Discovering your ideal soul mate can be a challenge, especially in a small bedroom community with few matchmaking resources. Locals report that superior online encounters are sporadic, but social groups and recreational outings can reap some triumphs. But, like many say, “you’ll find love when you’re not looking.” In other words, the secret for some has been to do what they enjoy and romance magically springs forth.

“Dating is a mystery in Reno,” says Eileen Baldecchi, a 27-year-old aesthetician at E Day Spa who recently moved back to Reno. “Reno’s a friendly city, but a challenging environment for singles.”

Zak Gilbert agrees.

“It’s just different here,” says the 33-year-old owner of Nevada Casting. “When I lived in Atlanta, we had an organization called Atlanta Sport and Social that hosted co-ed sporting events as well as other gatherings throughout the year.It would be great to have a similar organization here in Reno.”

Love connection

Several singles have tried finding love on the Internet, but success is hit or miss.

“I’ve tried online dating and have met several nice women,” says 38-year-old Erich Schmitt, a sales consultant for Brinks Home Security. “I’ve also met many quality people through nonprofit work and networking groups, and since Northern Nevada thrives on outdoor recreation, the biking and hiking clubs are a great way to meet others with similar interests.”

Reno resident Suzanne Hall*, a 45-year-old educational instructor, also tried the Internet.

“I met nice men online, but found my fiancé’, Rick Hampton*, sitting a few pews away from me at church!” she says. “We happened to attend the same service and exchanged glances a few times. We talked briefly at church events, and one day he invited me out for coffee. I wanted someone who was strong in his faith, so the fact that we met at church was a plus. We dated for over a year and were married in March.”

Hampton agrees, saying, “There was something comforting about meeting Suzanne at church. From the start of our relationship, we both knew where we stood from a spiritual standpoint. That gave us a solid foundation to build our friendship. We feel fortunate to have found each other.”

Making the list

According to psychologist and e-Harmony founder Dr. Neil Clark Warren’s article, “Your Must-Haves and Can’t Stands,” it’s important to compile a list of top 10 positive qualities you desire and top 10 negative qualities you dislike in a partner. For example “spiritually passionate” or “great sense of humor” might be on your “must-haves” list.

Once your list is compiled, another option might be to check out Together, a national introductory service. Tressa O’Lear, owner of the Reno office, says the company’s philosophy for success is to focus solely on compatibility. According to O’Lear, “The majority of our clients are successful professionals who are time-challenged and know the importance of hiring an expert.”

Check mate

The best advice is to be yourself, have a positive attitude, and engage in activities you enjoy.

“The 50-plus dating game has never been hotter,” according to Sarah Mahoney, in her article entitled “Seeking Love,” written for AARP Magazine. “Singles in their 50s have greater wisdom and grace in dealing with people, which helps in dating.”

Love could be waiting on the other side of the bookshelf, on your next chair lift ride, in your next e-mail, or in the pew across the aisle. Just remember, it’s an adventure, so enjoy the journey.

Meet market

Here is a selection of events and year-round activities great for socializing (and possibly finding your mate) in Reno:

• The Downtown Reno Wine Walk is held 2-5 p.m. the third Saturday of every month. For details, visit renoriver.org/html.winewalk

• Artown hosts several events throughout the month of July. For more information, see artown.org. For instance, Art of the Cocktails, is a group show of 30 artists coinciding with Artown.

According to organizer Meredith Tanzer, “Last year the opening drew more than 300 people, many of whom were single or who brought single friends to meet others.” For details, contact Tanzer at La Bussola at 348-8858.

• The Sparks Hometown Farmer’s Market in Victorian Square is held 4-9 p.m. every Thursday from June through August.

• Sierra Adventures offers a host of outdoor activities for singles. Learn more at wildsierra.com or call (866)232-8928.

• Soak up the scene and meet people at one of Reno’s bars, including the Sapphire Lounge in Harrah’s, Roxy’s in the Eldorado Hotel & Casino, Satellite Lounge and The Chocolate Bar on California Avenue, The Green Room or Liquid Lounge on West Street, Silver Peak Grill and Taproom on Sierra Street, EJ’s Jazz Café on South Virginia Street, and Jungle Vino on First Street.

• Reno Singles Organization offers mixers, potlucks, game nights, and outings for those 40 and older. Details: Deloris 747-2275, Fran at 747-0846, or renosingles.net

• Reno-Sparks Mingling Singles get together for drinks, dinner, dancing, and conversation for those 40 and older. Details: Debbie at 677-0872 or Leola at 746-4904.

* Some names have been changed.

Bobbi Coulter, a Reno freelance writer, was single for several years prior to marrying her husband of five years.