Understanding Rome’s Expat Communities
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string(74) "Bridging the Age Gap: How to Build a Genuine Connection on Your First Date"
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string(31) "Thu, 20 Nov 2025 15:23:00 +0000"
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string(58) "Dating Adviceage gapFirst-Date StrategiesPublic Acceptance"
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string(360) "First dates already require careful attention to conversation flow, body language, and finding common ground. When you add a ten-year age difference or more to the equation, these standard considerations take on new dimensions. The person sitting across from you might have started their career when you were still in elementary school, or they could […]"
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string(7691) "First dates already require careful attention to conversation flow, body language, and finding common ground. When you add a ten-year age difference or more to the equation, these standard considerations take on new dimensions. The person sitting across from you might have started their career when you were still in elementary school, or they could be discovering music you stopped listening to a decade ago. Yet age-gap relationships form regularly across the United States, with recent data showing that four in ten Americans have dated someone at least ten years older or younger than themselves.
The Numbers Behind Age-Gap Dating
An Ipsos poll published in 2025 reveals that 27% of Americans have dated someone ten or more years older, while 16% have dated someone ten or more years younger. These relationships follow predictable patterns. Among respondents with partners ten or more years older, 63% were men and 36% were women. For those dating someone ten or more years younger, 76% said their partner was female and 23% said male (as found in Ipsos poll, 2025).
The average age difference between romantic partners in North America sits at 2.2 years, according to Psychology Today’s August 2025 review of a 2022 study covering 130 countries. This figure aligns with Pew Research Center data from August 2024, which found that the average age gap between husbands and wives in the United States was 2.2 years in 2022, down from 4.9 years in 1880 (as mentioned by Pew Research Center, 2024; Psychology Today, 2025).
Same-sex couples show different patterns. U.S. Census data from 2021 indicates that 20% of same-sex married couples have an age gap of ten years or more, compared to 8% of opposite-sex spouses (as found in DatingAdvice.com, 2025).
When Personal History Shapes Connection
Age-gap dating takes many forms. Some people meet through shared activities or work, others connect on platforms like AgeMatch or Match, and some find themselves dating a sugar daddy or someone from their social circle. The common thread across these situations is that both people carry decades of different lived experiences that shape how they communicate and connect on that first meeting.
These different life histories can create unexpected points of connection. A 25-year-old who grew up with divorced parents might share more emotional common ground with a 45-year-old who went through a similar childhood than with peers from stable two-parent homes. The music someone listened to in college, the economic conditions they entered the workforce under, or the technology they grew up with all inform how they approach relationships and what they expect from a partner.
Public Acceptance and Private Reality
About one-third of Americans consider a ten-year age gap acceptable, according to a YouGov survey cited in 2025 data. Men show more openness to larger gaps, with 12% finding differences of 20 or more years acceptable compared to 6% of women (as found in DatingAdvice.com, 2025; YouGov, 2025).
These statistics tell only part of the story. Clinical psychologist Peggy Bolcoa notes in 2025 that couples with age gaps of over three years face specific satisfaction and stability concerns. Research indicates that couples with one to three years’ difference report the highest long-term happiness. A one-year difference increases divorce risk by approximately 3%, with larger gaps correlating to higher risk (as mentioned by Peggy Bolcoa, 2025).
First-Date Strategies That Work
Licensed relationship therapists writing for Therapy Central in 2025 recommend focusing on shared values and life goals early in conversation. Differences in life stages can lead to misunderstandings if left unaddressed. They suggest normalizing open discussion of age differences rather than treating the topic as taboo, which often creates unnecessary tension (according to Therapy Central, 2025).
Address assumptions or stereotypes through humor, curiosity, and thoughtful questions rather than defensiveness. Active listening, empathy, and nonjudgmental engagement signal respect and openness regardless of age (as noted in Therapy Central, 2025; Psychology Today, 2025).
Platform Support for Age-Gap Connections
Dating platforms now cater specifically to age-diverse populations. Match’s 2025 official guides show their user base breaks down as 32% millennials or Gen Z, 39% Gen X, and 27% Boomers, making intergenerational matches common. AgeMatch, built specifically for age-gap relationships, reports over one million users across the US, Canada, and Australia (as found on DatingAdvice.com, 2025).
These platforms encourage users to state preferences upfront, which helps normalize age-gap dating and reduces stigma at the first-date stage. Users can filter by age range and shared interests, facilitating connections based on compatibility rather than age alone.
Psychological Patterns and Preferences
Research published by Gottfried and colleagues in 2024 shows that as people age, they increasingly prefer younger partners, particularly men. Seventy-year-old men prefer partners twelve years younger on average, while women at that age prefer partners closer to their own age (as found in Psychology Today, 2025).
Practical Communication Techniques
Prepare to discuss why the age difference matters or does not matter for each person. Include what each partner seeks in the relationship. This proactive approach comes recommended by licensed relationship experts on Therapy Central and Psychology Today in 2025.
Use curiosity to bridge generational divides. Ask about formative events, cultural touchstones, or perspectives shaped by different life eras. Set boundaries and check comfort levels regarding topics like future plans, family, or lifestyle expectations. These conversations become more salient with age differences.
Avoid stereotypes like “midlife crisis” or “gold digger” narratives. According to relationship science commentary, these assumptions block authentic engagement and signal mistrust. Stay alert for red flags such as quick emotional escalation or control, which online dating experts in 2025 caution appear more frequently when power differentials exist.
Making It Work
Successful first dates between people of different ages depend on shared values, mutual respect, and transparent communication. The biggest predictor of early rapport is not age but perceived similarity in outlook and life priorities (according to Therapy Central, 2025). Quality communication matters more than the number of years between you. Feedback from large dating platforms confirms that age-gap couples who succeed are those who quickly develop skills in honest dialogue and mutual respect.
The data shows age-gap relationships happen frequently, though they make up a minority of ongoing partnerships. Four percent of Americans are currently with someone ten or more years older, and 6% with someone ten or more years younger (as found in Ipsos poll, 2025). These relationships face specific challenges but also offer unique opportunities for connection across generational lines. Success requires acknowledging differences while focusing on shared goals and values from the very first meeting.
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string(360) "First dates already require careful attention to conversation flow, body language, and finding common ground. When you add a ten-year age difference or more to the equation, these standard considerations take on new dimensions. The person sitting across from you might have started their career when you were still in elementary school, or they could […]"
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string(7691) "First dates already require careful attention to conversation flow, body language, and finding common ground. When you add a ten-year age difference or more to the equation, these standard considerations take on new dimensions. The person sitting across from you might have started their career when you were still in elementary school, or they could be discovering music you stopped listening to a decade ago. Yet age-gap relationships form regularly across the United States, with recent data showing that four in ten Americans have dated someone at least ten years older or younger than themselves.
The Numbers Behind Age-Gap Dating
An Ipsos poll published in 2025 reveals that 27% of Americans have dated someone ten or more years older, while 16% have dated someone ten or more years younger. These relationships follow predictable patterns. Among respondents with partners ten or more years older, 63% were men and 36% were women. For those dating someone ten or more years younger, 76% said their partner was female and 23% said male (as found in Ipsos poll, 2025).
The average age difference between romantic partners in North America sits at 2.2 years, according to Psychology Today’s August 2025 review of a 2022 study covering 130 countries. This figure aligns with Pew Research Center data from August 2024, which found that the average age gap between husbands and wives in the United States was 2.2 years in 2022, down from 4.9 years in 1880 (as mentioned by Pew Research Center, 2024; Psychology Today, 2025).
Same-sex couples show different patterns. U.S. Census data from 2021 indicates that 20% of same-sex married couples have an age gap of ten years or more, compared to 8% of opposite-sex spouses (as found in DatingAdvice.com, 2025).
When Personal History Shapes Connection
Age-gap dating takes many forms. Some people meet through shared activities or work, others connect on platforms like AgeMatch or Match, and some find themselves dating a sugar daddy or someone from their social circle. The common thread across these situations is that both people carry decades of different lived experiences that shape how they communicate and connect on that first meeting.
These different life histories can create unexpected points of connection. A 25-year-old who grew up with divorced parents might share more emotional common ground with a 45-year-old who went through a similar childhood than with peers from stable two-parent homes. The music someone listened to in college, the economic conditions they entered the workforce under, or the technology they grew up with all inform how they approach relationships and what they expect from a partner.
Public Acceptance and Private Reality
About one-third of Americans consider a ten-year age gap acceptable, according to a YouGov survey cited in 2025 data. Men show more openness to larger gaps, with 12% finding differences of 20 or more years acceptable compared to 6% of women (as found in DatingAdvice.com, 2025; YouGov, 2025).
These statistics tell only part of the story. Clinical psychologist Peggy Bolcoa notes in 2025 that couples with age gaps of over three years face specific satisfaction and stability concerns. Research indicates that couples with one to three years’ difference report the highest long-term happiness. A one-year difference increases divorce risk by approximately 3%, with larger gaps correlating to higher risk (as mentioned by Peggy Bolcoa, 2025).
First-Date Strategies That Work
Licensed relationship therapists writing for Therapy Central in 2025 recommend focusing on shared values and life goals early in conversation. Differences in life stages can lead to misunderstandings if left unaddressed. They suggest normalizing open discussion of age differences rather than treating the topic as taboo, which often creates unnecessary tension (according to Therapy Central, 2025).
Address assumptions or stereotypes through humor, curiosity, and thoughtful questions rather than defensiveness. Active listening, empathy, and nonjudgmental engagement signal respect and openness regardless of age (as noted in Therapy Central, 2025; Psychology Today, 2025).
Platform Support for Age-Gap Connections
Dating platforms now cater specifically to age-diverse populations. Match’s 2025 official guides show their user base breaks down as 32% millennials or Gen Z, 39% Gen X, and 27% Boomers, making intergenerational matches common. AgeMatch, built specifically for age-gap relationships, reports over one million users across the US, Canada, and Australia (as found on DatingAdvice.com, 2025).
These platforms encourage users to state preferences upfront, which helps normalize age-gap dating and reduces stigma at the first-date stage. Users can filter by age range and shared interests, facilitating connections based on compatibility rather than age alone.
Psychological Patterns and Preferences
Research published by Gottfried and colleagues in 2024 shows that as people age, they increasingly prefer younger partners, particularly men. Seventy-year-old men prefer partners twelve years younger on average, while women at that age prefer partners closer to their own age (as found in Psychology Today, 2025).
Practical Communication Techniques
Prepare to discuss why the age difference matters or does not matter for each person. Include what each partner seeks in the relationship. This proactive approach comes recommended by licensed relationship experts on Therapy Central and Psychology Today in 2025.
Use curiosity to bridge generational divides. Ask about formative events, cultural touchstones, or perspectives shaped by different life eras. Set boundaries and check comfort levels regarding topics like future plans, family, or lifestyle expectations. These conversations become more salient with age differences.
Avoid stereotypes like “midlife crisis” or “gold digger” narratives. According to relationship science commentary, these assumptions block authentic engagement and signal mistrust. Stay alert for red flags such as quick emotional escalation or control, which online dating experts in 2025 caution appear more frequently when power differentials exist.
Making It Work
Successful first dates between people of different ages depend on shared values, mutual respect, and transparent communication. The biggest predictor of early rapport is not age but perceived similarity in outlook and life priorities (according to Therapy Central, 2025). Quality communication matters more than the number of years between you. Feedback from large dating platforms confirms that age-gap couples who succeed are those who quickly develop skills in honest dialogue and mutual respect.
The data shows age-gap relationships happen frequently, though they make up a minority of ongoing partnerships. Four percent of Americans are currently with someone ten or more years older, and 6% with someone ten or more years younger (as found in Ipsos poll, 2025). These relationships face specific challenges but also offer unique opportunities for connection across generational lines. Success requires acknowledging differences while focusing on shared goals and values from the very first meeting.
