Like most good ideas, the concept for CultureMap's Most Eligible Bachelors and Bachelorettes got its start in a night of knocking back one too many drinks at a sketchy bar. Blame it on the alcohol buzz plus some eye candy hovering around us — that's how the ongoing feature came into the world.
Little did any of us know that the dating guide, originally slotted as a one-time photo essay, would gain such a loyal following. Two years, eight editions and 92 hunks and fetching gals later, the Most Eligible Bachelor and Bachelorette series is still keeping unattached Houstonians in the know and entertained while they search for their significant others.
Some found a match, others found true love and a select few even got hitched. We had our favorites and and so did you. Below are the five most buzzed about personalities who took a risk and put themselves out there, all in the name of love (or love right now).
Connor Barwin
Who would have guessed that the hunky former Houston Texans linebacker wanted a yoga instructor as his ideal better half? After we published this quirky tidbit, we heard there was a huge spike in yoga teacher program enrollment as ladies everywhere were dying to show the NFL stud their flexible asanas. Downward facing dog, anyone?
Rebecca Spera
Even though the glamorous TV reporter is officially off the market and planning a trip down the aisle, she stole the hearts of men all over town when her profile hit CultureMap. She's received the most clicks of any bachelor/bachelorette to date.
Don Vaughn
The neuroscientist, drummer and fashion model — seriously, is there anything this drop dead gorgeous chap doesn't do? — was featured just as he was named one of Cosmo's Bachelor of the Year. We saw him first. Dibs.
Jake Joseph
The underwear designer made it big after his CultureMap moment. He went on to raise more than $28,000 to fund his intimate apparel company for which he has received several accolades, including "best pair for travel" by Men's Health Magazine. What we all want to know is: Boxers or briefs, Jake?
Lawrence Clayton and Jason Cohen
Inside Edition recently came to town to showcase a select group of Houston hotties including Clayton and Cohen (as well as Vaughn) who were previously selected as CultureMap worthy. We know how to pick them. You're welcome.
CultureMap is celebrating its fifth birthday with a big party on Oct. 10 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the new JW Marriott Houston Downtown, with a portion of proceeds going to Casa de Esperanza. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online.
