OpenMinded Dating Review: Open Relationships, Polyamory & Swinging

OpenMinded: Dating Redefined for Open Relationships

For those feeling confined by traditional relationship structures, OpenMinded represents a fresh and liberating approach to online dating. Established in April 2015 by MIT entrepreneur Brandon Wade, OpenMinded caters specifically to people seeking honest, non-monogamous connections—serving communities interested in open relationships, polyamory, and swinging without stigma.

Why OpenMinded Exists

While mainstream dating sites continue to promise romantic destinies, OpenMinded was forged out of a growing societal need: the appetite for alternative relationship configurations. Wade argues that “marriage has taken a downturn because it no longer satisfies the needs of the modern woman or man.” For those who feel monogamy isn’t the only path, OpenMinded provides an inclusive, sex-positive space for exploring diverse romantic arrangements.

• Founded: April 2015
• Founder: Brandon Wade (MIT graduate and serial dating site entrepreneur)
• Core audience: People seeking open relationships, polyamory, swinging, and other alternative relationship forms
• User base: Over 600,000 users from the U.S.

Philosophy: Honesty, Acceptance, and Anti-Cheating

Unlike sites that promote secrecy or infidelity, OpenMinded positions itself as decisively “anti-cheating.” It champions honesty and acceptance as the foundation for lasting open relationships. Wade states, “This is not a place for ‘hookups’ but a platform for the underserved community of non-monogamous people.” Rather than supporting cheating, the site rejects the stigma, aiming to create a safe online environment where “members can get together without the stigma.”

• OpenMinded is not about cheating but about consensual, transparent relationships.
• The site welcomes singles and couples of all sexual orientations.
• Users sign up as individuals or couples, setting their relationship preferences openly.

How OpenMinded Works

Joining OpenMinded feels familiar to those who have used dating sites before—but with features designed for the unique needs of the open relationship community. Users create profiles detailing their openness to alternative relationship structures. Quick registration means users can be online in less than 10 minutes, though profile pictures must be validated before messaging can begin.

• Sign-up options: Individuals or couples welcome
• Sexual preferences: All orientations included
• Profile approval: Profile pictures must be admin-approved before messaging
• Messaging: Free to all registered users

Usability and Design

OpenMinded’s interface is crafted for simplicity and ease of use. Unlike many dating platforms, you won’t be inundated by spam or aggressive advertising. The website features a user counter to show who is online, which helps users target their communication for maximum effectiveness.

• Intuitive search, messaging, and matching menus
• Quick search and message links on the Dashboard
• User counter identifies peak usage times for more successful matches
• No mobile app yet; accounts must be created via the website

Matching System & Features

Matching is driven by both registration data and user profile details, allowing for personalized recommendations. You can also define your own criteria for potential matches, such as location, relationship style, and interests.

• Matching: Algorithm suggests users based on profile data and preferences
• Search: Filters for relationship interests, age, location, and more
• Blocking: Users can block others directly from their profiles

Core Relationship Styles Supported

Pricing: Affordable and Transparent

One of OpenMinded’s key attractions is free messaging; users are not forced onto a paid membership merely to connect with others. For those seeking enhanced features, the site offers a competitively priced membership model:

• 1-month membership: $19.95
• 3-month membership: $50.85 ($16.95 per month)
• 6-month membership: $83.70 ($13.95 per month)

Unlike many sites, key features like browsing and messaging remain available even to free users, supporting the idea of open access for a community often underserved by mainstream dating platforms.

Safety & User Verification

• Users must verify their email and have profile pictures validated by the admin team before messaging can start.
• Site reportedly free of widespread fake profiles and scams, partly due to its vetting policies.
• Admin review raises safety standards for the platform, protecting users from fraud and misuse.

Brandon Wade: Dating Tech Innovator

Brandon Wade, the mind behind OpenMinded, is well established in the online dating industry. He previously launched platforms such as:

• SeekingArrangements.com – matching “Sugar Babies” with wealthy partners
• Miss Travel – connecting frequent travelers for companionship
• WhatsYourPrice.com – facilitating paid dates for “beautiful members”

Wade’s approach is sometimes controversial, but he insists that new models are needed to tackle the changing nature of love and commitment. He describes love as “a concept invented by poor people,” and argues that infatuation must evolve into selfless love for relationships to endure.

Social Shifts: Why Open Relationships Are Growing

Historically, monogamy has been positioned as the societal default. Today, a shift is unmistakable as more people question whether lifelong exclusivity fits their reality. As Wade puts it, “Monogamy is realistic for those who want it and are able to maintain it. But those who cannot or do not want to, we want them to know they are not alone, and should be completely open about their decisions.”

• More couples are bucking traditions for unconventional relationships.
• Acceptance of polyamory, swinging, and open relationships is rising.
• Platforms like OpenMinded meet these evolving social needs.

Stigma and Community

Non-monogamous and polyamorous people often experience stigma or lack of understanding in mainstream spaces. OpenMinded’s central value is acceptance—offering an environment where users can pursue honest connections without judgment.

• Safe platform to explore alternative relationships.
• Honest, direct profiles support transparency.
• Support for all orientations and identities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is OpenMinded legit and safe to use?

A: Yes, OpenMinded is considered a safe and legitimate dating site. Profiles and pictures are validated by admins before messaging is allowed, and users must verify their email addresses.

Q: Who can join OpenMinded?

A: The site is open to adults (18+) of all sexual orientations. Users can join as individuals or as couples, depending on their relationship goals.

Q: Is OpenMinded free?

A: Messaging and basic usage are free. Membership offers additional features for a competitive price, but you’re not required to pay to use the site’s core functions.

Q: How is OpenMinded different from other dating sites?

A: OpenMinded focuses exclusively on non-monogamous relationship forms. Its ethos is built around honesty and anti-cheating, rather than casual hookups or secret infidelity.

Q: How do I delete my profile on OpenMinded?

A: You can remove your profile by navigating to settings and selecting the “Delete Profile” option. For additional support, the user hotline can be reached at +1 702 302 9369.

Comparing OpenMinded with Other Dating Platforms

Getting Started on OpenMinded

• Visit the OpenMinded website (no mobile app currently).
• Register as an individual or couple.
• Complete profile details emphasizing relationship openness and preferences.
• Upload a profile photo for admin approval.
• Use search and matching tools to find like-minded users.
• Message users for free and arrange connections based on mutual interests.

Conclusion: Embracing New Relationship Possibilities

OpenMinded stands out for its honest, open, and inclusive philosophy. By supporting those who seek love and connection outside the confines of monogamy, the site redefines what dating can mean in the 21st century. Whether exploring polyamory, open relationships, or simply seeking understanding, users will find a space that values transparency and acceptance above all.

• Honesty and acceptance form the site’s core.
• Designed for non-monogamous relationships of all shapes and sizes.
• Provides a consistent, safe, and stigma-free experience.
• Free messaging and competitive paid features.
• Open to all orientations, individuals, and couples.