New Face of Dating in NYC: The Pedicab Matchmaker
Forget dating apps like Tinder or Bumble. A new approach to love involves some pedaling.
Walker Ward, a 31-year-old who previously worked on Wall Street, has transitioned into comedy and is on a mission to help singles in New York connect—face to face, not through screens. “I’ve spent a lot more time meeting people since leaving the corporate world,” he shared. “What if I could help others do the same?”
This is where Mingle Mobile comes in. It’s a unique twist on speed dating, conducted in pedicabs around the city. Ward teamed up with Sharp Entertainment, the production company behind “90 Day Fiancé,” to launch “Pedicab Connections” last June, resulting in real matches along the way.
Mingle Mobile is hard to miss: it features fake roses, bright pink upholstery, and playful signs asking, “Single?” Ward refers to it as a “tank of desire.” “People are often so glued to their phones that they might walk past their future partner. Why not give them a nudge to engage in real life?” he mused, describing his concept of cruising around the city to unite singles.
One evening, while navigating the busy streets, Ward picked up his first “hero rider,” Claire Thomas Allen, a 28-year-old social media manager. Dressed casually and sporting a messy bun, she laughed about the struggle of dating today. “You really have to put yourself out there and say yes to new experiences,” she noted.
As they pedaled, they were soon joined by Luke Natal, a 32-year-old content creator from Asbury Park, New Jersey. Ward started the conversation with casual questions about what they were seeking in a partner. “On a scale of 1 to 10, how’s your dating life?” he asked, encouraging them to share their thoughts.
To keep things fun, he introduced light-hearted games and flirty banter about dating etiquette and partner preferences. At the conclusion of each ride, riders would use a colored paddle—green to exchange numbers, red to part ways.
Unfortunately for Allen, the spark just wasn’t there with Natal. But before Ward could even process that, he spotted his next potential match, Justin Washington, a 34-year-old concierge. A shared appreciation for Italian food sparked an instant connection.
Washington appreciated the refreshing setup. “I detest dating apps. This felt like a real date, which is rare,” he said, acknowledging that dating hasn’t been a top priority for him.
Ward believes his approach yields more successes than failures. Recently, he helped pair casting director Brooklyn Bagwell with engineer Joe Dacosta. After a whirlwind ride, they quickly arranged a third date. “Meeting Joe felt effortless,” Bagwell said. “Dating in NYC can be hit or miss, but this was unlike any app experience.” She is no stranger to dating in the city, having lived there for over 15 years.
Even Dacosta chimed in, joking about appreciating the organic nature of their encounter. He emphasized that finding connections outside of apps is preferable.
With fall approaching, Ward plans to continue matching singles, eager to create romantic experiences amid the beautiful autumn leaves. “People get excited when they see Mingle Mobile; they often ask what’s happening and want to join in,” he reflected on the enthusiasm surrounding his project.
As for advice for single New Yorkers, Ward said it’s crucial to approach potential partners with confidence and respect. “If you spot someone interesting, whether in a pedicab or at a bar, don’t hesitate to make your move.”
