How to Prep for Our Events: Your Pre-Event Homework Guide

Hi readers! I like to start all my advice with a story about why I’m giving it—if you prefer, feel free to skip ahead. For those who stay, here’s why the tips below are so important to me:

When I was 18, my friend and I were driving home when two beautiful girls pulled up next to us in a convertible Miata. Playfully, I yelled, “Hey ladies, wanna come back to my parents’ basement and play Smash Brothers?” Amazingly, they laughed and said, “Hell yeah! Final Destination, Fox, no items!” and asked for our numbers. Panicking, I rolled up the window in fear. My friend looked at me in disbelief, and all I could muster was, “I never thought I’d get this far.” Had I known then the power of preparation—always having contact info ready and a few solid date ideas—we might both be happily married today to those Smash-loving cuties. 

Heading to one of our fun-filled singles mixers soon? Awesome! To ensure you have the best experience possible and maximize your chances of making meaningful connections, it’s always a great idea to do a bit of homework before the event. Here’s your quick and easy pre-event prep guide:

Step 1: Find Nearby Restaurants

Scout out some appealing restaurants or cafes near the event location. Having a few ideas ready will come in handy if you hit it off with someone and want to suggest grabbing a bite afterward. Check online reviews and pick a couple of diverse options—maybe a cozy coffee shop, a lively pub, or a trendy eatery.

Step 2: Create Fun Date Ideas

Come up with a handful of engaging and comfortable date ideas beforehand. These don’t need to be elaborate—simple activities often work best:

• Visiting an arcade or board game café
• Checking out a local art or history museum
• Attending a trivia or comedy night
• Taking a leisurely walk in a scenic park

Having these ready not only shows initiative but also reduces stress when it’s time to suggest a follow-up date.

Step 3: Prepare Conversation Topics

Avoid awkward silences by preparing a few conversation starters in advance. Think about:

• Recent movies, TV shows, or anime you’ve enjoyed
• Video games you’re currently playing or excited about
• Interesting hobbies or personal projects
• Fun hypothetical questions (“If you could have one superpower, what would it be?”)

Step 4: Prepare Your Phone as Your Wingman/Wingwoman

Turn your phone into your best friend and confidence booster:

• Setup Photos: Prepare a folder of fun, interesting, and conversation-sparking pictures. These could be travel adventures, pets, favorite memes, or hobbies.
• Save Date Ideas: Create a quick-access list of your prepped date ideas on your notes app for easy reference.
• Accountability Buddy: Line up a reliable friend you can text if you need encouragement, a quick pep talk, or to celebrate small victories.

Step 5: Check Your Logistics

Double-check event details, including the start time, location, dress code, and anything special you might need (like a ticket confirmation or ID). Knowing these details ahead of time helps you feel more relaxed and confident.

Step 6: Set Your Intentions

Reflect on your goals for attending:

• Are you looking to make new friends, find a romantic connection, or simply improve your social skills?

Clarifying your intentions beforehand can help you approach interactions authentically and clearly communicate your interests.

Final Thought

Doing a bit of prep work helps alleviate anxiety, boosts your confidence, and ensures you make the most out of every mixer. Remember, our events are all about having fun and connecting with others—so come ready to relax, engage, and enjoy the experience!