercises to understand your values and needs

Why: Better self-awareness leads to better matches

3. Scarcity Algorithm

What: Limited daily matches based on quality, not quantity

Why: Creates value and encourages thoughtful engagement

4. Date Commitment Score

What: Score increases when you go on dates and 'lock in' blind dates

Why: Rewards real-world action over endless swiping

User Journey

  1. 1 User completes self-discovery questionnaire
  2. 2 Sets specific criteria for potential matches
  3. 3 Receives 1-3 high-quality matches per day
  4. 4 Can 'lock in' a blind date to boost score
  5. 5 Score unlocks better matches and features

Technical Architecture

Frontend

Flutter for cross-platform mobile

Backend

Python Django with ML matching engine

Data

PostgreSQL with Redis caching

APIs

  • Personality assessment APIs
  • Location services for date planning
  • Video chat integration

Hosting

Google Cloud Platform

Moonshot Features (v2.0)

  • AI therapist for pre-date anxiety and post-date reflection
  • Compatibility prediction based on communication patterns
  • Group date options for lower pressure first meetings
  • Relationship coaching based on attachment styles

Market Research

Similar to: Hinge, The League, Thursday

Different because: Focuses on self-understanding first, extreme selectivity

Target users: Intentional daters tired of swipe culture

Open Questions

  • How to verify users are going on actual dates?
  • Balance between exclusivity and accessibility?
  • Monetization without compromising quality?

Resources & Inspiration

Discussion