“How did you guys meet?”

It’s a classic question that all couples must endure after introducing their significant other. Most responses include school, work or mutual friends. When someone replies “online,” reactions may be different. Although technology is at its prime, many people are still skeptical about using it for dating.

Breie Baldwin, of Ankeny, won a 30-day subscription in 2008 to Match.com from a March Madness pool.

“I was definitely skeptical. At the time, I was 20 years old and thought that there was no way I would use online dating. I thought it was only for people who were desperate,” Baldwin said.

However, the novelty of a free subscription and curiosity of the site and its users led Baldwin to sign up.

Once signed up, users answer questions about their physical traits, lifestyles, interests and future goals. Users are also able to select criteria for a potential match. These include things like how far away your match can be, what age range is preferred and even a smoker/non-smoker option.

During Baldwin’s first week of her subscription, she began to review her matches.

“I had a virtual ‘wink’ from a guy who sparked my interest, so I messaged him,” Baldwin said.

From there, they set up a bowling date in April of 2008. Immediately after the date, Baldwin deleted her account on Match.com because the date went well. So well, in fact, they recently married in November 2010.

“My thoughts are better about online dating now. It helps to know that the people on there are pretty serious about finding someone, if they took the time to fill out the profile,” Baldwin said.

She also pointed out that on Match.com, you are able to see what kind of relationship someone is looking for, whereas if you were to meet someone at a bar, they might not be interested in long-term dating.

Baldwin transformed from someone who thought online dating was for desperate people, to one who would recommend it.

“I would absolutely recommend online dating, and have to quite a few people,” Baldwin said. “They offer a lot of free match weekends where you don’t even have to pay to use it.”

For best results, uploading multiple pictures and thorough information is the best way to find a match, she said.

“My father-in-law is getting married this spring to a woman that he met on Match.com, as well,” Baldwin said. “No matter what age you are, you can find someone.”

Baldwin’s experience with Match.com proves that it can be successful and that creating a detailed and honest profile can truly lead one to a perfect match.