DINNER SWAP 

A classic candlelit dinner in front of the screen? Not bad, but we can do better. Make it into something special: ask a few questions, get to know your date’s preferences…then order food for each other! Should you try Italian, or maybe Thai? Fiery hot, or rich and decadent? Do you go fancy? Or for a big, juicy burger? Embark on a taste test together and you’ll discover whether your flavors are compatible.  

SHOW YOUR SOFT SIDE

We all want to show ourselves in the best light. Whether you snap your profile pic in front of a Porsche you found on the street or fudge your age a little, it’s natural to want to come off as the ideal match. But what if you share your weaknesses on the first date? Not presenting yourself as perfect makes you more likeable and can even lead to better conversations. We mean it, and it’s good advice in dating and in life: be real instead of perfect. 

WHEN THINGS GET QUIET, DRINK! 

During a date in a bar, there’s always something to talk about: the ambiance, the music, or what the other people around you are doing. On a virtual date, you’re missing that shared experience, so it’s easier for the conversation to stall. So why not do what you’d do at the bar? When there’s an awkward silence, sip a beer or homemade cocktail. Let yourself relax, and soon enough you and your date will be breaking the silence with shouts of “Cheers!” Just be careful not to spill on your keyboard.

A PLAYLIST ONLY FOR YOU. 

A live concert is a great first date: You don’t have to make conversation all the time and you can discover if your music tastes align. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to get to a big show. What’s the next best thing? A personalized playlist. Send your new online pal a short list of your favorite songs before you meet. Now you’ve got something to talk about, before you even begin! 

YOUR FAVORITE PLACES. 

Just because you’re on a video call doesn’t mean you have to stay at home. Pack your phone, some ear buds and go take your date on a tour of your favorite places. Climb up on the roof, or to that shady spot in the park, or your favorite street corner. No matter where it is – it will certainly be more exciting than sitting on the sofa at home. Plus, you can get excited to share these places together in real life. 

MOVIE NIGHT. 

Netflix without the chill? Sure, with is better, but watching your favorite movies and TV together is also fun. Grab a drink, a snack and sit down for a group watch. Keep that video call going though, so you can react to the scary parts together. By the way, studies have found out that couples with the same movie preferences last longer. How else could you binge watch together for hours? 

THE HOOK UP. 

Keep? 

Okay, let’s be real: Cybersex is more popular than ever. Say goodbye to small talk, and hello dirty talk! When things get intimate, you can always ask what the other likes in bed. Forget about an ice breaker; it’s an ice melter.  Just make sure you’ve got the OK before eggplants and peaches start flying. 😉