A Hoosier's guide to winter dating, aka 'cuffing season'
If you’re single, then you know the deal. After a spring fling comes summer love, but what happens to the dating cycle when winter hits is sort of complicated.
For some singles, there’s an innate desire to find a mate before the cold weather moves in. (Winter can be especially tough across the northern states, so having someone to cuddle with is almost important as eggs, bread and milk.)
But no matter where you live in the U.S., this time of year is known as “cuffing season.”
You can thank single girls, Black Twitter and anyone born in the '80s for the term.
“Cuffing season” is a colloquialism among twentysomethings who are looking for someone they can watch Netflix and chill with when it’s too cold out for drinks with friends.
The relationship is temporary, though it can spill into spring if Cupid strikes on Feb. 14. But Valentine's Day aside, neither person should feel guilty when it’s time to break things off by spring.
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Sounds harsh?
Try thinking of it this way. When you were a teenager at summer camp did you “fall in love” with a fellow camper? You probably sat together at the mess hall every day, but by summer’s end you knew it was time to say goodbye.
There was a mutual understanding back then. And the same goes for cuffing season now.
By mid-October many singles have identified the person to be cuffed to for the next few months. But if you’re struggling to find your winter love, don’t worry. There’s still time.
Cuffing season officially begins Nov. 16, according to most social calendars. So that leaves just enough time to get acquainted before Thanksgiving dinner.
Here are 10 places to find a “bae” before the cold arrives.
Tinder
Online dating is nothing new. But Tinder helps you keep things local while you’re looking for someone to snuggle with this winter. The site’s geotechnology keeps the hunt for love local.
An upscale grocery store
Fresh Market, World Market, Trader Joe's and the list goes on. The next time you decide to grab grocery store sushi on a Wednesday night, keep your eyes peeled for love. You might end up making chili together before the first snow falls.
Locally owned coffee shops
Sure, Starbucks is an option, but going local for beans could spark up a conversation between coffee lovers who both enjoy local brew.
Meetup.com
Pick your passion. Photography, music, food and fitness are among the categories to choose from on this social site. Finding a winter partner with similar interest could turn winter into fun adventure made for two.
A bookstore
Books are back in vogue. The rise of e-readers in the early 2000s made bookstores less of a destination for singles looking for love. But the comeback of paperbacks could make bookstores a more viable place for bae hunting now.
Dog parks
This is a no-brainer. After a play date with Fido and Sparky, set a human date before the holidays.
The gym
It’s cliché but true. Couples still meet in the gym in between bicep curls and Pilates. Don’t be afraid to say hello the next time you jump on the treadmill for your morning workout.
Trivia night
More and more bars are hosting trivia nights to keep their patrons entertained. Go alone or grab a group of friends the next time you’re in the mood to answer quirky questions about "Game of Thrones." Just don’t forget to ask a bachelor or bachelorette for a lifeline when you need help.
Buzz-worthy bars
Trendy bars bring in interesting customers. Chat craft cocktails with the person next to you.
A return flight to the airport
If you get lucky and find yourself sitting next to a bachelor or bachelorette on a flight, don’t hesitate to start a conversation. The random seating arrangement could turn out to be a match made in winter heaven.
Happy #baehunting!