What does October have in store for you?
Last week, I met my friend Trisha at the Crown & Crow for their Love Is Blind watch party. I had a cancellation and ended up arriving much too early — as far from “fashionably late” as one could be — and settled into one of the dozens of empty chairs by the screen. I eyed the door hoping Trisha would emerge sooner rather than later and scrolled mindlessly through my work emails, feeling a bit out of place as the staff rushed around me in preparation for the incoming crowd. The energy in the room picked up as people finally trickled in, setting their work bags aside and hurrying to order drinks at the bar before the episodes started. It turned out to be an incredibly enjoyable experience, with many of us groaning in unison or exchanging looks of disbelief at the ridiculous scenes unfolding onscreen. I sipped my glass of red wine and turned to Trisha several times, saying, “I needed this,” without fully realizing how much. Love Is Blind is an infuriating indulgence I don’t want to quit — a strange snapshot of modern dating, blending hope, fear, self-sabotage, and longing for connection, all while revealing how wholly unprepared most people are to navigate relationships in a healthy way (but that’s a discussion for another time).
Later that evening I walked out on to 14th street, feeling a sense of unease but couldn’t quite put my finger on why. When was the last time I had taken a night off to meet a friend downtown? I couldn’t recall the last time I hadn’t fallen asleep with my laptop and phone mere inches from my face, a pile of unread books metaphorically collecting dust on the nightstand next to my electronics. I had almost forgotten how tricky (yet strangely exhilarating) it can feel to walk into a room full of strangers, experience that initial discomfort, and wait for a conversation or familiar face to ease the tension. I play the role of host, rather than guest, too often these days due to the nature of my work.
“Finding a romantic partner isn’t going to solve all of your problems or prevent you from experiencing feelings of loneliness,” I often gently remind my clients. “It’s crucial to immerse yourself in your community and seek connection outside of dating.” However, I hadn’t been following my own advice very well. I shuddered at the thought of all the unread messages I’d neglected in favor of meeting work deadlines.
With that realization, perhaps as a bit of penance for not practicing what I preach, my team and I spent last weekend updating the Upcoming Events section of the website. Further, during long walks with Rosebud, I called loved ones to chat and began to chip away at the unread text messages and DMs in my phone. I’m pleased to share that the events page is now brimming with information about over 150 singles events, art classes, game nights, and more happening locally. Eager to meet new friends but unsure where to start? Scroll through the list (best viewed on a desktop) until you encounter an offering that speaks to you. If you’re a client, don’t forget that my team will cover the cost of a singles event ticket each month. Itching for something different? Consider using promo code “kate” to get 30% off the Feels event happening on Thursday. As for tonight, I’ll be at the Meet Cute: Live Blind Date show at DC Arts Center. What plans will you make for this week?
I hope you’ll check out the website and find the courage to step out of your comfort zone, even just for an afternoon or evening. You never know what you’ll find — but just know, I’m rooting for you.
Sincerely,
Kate Woodward
