New Dating Trend? Asking people out on YouTube and Facebook?
By Julie Spira, Cyber Dating Expert/ genConnect.com
Marine Sgt. Scott Moore made headlines when he asked actress Mila Kunis to be his date to the Marine Corps Ball via YouTube. The actress said "yes" - after some prodding by "Friends With Benefits" co-star Justin Timberlake.
That YouTube proposal has caught wave... Fellow Marine Corporal Kelsey De Santis asked Timberlake out to the ball and set up a Facebook page dedicated to her cause (with 11,782 likes and counting!). Also this week, Sgt. Ray Lewis asked 90-year-old actress and comedienne Betty White to be his date to the November event also via YouTube.
Is highly publicized online date proposals a new trend for everyday people? And what do you do when you're asked out -- in front of millions - on the Internet!?
We reached out to Cyber Dating Expert Julie Spira for her tips on reacting in the moment:
Years ago, you might have seen a dramatic date request or marriage proposal on a billboard while driving by or at a sporting event, in skywriting, or along with fresh flowers being delivered to someone's office. In today's digital age, it's not unusual to see viral video wedding proposals, virtual gifts such as an e-bouquet of roses, or just simply a flirty text message to speed things up. Here's how to react when faced with a surprise request:
Think Before You Answer
Sometimes when you're in-the-moment, you might respond by saying 'yes' due to be spontaneous or by feeling pressured to do the right thing.
Tech Dating Isn't Real Dating
The Internet makes everything speed up as it relates to modern courtship. You have Skype dates, constant texting, and have a plethora of people only asking people out in a text message or email. There's still something special about hearing the sound of his voice when he asks you out on a date, especially in the early days when you don't have an ongoing relationship.
Ask Again
I always say, when in doubt, pick up the phone. Speak to the person who wants to go out with you so you can get a feel for who they really are... Also if you are the one who gets rejected, don't take it too personally. It's just one date. You can log on to your favorite online dating site and easily meet someone else.
For More From Julie Spira on genConnect:
About the Author:
Spotting a player by his online dating profile is no easy feat! Cyber Dating Expert and author of the best-selling online dating book, The Perils of Cyber-Dating: Confessions of a Hopeful Romantic Looking for Love Online, Julie Spira, answers women's perpetual question: How can I tell if he's looking for a relationship or just a hookup?
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