© Greg Swales
Culture & Living
8 tips that will help you have the perfect virtual date during self-isolation
We got the experts to share their best advice on how to create a memorable first date night
With the world facing a health crisis, several countries have adopted self-quarantine as a precautionary measure. However, in an interesting juxtaposition, social distancing has only served to make us closer than ever before, as people start increasingly seeking connection and moments of intimacy online. Virtual dating has now become the new normal, with video calls serving as a stand-in for the usual dinner-and-drinks routine. Looking to recreate the magic of meeting someone while staying at home? The experts are here to help. We got Priti Joshi, vice president of strategy at Bumble, and Shahzeen Shivdasani, author of Love, Lust and Lemons, to share their tips on making an unforgettable first impression virtually.
1. Find the perfect spot
Shivdasani recommends sitting on the couch or in the living room for the first few dates, as opposed to the bedroom. She says, “When you sit on your bed, one tends to lounge and it creates an overtly casual setting. Considering the fact that you can’t meet in person, try and put a little bit of effort into this date. You can also opt for soft music in the background to create the perfect ambience for the night.”
2. Curate the background
In the absence of meeting in real life, it helps to give the other person a glimpse into your personality by curating your backdrop. Joshi recommends opting for elements that shed light on your interests, as this can also serve as a good conversation starter. For instance, if you love photography, you can place your collection of pictures in the backdrop.
3. Opt for a flattering lighting setup
While natural sunlight will come to your rescue for a daytime date, dim lighting is crucial for creating a romantic ambience at night. Shivdasani cautions, “Unfortunately, video calling may not always provide the best resolution and it becomes necessary to ensure that your lighting is bright and you can be seen properly. You can do this by playing around with the lighting in your designated spot. Try using candles that don’t create a shadow, turning certain lamps on or off if needed, or sitting under a light that makes your skin look radiant.”
Joshi concurs, and adds, “For late-night virtual dates, consider embracing your inner influencer by using a front-facing lamp that will highlight your face. Placing a light in front of you at a 45 degree angle works like a charm.”
4. Dressing up is still important
Even though your date won’t be able to see you entirely through a laptop screen, putting the effort into dressing up can help get you in the right mindset before a date. Embrace the memo on waist-up dressing by opting for a flattering top with an interesting neckline. Complete the look with statement earrings and put those extra five minutes into styling your hair, even if you plan on sneaking by with sweatpants below.
5. Stay prepared with a test run
Overtaxed data networks and patchy signals can mean that your video call will be prone to glitches. Doing a test run beforehand with a trusted girlfriend can help you prep. Joshi advises, “You want to make sure your date has your full attention, just like if you were out at a restaurant or meeting in real time. To help eliminate any distractions, it’s always a good idea to test your video setup before a virtual date. You don’t want to be busy adjusting your surroundings, screen brightness, angle or struggling with your internet connection when you’re first meeting someone.”
6. Pay attention to your body language
With the virtual replacing the physical, body language becomes essential for communicating that you’re interested in your date. Shivdasani recommends behaving in the exact same way as you would on a regular date. “If you are enjoying someone’s company and the chemistry is mutual, don’t shy away from flirtatious smiles or meaningful eye contact. It also helps to keep your posture in mind as slouching can be looked upon as a lack of confidence,” she advises.
7. Get the conversation started
While these are difficult times we are living in, Shivdasani advises against talking about the global health crisis for too long. She says, “You can touch upon the pandemic since everyone is in the same boat, but try to keep your conversations light and fun. At the end of the day, you both have set up this call to get to know each other, so focus on that. Ask questions about the other person’s life, where they grew up and what their hobbies and interests are. Do not make this conversation heavy, because dates are supposed to be entertaining and enjoyable.”
8. Embrace the awkward pauses
Since the weather or the ambience of the bar you’re in is off the table, Joshi recommends being prepared with other talking points without placing too much pressure on yourself. “It can be hard to break the ice and start a meaningful conversation if you’re not very comfortable in front of a camera, but it’s important to be expressive and speak about your emotions. The bio of your match is the perfect place to find a starting point for your conversation—it could be a photo of a trip they’ve been on lately or the work they do. Try not to stress too much about how you are looking onscreen, and instead focus on the flow of your conversation,” she advises.
If you’re looking to take things forward and score a second date, it is important to pay attention to the opposite person. She says, “Even though you’re not sitting together, it isn’t good form to be watching a TV show in the background or continuously texting a best friend during your virtual date. Remember, every date is different, so suss out the vibe and be your authentic self.”
Also read:
How to look good on Zoom calls, according to Priyanka Chopra and Kim Kardashian West's makeup artist
10 virtual date night ideas to try with your SO during the lockdown