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string(35) "For the Girl Who Asked You to Write"
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string(306) "“New faces,” he said finally, “don’t tell me about new faces. It seemed that the last time he had gone to a party where he had been promised new faces, there had been fifteen people in the room, and he had already slept with five of the women and owed money to all but two […]"
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“New faces,” he said finally, “don’t tell me about new faces. It seemed that the last time he had gone to a party where he had been promised new faces, there had been fifteen people in the room, and he had already slept with five of the women and owed money to all but two of the men.” – Joan Didion from Goodbye to All That
There is a sea of people in front of the actual sea. You are standing at the bar looking out at both, in a slight daze, waiting on your boy, who is somewhere in this crowd. The music is loud, making the outdoor space feel like an indoor one. The crowd noise is a quiet hum underneath all that bass and treble, and squeaky electronic sounds. How the speakers can take over all of outside is fascinating.
“Hey, you, YOU!” A girl, sitting at a table with friends a good 20 feet away from you stand, is waving her arms in your direction. You make eye contact with her and she confirms it is you she’s waving at. “Yeah, you,” she says. “Where’s my blog? I’m a big fan, you don’t update as much.”
“Thank you. I know. I need to get back on it.”
“Yeah, she says. Get back on it. I used to start my mornings by reading your blog. I need that.”
“Thank you. I promise. I will write something this week.”
“You better,” she says with a smile on her face.
When A Stranger At The Bar Becomes Your Greatest Inspiration
You have no idea if you’re going to write anything that week, because lately you’ve had no idea what to write about. You built a following by writing personal things, and being honest, but over time you started holding back. It used to be easy, writing five days a week, back when you were actually getting out old feelings about girlfriends in your past. All those thoughts and emotions have been exhumed, and therefore you’ve written less, but there hasn’t been less to write about. There’s been less you’re willing to share.
You want to uphold the honesty with which you’ve written over the years and she doesn’t know you would rather not write than try to write around all the mess you’ve been dealing with lately. And when you say mess, you don’t mean drama, you just mean disorganization. You smile back at the girl and walk away from the spot, because now you feel like you’re being stared at and you have to go look for your boy. But what she said is on your mind, and it’s kind of a challenge. It’s just one reader, but most writers would be flattered by a stranger asking them to write more, so now you’re thinking of what you’re going to write about.
Running Into The Past: Multiple Stories Waiting To Be Written
As you wander, you run into the girl who threw a drink at you. It’s been somewhere around a year since you two last saw each other. The hug is awkward, but the reunion is cordial. She read that post about the drink-throwing incident. It bothered her, not because you wrote about it, but because you weren’t completely forthright. She said you made her look crazy and irrational for throwing her drink at you, when you know any man who tries to sleep with the best friend of the girl he used to date deserves a drink thrown at him. She has a point, you tell her. But she’s over it, she just wanted to get that off her chest. She doesn’t hate you, and you tell her it’s good to see her. The two of you hug again, this time less awkward, and you keep it moving because you still haven’t found your boy. You think to yourself, I can write about that. You log it in your head as a possibility.
Then a couple minutes later, a few feet away from where you reunited with the girl who threw a drink at you, you run into one of your ex-girlfriends. It’s a funny coincidence, because this ex was at the same party you were at the night the drink was thrown at you. You and her were dating for about a month at the time, and you remember that night because you really wanted to go home with her. At that party, on that particular night, with her felt like the most comfortable place in the world and you put a premium on the comfort of company. Pleasantries are exchanged pleasantly between the two of you, and you appreciate it because it took you two a while to get here. When you two broke up, you handled things horribly. For one, right after her came another girl who you fell for very hard and you didn’t keep it a secret. When your ex caught news of the new girl, that was it, for a long time between the two of you. Understanding the importance of white lies and well being makes you realize that sometimes your brutal honesty hurt people unnecessarily.
You think to yourself, I can write about that. You log it in your head as a possibility. Some more small talk, another hug, and you move along. Where is your boy?
The Weight Of Promise: A Writer’s Dilemma Between Honesty And Audience
You stand still for a minute and log on to your phone, check Instagram, just because you’re tired of searching. You notice a picture of a girl you follow who is best friends with the girl who came after your ex. And what do you know, the picture of them was taken at the very space in which you stand. But it was taken hours ago, and she’s probably gone now, but you look up and around just to see if that’s the case. It is. Good, because it’s been months since you’ve seen this girl, who came after your ex, who will now be referred to as a more recent ex. You haven’t seen the most recent ex on purpose, and even though you knew it was a slight possibility you could run into her at this party when you were getting ready to come, you still wanted to avoid seeing her at all costs. Not seeing her has become a hobby of yours, it’s something you took up after she broke your heart.
You’re not mad at her, but sometimes avoidance is the antidote to getting over, and you have to admit, it’s worked wonders all year. You think to yourself, I can write about that. You log it in your head as a possibility. Recognizing that brutal honesty gets the girl makes you understand that withholding the truth about your feelings and experiences from your readers undermines the very foundation of your credibility and connection.
Finding The Courage To Write What Matters
There’s a tap on your shoulder, and you turn around. “Where have you been?” your boy asks. “Looking for you, fool.” Both of you shrug shoulders. He suggests you two get a drink. You think that’s a great idea. On your way to the bar, you see the girl from earlier, the one who said you better write a new post.
“Don’t forget what you promised me,” she says.
“I won’t. I think I have something to write about.”
And you do. You have multiple stories colliding into each other at a single moment in time, each one more personal and revealing than the last. The girl at the bar gave you more than just a challenge—she gave you permission to explore the messiness of human connection, the complicated feelings that exist between exes, and the ways people hurt each other unintentionally. Learning how to how to write a love letter taught you that the most powerful writing comes from vulnerability and authenticity, whether it’s expressed to a romantic partner or an audience.
You realize that withholding your truth from your readers isn’t protecting them—it’s protecting you. But the girl at the party reminded you that people don’t just want your polished thoughts. They want your real experiences, your fumbles, your moments of weakness and strength all wrapped into one honest narrative.
"
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string(306) "“New faces,” he said finally, “don’t tell me about new faces. It seemed that the last time he had gone to a party where he had been promised new faces, there had been fifteen people in the room, and he had already slept with five of the women and owed money to all but two […]"
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“New faces,” he said finally, “don’t tell me about new faces. It seemed that the last time he had gone to a party where he had been promised new faces, there had been fifteen people in the room, and he had already slept with five of the women and owed money to all but two of the men.” – Joan Didion from Goodbye to All That
There is a sea of people in front of the actual sea. You are standing at the bar looking out at both, in a slight daze, waiting on your boy, who is somewhere in this crowd. The music is loud, making the outdoor space feel like an indoor one. The crowd noise is a quiet hum underneath all that bass and treble, and squeaky electronic sounds. How the speakers can take over all of outside is fascinating.
“Hey, you, YOU!” A girl, sitting at a table with friends a good 20 feet away from you stand, is waving her arms in your direction. You make eye contact with her and she confirms it is you she’s waving at. “Yeah, you,” she says. “Where’s my blog? I’m a big fan, you don’t update as much.”
“Thank you. I know. I need to get back on it.”
“Yeah, she says. Get back on it. I used to start my mornings by reading your blog. I need that.”
“Thank you. I promise. I will write something this week.”
“You better,” she says with a smile on her face.
When A Stranger At The Bar Becomes Your Greatest Inspiration
You have no idea if you’re going to write anything that week, because lately you’ve had no idea what to write about. You built a following by writing personal things, and being honest, but over time you started holding back. It used to be easy, writing five days a week, back when you were actually getting out old feelings about girlfriends in your past. All those thoughts and emotions have been exhumed, and therefore you’ve written less, but there hasn’t been less to write about. There’s been less you’re willing to share.
You want to uphold the honesty with which you’ve written over the years and she doesn’t know you would rather not write than try to write around all the mess you’ve been dealing with lately. And when you say mess, you don’t mean drama, you just mean disorganization. You smile back at the girl and walk away from the spot, because now you feel like you’re being stared at and you have to go look for your boy. But what she said is on your mind, and it’s kind of a challenge. It’s just one reader, but most writers would be flattered by a stranger asking them to write more, so now you’re thinking of what you’re going to write about.
Running Into The Past: Multiple Stories Waiting To Be Written
As you wander, you run into the girl who threw a drink at you. It’s been somewhere around a year since you two last saw each other. The hug is awkward, but the reunion is cordial. She read that post about the drink-throwing incident. It bothered her, not because you wrote about it, but because you weren’t completely forthright. She said you made her look crazy and irrational for throwing her drink at you, when you know any man who tries to sleep with the best friend of the girl he used to date deserves a drink thrown at him. She has a point, you tell her. But she’s over it, she just wanted to get that off her chest. She doesn’t hate you, and you tell her it’s good to see her. The two of you hug again, this time less awkward, and you keep it moving because you still haven’t found your boy. You think to yourself, I can write about that. You log it in your head as a possibility.
Then a couple minutes later, a few feet away from where you reunited with the girl who threw a drink at you, you run into one of your ex-girlfriends. It’s a funny coincidence, because this ex was at the same party you were at the night the drink was thrown at you. You and her were dating for about a month at the time, and you remember that night because you really wanted to go home with her. At that party, on that particular night, with her felt like the most comfortable place in the world and you put a premium on the comfort of company. Pleasantries are exchanged pleasantly between the two of you, and you appreciate it because it took you two a while to get here. When you two broke up, you handled things horribly. For one, right after her came another girl who you fell for very hard and you didn’t keep it a secret. When your ex caught news of the new girl, that was it, for a long time between the two of you. Understanding the importance of white lies and well being makes you realize that sometimes your brutal honesty hurt people unnecessarily.
You think to yourself, I can write about that. You log it in your head as a possibility. Some more small talk, another hug, and you move along. Where is your boy?
The Weight Of Promise: A Writer’s Dilemma Between Honesty And Audience
You stand still for a minute and log on to your phone, check Instagram, just because you’re tired of searching. You notice a picture of a girl you follow who is best friends with the girl who came after your ex. And what do you know, the picture of them was taken at the very space in which you stand. But it was taken hours ago, and she’s probably gone now, but you look up and around just to see if that’s the case. It is. Good, because it’s been months since you’ve seen this girl, who came after your ex, who will now be referred to as a more recent ex. You haven’t seen the most recent ex on purpose, and even though you knew it was a slight possibility you could run into her at this party when you were getting ready to come, you still wanted to avoid seeing her at all costs. Not seeing her has become a hobby of yours, it’s something you took up after she broke your heart.
You’re not mad at her, but sometimes avoidance is the antidote to getting over, and you have to admit, it’s worked wonders all year. You think to yourself, I can write about that. You log it in your head as a possibility. Recognizing that brutal honesty gets the girl makes you understand that withholding the truth about your feelings and experiences from your readers undermines the very foundation of your credibility and connection.
Finding The Courage To Write What Matters
There’s a tap on your shoulder, and you turn around. “Where have you been?” your boy asks. “Looking for you, fool.” Both of you shrug shoulders. He suggests you two get a drink. You think that’s a great idea. On your way to the bar, you see the girl from earlier, the one who said you better write a new post.
“Don’t forget what you promised me,” she says.
“I won’t. I think I have something to write about.”
And you do. You have multiple stories colliding into each other at a single moment in time, each one more personal and revealing than the last. The girl at the bar gave you more than just a challenge—she gave you permission to explore the messiness of human connection, the complicated feelings that exist between exes, and the ways people hurt each other unintentionally. Learning how to how to write a love letter taught you that the most powerful writing comes from vulnerability and authenticity, whether it’s expressed to a romantic partner or an audience.
You realize that withholding your truth from your readers isn’t protecting them—it’s protecting you. But the girl at the party reminded you that people don’t just want your polished thoughts. They want your real experiences, your fumbles, your moments of weakness and strength all wrapped into one honest narrative.
