Inspiring Conversations with Melissa Schipke of Pitch-A-Friend

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Schipke

Hi Melissa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Pitch-A-Friend, the innovative event series that transforms traditional matchmaking, is thrilled to announce its expansion to Denver after experiencing incredible growth and success in Philadelphia, Pitch-A-Friend is ready to bring its unique blend of fun, friendship, and social engagement to new audiences.
Pitch-A-Friend events allow friends to give 3-5 minute slide presentations about their remarkable single friends at bars, breweries and wineries across a city. These lively and entertaining events create a welcoming environment for networking and socializing, fostering genuine connections among attendees.
In Philadelphia, Pitch-A-Friend hosts weekly events in different parts of the city, boasting a waitlist of venues eager to participate. The extraordinary presentations by participants have not only entertained but have also helped break down the post-COVID social norms of meeting new people primarily through phones.
The Philadelphia chapter of Pitch-A-Friend has seen virtual growth and widespread acclaim, as evidenced by the viral Instagram post showcasing what it’s all about. The post has garnered significant attention with over 3 million views and 80,000 shares. It can be viewed here.
“Expanding Pitch-A-Friend to Denver is an exciting milestone for us,” said Melissa and Ariana, Founder of Pitch-A-Friend LLC. “The enthusiastic response in Philadelphia has shown us that there is a real appetite for events that celebrate friendship and create meaningful connections. We look forward to bringing this unique experience to Denver and continuing to grow our community.”
Local venues in Philadelphia have praised the event for its positive impact on their business:
“Hosting Pitch-A-Friend events has been a game-changer for our business, driving sales, expanding our reach, and improving retention. The majority of attendees are new visitors, exposing us to a broader audience. Inaugural venues often become event landmarks, adding to their appeal. We typically schedule these on steady weekday evenings, bringing in business comparable to a full Saturday shift, effectively tripling our weeknight earnings.”
— Punch Buggy Brewing Company,(First Ever Location)
“We’ve seen a 50% increase in sales on nights we host Pitch-A-Friend. It’s driven new customer growth, especially as a new business, and allows us to engage with our clients in a different way. For other venues considering hosting Pitch-A-Friend, create a space where guests feel comfortable to be themselves, have extra seating ready to go—you’ll need it!”
— Boozy Mutt, Philadelphia
“The business was really good for a typically slow night. It was a good crowd. The bartenders thought it was a good night as well!”
— Two Locals Brewing Company, Philadelphia
In addition to the viral Instagram post, Pitch-A-Friend has been featured in various press outlets, highlighting its innovative approach and positive impact. For more information on Pitch-A-Friend and to read our press coverage, please visit our website at www.pitch-a-friend.com.
About Pitch-A-Friend:
Pitch-A-Friend LLC began in Philadelphia as a fun and engaging way to bring people together and celebrate friendship. Our events have been met with enthusiasm and positive feedback, leading us to expand to new cities. The founding chapter in Philadelphia continues to thrive, setting the standard for the vibrant and inclusive community we aim to build in each new location.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It was been exciting to build the community of participants and also unexpectedly, passionate leaders for our Chapters that are bringing new ideas and community to our company!

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
One of the most important lessons we’ve learned since starting Pitch-A-Friend is that the challenges singles face are not unique to Philadelphia. While we initially thought these struggles were local, we’ve now heard from individuals in over 22 countries who resonate with the same frustrations in their dating scenes. It’s become clear that people don’t communicate or meet in the same way anymore, and the pandemic has only amplified that. Our mission has evolved to focus on rekindling the ease and comfort of meeting and talking to new people when you’re out and celebrating amazing singles, something that feels increasingly rare today.

Pricing:

• Events are free to attend

Contact Info:

• Website: https://pitch-a-friend.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pitchafriend.philly/ and https://www.instagram.com/pitchafriend.denver/

Image Credits
Pitch-A-Friend LLC