Saskatchewan's Dating Shift: Why People Are Ditching Apps

The Evolution of Modern Dating

Modern dating has become a complex landscape for many individuals, especially with the rise of online dating platforms. The convenience of swiping through potential matches has made love seem just a few taps away. However, this shift has also introduced new challenges and considerations.

"It's less about going to a person in person and talking to them, and it has become more like Instagram DMs or Snapchat," said Mateo Trejo. "There's less courage involved."

Ruth Chepchirchir added, "You don't get to meet new people unless you push yourself to talk to people." This sentiment highlights the growing concern that while online dating offers access, it may not always foster genuine connections.

Some individuals find dating apps difficult to navigate, particularly due to the prevalence of 'throw-away' and 'hookup' culture. Mark Hignett described this phenomenon as, "It's kind of like just putting yourself on like a shelf in a grocery store, just kind of letting people pick and choose and whatnot."

However, dating apps can be a valuable tool for certain communities. Emily Soles, who is part of the queer community, explained, "When you're in the queer community, it's kind of harder to find people. Your dating pool is a little bit smaller. So, the apps kind of help you actually find people who are also going to be gay."

Mathieu Lajante, a marketing professor at Toronto Metropolitan University, believes that dating apps are designed to keep users swiping by creating an illusion of endless possibilities. "It's endless. So until you kind of trap in this process when you try again and again and again, until you get something you expect to be big, you just develop this culture that, you know, I'm shopping, basically."

He continued, "I'm shopping and there is no consequences because I have no emotional connections, no financial connection whatsoever. So, it's very easy."

Lajante also pointed out that the constant availability of options can lead to feelings of exhaustion and self-doubt. "If you get this feeling that you're exhausted, you have a self-perception that is degrading. It's not because of you, it's because of the way those apps work."

A Shift Back to Traditional Methods

Lianne Tregobov, president of the matchmaking service Camelot Introductions, has observed a growing trend where people are moving away from dating apps and seeking more traditional methods of finding love. "2024, I thought was going to be our busiest year in history. People had had enough and they want the real connection," she said.

To her surprise, 2025 turned out to be even busier than 2024. "My phone is ringing every single day with people from Manitoba and Saskatchewan." Tregobov has seen a consistent increase in clients, with about a 25-35 per cent rise each year since 2024. She noted that around 50 per cent of her clients are from Saskatchewan.

Tregobov believes that people are turning away from dating apps because they feel they have too much freedom to treat others however they choose. However, she emphasizes the importance of stepping outside and meeting people in person. "It's really important that you get involved in activities that are of interest to you. Pickleball, for example, there's lots of people who you may be able to meet there."

She also suggested other ways to meet new people, such as taking a cooking class or a dance class. "Doing crafts, taking a cooking class or a dance class, those are wonderful ways to meet people."

Conclusion

As the dating landscape continues to evolve, it's clear that both online and traditional methods have their place. While dating apps offer convenience and accessibility, they also come with unique challenges. On the other hand, traditional approaches like matchmaking services and in-person activities provide opportunities for deeper, more meaningful connections.