"
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string(94) "So, You’ve Met the One and Want to Spend Forever with Them — Let’s Talk Wedding Planning"
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string(353) "It started with a simple swipe. Not the kind of cinematic meet-cute in a bookstore or crowded café: just two people scrolling through dating apps on an ordinary evening, hoping that maybe, you’ll finally find someone and click. Everything just flowed, and the casual hellos turned into late-night talks about dreams, favorite foods, and the […]"
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string(11060) "It started with a simple swipe. Not the kind of cinematic meet-cute in a bookstore or crowded café: just two people scrolling through dating apps on an ordinary evening, hoping that maybe, you’ll finally find someone and click. Everything just flowed, and the casual hellos turned into late-night talks about dreams, favorite foods, and the things that make you feel at home. Fast forward through laughter-filled video calls, endless voice notes, and that meaningful first meeting, and you both knew that you had finally met your person.
Now, you both feel ready to step into a new chapter together, one filled with the promise that you’ll build a life side by side, through a love that only deepens with time. Only that …wedding planning isn’t fun. It requires lots of steps, from finding the right venue to choosing the wedding attire. But don’t worry; we’ve got your back. Below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the journey from “Yes” to “I do” as smooth (and stress-free) as possible.
Start With the Budget
As awkward as money talks can feel, it will be a driving factor for most of the decisions you make, so obviously, it’s the thing you should start with when planning your wedding. A common pitfall is falling in love with a pricey dream dress, a stunning venue, and an over-the-top cake before budgeting. But since the cost of your big day can get out of hand quicker than you may think, you should have the money conversation first and start shopping afterwards. You do not want to end up breaking the bank, after all.
Figure out how much you can afford to spend on the wedding, whether it’s €2,000, €20,000, or €200,000. To do this, both you and your partner should review your savings account and determine how much you can save during the engagement period. Also, are both of your parents willing (and able) to contribute? Once you have an idea of the total amount of money, it’s essential to break down the budget by considering the wedding planning categories, including:
Okay, let’s talk about priorities. Going into wedding planning without knowing what your and your partner’s priorities are is never a good idea. So, make sure that you both sit down and discuss what matters most to you for the big day. While priorities are different for every couple, some of the most common ones include:
This isn’t a comprehensive list, but whatever your priorities may be as a couple, you want to decide them together and write them down, so you can refer back to them later as you’re saving money while planning or when you have to choose between two things.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing a wedding date, but a general rule is to do so at least one year in advance. Think about any meaningful dates when you’d like to get married, such as the anniversary of your first date, or maybe the date when you officially became a couple and also consider the dates when you don’t want to schedule your wedding on. For example, it’s a bad idea to marry too close to holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving, as it could throw a wrench into the travel plans of many of your guests. Also, if you’re a little superstitious, you may want to choose a lucky date for the big day.
And don’t forget to choose a season with the weather you want. If you’re into that nostalgic vibe and rich colors, it makes total sense to get married in the fall. On the other hand, if you want a sun-dappled ceremony and tropical-inspired cocktails, a summer wedding may be ideal for you.
The guest-list-making task is probably one of the most daunting in wedding planning. But here’s the thing: you absolutely don’t have to invite everyone. For example, if there are relatives that you haven’t spoken to in years, you have no obligation to invite them to the wedding. The same goes for work friends: just because you eat lunch with these people five days a week doesn’t mean they have to make your guest list, especially if you’re envisioning a more intimate event.
Prioritize close loved ones and always keep your budget in mind and be mindful of plus-ones. Also, have a system in place to monitor RSPVs, special requests, and dietary requirements.
Choosing your venue is probably the biggest decision you’ll have to make in your wedding planning, and it should obviously fit the aesthetic you have in your mind. Maybe you’re planning a modern wedding, and in this case, you’ll want to look at well-designed restaurants or warehouse spaces. Or perhaps you’re envisioning a wedding that incorporates more natural elements, such as a ranch or a backyard.
Note, however, that you should look beyond beauty when checking venues. You also want to consider:
Did you know it can take about six months for a made-to-measure dress to get delivered? And that doesn’t even include the final tweaks, which can take up to a month. To put it simply, make sure you give yourself enough time to search for the wedding dress of your dreams.
It’s helpful to have an idea of the style you prefer before going shopping, and Pinterest can be a great source of inspiration. But of course, that doesn’t mean you should base your wedding around those pictures – just use them to figure out a style and then try on different things within that style. Whether you prefer an A-line silhouette, a Mermaid dress, or a corseted gown, what matters in the end is to feel comfortable and confident.
Wedding suppliers are the nuts and bolts to ensure your wedding day goes as smoothly as possible, so you want to choose a team of people that you can trust. One of the most common mistakes when booking suppliers is not doing your research, so take the time to read testimonials and determine whether a supplier is truly a good fit for you. Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions, because ultimately, you want to make sure you are compatible, especially as you’ll spend quite a bit of time with these people, especially your photographer.
And here’s a little piece of advice: don’t wait too long to choose your suppliers, because you may end up with fewer choices and higher costs, as they get booked months and even years in advance.
In the end, wedding planning isn’t about perfection; it’s about creating a day that truly reflects your love story. So, take things one step at a time, stay true to what matters most for both of you, and remember to enjoy the moment.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(127) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/11/11/so-youve-met-the-one-and-want-to-spend-forever-with-them-lets-talk-wedding-planning/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(353) "It started with a simple swipe. Not the kind of cinematic meet-cute in a bookstore or crowded café: just two people scrolling through dating apps on an ordinary evening, hoping that maybe, you’ll finally find someone and click. Everything just flowed, and the casual hellos turned into late-night talks about dreams, favorite foods, and the […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(11060) "It started with a simple swipe. Not the kind of cinematic meet-cute in a bookstore or crowded café: just two people scrolling through dating apps on an ordinary evening, hoping that maybe, you’ll finally find someone and click. Everything just flowed, and the casual hellos turned into late-night talks about dreams, favorite foods, and the things that make you feel at home. Fast forward through laughter-filled video calls, endless voice notes, and that meaningful first meeting, and you both knew that you had finally met your person.
Now, you both feel ready to step into a new chapter together, one filled with the promise that you’ll build a life side by side, through a love that only deepens with time. Only that …wedding planning isn’t fun. It requires lots of steps, from finding the right venue to choosing the wedding attire. But don’t worry; we’ve got your back. Below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the journey from “Yes” to “I do” as smooth (and stress-free) as possible.
As awkward as money talks can feel, it will be a driving factor for most of the decisions you make, so obviously, it’s the thing you should start with when planning your wedding. A common pitfall is falling in love with a pricey dream dress, a stunning venue, and an over-the-top cake before budgeting. But since the cost of your big day can get out of hand quicker than you may think, you should have the money conversation first and start shopping afterwards. You do not want to end up breaking the bank, after all.
Figure out how much you can afford to spend on the wedding, whether it’s €2,000, €20,000, or €200,000. To do this, both you and your partner should review your savings account and determine how much you can save during the engagement period. Also, are both of your parents willing (and able) to contribute? Once you have an idea of the total amount of money, it’s essential to break down the budget by considering the wedding planning categories, including:
Okay, let’s talk about priorities. Going into wedding planning without knowing what your and your partner’s priorities are is never a good idea. So, make sure that you both sit down and discuss what matters most to you for the big day. While priorities are different for every couple, some of the most common ones include:
This isn’t a comprehensive list, but whatever your priorities may be as a couple, you want to decide them together and write them down, so you can refer back to them later as you’re saving money while planning or when you have to choose between two things.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing a wedding date, but a general rule is to do so at least one year in advance. Think about any meaningful dates when you’d like to get married, such as the anniversary of your first date, or maybe the date when you officially became a couple and also consider the dates when you don’t want to schedule your wedding on. For example, it’s a bad idea to marry too close to holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving, as it could throw a wrench into the travel plans of many of your guests. Also, if you’re a little superstitious, you may want to choose a lucky date for the big day.
And don’t forget to choose a season with the weather you want. If you’re into that nostalgic vibe and rich colors, it makes total sense to get married in the fall. On the other hand, if you want a sun-dappled ceremony and tropical-inspired cocktails, a summer wedding may be ideal for you.
The guest-list-making task is probably one of the most daunting in wedding planning. But here’s the thing: you absolutely don’t have to invite everyone. For example, if there are relatives that you haven’t spoken to in years, you have no obligation to invite them to the wedding. The same goes for work friends: just because you eat lunch with these people five days a week doesn’t mean they have to make your guest list, especially if you’re envisioning a more intimate event.
Prioritize close loved ones and always keep your budget in mind and be mindful of plus-ones. Also, have a system in place to monitor RSPVs, special requests, and dietary requirements.
Choosing your venue is probably the biggest decision you’ll have to make in your wedding planning, and it should obviously fit the aesthetic you have in your mind. Maybe you’re planning a modern wedding, and in this case, you’ll want to look at well-designed restaurants or warehouse spaces. Or perhaps you’re envisioning a wedding that incorporates more natural elements, such as a ranch or a backyard.
Note, however, that you should look beyond beauty when checking venues. You also want to consider:
Did you know it can take about six months for a made-to-measure dress to get delivered? And that doesn’t even include the final tweaks, which can take up to a month. To put it simply, make sure you give yourself enough time to search for the wedding dress of your dreams.
It’s helpful to have an idea of the style you prefer before going shopping, and Pinterest can be a great source of inspiration. But of course, that doesn’t mean you should base your wedding around those pictures – just use them to figure out a style and then try on different things within that style. Whether you prefer an A-line silhouette, a Mermaid dress, or a corseted gown, what matters in the end is to feel comfortable and confident.
Wedding suppliers are the nuts and bolts to ensure your wedding day goes as smoothly as possible, so you want to choose a team of people that you can trust. One of the most common mistakes when booking suppliers is not doing your research, so take the time to read testimonials and determine whether a supplier is truly a good fit for you. Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions, because ultimately, you want to make sure you are compatible, especially as you’ll spend quite a bit of time with these people, especially your photographer.
And here’s a little piece of advice: don’t wait too long to choose your suppliers, because you may end up with fewer choices and higher costs, as they get booked months and even years in advance.
In the end, wedding planning isn’t about perfection; it’s about creating a day that truly reflects your love story. So, take things one step at a time, stay true to what matters most for both of you, and remember to enjoy the moment.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1762873853) } [3]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(66) "How Real Love Blossoms Beyond Borders with Latin Mail Order Brides" ["link"]=> string(105) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/10/30/how-real-love-blossoms-beyond-borders-with-latin-mail-order-brides/" ["comments"]=> string(113) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/10/30/how-real-love-blossoms-beyond-borders-with-latin-mail-order-brides/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(13) "J. T. Ellison" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:10:52 +0000" ["category"]=> string(53) "Dating AdviceLatin Mail Order BridesMail Order Brides" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9400" ["description"]=> string(329) "Love is not designed to be limited. It’s something that can appear in the most unexpected places. So, why not across oceans? International relationships are not new, as thousands of women marry Western men each year. And brides from Latin America are 2nd in popularity in the US in 2024, considering the number of K-1 […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(5069) "Love is not designed to be limited. It’s something that can appear in the most unexpected places. So, why not across oceans?
International relationships are not new, as thousands of women marry Western men each year. And brides from Latin America are 2nd in popularity in the US in 2024, considering the number of K-1 visas. What makes women from Latin America so popular? Why do relationships with them blossom? Read on and find out!
According to the K-1 visa statistics, over 10K brides were coming from Latin American countries to the US in 2024. Similar trends exist in Canada, Australia, and the UK.
As you can see from relationship statistics, women from Latin America are very popular for dating and marriage. Men choose a love story with Latin mail order brides for many reasons. You may think they want such a life partner because of their curvy and feminine figures, but a local wife can offer more than just good looks.
But they are not all the same. There are many unique things about Latin mail order brides. Getting to know the woman you like before committing is very important.
Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Colombia are the most popular countries to get Latin mail order brides. Those are also the nationalities of women you’ll find the most on popular Latin dating sites. However, women from Brazil and Venezuela are also quite popular among American men.
To get a realistic vision of Latin mail order brides, you need to know both the perks and drawbacks.
| Pros | Cons |
| High emotional openness and ease of expressing affection | Language barriers exist in some countries, like Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico |
| The majority are ready to have a family quite young. For example, the average marriage age in Colombia is 18 years | Cultural differences |
| Serious about relationships and marriage | Some Latin women have quite hot tempers |
| Tend to want bigger families | The process of getting a Latin mail order wife requires around $5,000 |
We have a short checklist if you’re unsure if you want to start a love story with a Latin woman. If you like these, then the chances are high you’ll blossom in a relationship with a Latin woman:
So, are Latin mail order brides a top choice or not worth it? It depends on what you want. Latin brides can bring fire, loyalty, and home coziness into a relationship. At the same time, the process of searching and immigration is not easy. However, in the end, love makes it all worth it.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(110) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/10/30/how-real-love-blossoms-beyond-borders-with-latin-mail-order-brides/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(329) "Love is not designed to be limited. It’s something that can appear in the most unexpected places. So, why not across oceans? International relationships are not new, as thousands of women marry Western men each year. And brides from Latin America are 2nd in popularity in the US in 2024, considering the number of K-1 […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(5069) "
Love is not designed to be limited. It’s something that can appear in the most unexpected places. So, why not across oceans?
International relationships are not new, as thousands of women marry Western men each year. And brides from Latin America are 2nd in popularity in the US in 2024, considering the number of K-1 visas. What makes women from Latin America so popular? Why do relationships with them blossom? Read on and find out!
According to the K-1 visa statistics, over 10K brides were coming from Latin American countries to the US in 2024. Similar trends exist in Canada, Australia, and the UK.
As you can see from relationship statistics, women from Latin America are very popular for dating and marriage. Men choose a love story with Latin mail order brides for many reasons. You may think they want such a life partner because of their curvy and feminine figures, but a local wife can offer more than just good looks.
But they are not all the same. There are many unique things about Latin mail order brides. Getting to know the woman you like before committing is very important.
Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Colombia are the most popular countries to get Latin mail order brides. Those are also the nationalities of women you’ll find the most on popular Latin dating sites. However, women from Brazil and Venezuela are also quite popular among American men.
To get a realistic vision of Latin mail order brides, you need to know both the perks and drawbacks.
| Pros | Cons |
| High emotional openness and ease of expressing affection | Language barriers exist in some countries, like Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico |
| The majority are ready to have a family quite young. For example, the average marriage age in Colombia is 18 years | Cultural differences |
| Serious about relationships and marriage | Some Latin women have quite hot tempers |
| Tend to want bigger families | The process of getting a Latin mail order wife requires around $5,000 |
We have a short checklist if you’re unsure if you want to start a love story with a Latin woman. If you like these, then the chances are high you’ll blossom in a relationship with a Latin woman:
So, are Latin mail order brides a top choice or not worth it? It depends on what you want. Latin brides can bring fire, loyalty, and home coziness into a relationship. At the same time, the process of searching and immigration is not easy. However, in the end, love makes it all worth it.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1761837052) } [4]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(58) "The Four Things A Man Should Never Have To Buy For Himself" ["link"]=> string(97) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/10/27/the-four-things-a-man-should-never-have-to-buy-for-himself/" ["comments"]=> string(105) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/10/27/the-four-things-a-man-should-never-have-to-buy-for-himself/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(9) "Alex Wise" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Mon, 27 Oct 2025 13:41:46 +0000" ["category"]=> string(37) "InterestinggiftsGifts For A ManTo Buy" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9391" ["description"]=> string(275) "When I was in high school, I worked at a restaurant part time. One of my co-workers was this really fly hostess who was a few years my elder. I think she was in like community college or something. In any case, every now and then, she would put me on to the ways of […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(5560) "
When I was in high school, I worked at a restaurant part time. One of my co-workers was this really fly hostess who was a few years my elder. I think she was in like community college or something. In any case, every now and then, she would put me on to the ways of women, what they liked, what they didn’t like.
Much of her lessons have been forgotten, admittedly, but there was one lesson she taught me that has stuck with me forever. It goes as follows:
A woman should never have to buy her own flowers, jewelry, or perfume
I believe her father told her this, and I thought it good and fair advice. My mother also once told me a man should buy his woman flowers at least once a month. This is good advice as well. Over the years, I have also noticed another item or purchase a woman should never have to make on her own: A day at the spa. All men should get their special lady a day at the spa, whether it be for a special occasion or not. So those are the four things a woman should never have to buy for herself, which begs the question: What should a man never have to buy for himself? Even if he has the means to do so, I thought, there should be some items men should receive from others instead of treating themselves.
I’ve thought long and hard about this list and I’m finally ready to share it with everyone else. Feel free to add anything both to the list of things a woman should never have to buy for herself (which I’m sure my woman readers are going to do anyway) and the list of things a man should never have to buy for himself.
Here it is, four things a man should never have to purchase for himself. No further explanations necessary.
We all keep time on our cellular devices these days, so the watch has seemingly been put on the back burner, but it’s also resurrected the importance of a nice time piece. These days, no man is wearing a watch for its functionality, we’re wearing one because they’re fashionable and demonstrate our appreciation for the old school.
I’ve mentioned this gift before, because I just think it’s so obvious for the woman who is dating a sports fan. Unless he’s already a season ticket holder, nothing will please a man more than two or so tickets to a competitive sporting event. A rule I’d like to add to this purchase: If bought as a birthday/Father’s Day/Christmas gift, encourage the man to go to the event with one of his friends. If bought just for the sake of being nice, the woman has a right to impose herself on the second ticket.
The funny thing about this gift is how possessive women are over it. I remember I once put on some cologne before heading out on a date with an ex-girlfriend of mine. As we were walking to our destination she says, “What are you wearing?” I forget what the scent was, but when I told her she then asked, “Where did you get it from?” I said, “It was a gift.” She asked, “Who got it for you?” I said, “Umm, an ex of mine.” She said, “Okay…” Then there was silence. We continued walking down 34th street, which for those who know is a haven for bootleggers and street vendors. Out of nowhere, my ex stops at a table filled with name brand colognes on the cheap. She’s sampling, smelling, asking me to smell this bottle and that before she finally settles on D&G. I liked it too. She tells the vendor she’ll take the D&G, pays for it, and then hands me the bag. “I’ll get you another cologne later, but until then, the next time you put some on, you put this on. I don’t want to smell what another woman bought you.” To me, this still makes sense, so ladies, buy a man a scent. He should smell good on his own but he should smell magical because of you.
This is strictly for those who are in a committed relationship because gadgets are expensive. Though the watch may seem like the jewelry equivalent to a man, it’s actually gadgets. This sort of gift can range anywhere from Beats By Dre Headphones (any woman who wants to buy me a pair, I would love you for it) to an iPad 2. Although, I wouldn’t trust a woman who bought me an iPad 2 out of fear she added a hidden tracking device app that she keeps tabs on at all times, but I digress. The point is, gadgets, ladies. Get them for that special guy. And yes, Madden 2012 counts as a gadget.
Here’s the deal with this purchase, it doesn’t look good on every man. But hey, I can’t speak for every man here, I can only speak for me and I make hats look good. If you’re dating one of those guys who looks ridiculous in hats, go with a tailored suit. A reader actually emailed me about this very thing a couple of weeks ago, saying she took her man on a date to a customized hat shop. I thought it was a great idea. Like a man should know a woman’s ring size, a woman should know her man’s hat size, or if applicable, his suit measurements. I actually had another ex-girlfriend of mine go in my closet, take one of my tailored suits along with another suit I hadn’t gotten tailored yet, and had the tailor make the necessary adjustments as a Christmas gift. But it didn’t get done in time, so she gave me the pick-up ticket as a gift. Unfortunately, we broke up soon after, and she sure did take the ticket with her.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(102) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/10/27/the-four-things-a-man-should-never-have-to-buy-for-himself/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(275) "When I was in high school, I worked at a restaurant part time. One of my co-workers was this really fly hostess who was a few years my elder. I think she was in like community college or something. In any case, every now and then, she would put me on to the ways of […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(5560) "When I was in high school, I worked at a restaurant part time. One of my co-workers was this really fly hostess who was a few years my elder. I think she was in like community college or something. In any case, every now and then, she would put me on to the ways of women, what they liked, what they didn’t like.
Much of her lessons have been forgotten, admittedly, but there was one lesson she taught me that has stuck with me forever. It goes as follows:
A woman should never have to buy her own flowers, jewelry, or perfume
I believe her father told her this, and I thought it good and fair advice. My mother also once told me a man should buy his woman flowers at least once a month. This is good advice as well. Over the years, I have also noticed another item or purchase a woman should never have to make on her own: A day at the spa. All men should get their special lady a day at the spa, whether it be for a special occasion or not. So those are the four things a woman should never have to buy for herself, which begs the question: What should a man never have to buy for himself? Even if he has the means to do so, I thought, there should be some items men should receive from others instead of treating themselves.
I’ve thought long and hard about this list and I’m finally ready to share it with everyone else. Feel free to add anything both to the list of things a woman should never have to buy for herself (which I’m sure my woman readers are going to do anyway) and the list of things a man should never have to buy for himself.
Here it is, four things a man should never have to purchase for himself. No further explanations necessary.
We all keep time on our cellular devices these days, so the watch has seemingly been put on the back burner, but it’s also resurrected the importance of a nice time piece. These days, no man is wearing a watch for its functionality, we’re wearing one because they’re fashionable and demonstrate our appreciation for the old school.
I’ve mentioned this gift before, because I just think it’s so obvious for the woman who is dating a sports fan. Unless he’s already a season ticket holder, nothing will please a man more than two or so tickets to a competitive sporting event. A rule I’d like to add to this purchase: If bought as a birthday/Father’s Day/Christmas gift, encourage the man to go to the event with one of his friends. If bought just for the sake of being nice, the woman has a right to impose herself on the second ticket.
The funny thing about this gift is how possessive women are over it. I remember I once put on some cologne before heading out on a date with an ex-girlfriend of mine. As we were walking to our destination she says, “What are you wearing?” I forget what the scent was, but when I told her she then asked, “Where did you get it from?” I said, “It was a gift.” She asked, “Who got it for you?” I said, “Umm, an ex of mine.” She said, “Okay…” Then there was silence. We continued walking down 34th street, which for those who know is a haven for bootleggers and street vendors. Out of nowhere, my ex stops at a table filled with name brand colognes on the cheap. She’s sampling, smelling, asking me to smell this bottle and that before she finally settles on D&G. I liked it too. She tells the vendor she’ll take the D&G, pays for it, and then hands me the bag. “I’ll get you another cologne later, but until then, the next time you put some on, you put this on. I don’t want to smell what another woman bought you.” To me, this still makes sense, so ladies, buy a man a scent. He should smell good on his own but he should smell magical because of you.
This is strictly for those who are in a committed relationship because gadgets are expensive. Though the watch may seem like the jewelry equivalent to a man, it’s actually gadgets. This sort of gift can range anywhere from Beats By Dre Headphones (any woman who wants to buy me a pair, I would love you for it) to an iPad 2. Although, I wouldn’t trust a woman who bought me an iPad 2 out of fear she added a hidden tracking device app that she keeps tabs on at all times, but I digress. The point is, gadgets, ladies. Get them for that special guy. And yes, Madden 2012 counts as a gadget.
