It was only after graduating from college that “The Dating” really began. I did online dates, set-ups, and said yes to the dates that occasionally arose from chance encounters. These dates were an excellent way to meet people in the new city where I lived – a city that is notorious for being filled with thousands of single people who are somehow unable to meet and date each other (New York City). But as I explored the dating world, I soon became acquainted with its cold, harsh realities. It is NOT easy to find someone you actually like. For every good date, you go on four terrible first dates and two secretly-Republican second dates (a secretly-Republican second date is when you have a promising first date with someone only to discover on the second date that they are “fiscally conservative,” which, to you, is a major deal-breaker.)

But as people say, dating – even bad dating – is useful because it teaches you what you do and don’t like. And there was a trend to what I really liked: even if I didn’t like the guy, I really liked that he spoke Hebrew. Or went on Birthright. Or couldn’t go out Friday because he had Shabbat dinner plans. Or didn’t eat bacon. I dated guys who weren’t Jewish, but I REALLY loved when they were. At some point it struck me as pretty hilarious that what got me going was a guy who could retell the story of Purim. Like, I actually preferred those guys to the models who casually strolled past me in Soho. And so the blog Porn4Jews was born, which soon became the book Kosher Porn – and I learned that many others shared my love of hora-dancing, matzoh-eating romantic partners.

Dating can be brutal. But for everyone out there looking for a nice Yid (or a much-needed laugh) – we’ve got you covered.

5 Hilarious eCards to Send your JDate Match:

1. Inspired by Israel

This one is for that cutie who shares your love of Israel. You’ve both experienced the busy shuk in Jerusalem and slathered yourselves in mud at the Dead Sea. Send this along with an invite to your favorite falafel place, and before you know it, you’ll be chatting in broken Hebrew and arguing about the best Idan Raichel song. Sababa.

2. JMom Approved

Send this one to the match whose profile includes pictures with adorable little kids. This match knows how important family is (and how cute everyone looks when they’re surrounded by their 2-year-old nephews). They’ll care that your mom is totally awesome, and not the nightmarish Jewish stereotype that we all fear. Trust me – a cool mom is a huge turn on.

 

3. The Shabbos Special

So someone’s piqued your interest who is a little more religious than you are? Or maybe you’ve spotted each other at Friday night services? This “double mitzvah” meme will spark a lively Talmudic discussion that’s sure to break the ice.

 

4. For the Serial Monogamists

Some people are into casual dating, but you’re more of a relationships kind of person. Send this to the match who’s looking for something serious to show them that you’re down to meet the family (and play Coke & Pepsi with a bunch of seventh graders). You’re looking for the real thing – and what could be sexier than that?

 

5. For the Long-Lost Camp Crush

Send this to your long-lost camp crush you’ve been hoping to bump into one of these days. You’re finally old enough for real love to bloom (and your moms would both totally approve – why do you think they send you to Jewish camp in the first place?).