LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Among the countless inconveniences everyone's enduring nowadays, it's a really bad time to be single. You can't go out and that whole 6-foot separation thing doesn't do anything for romance. So how do you navigate today's dating world? 13 Investigates anchor Tricia Kean found some workarounds.
"I was like oh my gosh, I’m not feeling lonely, but I feel like alone," says valley single Suzanne Asay.
She says her empty nest has never felt emptier. She’s stranded at home and her kids have cleared out.
"Because you know, they’ve all got their significant others and fiancés," says Suzanne.
So Suzanne's deciding to put herself out there and get back in the dating game.
I have my friends that I do things with. We have fun. But I really do want to find somebody to go have fun with and do things with," says Suzanne.
But Suzanne didn't know where to start. Especially when COVID-19 has us all hunkered down. So she turned to Maria Romano, dating coach and minister with True Love Knots.
Lesson 1: don’t give up.
The government is recommending we practice social distancing. It doesn’t mean you have to be socially distant," says Maria.
Maria points out online dating is nothing new. There are lots of great dating apps and websites to choose from. Just be sure to do your homework and pick the one that works best for you. Once you've done that, it's time to start creating an online profile.
"You really need to be authentic and honest and take the time to think about the type of person that you are looking for in a relationship," says Maria.
Here’s where the game has changed a little. That first date will have to be a virtual first date.
"Set up maybe a Zoom video, a Skype, a FaceTime. But remember to be aware of your surroundings before you do so. I always say do a test run. Make sure the lighting looks great. Make sure you look presentable," says Maria.
Maria says you can get to know someone while having a drink or even dinner together online. You can even cue up the same movie, then pause it to discuss certain scenes.
You know you still are creating a relationship with somebody even though we’re doing it virtually," says Maria.
Suzanne says that's perfect for her. Getting back in the dating game after 8 years isn't so nerve racking when you don't have to meet in person.
"I think that’s what really kind of made me feel comfortable about doing it. Because I can say easily, I’d really like to talk to you more," says Suzanne.
