Pop-rock artist Garrett Neiles, celebrated for his 2023 EP 27, which garnered praise from Exclaim, CBC, and SiriusXM, recently made waves with his new single, “Lipstick.” A well-known figure in the music scene, Garrett has also been featured on Global TV and was honored with the Top Entertainer Award at the Winnipeg Nightlife Awards.
Garrett’s move from Winnipeg to Toronto last March marked a major shift in his dating life. At the time, he was actively seeking connections in a new city, often going on dates to explore the local scene and meet new people. Despite the odds—where only one in five dates led to a second meeting—he valued the opportunity to interact with open-minded and personable individuals.
Garrett Neiles navigates the Toronto dating scene after moving from Winnipeg, meeting new people and exploring the city
Summer evenings spent sipping cocktails on Ossington’s back patios became his preferred date night spot. One memorable date involved a woman who, when asked about her type, bluntly stated she preferred “men taller than me,” a moment Garrett found both amusing and telling.
Garrett’s main relationship with actress and musician Arden Alfonso began through a serendipitous introduction by their fathers, who met at a Shoppers Drug Mart in Winnipeg. This chance encounter led to Arden and Garrett connecting via Instagram DMs. Garrett remembers feeling an unusual sense of anticipation and serenity before their first meeting, which was rare for him.
Their initial date took place at Queen St. Warehouse, where Garrett was immediately struck by Arden’s red hair and the unique blend of youthful energy and mature emotional insight she exhibited. Their shared favorite song, “Angel” by Aerosmith, further bonded them.
They chose to take their time before becoming exclusive, spending nearly six months dating casually to ensure their lifestyles were compatible. When Garrett finally asked Arden to be his girlfriend, the moment was deeply emotional for both.
Balancing their careers and relationship has been a challenge, but Arden’s experience as an actress—who also tours with Garrett and performs with the band—has made the adjustment smoother. Arden’s exceptional piano skills and vocal prowess, honed in Los Angeles, have added a new dynamic to Garrett’s performances.
Their favorite date spots in Toronto include Saku on Queen for sushi, the Poseidon roll paired with hot sake, and an evening of bowling at the Ballroom on John St., followed by a show at the Cameron House. They also share a newfound passion for golf, with Arden starting out and Garrett rekindling his love for the sport.
An interesting date they enjoyed was shooting a music video together, where they portrayed a lost-love story while driving a vintage car. This collaborative experience not only showcased their chemistry but also sparked ideas for future joint ventures and performances, highlighting their desire to grow together both personally and professionally.
