How a pre-date can qualify the chemistry

So, you have mutually matched with someone that appears to tick all the right boxes, whilst online dating on Muddy Matches. You have been messaging one another and discover there is plenty of common ground to connect over.

So what next?
Well, the next stage is meeting up, and seeing how things feel in real life. It is a bold, brave step into the unknown, but with lots of excitement as to where it could go.

It comes with a quandary though; when to introduce the idea of a date. Is the timing right or should wait a little longer before you make the next move?

Traditional first date

When people talk of first dates, you might typically think of going out for a drink or going out for dinner, or doing something a little more adventure oriented.

The problem with this is that chatting online and meeting face-to-face are two different things. What if your online attraction does not spark when offline? The other problem with this is that a traditional date normally implies a full evening of hoping you get along. This could be one very long evening for you if you knew within fifteen minutes that actually chemistry is short on the ground.

A pre-date before your date

A great solution to this is to arrange a mini date, a ‘pre-date’ of sorts, which can lead to a more traditional date. The pre-date is a hangover from lockdown where singles got into the habit of using video calls and virtual dating for companionships.

Video chats and virtual dates let you gauge the connection and chemistry, albeit from a distance, but before you commit to the pressures and time of a full date in person. It’s a ‘try before you buy’ way to date that has become extremely popular, even now.

A pre-date can be in person too though; like suggesting a casual coffee shop date which involves meeting for a coffee at lunchtime.

The beauty of the mini date is that it greatly reduces the pressure and expectation of having to endure a long evening and it will give you a chance to test the waters. In addition there will no awkward moments seeing who pays the bill for food and drinks; you are, after all only there for a coffee.

It is a slower form of dating, but one that helps build up confidence, reassurance, and empowerment which are all especially important if newly back on the dating scene.

Upgrade your date

You had your virtual video date or coffee shop date and you have both made it clear that you would like to see each other again. You will feel much more comfortable seeing your new love interest again for a more traditional date now that you have pre-qualified them.

We do not advise you going crazy booking a weekend away together to see the northern lights, but keep things in perspective. Be sure though that an a quick ‘let’s grab coffee’ together could lay a good foundation for the more traditional date.