Innovative compatibility-based offerings for friendships and dating

Using science of connection and personal skills to help you make friends and / or find love

Real Connections Start Here

Current Charlotte Event Calendar

Participant reviews

Discover what our guests think about our events

The Challenges of Making Friends and Finding Love in Our Ultra-Digital World
We’re more “connected” than ever—but not in the ways that truly matter. These days, we spend more time behind screens than we do making real eye contact. The internet has made life more convenient, sure—but it’s also made us lonelier.

Dating apps promise endless possibilities, but most people walk away feeling more discouraged than desired. Swiping fatigue is real. Conversations fizzle. Ghosting is the norm. And while it may feel like everyone’s out there living their best love lives, the truth is, many are quietly craving something deeper and more human.

And when it comes to friendship? It’s no easier. Our adult lives are packed with responsibilities, and social media tricks us into thinking we’re staying in touch—when in reality, we’re drifting further apart. We’ve become pros at maintaining shallow connections, while the deeper, soul-filling ones get harder and harder to find.

That’s where Filled Cups comes in

I’ve created a method—and a movement—that brings people together in real life through intentional event design. Whether you’re looking for love, friendship, or simply more meaningful conversation, our experiences are built to spark real connections, not just small talk. No swiping, no algorithms—just warm vibes, thoughtful structure, and a space to be fully seen.

How? We currently host two intentional event series: one for making new friends, and one for finding love. While both follow a similar structure, the energy, content, and prep are thoughtfully tailored to the type of connection you're looking to create.

Our Friend-Matching events have sparked dozens of real-life friendships in Charlotte since we launched them in November 2024. Whether you're new to town or just craving deeper social circles, these gatherings are designed to help you go beyond small talk and actually click with people.

Our Singles-Matching series launched in Spring 2025—and we’re learning and evolving with every event. What we’re hearing loud and clear? People are over the apps and the usual speed-dating shuffle. They’re showing up for something more grounded, more intentional—and they’re loving the difference.

Friend-Matching

Our series of friend-matching events is now active!

Singles-Matching

Now offering monthly for different age groups!

Event Series

"Fernanda was an excellent host and the event was well organized and full of fun icebreaker games aimed at bringing like minded people together. Thank you for the thought and effort you put in to enabling this unique gathering and in helping to start meaningful conversations."

Jennifer K., friends event participant

"I like the concept. The games made it easier to have conversations. It was a creative, inexpensive way to spend a Friday night and meet new people."

-Janet D., singles event participant

Filled Cups is your catalyst for building real, meaningful connections.

We host in-person events—and offer the inspiration and resources you need—to help you expand your social circle, deepen your relationships, and grow both personally and professionally.

Our friend-matching and singles-matching events are designed with intention, creating welcoming spaces for authentic human connection. No surface-level small talk. No awkward mingling. Just structured, heart-centered gatherings that make it easier to meet people who get you.

Filled Cups was founded by me, Fernanda Brasileiro, in 2024. The mission? To bring people out of isolation and back into the kind of relationships that actually fill their cups.

About Filled Cups

Check out our events!

I grew up in Brazil, where friendship, warmth, and hospitality are woven into daily life. Because my family moved around often (military dad life), I had to become good at starting over—making friends, reading the room, and connecting quickly. Those early experiences shaped me, and over the years I’ve become a bit of a connections nerd—always learning, always practicing, and always paying attention to what really brings people together.

These social skills have served me in every part of my life—from navigating new cities to building community, to fostering strong professional relationships. And on a personal level, I feel endlessly grateful for the deep friendships I’ve cultivated—and for my husband Frank, who’s not just my partner in life, but also an incredible father.

I created Filled Cups to help others experience that same sense of belonging and connection. Because I truly believe: life feels richer, safer, and more joyful when you’re surrounded by people who see you, support you, and show up for you.

Real Connections Start Here

In a world full of swiping and scrolling, Filled Cups creates intentional spaces where people meet face-to-face, share meaningful moments, and build relationships that actually matter.