Do you ever feel like a part of the reason why dating has not worked for you in the past is because, well, you don’t really like dating…?
I’m specifically referencing cookie-cutter dating – and let’s be honest the average person has been on too many dinner dates to count on 3 hands. So why not shake it up? This is an element of Tawkify I dearly love – our date designs. A Philly client recently met his match for a salsa dancing class at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. We’ve sent clients out to burlesque shows, pop-up art exhibits and festivals. And, why not?!
While someone doing all the hard work for you is GLORIOUS – you can also resolve to date differently on your own. Here are some quick tricks and tips that not only apply to first dates, but also second, third, fourth, etc… Enjoy!
Cook at home. Together.
Cooking together is fantastic for creating a bond with another person. Homemade meals are also proven to be healthier than most restaurant meals. I’m not suggesting you bring a stranger into your home for a first date – though you certainly can do that if you like. Instead, book a cooking class for two at your local Sur La Table. Get messy, chop things up, talk, laugh and eat a meal together in an unconventional fashion while learning about culinary history – and each other. This kind of date definitely gets the matchmaker stamp of approval.
Find a new hobby.
While getting to know the person you’re dating is of the utmost importance – why not also date in a way that is self exploratory? Have you wanted to pick up painting, hiking, or glass blowing? Fantastic- do it. Better yet, plan a date where you can paint each other! Attend an art class together, learn how to shape pottery as a team, hike that mountain outside of the city you’ve been meaning to. This is a wonderful way to date! Not only because it’s fun but also because we ALL HAVE LIMITED TIME and it’s hard to carve out those precious hours to date. Instead of spending another Saturday locked indoors at a bar on a first date, go do something you have been itching to do anyway. It will be much more memorable for all involved.
Pitch a tent (indoors).
You can also pitch a tent outside, but if it’s a bit chilly or you’re not the fondest of the critters that roam in the nighttime hours, you can always make a fort indoors too. I realize this is a bit zany, but love is zany so have some fun! String twinkly lights, turn up your favorite playlist, order in from your go-to take away spot. This is an incredibly romantic date that will surprise and delight – but, in my opinion, this is best for a third, fourth, fifth date, etc…. For tips on how to build your own tent, click here.
Release control – or take it.
If you’re the person who always plans the date – then STOP. Let the other person take the reigns. You can discover a lot about someone by the kind of date they plan, so relinquish control and go for the ride. If you planned the first couple of dates, a solid way to initiate a change of pace would be to say something along these lines…
“Yes, meeting this weekend would be great! I don’t know of anything going on, would you like to take over planning this time around?”
If you have yet to plan a date, then put yourself in the driver’s seat and give it a shot! Taking control expresses confidence and moxie – and who doesn’t love moxie?!
Don’t plan at all.
Just don’t plan a thing. Meet somewhere and go for a walk. Pass the different cafes, discuss the menus along the way…perhaps stop into one. Grab lattes to-go and continue following your noses. You will stumble upon something, somewhere, and it will be a total adventure. This kind of date is VERY important if you’re considering dating someone exclusively or getting more serious. By the end of the day you will know what it’s like to travel with said person. Let’s face it, some people are not compatible when faced with unknown circumstances – and this is a great way to find out if your companion can “hang.”
And, of course, if you would rather not have to think about any of this – you can schedule a call to discuss matchmaking.
Date on brave soldiers!
Valerie
Love Wisely series