Here’s the deal with this purchase, it doesn’t look good on every man. But hey, I can’t speak for every man here, I can only speak for me and I make hats look good. If you’re dating one of those guys who looks ridiculous in hats, go with a tailored suit. A reader actually emailed me about this very thing a couple of weeks ago, saying she took her man on a date to a customized hat shop. I thought it was a great idea. Like a man should know a woman’s ring size, a woman should know her man’s hat size, or if applicable, his suit measurements. I actually had another ex-girlfriend of mine go in my closet, take one of my tailored suits along with another suit I hadn’t gotten tailored yet, and had the tailor make the necessary adjustments as a Christmas gift. But it didn’t get done in time, so she gave me the pick-up ticket as a gift. Unfortunately, we broke up soon after, and she sure did take the ticket with her.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1761572506) } [5]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(71) "Finding Romance in Rome: An Expat’s Guide to Love in the Eternal City" ["link"]=> string(106) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/10/01/finding-romance-in-rome-an-expats-guide-to-love-in-the-eternal-city/" ["comments"]=> string(114) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/10/01/finding-romance-in-rome-an-expats-guide-to-love-in-the-eternal-city/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(7) "Diana D" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Wed, 01 Oct 2025 15:14:47 +0000" ["category"]=> string(71) "InterestingExpanding Your CircleexpatsFamily Traditionsromespeed dating" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9384" ["description"]=> string(361) "Rome, the Eternal City, is more than just a giant open-air museum. With its layers of history, Renaissance palaces, Baroque fountains, and lively piazzas, Rome is a city where culture and romance intertwine naturally. Romans themselves are known for their passion, spontaneity, and love of la dolce vita. Expats moving here often find themselves drawn […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(16529) "Rome, the Eternal City, is more than just a giant open-air museum. With its layers of history, Renaissance palaces, Baroque fountains, and lively piazzas, Rome is a city where culture and romance intertwine naturally. Romans themselves are known for their passion, spontaneity, and love of la dolce vita. Expats moving here often find themselves drawn not only to the architecture but also to the people — fiery, expressive, and warm. Navigating the dating scene in Rome requires understanding the social dynamics, embracing local traditions, and being open to new experiences. With a mix of historical charm and modern energy, the city offers endless opportunities to meet interesting people.
Understanding Rome’s Expat CommunitiesRome attracts a wide spectrum of expats: diplomats, NGO workers, entrepreneurs, international students, and creatives. Unlike smaller Italian towns, Rome offers a lively international culture. You’ll find English-speaking groups in neighborhoods like Trastevere, San Lorenzo, and Monti, and many locals are eager to practice languages and connect with foreigners. The city’s diverse population ensures that there is always someone to connect with, whether through hobbies, work, or social events. Understanding the local dynamics and building relationships within expat circles can make settling in Rome much easier.
Quick Checklist for Expats in Rome:
Join Italian-English language exchanges.
Explore coworking cafés where locals and internationals network.
Attend university-hosted events at La Sapienza and LUISS.
Stay open to neighborhood festivals and outdoor gatherings.
Online Platforms to ConnectFor expats, online platforms are essential tools for meeting new people and expanding social circles. Rome’s busy lifestyle and widespread tourism can make in-person meetings challenging without a starting point. Loveawake.com is a dependable resource for singles in Rome, providing opportunities for both casual conversations and meaningful relationships. By leveraging online tools, newcomers can filter connections based on interests, age, and lifestyle preferences, making initial interactions more comfortable and intentional.
Other platforms tailored to the city include:
Rome Hearts – A community-oriented platform for expats interested in cultural and lifestyle connections.
Dolce Vita Dates – A dating app focused on Italian cities, helping users find like-minded locals.
Cultural Match Roma – A platform for expats seeking partners who share an interest in arts, history, and events in Rome.
Where to Meet Expats OfflineRome’s energy thrives in its streets, piazzas, and social hubs. Walking through its neighborhoods, one can quickly see why locals and internationals alike are drawn to these areas. Social spots are not only visually appealing but also serve as organic meeting points for friendships and romance. These places encourage natural conversations in settings that are relaxed and culturally rich.
Piazza Navona – Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM, Italy Trastevere – Trastevere, 00153 Roma RM, Italy Testaccio Market (Mercato di Testaccio) – Via Aldo Manuzio, 66b, 00153 Roma RM, Italy MAXXI Museum Café – Via Guido Reni, 4A, 00196 Roma RM, Italy
Events and Speed Dating in RomeRome has embraced speed dating events, offering newcomers and locals a chance to meet multiple singles in a single evening. These structured events are ideal for expats who may feel shy approaching strangers in casual settings. Beyond speed dating, Rome offers cultural experiences and themed social gatherings that encourage natural interaction. Participating in these events is also a great way to explore the city in a social context.
Other popular social events include:
Outdoor Film Nights in Villa Borghese – Piazzale Napoleone I, 00197 Roma RM, Italy. Usually held summer months, June–August, on weekend evenings.
Wine Tasting Evenings in Testaccio – Enotecas throughout Via Marmorata, 00153 Roma RM, Italy. Typically every Friday and Saturday night.
Theater Groups and Improv Classes – Teatro Vascello, Via Giacinto Carini, 78, 00152 Roma RM, Italy. Sessions usually run weekly from September to June.
Guided Cultural Walking Tours – Departures from Largo di Torre Argentina, 00186 Roma RM, Italy. Tours happen year-round, daily, with peak activity in spring and autumn.
These gatherings help break the ice while immersing you in Roman culture.
Family Traditions and Romance in RomeDating in Rome often means stepping into Italy’s famous family-oriented culture. Romans have strong ties to family, and it is not uncommon for a significant other to be involved in family events early in a relationship. Relationships tend to develop with the involvement of family much earlier than in other countries. Expats should be prepared for lively Sunday lunches and animated dinner conversations, which are central to bonding. Understanding these traditions helps navigate the dating scene respectfully and successfully.
Keep in Mind:
Meeting family is a serious milestone in Rome.
Food and tradition are central to bonding.
Respect for elders earns you credibility.
Humor and warmth go a long way.
Classes and Groups for Expanding Your CircleRome offers countless opportunities to learn and socialize at the same time. Classes and workshops provide a natural way to meet like-minded people. Engaging in shared activities allows for organic connections that often lead to both friendships and romantic opportunities. Whether it’s dancing, cooking, or photography, these groups offer a structured yet relaxed environment to mingle with locals and expats alike.
Cooking Schools in Testaccio (Chef Factory Roma) – Via Aldo Manuzio, 00153 Roma RM, Italy Salsa Dancing in San Giovanni (Alma Latina) – Via Emanuele Filiberto, 55, 00185 Roma RM, Italy Photography Workshops in Monti (Centro Sperimentale di Fotografia Adams) – Via Biagio Pallai, 12, 00151 Roma RM, Italy Language Schools in Prati (Scuola Leonardo da Vinci) – Piazza dell’Orologio, 7, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Tips for Dating in RomeDating in Rome is an adventure. It requires flexibility, patience, and a sense of humor. Forget rigid plans — spontaneity rules. Coffee dates, evening passeggiatas, and casual conversations are often more meaningful than formal dinners. Showing interest in local culture and making small efforts in Italian can help you stand out. Being open, relaxed, and ready to embrace the unpredictability of Roman life can lead to memorable experiences.
Final ReflectionsRome blends history, passion, and modern cosmopolitan life in a way few cities can. For expats, dating here is about balancing openness to Italian customs with engagement in the vibrant international scene. Whether it’s a speed dating night, a salsa class, or simply sipping espresso in Trastevere, opportunities for connection are everywhere. The Eternal City offers endless possibilities for friendship, adventure, and romance — it’s up to you to seize them.
Links to Expats Communities Around The GlobeRome, the Eternal City, is more than just a giant open-air museum. With its layers of history, Renaissance palaces, Baroque fountains, and lively piazzas, Rome is a city where culture and romance intertwine naturally. Romans themselves are known for their passion, spontaneity, and love of la dolce vita. Expats moving here often find themselves drawn not only to the architecture but also to the people — fiery, expressive, and warm. Navigating the dating scene in Rome requires understanding the social dynamics, embracing local traditions, and being open to new experiences. With a mix of historical charm and modern energy, the city offers endless opportunities to meet interesting people.
Understanding Rome’s Expat CommunitiesRome attracts a wide spectrum of expats: diplomats, NGO workers, entrepreneurs, international students, and creatives. Unlike smaller Italian towns, Rome offers a lively international culture. You’ll find English-speaking groups in neighborhoods like Trastevere, San Lorenzo, and Monti, and many locals are eager to practice languages and connect with foreigners. The city’s diverse population ensures that there is always someone to connect with, whether through hobbies, work, or social events. Understanding the local dynamics and building relationships within expat circles can make settling in Rome much easier.
Quick Checklist for Expats in Rome:
Join Italian-English language exchanges.
Explore coworking cafés where locals and internationals network.
Attend university-hosted events at La Sapienza and LUISS.
Stay open to neighborhood festivals and outdoor gatherings.
Online Platforms to ConnectFor expats, online platforms are essential tools for meeting new people and expanding social circles. Rome’s busy lifestyle and widespread tourism can make in-person meetings challenging without a starting point. Loveawake.com is a dependable resource for singles in Rome, providing opportunities for both casual conversations and meaningful relationships. By leveraging online tools, newcomers can filter connections based on interests, age, and lifestyle preferences, making initial interactions more comfortable and intentional.
Other platforms tailored to the city include:
Rome Hearts – A community-oriented platform for expats interested in cultural and lifestyle connections.
Dolce Vita Dates – A dating app focused on Italian cities, helping users find like-minded locals.
Cultural Match Roma – A platform for expats seeking partners who share an interest in arts, history, and events in Rome.
Where to Meet Expats OfflineRome’s energy thrives in its streets, piazzas, and social hubs. Walking through its neighborhoods, one can quickly see why locals and internationals alike are drawn to these areas. Social spots are not only visually appealing but also serve as organic meeting points for friendships and romance. These places encourage natural conversations in settings that are relaxed and culturally rich.
Piazza Navona – Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM, Italy Trastevere – Trastevere, 00153 Roma RM, Italy Testaccio Market (Mercato di Testaccio) – Via Aldo Manuzio, 66b, 00153 Roma RM, Italy MAXXI Museum Café – Via Guido Reni, 4A, 00196 Roma RM, Italy
Events and Speed Dating in RomeRome has embraced speed dating events, offering newcomers and locals a chance to meet multiple singles in a single evening. These structured events are ideal for expats who may feel shy approaching strangers in casual settings. Beyond speed dating, Rome offers cultural experiences and themed social gatherings that encourage natural interaction. Participating in these events is also a great way to explore the city in a social context.
Other popular social events include:
Outdoor Film Nights in Villa Borghese – Piazzale Napoleone I, 00197 Roma RM, Italy. Usually held summer months, June–August, on weekend evenings.
Wine Tasting Evenings in Testaccio – Enotecas throughout Via Marmorata, 00153 Roma RM, Italy. Typically every Friday and Saturday night.
Theater Groups and Improv Classes – Teatro Vascello, Via Giacinto Carini, 78, 00152 Roma RM, Italy. Sessions usually run weekly from September to June.
Guided Cultural Walking Tours – Departures from Largo di Torre Argentina, 00186 Roma RM, Italy. Tours happen year-round, daily, with peak activity in spring and autumn.
These gatherings help break the ice while immersing you in Roman culture.
Family Traditions and Romance in RomeDating in Rome often means stepping into Italy’s famous family-oriented culture. Romans have strong ties to family, and it is not uncommon for a significant other to be involved in family events early in a relationship. Relationships tend to develop with the involvement of family much earlier than in other countries. Expats should be prepared for lively Sunday lunches and animated dinner conversations, which are central to bonding. Understanding these traditions helps navigate the dating scene respectfully and successfully.
Keep in Mind:
Meeting family is a serious milestone in Rome.
Food and tradition are central to bonding.
Respect for elders earns you credibility.
Humor and warmth go a long way.
Classes and Groups for Expanding Your CircleRome offers countless opportunities to learn and socialize at the same time. Classes and workshops provide a natural way to meet like-minded people. Engaging in shared activities allows for organic connections that often lead to both friendships and romantic opportunities. Whether it’s dancing, cooking, or photography, these groups offer a structured yet relaxed environment to mingle with locals and expats alike.
