You’ve done a bunch of video chats. Now what.
Little did you know that real life would become the screen life in 2020. If you didn’t know how to schedule a Zoom meeting, Wi-Fi connectivity is now the air we breathe – to work, stay connected with loved ones, learn new skills, impress your boss, exercise, negotiate business deals, and we daresay – find the love of your life.
In these 10 months, you’ve put yourself on mute on those team meetings, and silenced family WhatsApp groups (thanks to CoVid memes), but do not let the digital noise lead to dating fatigue. The world is moving on, and so should you. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you take your relationship offline, in the new world.
K.I.S.S.
We just meant keep it simple, silly. You don’t want a stressful first in-person date after a dozen video calls with your bedhead and PJs. Pick a spacious venue (preferably outdoors), make a reservation in advance, and meet for a drink so that it’s less pressure. (P.S. We’ve known couples to do takeaway coffees and a walk in the park – it works wonders)
Go with the flow
Meeting IRL is going to be different than texting and video calls. Be prepared to embrace the joy of meeting someone face-to-face. Believe it or not, eye contact, body language and someone’s persona (and quirks) will tell you a lot about them than a 14” screen ever will – and contribute to what they call chemistry.
Follow your intuition
Being able to finally meet in person shouldn’t cloud your judgement. If you’re having a good time, be open-minded enough to meet again. If you see red flags, recognise them. After all, it can be unnerving to be sitting face to face with a person you’ve spent weeks, even months getting to know – but it’s okay to know that getting to know anyone takes time, pandemic or not.
Meet the people
They say, a lot about a person can be known by the company they keep. Set up a small activity (hike in a park / drinks on a terrace / game night) with your close-knit (and their masks, of course). Someone’s interaction style in a social setting can be all-telling than in one-on-one situations only. 
Travel
Once you’ve established that rapport and comfort with your date, plan a quick getaway / day trip and get away from the chaos of the city. With good weather (Winter has come, people), wind in your hair, playlist selection (their choice of music means everything) and plenty of uninterrupted alone time – what’s not to love? 
Words by Noopur Pal
