Due to Popular Demand

Chapala Connections is open to English Speaking adults who are single and over age 50+

Chapala Connections: Bringing Together Singles Over 50 in Lake Chapala

In the picturesque Lake Chapala region — known for its gentle climate, vibrant culture, and large community of both Mexicans and foreigners — one new social club

is rewriting the way mature singles meet and connect.

It’s called Chapala Connections, and it’s quickly becoming one of the most talked-about new ventures along the lakeshore. Originally envisioned as a matchmaking service for expats, the club’s founders — Emily Duncan and Steve Powers — soon realized that love, friendship, and companionship don’t need passports.

“After we announced the idea, so many locals and long-term residents reached out asking to join,” explains co-founder Emily Duncan. “They said, ‘We may not be expats, but we’re single, over 50, and we speak English — can we come too?’ The answer, of course, was yes.”

A wider circle of connection

Chapala Connections is now open to all English-speaking singles aged 50 and over, regardless of nationality. The goal remains the same: to create a respectful, elegant, and welcoming community for people in midlife and beyond who want genuine connection — friendship, romance, or simply good company.

“Whether you were born in Mexico, moved here 20 years ago, or arrived last month, we all share something in common — we’re looking for meaningful human connection,” says co-founder Steve Powers. “We realized it didn’t make sense to exclude anyone who shares that goal and can communicate comfortably in English.”

The need for something different

While the Lake Chapala area is famous for its festivals, live music, and bustling weekend events, Powers and Duncan both saw a social gap among older singles. Bars and dances exist — but tend to attract the same crowd week after week.

“For many people over 50, especially those who don’t go out often, it can be hard to meet someone new,” says Duncan. “There are plenty of social scenes for extroverts, but not much for those who are a little more private, or simply tired of the party circuit.”

That insight became the foundation for Chapala Connections: a club that values warmth, respect, and genuine compatibility over small talk or nightlife.

The founders behind the idea

Emily Duncan has lived in the Lake Chapala area for more than 30 years. Originally from Ontario, Canada, she speaks fluent Spanish and is deeply rooted in the local community. “I’ve watched this region evolve from a sleepy lakeside town into an international hub,” she says. “But what hasn’t changed is how many people, especially later in life, still long for connection.”

Her business partner, Steve Powers, moved to Chapala six months ago after decades in California, where he built a long and successful career in the events and entertainment industry. Legally separated and ready to start a new chapter, Powers recognized the same emotional pattern Emily had seen for years.

“People come here to reinvent themselves,” he says. “They find beauty, affordability, and a wonderful mix of cultures — but not everyone finds companionship. We wanted to change that.”

Matchmaking with a personal touch

Chapala Connections combines classic matchmaking with community-building. Every new member meets privately with one of the directors — Emily interviews the women, Steve interviews the men — in a relaxed, one-hour conversation. These sessions are never recorded, allowing members to speak openly about their background, lifestyle, and what they’re looking for in a partner or friend.

“It’s not about swiping or algorithms,” says Powers. “It’s about intuition, people skills, and real human connection. We listen carefully, and we use our experience to make thoughtful introductions.”

The club will host its first member mixer in January 2026, and expects to hold two events per month thereafter. These mixers will take place at local restaurants, wine bars, and garden patios — venues chosen for comfort, safety, and charm.

Each event will include light appetizers, drinks, and casual conversation starters to help guests mingle naturally. Members can also opt for personalized matchmaking sessions for more private introductions.

Community over competition

Both founders emphasize that Chapala Connections is not just for dating — it’s a social club for all types of meaningful relationships.

“Some people will find love,” Duncan says, “but others may just find wonderful new friends — and that’s equally important. At this stage of life, what most of us want is companionship, laughter, and a sense of belonging.”

Powers agrees. “This isn’t about chasing youth,” he says. “It’s about celebrating maturity — people who know who they are, what they value, and how to treat others with respect.”

A growing movement of connection

Interest in the club has grown rapidly through word of mouth, particularly among retirees and long-time residents who say that meeting new people after 50 can be surprisingly hard — even in a friendly place like Lake Chapala.

“Many single people here are independent, active, and happy,” says Duncan, “but that doesn’t mean they don’t want someone to share their time with. We’re giving them that chance — in a safe, friendly, and elegant setting.”

With the first official event just around the corner, the founders say they’re excited not only to make matches, but to help strengthen the broader community.

“We’re bringing people together who might never have met otherwise,” says Powers. “And in a place like Lake Chapala — where so many people come to start a new life — that kind of connection can be life-changing.”

For more information

Chapala Connections is now accepting applications for founding members.

📧 Email: info@chapalaconnections.com

🌐 Facebook: Chapala Connections

Because as Emily and Steve like to say:🌿 “At any age — connection is everything.”