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How long does it take to size up a date?

Last night at The Monkey Bar/Fusion restaurant on Broughton Street, it took eight minutes.

A group of 20 Savannah singles, 10 men and 10 women, plunked down $35 for a chance to meet that special someone Tuesday evening during "8minuteDating." The speed-dating event guarantees single men and women at least eight, eight-minute long one-on-one "dates."

"Most people know within eight minutes if they want to pursue the conversation," said Judy Mullen, the creator of the event.

The premise is simple, two people, each wearing a name tag - first names only please - and a number, chat each other up for the prescribed amount of time. When time is up, a bell rings, and they move on to someone else. No phone numbers on napkins, no promises to call, no awkward should-we-or-shouldn't-we kiss moments.

After the event is over, daters go online and contact those they want to meet again, whether for dating, friendship, or business.

This rejection-free environment is one of the reasons speed dating has gained popularity all over the country in recent years.

Mullen has been single in Savannah for the last 13 years and as the owner of Reflections on the River salon, she hears complaints all the time from men and women about the dearth of places to meet available singles.

Speed-dating newbie, Mike, 43, agrees.

"I don't stay out until 3 a.m. anymore, so it's a little tougher to meet women," he said.

Marcia, 31, also a speed-dating novice, thinks that too many Savannah bars and clubs cater strictly to the 20-something crowd.

"I used to go to places like Deja Groove, but that got old very quickly," she said. "I just want to meet new people and have some good conversation."