Today, we’d like to introduce you to Bretton Key.
Hi Bretton, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
My story to get here is very humble, and I never imagined the position I would be in today. I started jotting ideas for fun things to do on paper notes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over time, I had many of these ideas collected in a mason jar. The ideas were not restaurants per say but more adventurous things to push me out my comfort zone. Furthermore, I firmly believed that any person willing to do items in my jar was somebody I needed to invest in and keep close. I was navigating the newly single life and the dating scene after a long-term relationship.
Coincidentally, I also noticed some relationship challenges within my friend circle, which sparked this whole thing. I did not look at this as a business until the app came out, immediately I gained a lot of users without even asking.
I didn’t realize the uphill battle of being classified as a “dating app” because there was a negative association with adding on what is wrong in the dating world. People looked at me at first, like, who is this joker here trying to match me up? Things changed once I started talking about the real premise and purpose of what I was doing in my venture. In a nutshell, My Date Jar is different from your typical matchmaking service. Instead, we’re all about paving the way to better relationships through real experiences. I’m not into the whole hookup scene or playing the elimination game regarding dating. My goal is simple- create a space for people to share their experiences and tips while helping tourism, attractions, and unique activity businesses stay connected.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My journey as a first-time app developer has been quite the rollercoaster. Coming from a strong IT background, I thought I had all the skills and knowledge needed. But boy, was I in for a surprise! Transitioning from the structured world of corporate IT to the fast-paced, ever-changing landscape of app development was a shock. Suddenly, I was not just the architect but also the engine behind my venture, without the safety net of a corporate umbrella.
I quickly realized that success in this new world required more than technical skills. It demanded a deep dive into the world of business and a willingness to learn and adapt. So, I dove headfirst into technical training and business courses, even joining incubator programs to up my game. I also had to expand my mindset. I started thinking my app would just serve my local community, but I soon saw its potential on a much larger scale.
The real turning point was understanding that success came from connecting with my audience. This meant stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing a more public role.
The obstacles I overcame and yet to face have let me know I’m walking in my purpose. For every time I thought I wanted to quit, I got confirmation that I am on the right path. The challenges birthed for me a new mentality to never give up, and all I desire is at my fingertips. I tell myself daily that I’m just one away… one download away, one speaking engagement, one business partner, one client success story, from My Date Jar being a household name.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Date Jar LLC?
So my business is called Date Jar, and we offer this cool service called My Date Jar via an interactive app. We’re all about making it easy to plan activities and events without wasting time. But we’re not stopping there!
I see My Date Jar becoming the ultimate go-to platform for fun and entertainment, no matter what stage your relationship is at. Our goal is to bring real value to our users and partner up with different industries to improve personal and professional relationships.
I’m trying to shake things up and encourage people to spend higher-quality time with their loved ones. We’re not just about giving you ideas or a game plan for fun; we want to be the first thing you think of when you want worry-free, great-quality time.
Oh, and here’s the cool part: we’ve also created a product to accompany the app. It’s a card game called Date Cards Vol.1, not your average card game. It’s all about sparking interesting conversations and creating lasting memories with your friends and loved ones.
With 42 cards featuring trivia, reflective questions, and dares, it’s designed for 2-4 players to enjoy together. It’s not about winning but deepening connections and having a blast together.
So, what sets us apart in this sea of dating apps and services? We’re all about providing the tools for authentic connections in one simple platform. You can find great things to do without a million questions, use our scheduling tool to show intention and initiative and be part of a community that creates the best times ever. It’s like having a supportive group cheering you on and giving tips on making every experience unforgettable.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, I believe the industry will return to real-life interactions and more meaningful connections. The trend of hook-up culture is becoming taboo, and people prioritize quality relationships over casual encounters.
Statistics support this shift, indicating a growing desire for deeper connections and meaningful experiences. While AI will undoubtedly play a role in facilitating these connections, it will not be the sole source. Instead, AI will enhance the user experience, providing personalized recommendations and insights to help people connect more deeply.
As a result, I see the industry moving towards a more balanced approach, where technology is used to facilitate connections but not to replace genuine human interaction. This collaborative approach between technology and human interaction will benefit users and help foster a sense of community and support within the industry.
I envision a future where AI enhances real-life interactions and relationships, helping people create deeper connections and more meaningful experiences.
Pricing:
- $4.99 a month app subscription
- $39.99 Annually for app subscription
- $19.99 For Card Game
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mydatejar.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/mydatejar
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mydatejar
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mydatejar/
- Other: https://a.co/d/5XrrCzf