Cooking Schools in Testaccio (Chef Factory Roma) – Via Aldo Manuzio, 00153 Roma RM, Italy Salsa Dancing in San Giovanni (Alma Latina) – Via Emanuele Filiberto, 55, 00185 Roma RM, Italy Photography Workshops in Monti (Centro Sperimentale di Fotografia Adams) – Via Biagio Pallai, 12, 00151 Roma RM, Italy Language Schools in Prati (Scuola Leonardo da Vinci) – Piazza dell’Orologio, 7, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Tips for Dating in RomeDating in Rome is an adventure. It requires flexibility, patience, and a sense of humor. Forget rigid plans — spontaneity rules. Coffee dates, evening passeggiatas, and casual conversations are often more meaningful than formal dinners. Showing interest in local culture and making small efforts in Italian can help you stand out. Being open, relaxed, and ready to embrace the unpredictability of Roman life can lead to memorable experiences.
Final ReflectionsRome blends history, passion, and modern cosmopolitan life in a way few cities can. For expats, dating here is about balancing openness to Italian customs with engagement in the vibrant international scene. Whether it’s a speed dating night, a salsa class, or simply sipping espresso in Trastevere, opportunities for connection are everywhere. The Eternal City offers endless possibilities for friendship, adventure, and romance — it’s up to you to seize them.
Links to Expats Communities Around The GlobeDating was never easy, but having a baby at home and trying to navigate co-parenting and feeding times doesn’t make it any easier. Still, this doesn’t mean you should wait for your bundle of joy to turn 18.
Meeting new people who may turn into romantic interests can be fun. If nothing else, it’s a nice break from parenting (provided the baby is safe at home). It may not be as easy as “Hey, I’ll see you tonight after work!” but with a bit of planning and support, you can make it work.
If you’re new to this, here are a few steps to make sure things go smoothly.
This is something you can do while the baby is sleeping or during a walk. You no longer have the time to browse through all sorts of profiles, so be blunt about what you can offer and what you expect.
Start with the fact that you’re a new parent who is caring for a baby. Give a short description of the situation with the other parent, and be upfront with the fact that your time is limited. You may not get as many hits as before, but it will help you connect with people who are genuinely open to dating a parent.
Give interested people a glimpse into your life. Tell them about your parenting responsibilities, but don’t forget to talk about your interests and hobbies. Babies are fun and all, but no date will want to spend more than 10 minutes admiring photos and videos of your little ones.
Finally, state your intentions clearly. Are you looking for a long-term relationship or just casual companionship? Do you want a few fun outings, or are you ready to pursue something more stable?
Going on dates while still seeing your ex, with whom you have a child, can be awkward, but you have the right to rebuild your life. So, don’t ask for permission; just inform them and be aware of their reaction.
If you’re lucky enough to find someone reliable and want the baby to meet them, talk with your parenting partner first. It’s their right to know who enters the baby’s life. But until this happens, it’s best to treat co-parenting and dating as two separate entities.
Make sure to discuss your parenting styles and expectations with any new partner early on. Make it clear that you are the parent and that discipline is your responsibility. The right person will understand and respect that your child’s well-being is your top priority.
Ideally, you would have a parent, a sibling, or a person you trust watch the baby while you’re out. If this isn’t a good option, look into babysitting options. It may be more expensive, but it’s a way to get a few hours per week for yourself.
When you’re a new single parent, these small breaks matter for morale and peace of mind. Speaking of peace of mind, make sure the sitter has everything they need, including emergency contacts, allergy info, and breastmilk or formula.
If you go with formula, consider a version like Kendamil Infant organic formula. It’s made with whole milk fats, certified organic ingredients, and free from palm oil or added sugars, which makes it closer in composition to breast milk and gentler on your baby’s digestion.
These steps may look like they have nothing to do with the date itself, but when you know the baby is safe and well taken care of, you can relax and enjoy yourself. So, work hard to build your support system first, and enjoy dating a bit later.
You’re a new parent, you’ve been through a separation, and you’re trying to find your footing. Now isn’t the time to jump headfirst into dating. Start small. Focus on getting to know people online and only meet the ones that show true promise.
Also, don’t feel guilty about wanting adult connection and romance — having a child doesn’t mean you stop deserving companionship. Be kind to yourself and embrace this new and chaotic way of life.
Your baby’s needs will always take first place in your life, but your well-being matters too. A fulfilled, happy parent often has more emotional energy to give. So, enjoy being a parent, but don’t give up on meeting someone to share that experience with.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(78) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/09/24/how-to-date-as-a-new-single-parent/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(314) "Dating was never easy, but having a baby at home and trying to navigate co-parenting and feeding times doesn’t make it any easier. Still, this doesn’t mean you should wait for your bundle of joy to turn 18. Meeting new people who may turn into romantic interests can be fun. If nothing else, it’s a […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(4711) "
Dating was never easy, but having a baby at home and trying to navigate co-parenting and feeding times doesn’t make it any easier. Still, this doesn’t mean you should wait for your bundle of joy to turn 18.
Meeting new people who may turn into romantic interests can be fun. If nothing else, it’s a nice break from parenting (provided the baby is safe at home). It may not be as easy as “Hey, I’ll see you tonight after work!” but with a bit of planning and support, you can make it work.
If you’re new to this, here are a few steps to make sure things go smoothly.
This is something you can do while the baby is sleeping or during a walk. You no longer have the time to browse through all sorts of profiles, so be blunt about what you can offer and what you expect.
Start with the fact that you’re a new parent who is caring for a baby. Give a short description of the situation with the other parent, and be upfront with the fact that your time is limited. You may not get as many hits as before, but it will help you connect with people who are genuinely open to dating a parent.
Give interested people a glimpse into your life. Tell them about your parenting responsibilities, but don’t forget to talk about your interests and hobbies. Babies are fun and all, but no date will want to spend more than 10 minutes admiring photos and videos of your little ones.
Finally, state your intentions clearly. Are you looking for a long-term relationship or just casual companionship? Do you want a few fun outings, or are you ready to pursue something more stable?
Going on dates while still seeing your ex, with whom you have a child, can be awkward, but you have the right to rebuild your life. So, don’t ask for permission; just inform them and be aware of their reaction.
If you’re lucky enough to find someone reliable and want the baby to meet them, talk with your parenting partner first. It’s their right to know who enters the baby’s life. But until this happens, it’s best to treat co-parenting and dating as two separate entities.
Make sure to discuss your parenting styles and expectations with any new partner early on. Make it clear that you are the parent and that discipline is your responsibility. The right person will understand and respect that your child’s well-being is your top priority.
Ideally, you would have a parent, a sibling, or a person you trust watch the baby while you’re out. If this isn’t a good option, look into babysitting options. It may be more expensive, but it’s a way to get a few hours per week for yourself.
When you’re a new single parent, these small breaks matter for morale and peace of mind. Speaking of peace of mind, make sure the sitter has everything they need, including emergency contacts, allergy info, and breastmilk or formula.
If you go with formula, consider a version like Kendamil Infant organic formula. It’s made with whole milk fats, certified organic ingredients, and free from palm oil or added sugars, which makes it closer in composition to breast milk and gentler on your baby’s digestion.
These steps may look like they have nothing to do with the date itself, but when you know the baby is safe and well taken care of, you can relax and enjoy yourself. So, work hard to build your support system first, and enjoy dating a bit later.
You’re a new parent, you’ve been through a separation, and you’re trying to find your footing. Now isn’t the time to jump headfirst into dating. Start small. Focus on getting to know people online and only meet the ones that show true promise.
Also, don’t feel guilty about wanting adult connection and romance — having a child doesn’t mean you stop deserving companionship. Be kind to yourself and embrace this new and chaotic way of life.
Your baby’s needs will always take first place in your life, but your well-being matters too. A fulfilled, happy parent often has more emotional energy to give. So, enjoy being a parent, but don’t give up on meeting someone to share that experience with.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1758722473) } [7]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(36) "How And When To Escalate With A Girl" ["link"]=> string(75) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/09/24/how-and-when-to-escalate-with-a-girl/" ["comments"]=> string(83) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/09/24/how-and-when-to-escalate-with-a-girl/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(9) "Alex Wise" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Wed, 24 Sep 2025 13:58:15 +0000" ["category"]=> string(33) "Dating AdviceEscalate With A Girl" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9375" ["description"]=> string(359) "Escalating with a girl seems like a major last hurdle for guys learning game, or learning to be good with women. It is the final threshold a young Lothario faces when entering the netherworld of seduction – he unconsciously clutches to his white knighthood, desperately afraid to let go – knowing as he passes through this threshold, he will […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(4628) "
Escalating with a girl seems like a major last hurdle for guys learning game, or learning to be good with women. It is the final threshold a young Lothario faces when entering the netherworld of seduction – he unconsciously clutches to his white knighthood, desperately afraid to let go – knowing as he passes through this threshold, he will never be the same. When he returns from Hades, he will have the most golden boon this world can offer – constant access to pussy, with minimal resistance.
If you are a student of the Mystery Method, which I am not, nor ever will be, you will be constantly thinking of things like: being stuck in A1 or some crap like that. Honestly, if you are thinking these things, you are doing it wrong. You are not really aware, not controlling the flow, not in the zone of seduction. Sure it may be handy to some in order to short hand their post game analysis, but it’s completely unnecessary. I find people waste too much time, when they could be dating.
It has been my experience that you need to escalate soon and often. Do not wallow in too much light flirting or attraction building. If you are interesting in hooking up with a girl, with minimal resistance when you get her alone, and maximum wetness – you need to start sooner than you are doing.
The only time it’s not a good idea to escalate in the initial stages of interactions is right away. That should be obvious, you don’t want to come off pervy or like a player. But once you sense there is an attraction, you should be escalating.
The opening escalation, again in my experience, is better if it’s bolder than you think you should be. The boldest comment to her is usually the best. Believe me, in my early years I was afraid to say what was on my mind, and it led to longer unnecessary delays in getting her legs open and her on her back, knees, all fours, whatever. Now, I don’t waste time. My time is a valuable resource, and I don’t waste it when I”m with girls. You will find in doing this, as I have found, that girls don’t really want to waste time either, if she’s attracted to you.
So, sense attraction, throw out a nuclear escalation – lean into her and whisper how you want to take her into the corner, pin her against the wall and make love with her like an animal. Gage her reaction. There will be a couple of possibilities, you’ll get blown out – not likely if you know she’s attracted to you already – she will act appalled, you can then act like it was a joke or that you were just testing her, “Hey you passed. Here’s a smiley face.” – or she will be receptive, which obviously you should know to keep escalating till you get home and bang.
You don’t have to be as bold as me, I know what works for me may not completely work for you. But, if there is attraction, you need to push faster and bolder than what you think you can. Many guys get a sense of nervousness or an “I don’t want to turn this girl off” moment before the escalation. Know that, if the girl is into you, she wants to make love. If you are an alpha, this is what she’s expecting. The longer you wait, the more she’s disappointed, and starting to think of you as a beta, a push over, another guy who’s too nice in the sack. I’ve heard a lot of girls I’ve slept with say to me, thank me, that I wasn’t another wussbag, or nice guy in bed. Stop disappointing girls and yourself.
You need to shake the illusion that the nice girl exists. Sure there are nicer girls, but EVERY girl wants to make love like a slut. At least once in her life. Every girl. Every single one. So give her the fantasy, and get your rocks off at the same time. Hey, if you’re looking for a girl to date, she might be a keeper. These days, with girls in their early twenties, you need to lose the, “I can’t date her if she put out on the first date.” – if she didn’t with you on the first night, you just weren’t good enough with her to get it out of her. Some other guy in her life will be. Trust me.
