Valentine’s Day can be hearts and flowers – or a day you’d rather forget (Picture: Getty Images)
Knowing at what stage in the dating process you can ask someone out for Valentine’s Day is tricky.
Some might see the day purely as a gimmick and nothing more, but for the romantics among us, a Valentine’s date can be more meaningful.
A survey of Hinge users found that nine in 10 people don’t plan on celebrating the date this year – not because they don’t want to, but because they don’t have a date and wish they did.
But getting the timing right in asking someone for a V-Day date might feel nerve-wracking.
A third of Hinge users said they know if they’re compatible after two or three dates (Picture: Getty Images/Tetra images RF)
Almost half of Hinge users believe it’s appropriate to celebrate the occasion with someone after the second or third date, preferring to have already established some kind of a connection.
This ties in with the fact that over a third of users know if they’re compatible with someone after two or three dates.
When should I ask someone out for Valentine’s Day?
Here are Hinge’s dating expert Logan Ury’s top tips:
Want to ask someone out this Valentine’s Day but aren’t sure how to go about it? Let Logan help.
Check their schedule: Even with people spending lots of time at home during lockdown, it’s still worth checking in with your date to see if they have any plans on February 14. That way you can confirm they are free – and ask them to keep the date clear – before you begin to make special plans.
Don’t overthink it: Tell your love interest that you are excited about getting to know them more and you’d like to spend this special day with them, even if that’s virtually.
Get creative: Can you send them a special note in the mail? Record a funny video asking them out? Show them you’re interested by putting in that extra effort.
How can I find a date in time for Valentine’s Day?
Logan has three top tips to help you bag a date with someone in the lead up to Valentine’s Day.
Firstly, Logan says to invest time in creating your profile.
Take time to create your profile for best online matches (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
‘People often fill out their profiles quickly because they want to get to their matches as soon as possible. But that’s a mistake. Your profile is your chance to make a great first impression and put your best foot forward.’
Secondly, don’t leave it too long between replies, as it can give the impression you’re just not that interested.
She says: ‘Send a message as soon as possible. Your best chance at getting a response is within 24 hours of matching with someone.
‘Ask them questions and start to discover who they are, beyond their profile.’
Thirdly, after a few back-and-forth messages, Logan says to ‘take the initiative’ and ask to speak over text or even a date.
‘Video dates a safe, low-pressure way to connect. You can get a vibe-check of your compatibility,’ says Logan.
Video dates are a good next step (Picture: Getty Images)
‘According to our research, video dates are likely to be way less awkward than you expect. Four to five days of chatting before you initiate the date is often the sweet spot.
‘It gives you enough time to build that foundation of trust, but it’s not so long that the momentum drops off.’
MORE : Deliveroo is giving out free starters and desserts this Valentine’s Day
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