Even though COVID-19 may have put pretty much everything on hold, matters concerning the heart still continue – even if it’s via a screen.
Dating apps have seen increased usage, but if you’re lucky enough and get a match, it can be infuriating not to proceed with the chat offline. Isn’t the whole reason for downloading a dating app to ultimately delete it?
And that’s where virtual dating comes into play. There are several activities you and your match can do remotely, but what actually constitutes a virtual date?
And what occurs when you finally meet one another face to face? We answer the all important questions below.
How do you successfully set up a virtual date?
Just like an in-person date, you’ll still need to plan for your virtual date – which includes the nerves too.
Cake designer Pearl Toh notes that it’s totally normal to feel nervous before a virtual date. “To be honest, being nervous before a date is a good thing, even if it’s virtual. Being nervous means you care about the situation, so it’s not something to be terribly stressed about.”
Commencing with a virtual date can be tricky, but considering the times we are going through, it’s quickly becoming the custom. If you two have been texting for a while and finally decide you want to spend time with each other, shoot out the idea and plan the same way you would if it were a real date. Ask for a time and day they will be available and schedule something in the calendar.
What are frequent virtual dating blunders?
Common virtual dating slip ups include being in a crowded and noisy space or having a poor Wi-Fi connection.
So if you’re living with roommates or your family, try taking advantage of when they will step out to go for walks or other errands.
For Sally Austin, an Australian health and wellness expert, says that you almost have to expect blunders to happen. “Nothing can ever go perfectly. Don’t necessarily prepare for the worst, because you need to go in with a positive and happy attitude, but don’t get too upset if things go awry!”
You’ll want to ascertain that your date gets your complete attention, just like if you were on a real date outside. Moreover, while FaceTiming with somebody that you like, it is imperative that you have good Wi-Fi so your sound and video don’t lag or get blurry.
What constitutes a successful virtual date?
Typically, you’ll want to get into the date armed with things to talk about – particularly since the ambience and weather of the bar/restaurant are off the table from the get-go.
Questions and a lot of fun-filled conversation are a good starting point to make the first virtual date successful. And that will assist you in making the most out of your FaceTime. Setting yourself up with a list of interesting questions will make sure that the conversation won’t have any awkward moments of silence because nobody knows what to say next.
How can you still establish intimacy?
A virtual date hampers physical engagement because you won’t be together in person. This means you’ll have to apply more effort in order to establish intimacy.
Jay Flood, a Queensland-based celebrant, says that while in-person interaction can’t happen, sparks can definitely still fly. “When it comes to dating, obviously it’s better if you’re meeting in person but with virtual dating that can’t happen. However, even just chatting can make you feel something, and is the perfect opportunity to have a cheeky flirt.”
Given how the sexual aspect of the would-be relationship is lacking, flirting is a key component of virtual dating. Compliment your crush and make them aware that you like them. This will assist in forming an intimate connection even if you can’t engage physically.
