REXBURG, ID – For college students in Rexburg, the age-old question of “What should we do tonight?” just got a colorful, mechanical answer. Standing in the lobby of the Cedars at Hemming Village is a bright pink-and-white vending machine that doesn’t dispense snacks—it dispenses romance.
“The Date Machine,” a viral startup founded by BYU-Idaho students Donovan Strader and his cousin Carter Felt, is a creative solution to the common hurdles of modern dating: planning fatigue, awkward silence, and tight budgets.
The Anatomy of a “Date Kit”
For a price tag ranging from $5 to $35, users can select from a variety of curated date envelopes, each sealed with a classic wax stamp. These aren’t just suggestions; they are comprehensive, pre-paid experiences. A typical kit includes:
- A Pre-paid Meal: Vouchers for local favorites like Kainoas Hawaiian Grill or The Cookie Place.
- Icebreaker Cards: Specifically designed questions to help couples move past small talk.
- Creative Activities: Materials for unique experiences, ranging from “DIY Spa Nights” with face masks to map-led treasure hunts around town.
Solving the “Rexburg Rut”
The idea was born after Strader and Felt surveyed over 100 peers to find out why they weren’t dating more. The data was clear: students felt they lacked original ideas and the funds to execute them.
“We wanted to make it so people could just show up and go,” Strader told local reporters. By handling the logistics and partnering with local businesses for discounted rates, the duo has successfully lowered the barrier to entry for a night out on the town.
A Growing Empire of Love
The response has been overwhelming. Within its first month, the machine sold over 200 kits, prompting the founders to consider expanding the concept to other university towns across the country. Beyond the machine, the cousins also offer a free blind dating service, which has already seen hundreds of sign-ups from students looking for a surprise match.
In a world dominated by swiping and digital interactions, Strader and Felt are betting on a more tactile approach to love—one that starts with the turn of a dial and a pink envelope.