From how we shop (god bless you, Ocado) to how we style our hair (hello, virtual hair consultations), we are putting all our faith in technology to help us navigate and adapt our day-to-day lives right now.
As well as keeping on top of finances, fitness regimes, beauty routines and our mental health, our love lives are also a priority – and just because you can’t physically leave the house doesn’t mean you can’t ‘get out there’.
Thankfully, social networking app Bumble wants to remind you that we can still maintain human connection from afar.
The women-first social network quite rightfully notes that human beings need connection like Brits need tea (especially in a time of a crisis). So as we all adjust to this temporary ‘norm’, the app wants to highlight the importance of staying connected with others and bringing each other moments of joy via its brilliant new Get Close, From Afar campaign.
The super moving film shows what it means to connect with someone from afar; those little moments of joy that are still possible, with everything still to look forward to. The film proves that new relationships can still begin – and grow – during this time (phew!), that you really can build a sense of closeness even when you’re apart, that flirting can be just as exciting over the phone, and that dates from a distance can be just as fun as the ones IRL.
So, how do you virtual date?
Bumble has noticed a surge of people enjoying ‘virtual dates’ and, quite frankly, what’s not to love? You can use the extra time you’d have used on your commute to get dressed up, make yourself a little tipple and use your imagination to conjure up creative and fun virtual dates. If you’re not feeling it, there’s no time or money wasted, and if the date is going well, you don’t need to worry about dashing off to catch the last train home. Plus, you can do it safely from the comfort of your sofa and it’s a far more productive way to spend your time at home than aimlessly scrolling through social media or binge-watching Friends for the fifth time.
You can have a close-to ‘real life’ connection experience without exhausting the precious time and expense often associated with dating and meeting in person (no, that fourth round of espresso martinis was not necessary).
Speaking about the new age of virtual dating, Naomi Walkland, Bumble’s associate director for EMEA marketing, explained: “The COVID-19 pandemic has led to vast societal shifts in how we communicate. When physical connection is limited, people will seek deeper connections and a sense of stability. Bumble video calling can help people to make new connections during this period and allow our users more time to get to know each other.”
Bumble is available for free in the App Store and Google Play. Download Bumble now @bumble/@bumble_uk #GetCloseFromAfar
