P.10 EXPERT ADVISE P.16 ON THE FIELD... Tips from a wedding planner who knows the best of the area
The proposal that took place at Bobcat Stadium during a game
Getting Hitched In the Hill Country
FEBRUARY | 2015
P.21 DATE NIGHT...
The food places you might not think about, but you should try
CRAWFEST 2nd Annual March 21
live music All DAy | Cold BeeR
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Contents
| FEBRUARY 2015 |
SMTX
BOBCATFANS
6. STRESS FREE
6. HAPPENINGS
8. TAILOR MADE
8. MIXOLOGY
10. ASK AN EXPERT
10. FENCING
12. DRIPPING WEDDINGS
12. BACK STAGE
14. DRESS UP
14. FLOWERS
16. ENGAGED FANS
16. ONLINE DATING
18. BRIDESMAID
22. DO’S & DON’TS
21. FOOD
24. BASEBALL POSTER
COVERS Photography by Ashley Haguewood
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PUBLISHER
Rick Koch ART DIRECTOR
Will Bowling PHOTO EDITOR
Ashley Haguewood COPY EDITOR
Steve Helsing FOOD EDITOR
Katie Ogletree CONTRIBUTORS
Xander Peters Tiffany Matthews Jordan Gass-Poore Brodie Corinth Heather Yzaguirre Andres Sotomayor Sam Hickey Luciano Guerra Rocio Avila ADVERTISING
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Copyright 2015, BOBCATFANS LLC 139 E. Hopkins Suite B San Marcos, TX 78666 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited. SMTX | BOBCATFANS Magazine is not affiliated with Texas State University.
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HEALTHY YOU
Living Stress free By Rocio Avila, LMSW
Tips for managing anxiety and depression
Tips for managing anxiety and depression: 1 Practice mindfulness- focus on “being” not “doing”, stay in the present moment
2 Get proper nutrition, exercise, and rest
3 Set realistic goals/ expectations for yourself and others
4 Follow a schedule: stay organized and track time
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T
he holidays have ended. It’s time to get back to the routine of life! The new year can be exciting; with new starts and resolutions. But for some, it can cause depression and anxiety. If loss and stress were part of 2014, reflecting on the past year could be depressing. Symptoms of
Avoid isolation depression may include: sadness, disturbances in sleep/appetite/ energy, and thoughts of guilt or suicide. Internal and external pressures to set and meet goals for the upcoming year can cause anxiety. Symptoms of anxiety may include excessive worry, fear, and poor concentration.
For more mental health expertise visit austinlakeshospital.com SMTXMAGAZINE.COM
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6 Seek help: visit a counseling center or make an appointment with a licensed mental health professional (psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist)
Get your heart to the right place.
CARDIAC CARE
Chest Pain Center
Cardiac Cath Lab WWW.CTMC.ORG
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Cardiac Rehab
LOCAL SHOPPING
“The perfect fit for any body and any Occasion.”
Quinceanera dress - as seen on the left
Hand stitching each bead - one by one
Custom bridal dress
TAILOR MADE By Heather Yzaguirre Photos Andres Sotomayor
We’ve all been there: you find a great deal on pants, but they’re just a little wide, or a hair too long, or you wish there was just one more pocket. Cue: Shirley and Frida, a local seamstress shop in San Marcos that’ll make those pants a perfect fit. shirleyandfrida.com
Antolina Sosa opened the shop six years ago with a close friend, coming up with the name of the shop by combining their daughters’ names, Shirley and Frida. She now runs the shop solely with her daughter, Shirley. Sosa went to school in Mexico, where she studied patterns, design, and stitching to become a professional seamstress. Much of their business comes from designing custom suits and dresses for weddings, proms, quinceaneras and other major events. Well-versed in a wide variety of patterns, stitching and designs, as well as current trends in the industry, Shirley and Frida’s provides unique garments customized to specific needs. SMTXMAGAZINE.COM
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In addition to extravagant pieces, everyday garment repair and alterations like the outlet store pants mentioned above also fill their schedule. Products range outside the clothing realm as well, including specialty items like embroidery, uniforms, costumes, even pillows and other household items. Shirley and Frida’s is passionate about their trade and eager to take on new and interesting projects. Run by a seamstress that’s been in the business for 27 years, Shirley and Frida’s provides quality work at a reasonable price. For exact quotes you’ll need to go in for sizing.
Specialty dresses, uniforms, alterations, embroidery and household upholstery Shirley and Frida can do it all!
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ASK AN EXPERT
THE WEDDING PLANNER By Jordan Gass-Poore Photos Ashley Haguewood
Unofficially, Johnell Huebner became a wedding planner the day she found out weddings existed. Officially, Huebner started San Marcos-based Clearly Classy Events eight years ago when she decided that she didn’t want to work for someone else and the only way to do that was to start her own business.
