Sure- they were surprised, but then they were like, 'really? that's amazing!' and confess they had many times considered it and rejected the idea. I say treat each query as you will, of course- but dont be shamed. Todays dating is totally different than in the past. Are you happy? is the only qualifying question.
Agreed.
I can see how people were more likely to be surprised when you met through a classified ad.
Internet dating is much more pervasive. It may be a function of my age, but I'm not sure if I ever knew a couple who met through a classified ad. I know lots of couples that met online.