Full of witty banter and smart answers, authors Andrea Lavinthal & Jessica Rozler dazzled “Girlfriend Smingle” attendees, November 22, 2010 at Betel in New York City, as they talked about their latest book, Your So-Called Life, and dished on the years before, after and at 30.  “We wanted to create a fun environment where women could relax, let down their hair, swap dating ideas with other women and surf the Smingle site,” explains Smingle.com President & COO, Beverly Lehmann.

A far cry from the restaurant where Lehmann created the Smingle concept with her husband, Betel’s dark wood setting bathed in subdued lighting and candlelight was packed with women sipping Chambord flavored Vodka cocktails and nibbling Asian-inspired hors d’oeuvres as deliciously charming “Smingle Men” engaged their attention and exhibited site demos.

Girlfriend Sminglers were spoiled and eager to receive mini makeovers provided by celebrity makeup artist, Khuraira. Twenty lucky guests were treated to tarot card readings by celebrity intuitive Mano Matthews via SKYPE projection as others gathered to witness the experience. The interactive, flirty and fun atmosphere was the perfect place for single women to be at the end of the day. Instead of a crowded bar clamoring for a drink, unsatisfying eye contact and awkward pick up lines, ‘Girlfriend Smingle” intended to pamper women with fun, laughs and information on the when, why and how’s of dating in order to brave and navigate through the holiday freeze.

When Beverly and Craig Lehmann combined their strengths to found Smingle.com in 2008, they had no idea how quickly their thoughts over a quiet dinner would spearhead an online dating revolution.

Smingle.com provides an online environment to simulate the perfect first date and those following. Smingle.com is a new and improved online dating community where you can create virtual dates. Communication on the site resembles a typical IM chat but is much more intuitive and interactive with graphics and advance settings including avatar interaction.  Want to meet on the beach or have drinks at sunset? Your avatar can wear an alluring red dress or even a debonair suit while you’re at home in pajamas.

Play conversation-provoking games designed to take the pressure off figuring out what to say.  Talk a little or flirt a lot….Let your date know that you are enjoying their company by clicking the “Flirt” or “Blow Kiss” buttons. Hit the “Smile” button and your avatar smiles. Type ”LOL” and your avatar actually laughs.