Relationships and online dating have been really strained over the last few months because of COVID lockdown restrictions. I’ve really felt it myself with the severance of my long-term relationship a couple of weeks ago. This was not something that was anticipated at all and let me tell you it’s a funny time to be single at the minute. And being single in the near future looks like a daunting experience too with the uncertainty of when date venues will reopen.
I’m not sure what the statistics are but I’m pretty sure there’ll be a lot of people coming out of lockdown newly single and many singletons will be turning to dating websites until life returns to this ‘new’ normal. So what will the new dating look like? Who knows, although let me tell you, when I’m ready to date again I think I’ll look forward to actually meeting people in person for that real connection after we’ve lived our lives behind screens for months. Until then here are 3 ways that you can create a great first date with your online matches so let’s read more;
3 Best Tips For Easy Online Dating During Lockdown
Cook A Meal Together
Why not plan a virtual date night and create the same dinner together. Use video calling for a more immersive (and hilarious) experience. Pick a recipe that you both like, buy the ingredients and start cooking each step together. I did this with my now ex-partner, we made our favourite curry together and at the time it was really funny and a great way to chat whilst doing something so for a first date is a great ice breaker, and it gives you something to laugh together about later.
Socially Distanced Meet Ups
After you’ve met your match on a free dating site and been chatting for a while, what’s next? Whilst countries are starting to lift restrictions on lockdown measures it now means that socially distanced dates can actually become a thing. Yes, a real thing! Why not plan to meet your date at the beach and in the park one sunny afternoon, both of you could pack a picnic and you can create a really cute first date. Alternatively, if you’re into fitness you could meet for a long walk with some beautiful scenery. Or why not head to a local restaurant that’s doing takeaway dinners, order your meal and then go and eat it somewhere scenic together.
Right now online dating requires thinking out of the box. You’ve really got to find new ways to ‘date’. Honestly, good dates are so important too, if you meet your match and you’re planning a second date then continue making weekly dates to keep your new relationship alive.
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Get Creative
Order some art supplies and grab a bottle of wine then video call your date, decide upon a topic to paint (it could even be each other) and get creative painting as you chat and drink. This again is a great ice breaker, as doing something distracting will help with any awkward silences and you can even suggest swapping paintings when you eventually meet up.
Being single right now is really alien to me and admittedly a huge struggle, but if I’ve learnt anything in the last couple of months it is that both parties have to make an effort, so make sure that you and your date are on the same page and you’ll have a fabulous first date.
Have you been dating during lockdown? I’d love to know your date ideas in the comments section below. As always if you’ve found this article of any value I’d love for you to share it with friends and family across social media and beyond
