Meeting Safely in Person
Meeting IRL: A Guide for Skip Users
Dating should be about finding someone who appreciates you for who you are—not who you think they want you to be.
If you're on a second date—cute! Maybe trust is building, and you're opening up a bit more. That’s great, but don’t let nerves or the desire to impress overshadow your authentic self. Do you know what you want? Are you being upfront about it? Can you walk away if you realize you’re not compatible, or are you twisting yourself into someone else’s ideal? The best relationships come from mutual honesty and understanding.
Takeaways:
- Check in with yourself—how are you feeling about this person?
- Be clear on what you want, and be willing to express it.
- Know your limits and what you're comfortable giving.
Beware of People-Pleasing
Trying too hard to meet someone else's expectations can make you lose sight of yourself. If you’re more focused on what your date thinks than on your own feelings, you might not be fully present. Instead of asking, “Am I doing this right?”, check in with yourself: “Do I like this?”
Set Healthy Boundaries
Be realistic about what you can offer in a relationship—whether it’s time, energy, or emotional investment. Ask yourself what you need from a partner before the date and assess whether your date can meet those needs. If they can’t, that’s okay! Not every connection is meant to last.
Your IRL Safety Guide
We wish safety wasn’t something you had to think about when dating, but reality says otherwise. Here are ways to stay safe while meeting in person.
Before the Date:
- Take your time: Don't rush to share personal information like your phone number, address, or workplace.
- Use the app for communication first: Keep chats within the app until you’re comfortable sharing contact details.
- Video chat beforehand: A quick video call can help verify identity and ease first-meeting nerves.
- Tell someone your plans: Let a friend or family member know when and where you’re meeting.
- Have a backup plan: Arrange for a friend to check in or have an excuse ready if you need to leave.
- Plan your own transportation: Don’t rely on your date for a ride—stay in control of your comings and goings.
- Meet in a public place: Choose a well-lit, populated location.
During the Date:
- Stay aware of your surroundings. If something feels off, trust your gut.
- Mind your drinks and belongings. Keep an eye on your drink and carry your phone, wallet, and keys with you.
- Check in with yourself. Are you comfortable? Do you feel safe?
After the Date:
- Take yourself home. Don’t feel obligated to accept a ride from your date.
- Not feeling it? No problem. If the connection isn’t there, you don’t owe them anything. Feel free to unmatch them.
- Report concerns. If something felt off or unsafe, block and report the user in the app.
- Trust your instincts over social pressure. If you’re uncomfortable, leave the situation—your safety comes first.
Health Precautions
- Postpone if you’re feeling unwell. A virtual date is always an option!
- Communicate honestly. If you've been exposed to an illness, be transparent with your date
Your safety and well-being come first—always. Have fun, but stay mindful. Happy dating!
