With our favourite date spots closed and social distancing regulations in place, there is no denying that the global pandemic has made our dating lives a little trickier. However, this does not mean that dating needs to stop! Thanks to the various digital video platforms such as Skype, FaceTime and Zoom, we are fortunate enough to live in a time where it is possible to go on a date without leaving the house.

Video dates can provide as many opportunities as a traditional date to meet that special someone. At Maclynn (formerly Vida), for years now we have been setting up video dates for our clients who are geographically separated, and with great success. For our UK clients, I am delighted to say that this is increasingly becoming the case too; people are still keen to forge relationships regardless of what is happening in the world, which is why video dating is proving successful. Hence, I have put together my top tips to make sure you are all set for your video date.

1. Get dressed up

Just because you’re not leaving the house, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look and feel your best.

Change out of those PJs and put on your favourite outfit. Get ready as you would if you were meeting your date in-person. Whether that means putting on some make-up or styling your hair, dressing-up will put you in the right mood, make you feel more confident and make the experience feel more like a traditional date.

2. Pay attention to the backdrop

You want your date’s first impression of your home to be a good one, so make sure there is no dirty washing on show! Tidy up the area and choose a space that is well-lit and decorated.

For example, you could choose a space that demonstrates your hobbies and interests; if you are into art, perhaps choose a space with your favourite artwork in the background. This will show your interests and may also provide a topic of conversation.

3. Choose a flattering angle  

Take time to play around with your camera to find the best angle. Set the laptop at eye level; it is a lot more flattering looking into your eyes than up your nostrils or at the top of your head!

4. Think about lighting

Ensure your date can see your face; if your call is in the evening, put a lamp behind the screen so you’re well-lit and your date can see you clearly. If you are chatting in the day, set your camera close to a window to capture that natural lighting. Good lighting and ambiance can make a lot of difference and help you to look your best.

5. Prepare in advance and get your technology in order!

Do not leave all preparations to the last minute; it isn’t attractive being flustered for your date! To ensure the call goes as smoothly as possible, test the video and sound beforehand. This will allow you to fix any technical hiccups before your date.

6. Have fun!

Traditional dating usually involves some kind of activity, whether a walk, meal or a drink, and virtual dating can be the same. Avoid making the date seem like an interview and get creative; have a glass of wine/mocktail together, you could even cook the same recipe and have a meal together – see whose turns out best! Just because you can’t be in the same room, doesn’t mean you can’t have fun!

7. Don’t let Covid-19 dominate the conversation

It’s likely the topic will come up, and by all means check in on how your date is doing but try not to talk about it the whole time.  You want your date to leave feeling energised and curious to meet you again, so get to know each other by talking about positive topics such as your hobbies, interests and interesting stories!

8. Have an exit strategy

If the conversation has fizzled out, or you realise you have nothing in common, you shouldn’t feel like you need to stay on the call. Mentioning a time limit when scheduling your video call will give you a natural way out. For instance, ‘I would love to speak at 7 but I have X at 7:30’. You could use any reason: starting dinner, calling your dad, or you could keep it vague.

9. Plan another date 

If you enjoyed your date and would like to see them again, let them know! Stick another date in the diary.

10. Make future plans

If you had a good connection on your video date, there is a good chance you will enjoy their company in-person too. Although we don’t know how long restrictions will last for, we do know that they will ease at some point; discuss what activities or restaurants you would like to experience and make those future plans together.

Although matchmaking during a pandemic may be new territory for us, embracing video dates is not. We have continued to sustain our 80-90% success rate and have helped many people find their perfect match with the use of video calls – check out our blog for our 2020 success stories!

Don’t let the pandemic get in the way of meeting that special someone. Get in touch today to find out how we can help you on your journey to love!