Again, don’t do this out of the gates. On first dates,do it after some good banter and comfort building – on a pick up, after she’s let her guard down just a bit – never ever do it in front of others or where she can be embarrassed. Either in isolation or one on one talking where people she know aren’t possibly judging her. If she’s too comfortable or too uncomfortable, you’ve lost your edge.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(80) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/09/24/how-and-when-to-escalate-with-a-girl/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(359) "Escalating with a girl seems like a major last hurdle for guys learning game, or learning to be good with women. It is the final threshold a young Lothario faces when entering the netherworld of seduction – he unconsciously clutches to his white knighthood, desperately afraid to let go – knowing as he passes through this threshold, he will […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(4628) "Escalating with a girl seems like a major last hurdle for guys learning game, or learning to be good with women. It is the final threshold a young Lothario faces when entering the netherworld of seduction – he unconsciously clutches to his white knighthood, desperately afraid to let go – knowing as he passes through this threshold, he will never be the same. When he returns from Hades, he will have the most golden boon this world can offer – constant access to pussy, with minimal resistance.
If you are a student of the Mystery Method, which I am not, nor ever will be, you will be constantly thinking of things like: being stuck in A1 or some crap like that. Honestly, if you are thinking these things, you are doing it wrong. You are not really aware, not controlling the flow, not in the zone of seduction. Sure it may be handy to some in order to short hand their post game analysis, but it’s completely unnecessary. I find people waste too much time, when they could be dating.
It has been my experience that you need to escalate soon and often. Do not wallow in too much light flirting or attraction building. If you are interesting in hooking up with a girl, with minimal resistance when you get her alone, and maximum wetness – you need to start sooner than you are doing.
The only time it’s not a good idea to escalate in the initial stages of interactions is right away. That should be obvious, you don’t want to come off pervy or like a player. But once you sense there is an attraction, you should be escalating.
The opening escalation, again in my experience, is better if it’s bolder than you think you should be. The boldest comment to her is usually the best. Believe me, in my early years I was afraid to say what was on my mind, and it led to longer unnecessary delays in getting her legs open and her on her back, knees, all fours, whatever. Now, I don’t waste time. My time is a valuable resource, and I don’t waste it when I”m with girls. You will find in doing this, as I have found, that girls don’t really want to waste time either, if she’s attracted to you.
So, sense attraction, throw out a nuclear escalation – lean into her and whisper how you want to take her into the corner, pin her against the wall and make love with her like an animal. Gage her reaction. There will be a couple of possibilities, you’ll get blown out – not likely if you know she’s attracted to you already – she will act appalled, you can then act like it was a joke or that you were just testing her, “Hey you passed. Here’s a smiley face.” – or she will be receptive, which obviously you should know to keep escalating till you get home and bang.
You don’t have to be as bold as me, I know what works for me may not completely work for you. But, if there is attraction, you need to push faster and bolder than what you think you can. Many guys get a sense of nervousness or an “I don’t want to turn this girl off” moment before the escalation. Know that, if the girl is into you, she wants to make love. If you are an alpha, this is what she’s expecting. The longer you wait, the more she’s disappointed, and starting to think of you as a beta, a push over, another guy who’s too nice in the sack. I’ve heard a lot of girls I’ve slept with say to me, thank me, that I wasn’t another wussbag, or nice guy in bed. Stop disappointing girls and yourself.
You need to shake the illusion that the nice girl exists. Sure there are nicer girls, but EVERY girl wants to make love like a slut. At least once in her life. Every girl. Every single one. So give her the fantasy, and get your rocks off at the same time. Hey, if you’re looking for a girl to date, she might be a keeper. These days, with girls in their early twenties, you need to lose the, “I can’t date her if she put out on the first date.” – if she didn’t with you on the first night, you just weren’t good enough with her to get it out of her. Some other guy in her life will be. Trust me.
Again, don’t do this out of the gates. On first dates,do it after some good banter and comfort building – on a pick up, after she’s let her guard down just a bit – never ever do it in front of others or where she can be embarrassed. Either in isolation or one on one talking where people she know aren’t possibly judging her. If she’s too comfortable or too uncomfortable, you’ve lost your edge.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1758722295) } [8]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(43) "6 Money Talks Couples Need Before Moving In" ["link"]=> string(82) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/09/18/6-money-talks-couples-need-before-moving-in/" ["comments"]=> string(90) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/09/18/6-money-talks-couples-need-before-moving-in/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(12) "Guest Author" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Thu, 18 Sep 2025 14:30:07 +0000" ["category"]=> string(137) "Dating AdviceInterestingDebt LoadsExpense SplittingFinancial GoalsmoneyMoney Talksmoving inPayment StrategiesPropertySplitting Strategies" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9372" ["description"]=> string(390) "Moving in together marks a significant relationship milestone beyond combining Netflix accounts and deciding whose furniture stays. While many couples wait until after marriage to discuss finances, those who start these conversations early and keep things transparent tend to report happier relationships. The financial discussions you have now will set the foundation for how you […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(6372) "Moving in together marks a significant relationship milestone beyond combining Netflix accounts and deciding whose furniture stays. While many couples wait until after marriage to discuss finances, those who start these conversations early and keep things transparent tend to report happier relationships. The financial discussions you have now will set the foundation for how you navigate money as a team throughout your relationship.
The basis of any effective cohabitation begins with complete transparency about your present financial situation. This involves revealing your real income, current savings, remaining debts, and credit ratings.
Many individuals feel uneasy sharing their financial weaknesses. However, concealing problems will only generate larger issues later. Have the difficult conversation about money with your partner. This openness enables both partners to make knowledgeable decisions about budgeting and goal-setting together.
Your credit background especially matters when planning to sign leases, request loans, or potentially buy property together. A weak credit score from one partner can impact your capacity to obtain favorable financing terms. Being direct about credit obstacles provides you time to tackle them proactively.
Investment properties produce income but also involve expenses, maintenance duties, and financing commitments that influence your household budget.
When financing rental properties, investors frequently employ specialized loan products. For example, Griffin Funding provides DSCR loans that enable borrowers to qualify for financing based on the anticipated rental income of a property instead of personal income. The DSCR divides monthly rent by monthly principal, interest payments, taxes, insurance and association fees to establish if the property produces adequate income to cover its expenses.
Comprehending how investment properties influence your combined finances helps you make knowledgeable decisions about future real estate investments and guarantees both partners understand the time and financial obligations involved.
One of the most practical discussions involves deciding how you’ll split shared costs. One of the initial conversations a couple relocating together should have concerns how expenses will be handled. There’s no single correct method, but you need mutual agreement on your selected approach.
Some couples divide everything equally, while others contribute proportionally according to income disparities. Think about which expenses you’ll share versus which stay individual obligations. Create clear expectations about who covers what and when payments are required to prevent the uncomfortable situation where someone must ask when rent will be paid.
Be sure to talk about what you hope to achieve together and individually, and how these plans fit in with your current financial situation. Moving in together often signals serious relationship intentions, making aligning your primary economic objectives and timelines essential.
Discuss when you might want to purchase a home together, start saving for retirement as a couple, or make other significant financial commitments. Address whether you plan to maintain separate investment accounts or combine some investment strategies. Consider how individual career goals, such as graduate school or career changes, might impact your shared financial trajectory.
Some couples benefit from setting short-term goals, like saving for a vacation together, and long-term objectives, such as retirement planning or future family expenses. Regular check-ins about goal progress help ensure alignment as circumstances evolve.
Building an emergency fund becomes more complex when two people move in together. Determine your target emergency fund size based on your combined monthly expenses, typically three to six months of living costs. Decide whether you’ll maintain separate emergency funds or contribute to a shared safety net.
Consider how you’ll handle emergency fund contributions if your incomes differ significantly. Some couples contribute equal amounts monthly, while others contribute proportionally based on their earnings. Establish clear agreements about when and how emergency funds can be accessed, ensuring both partners feel comfortable with the accessibility and control of these critical funds.
Debt discussions can feel uncomfortable, but are crucial for long-term financial harmony. Each partner should disclose their total debt obligations, minimum monthly payments, and current repayment strategies. This information helps you understand how existing debts might affect your shared budget and future financial goals.
Consider whether you’ll help each other tackle debt or maintain separate responsibility for pre-existing obligations. Some couples succeed in the debt snowball method, where they jointly focus on eliminating the smallest debts first, while others prefer targeting high-interest debt regardless of balance size.
These financial conversations lay the groundwork for a transparent, collaborative approach to money management. Having the uncomfortable conversation about money with your partner sooner rather than later prevents misunderstandings and builds trust around financial decision-making. Remember that these discussions aren’t one-time events but ongoing conversations that should evolve as your relationship and financial situation develop.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(87) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/09/18/6-money-talks-couples-need-before-moving-in/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(390) "Moving in together marks a significant relationship milestone beyond combining Netflix accounts and deciding whose furniture stays. While many couples wait until after marriage to discuss finances, those who start these conversations early and keep things transparent tend to report happier relationships. The financial discussions you have now will set the foundation for how you […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(6372) "Moving in together marks a significant relationship milestone beyond combining Netflix accounts and deciding whose furniture stays. While many couples wait until after marriage to discuss finances, those who start these conversations early and keep things transparent tend to report happier relationships. The financial discussions you have now will set the foundation for how you navigate money as a team throughout your relationship.
The basis of any effective cohabitation begins with complete transparency about your present financial situation. This involves revealing your real income, current savings, remaining debts, and credit ratings.
Many individuals feel uneasy sharing their financial weaknesses. However, concealing problems will only generate larger issues later. Have the difficult conversation about money with your partner. This openness enables both partners to make knowledgeable decisions about budgeting and goal-setting together.
Your credit background especially matters when planning to sign leases, request loans, or potentially buy property together. A weak credit score from one partner can impact your capacity to obtain favorable financing terms. Being direct about credit obstacles provides you time to tackle them proactively.
Investment properties produce income but also involve expenses, maintenance duties, and financing commitments that influence your household budget.
When financing rental properties, investors frequently employ specialized loan products. For example, Griffin Funding provides DSCR loans that enable borrowers to qualify for financing based on the anticipated rental income of a property instead of personal income. The DSCR divides monthly rent by monthly principal, interest payments, taxes, insurance and association fees to establish if the property produces adequate income to cover its expenses.
Comprehending how investment properties influence your combined finances helps you make knowledgeable decisions about future real estate investments and guarantees both partners understand the time and financial obligations involved.
One of the most practical discussions involves deciding how you’ll split shared costs. One of the initial conversations a couple relocating together should have concerns how expenses will be handled. There’s no single correct method, but you need mutual agreement on your selected approach.
Some couples divide everything equally, while others contribute proportionally according to income disparities. Think about which expenses you’ll share versus which stay individual obligations. Create clear expectations about who covers what and when payments are required to prevent the uncomfortable situation where someone must ask when rent will be paid.
Be sure to talk about what you hope to achieve together and individually, and how these plans fit in with your current financial situation. Moving in together often signals serious relationship intentions, making aligning your primary economic objectives and timelines essential.
Discuss when you might want to purchase a home together, start saving for retirement as a couple, or make other significant financial commitments. Address whether you plan to maintain separate investment accounts or combine some investment strategies. Consider how individual career goals, such as graduate school or career changes, might impact your shared financial trajectory.
Some couples benefit from setting short-term goals, like saving for a vacation together, and long-term objectives, such as retirement planning or future family expenses. Regular check-ins about goal progress help ensure alignment as circumstances evolve.
Building an emergency fund becomes more complex when two people move in together. Determine your target emergency fund size based on your combined monthly expenses, typically three to six months of living costs. Decide whether you’ll maintain separate emergency funds or contribute to a shared safety net.
Consider how you’ll handle emergency fund contributions if your incomes differ significantly. Some couples contribute equal amounts monthly, while others contribute proportionally based on their earnings. Establish clear agreements about when and how emergency funds can be accessed, ensuring both partners feel comfortable with the accessibility and control of these critical funds.
