Online Dating 101

It’s hard to ignore the commercials: the wide eye couple, exchanging casual laughs and witty banter at a cool hot spot. It’s an online dating commercial. We’ve all seen them. But how do go from profile to date? As a serial online dater, here are some tips that will get you some dates!

Profile:
Your profile should give a quick snap shot of who you are! Make it light, flirty and direct. It should give your suitors a glimpse into your lifestyle and personality. Describe yourself as your friends would, but be concise and to the point. No one wants to hear about your baggage before they meet you.

The profile should follow this formula

• Who you are (in less than 7 sentences)
• What you are looking for (Ladies! Never ever put down that you are looking to “have fun.” Somehow, in a man’s mind that translates to “I want to have sex.”
• What your passion is (Lure your possible suitor with what drives you!)

Photos:
Let’s face it, when searching online dating profiles your pictures are the first line of defense! Recruit one of your closest friends of the opposite sex and go through your photos.  We are visual beings!  Illustrate your lifestyle through a carefully curated montage of photos. Include a close up of your face, a full body shot, an action shots.

Guys: Please spare the ladies from your self-portrait that you took in the bathroom. It’s not attractive and makes you look like a friendless DB.
 

Make a Connection:
So you read the profile, you are attracted to the photos, and now what?! Test the waters! Send the object of your attraction a wink or a poke. If that person reciprocates, then go ahead and start the conversation. A simple, “Thanks for the wink. Hope you’re having a good day” will do. There are lots of creepy people who will ask you strange questions. If it smells like a creepo, it probably is. Steer Clear.

Ladies: The male/female roles are more defined in online dating than in the real world. Men are hunters, if he is likes what he sees/reads, he will hunt you down and ask for a date.
 

First Date:
Before you go on your date, tell a friend who and where you're going out with. You must have a safety. Bottom line, whichever way you cut it, you are meeting a stranger.

Online first dates are a bit awkward, full of shy smiles, passing looks and (hopefully) laughs. After some back and forth on email, text and maybe a phone call, you agreed to meet to have drinks, dinner or just coffee. First dates are exploratory conversations. Do they match up to what you’ve learned so far? Are you attracted, and most importantly…Is there chemistry?! The Zsa Zsa Zsu, we are all looking for.  Not all of those questions will be answered on your first date, but if there is something there then go on another date. You will be more comfortable, and the second date is the make it or break it.

Second & Third date: If you’ve made it this far and there is still no chemistry, move on to the next one. If the sparks are flying like you’ve been hit by lighting then, go with it!

Online dating is about wearing your heart on your sleeve, having options, learning your likes and dislikes. Have fun with it, but don't it too seriously. It's all a learning experience. 

Proud to be an American

On Election night 2012, I was honored to have attended the Obama election rally in Chicago and be a part of history. I was so excited to have received this amazing opportunity. After long security lines, and on my way into the convention hall an Obama campaign staffer asked my group if we wanted to be part of the crowd of people behind POTUS (President of The United States) when he gave his re-election speech. Yes, please!

What I didn't realize was that being part of this select group also meant sitting behind the stage without TV's and little internet access. I know, I know-- but anyone would have reacted in the same way.  I managed to smuggle out of the holding area and get some of the election night action in the many events going on inside. I even mingle with some Obama supporter like Vivica Fox, Will.i.am and Star Jones (Ok. enough name dropping for one post).

The excitement was palpable when all the votes were in and President Obama walked out on stage with the first family. It was an experience I will never forget and a story I hope to tell over time. I've never felt prouder to be an American. 

Get the Glow - In Winter





 

Winter: The finality of sunny days and glowing tan skin. Or is it? You can't control the weather but you keep your skin smooth and glowing during this time of year. Below are some of my favorite tips and products to keep you glowing all winter long.
 

Wear Sunscreen:You may think sunscreen is only necessary when tanning on the beach or lounging by the pool, but even in the winter months the sun’s rays can still be damaging to your skin. A heavy sunscreen may not be necessary but make sure to use a moisturizer containing at least SPF 15 everyday. I love Kiehl's lightweight sunscreen. It can be price but its well worth it and trust me you will use it year round.

 

Follow a Healthy Diet:What you put on the outside is just as important as what we put inside. Eating a diet that is filled with Omega 3s, Whole Grains, and B Vitamins is essential to maintaining your skin’s youthful glow. I love a healthy, yet filling quinoa and salmon salad. Full of nutrient and taste great.

 

Stay Hydrated:There are a million different reasons to drink water but staying hydrated to help your skin may not be an obvious one. Drinking the recommended 8 ounces of water a day helps flush out toxins in your system, which in turn helps get rid of unwanted acne and blemishes. I love water but sometimes get bored. To mix it up, try naturally flavored water like HINT containing zero calories, zero sugar and no artificial flavors or preservatives. 

Keep Moisturizing: Having healthy skin doesn’t only mean having a blemish-free face, make sure you aren’t neglecting the rest of your body. Every morning after you shower and at night before bed you should be applying moisturizer to your entire body to keep skin hydrated. Also, it wont hurt to keep a bottle of lotion in your bag or on your desk at work for moisturizing your hands throughout the day. For body, I swear by coca butter because it works. At my desk and purse I like to keep a tube of l'occitane hand cream.

 

Beauty Sleep:Last but not least, you need to get 7 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. This will help keep off dark circles, puffy eyes, and keep your skin looking fresh and relaxed. 

Fake it 'till you Make It: Self tanners also help you keep that summer glow all year long. I like to apply a self tanning cream or lotion that will gradually bronze you. Spray tans are also a quick way to get you glowing.