One Single Gal Explains Why New Year's Eve Is a Bust

When I first set out to find cool singles, I had no idea that I would learn so much about what people are really looking for in relationships. For one resident, it was all about trusting that the Universe would make it all happen. And this Echo Park single thought she had it all figured out ... until a date with disaster reminded her that Stanley Tucci had everything a woman could ever want.

Name: Melissa Rose

Age: 34

Occupation: Pharmaceutical Sales

Place of Birth: Oklahoma

Current Location:

Relationship Status: Single

Interested In: An honest man that doesn't need a piece of paper to reaffirm his commitment.

Do you live close by?

Right up the street. I walk down here fairly often and take in the great weather on the patio here after a .

Are you single?

I am. I date, but I am not looking for marriage necessarily. I would love to have a partner in crime, you know? I want someone to share my life with, but not necessarily have a piece of paper like a marriage certificate to show for it. ... But I have been to more weddings than Elizabeth Taylor. I also throw a rockin' .

Are you wanting kids someday?

Uh. No. No, thank you. I am not looking to be tied down with . It's just the way I am. But I do love my friends' kids and planning their showers. I think it's my southern hospitality that makes me such a great party thrower.

What do you look for in a guy?

Honest. Funny. Ambitious. I mean, obviously, you want that sexual attraction, too. But some things override that initially. I believe that the Universe gives you exactly what you ask for. And in that regard, I will get Stanley Tucci.

The actor? You may be the only one wanting to get some of that. Any big New Year's eve plans?

Some of my friends are heading to Glen Echo Park to swing dance, but I think I may have to pass on that. They really are trying to get me to go. I have a feeling misery loves company. Maybe I am just too young to appreciate swing dancing!

I take it you are not a dancer.

Not by any sense of the word. After they finish embarrassing themselves, I may go meet them at The Echoplex to see if I get lucky (laughs). That was a joke, by the way.

Got it.

New Year's eve is kind of amateur hour, in my book. I am going to make it more mellow this year. I am not the type that loves the midnight kiss or anything. So far, it looks like I will be going to a small house nearby here actually.

Do you have a nightmare dating story?

Oh, my God. Yes. I went out with this guy twice and realized he was totally psycho and creepy, so I broke it off. The next day, he e-mailed me a photo of himself naked and wrote below it: "Look at what you are missing." I was like: bullet dodged.

Wasn't he afraid that you would share it on the Internet?

No. He cut his face out of the photo. It was just his body. Score.

What do you do for fun in Echo Park?

I meet a lot of people hiking and outdoors. I do the Baxter Stairs—a great leg and cardio workout. And I have a as you can see here, so he is a good conversation piece.

You seem pretty daring and outgoing. Do you approach men much?

No. Never. I have mastered the art of "hard to get." But I have been trying to be more open lately, like being receptive to glances, smiling, whatever. ... I dated an once, and I don't think I will do that again unless he had a syndication deal.

I think Stanley Tucci has something like that going for him.

True! Now, he is a man that I could live with. I just couldn't deal with the ups and downs of the everyday actor's life, trying to get the audition and struggling. I need security. Stanley has poise, a sense of humor, loyalty, grace and maturity.

Where do you go out in Echo Park to meet eligible bachelors that are looking for commitment, but not marriage?

I am kind of really loving these days. The ambiance is really cool, dark and mysterious. I actually like drinking beer there, but I am usually a wine lover. And I swear it seems like they never close, so I can always count on it. I have met a few dating contenders there. No yet, but it does look promising, actually. I am actually going there tonight, so you never know. I'm up for anything.

Maybe another headless naked man?

Let's hope not!