Debt discussions can feel uncomfortable, but are crucial for long-term financial harmony. Each partner should disclose their total debt obligations, minimum monthly payments, and current repayment strategies. This information helps you understand how existing debts might affect your shared budget and future financial goals.
Consider whether you’ll help each other tackle debt or maintain separate responsibility for pre-existing obligations. Some couples succeed in the debt snowball method, where they jointly focus on eliminating the smallest debts first, while others prefer targeting high-interest debt regardless of balance size.
These financial conversations lay the groundwork for a transparent, collaborative approach to money management. Having the uncomfortable conversation about money with your partner sooner rather than later prevents misunderstandings and builds trust around financial decision-making. Remember that these discussions aren’t one-time events but ongoing conversations that should evolve as your relationship and financial situation develop.
" ["date_timestamp"]=> int(1758205807) } [9]=> array(14) { ["title"]=> string(68) "First Date Anxiety: Ways to Reduce the Stress of Meeting Someone New" ["link"]=> string(106) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/09/17/first-date-anxiety-ways-to-reduce-the-stress-of-meeting-someone-new/" ["comments"]=> string(114) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/09/17/first-date-anxiety-ways-to-reduce-the-stress-of-meeting-someone-new/#respond" ["dc"]=> array(1) { ["creator"]=> string(9) "Alex Wise" } ["pubdate"]=> string(31) "Wed, 17 Sep 2025 14:15:05 +0000" ["category"]=> string(23) "Dating Issuesfirst date" ["guid"]=> string(34) "https://blog.loveawake.com/?p=9368" ["description"]=> string(333) "First dates make most people nervous. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that 74% of adults between 18 and 35 feel moderate to high anxiety before or during first dates. Women face this anxiety 1.6 times more often than men. Men sweat more and feel their hearts race faster during these meetings. The […]" ["content"]=> array(1) { ["encoded"]=> string(8241) "First dates make most people nervous. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that 74% of adults between 18 and 35 feel moderate to high anxiety before or during first dates. Women face this anxiety 1.6 times more often than men. Men sweat more and feel their hearts race faster during these meetings.
Dating stress has become a major form of social anxiety. The National Institute of Mental Health found that 39% of newly diagnosed social anxiety cases in people aged 18 to 29 involve dating as a primary source. People cancel at the last minute. They overthink every detail. Their hands shake. They struggle to breathe normally. Some have panic attacks.
A Manifest survey of 1,200 people aged 18 to 40 revealed what scares them most. Rejection tops the list at 65%. Awkward silences follow at 55%. Compatibility concerns affect 51% of respondents. Safety worries trouble 27%, particularly women and LGBTQ people.
Online dating makes things worse for many. YouGov found that 48% of young adults say meeting someone from an app increases their anxiety. One in three blame bad past online dating encounters for their current stress levels.
Your body carries tension in ways you might not notice. Some people stretch or do light exercise before dates. Others try breathing exercises. A few turn to supplements like magnesium, L-theanine, or delta 8 gummies to manage pre-date nerves. These options work differently for each person. What matters is finding a routine that settles your nerves without making you drowsy or disconnected.
Test any new supplement or relaxation method days before your date. You need to know how your body responds. Chamomile tea might calm one person and make another sleepy. CBD products help some people feel grounded. Others prefer a quick walk or cold water on their wrists. Pick methods that keep you alert but calm.
Mental Health America reports that 42% of regular online daters feel burned out. Going on three or more first dates per month increases this exhaustion. Pew Research Center confirms that frequent dating app users need more breaks between meetings.
People lose sleep the night before dates. They check their appearance repeatedly. They practice conversations in their heads. A Mental Health Foundation survey found that 36% seek reassurance from friends or post in online forums before meeting someone new.
Dr. Elisa Rosen from the ADAA studied mindfulness techniques for pre-date anxiety. Her clinical sample showed a 32% reduction in anxiety levels through simple exercises. The 4-7-8 breathing method helps. So does grounding yourself through your senses.
Start small. Dr. Mark Liu from the National Social Anxiety Clinic suggests 30-minute coffee meetings instead of long dinners. His clinic found that clients using gradual exposure and self-compassion reduced their anxiety symptoms 41% faster than those who avoided dates or jumped into intense situations.
Pick familiar places for first meetings. Make a list of topics you can discuss. Know how you’ll leave if things go badly. These practical steps reduce uncertainty.
Video calls before meetings have become standard. Match.com reports that 57% of users prefer a short video chat first. This screens for chemistry and reduces anxiety about the unknown.
Phones create problems, too. Psychology Today found that 23% of daters say smartphone use during dates increases their anxiety. Social media posts about perfect dates set unrealistic standards. Mental health professionals now teach clients to turn off notifications and mute dating apps before meetings.
More singles seek therapy for dating anxiety now. TherapyTrends reports a 24% increase in sessions about dating stress over the past eighteen months. Therapists help clients build confidence, challenge perfectionist thinking, and manage physical symptoms like racing hearts or stomach problems.
Many feel pressure to make first dates perfect, which increases anxiety. She reminds clients that nervousness is normal and often mutual.
Schedule dates when you feel most energetic. Morning people shouldn’t force themselves into late-night meetings. Night owls shouldn’t agree to breakfast dates.
Tell someone where you’re going. Share your location with a friend. This addresses safety concerns and provides emotional backup.
Arrive early to get comfortable with the space. Order something simple that won’t cause problems if you’re nervous. Water works fine.
Accept that silences happen. They don’t mean failure. Most people feel the same nervousness you do.
Set a time limit for yourself. Knowing you can leave after an hour reduces pressure. You can always extend if things go well.
Dating anxiety affects younger generations more than older ones. Gen Z and Millennials report higher rates than previous generations. This connects to increased online interaction and changed social norms after the pandemic.
First date stress shows up differently in different people. Some talk too much. Others freeze up. Physical symptoms vary from sweating to nausea to panic attacks. No single solution works for everyone.
The fear of rejection drives most anxiety. People worry about saying the wrong thing or not meeting expectations. These fears often become self-fulfilling when anxiety takes over.
Dating fatigue compounds the problem. Meeting multiple new people drains emotional energy. Each failed connection makes the next attempt harder.
Yet people keep trying. They seek support from friends, therapists, and online communities. They practice self-care and develop coping strategies. Small victories build confidence over time.
First dates will probably always cause some anxiety. The goal isn’t to eliminate nerves completely. Instead, focus on managing them effectively. Use proven techniques like breathing exercises, gradual exposure, and realistic self-talk. Choose settings that feel safe. Remember that the other person likely feels nervous too. Most importantly, treat yourself with kindness when things don’t go perfectly. Dating requires practice, patience, and self-compassion.
" } ["wfw"]=> array(1) { ["commentrss"]=> string(111) "https://blog.loveawake.com/2025/09/17/first-date-anxiety-ways-to-reduce-the-stress-of-meeting-someone-new/feed/" } ["slash"]=> array(1) { ["comments"]=> string(1) "0" } ["summary"]=> string(333) "First dates make most people nervous. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that 74% of adults between 18 and 35 feel moderate to high anxiety before or during first dates. Women face this anxiety 1.6 times more often than men. Men sweat more and feel their hearts race faster during these meetings. The […]" ["atom_content"]=> string(8241) "First dates make most people nervous. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that 74% of adults between 18 and 35 feel moderate to high anxiety before or during first dates. Women face this anxiety 1.6 times more often than men. Men sweat more and feel their hearts race faster during these meetings.
Dating stress has become a major form of social anxiety. The National Institute of Mental Health found that 39% of newly diagnosed social anxiety cases in people aged 18 to 29 involve dating as a primary source. People cancel at the last minute. They overthink every detail. Their hands shake. They struggle to breathe normally. Some have panic attacks.
A Manifest survey of 1,200 people aged 18 to 40 revealed what scares them most. Rejection tops the list at 65%. Awkward silences follow at 55%. Compatibility concerns affect 51% of respondents. Safety worries trouble 27%, particularly women and LGBTQ people.
Online dating makes things worse for many. YouGov found that 48% of young adults say meeting someone from an app increases their anxiety. One in three blame bad past online dating encounters for their current stress levels.
Your body carries tension in ways you might not notice. Some people stretch or do light exercise before dates. Others try breathing exercises. A few turn to supplements like magnesium, L-theanine, or delta 8 gummies to manage pre-date nerves. These options work differently for each person. What matters is finding a routine that settles your nerves without making you drowsy or disconnected.
Test any new supplement or relaxation method days before your date. You need to know how your body responds. Chamomile tea might calm one person and make another sleepy. CBD products help some people feel grounded. Others prefer a quick walk or cold water on their wrists. Pick methods that keep you alert but calm.
Mental Health America reports that 42% of regular online daters feel burned out. Going on three or more first dates per month increases this exhaustion. Pew Research Center confirms that frequent dating app users need more breaks between meetings.
People lose sleep the night before dates. They check their appearance repeatedly. They practice conversations in their heads. A Mental Health Foundation survey found that 36% seek reassurance from friends or post in online forums before meeting someone new.
Dr. Elisa Rosen from the ADAA studied mindfulness techniques for pre-date anxiety. Her clinical sample showed a 32% reduction in anxiety levels through simple exercises. The 4-7-8 breathing method helps. So does grounding yourself through your senses.
Start small. Dr. Mark Liu from the National Social Anxiety Clinic suggests 30-minute coffee meetings instead of long dinners. His clinic found that clients using gradual exposure and self-compassion reduced their anxiety symptoms 41% faster than those who avoided dates or jumped into intense situations.
Pick familiar places for first meetings. Make a list of topics you can discuss. Know how you’ll leave if things go badly. These practical steps reduce uncertainty.
Video calls before meetings have become standard. Match.com reports that 57% of users prefer a short video chat first. This screens for chemistry and reduces anxiety about the unknown.
Phones create problems, too. Psychology Today found that 23% of daters say smartphone use during dates increases their anxiety. Social media posts about perfect dates set unrealistic standards. Mental health professionals now teach clients to turn off notifications and mute dating apps before meetings.
More singles seek therapy for dating anxiety now. TherapyTrends reports a 24% increase in sessions about dating stress over the past eighteen months. Therapists help clients build confidence, challenge perfectionist thinking, and manage physical symptoms like racing hearts or stomach problems.
Many feel pressure to make first dates perfect, which increases anxiety. She reminds clients that nervousness is normal and often mutual.
Schedule dates when you feel most energetic. Morning people shouldn’t force themselves into late-night meetings. Night owls shouldn’t agree to breakfast dates.
Tell someone where you’re going. Share your location with a friend. This addresses safety concerns and provides emotional backup.
Arrive early to get comfortable with the space. Order something simple that won’t cause problems if you’re nervous. Water works fine.
Accept that silences happen. They don’t mean failure. Most people feel the same nervousness you do.
Set a time limit for yourself. Knowing you can leave after an hour reduces pressure. You can always extend if things go well.
Dating anxiety affects younger generations more than older ones. Gen Z and Millennials report higher rates than previous generations. This connects to increased online interaction and changed social norms after the pandemic.
First date stress shows up differently in different people. Some talk too much. Others freeze up. Physical symptoms vary from sweating to nausea to panic attacks. No single solution works for everyone.
The fear of rejection drives most anxiety. People worry about saying the wrong thing or not meeting expectations. These fears often become self-fulfilling when anxiety takes over.
Dating fatigue compounds the problem. Meeting multiple new people drains emotional energy. Each failed connection makes the next attempt harder.
Yet people keep trying. They seek support from friends, therapists, and online communities. They practice self-care and develop coping strategies. Small victories build confidence over time.
First dates will probably always cause some anxiety. The goal isn’t to eliminate nerves completely. Instead, focus on managing them effectively. Use proven techniques like breathing exercises, gradual exposure, and realistic self-talk. Choose settings that feel safe. Remember that the other person likely feels nervous too. Most importantly, treat yourself with kindness when things don’t go perfectly. Dating requires practice, patience, and self-compassion.
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