“We save couples money and we help them to not make costly mistakes”
HOW CAN A COUPLE ON A BUDGET NARROW DOWN THEIR WEDDING GUEST LIST WITHOUT FEELING GUILTY? I always say that the best way to pare down your list is to cut out the expendables; if you haven’t seen them in years and you don’t plan on […] seeing them for years, cut them. Just because you’re friends with them on Facebook doesn’t mean they have to be invited. WHAT SEEMINGLY SMALL DETAIL CAN MAKE A BIG IMPACT ON A WEDDING RECEPTION? Cups. So many times people either forget to bring bar cups or they don’t bring enough. This can be avoided by using professional catering or bartending services so you don’t have to worry about it. Obviously, no one will be drinking without the cups. Also, the DJ or band can have a huge impact on whether or not your party is successful. If you have a really crummy DJ that cannot feel out the crowd then your event never really hits [its] stride with folks dancing and having a great time. to the actual wedding, and then they can’t enjoy the party. I always say start hair and make-up closer to the ceremony time and allow for an allotment of pictures, but don’t start as soon as you wake up.
WHAT DO COUPLES SPEND THE MOST MONEY ON FOR THEIR WEDDING? Food and beverages hands down. It is expensive to feed people in large quantities and to offer an abundance of alcohol. I always tell people that if they are really trying to keep the budget under wraps to choose a venue that allows them to pick their caterer and bring in their own booze.
HOW LONG DOES IT TYPICALLY TAKE YOU TO PLAN A WEDDING FROM BEGINNING TO END? Wedding planning is typically on a year cycle in order to get your top choice in dates and venues, but I can easily plan a wedding in two months or less with a motivated bride on my side.
WHY DO YOU THINK THE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY IS A POPULAR WEDDING DESTINATION? People love to visit here, and many times there is some tie to Texas in some way: they went to school here, their parents are from here, but in some cases the Austin/Hill Country Area is just the mid-point in the country for families located all over to come together!
WHEN DO MOST WEDDINGS YOU PLAN OCCUR? WHAT SEASON? It is split between spring and fall. Our busiest month in the spring is March, and in the fall October, but often overlooked are November and June. These are still two great months for your wedding.
HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE TOO MANY PEOPLE AT A WEDDING? 150-200 is a comfortable normal count. When you start going over those numbers you really limit your venue possibilities, not to mention [you] make your budget soar. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISTAKE A BRIDE OR WEDDING PARTY MAKES ON THE BIG DAY? Getting ready ALL day. When they start so early in the day it really wears them out by the time we get
clearlyclassyevents.com ClearlyClassyEvents @ClearlyClassyTx
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SMTXMAGAZINE.COM | Interview By Jordan Gass-Poore |
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Venues Hill Country Wedding
By Heather Yzaguirre
Dripping Springs provides a number of unique and unforgettable experiences for couples getting hitched. This area of Hays has become the booming capitol of Hill Country nuptials.
Camp Lucy Camp Lucy is a wedding facility with deep family roots, opened by native Texan Whit Hanks and named for his mother, Lucy. It provides an idyllic setting for a wedding with two venues on one property: Ian’s Chapel and Sacred Oaks. Ian’s Chapel, named for Whit’s eldest son Ian, was initially opened five years ago. Ian spent some time living in Vietnam and brought back a taste for the French Colonial style. The father and son duo discovered an 1880’s Catholic church on a visit to Vietnam, built from carved ironwood and on the brink of destruction and
3509 Creek Rd, Dripping Springs 894-4400 camplucy.com fb/camplucy had it shipped to their property in the Hill Country. The chapel was soon joined by an additional French Colonial church from the 1930’s, reconstructed at Camp Lucy with tiles that lined the roof of the Bexar County Courthouse in San Antonio in the 1920’s. The pavilion’s antique green glazed roof is the shining star of Camp Lucy. Ian’s Chapel can comfortably seat 160 persons, and many more for receptions with combined spaces on the property. Sacred Oaks is a much newer facility they like to call the Hill Country Ballroom, opened in 2013. It’s a much different
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setting, showcasing the historic oaks that surround the space with twinkling white lights. The outdoor venue captures the glory of the Hill Country wedding. A third facility will open in the next year, their first on-site lodging facility called the Cottages at Camp Lucy. It will feature spacious and luxurious rooms with exceptional amenities and conveniences for wedding parties. Both current venues sit within the dream wedding budget, ranging from $6,400 $7,900 depending on variables such as day and month.
Deep Eddy Vodka
2250 E. 290 HWY, Dripping Springs 619-804-9751 deepeddyvodka.com fb/deepeddyvodka
Named after Texas’ oldest spring-fed swimming pool, Deep Eddy Vodka has expanded into 16 other states and continues to grow at a rapid pace. Their original distillery is located in North Austin, but they’ve just added a brand new facility in the Hill Country, serving as both a distillery and event venue.
Guests can observe the distillation process and sip drinks practically straight out of the distillation columns. It makes for a great theme, being in the distillery while tasting each unique flavor and understanding the process of producing it. Fees include staff and bartenders, who provide a wealth of knowledge on the mixing process, which is a conundrum for those not familiar with the drink. The original blend is made from Indonesian black tea, with local honey and a smidgen of cane sugar, creating a taste that can be tricky to mix. It also includes their in-house coordinator who helps with everything from managing the setup and take down staffs to caterers, making it all a breeze for you.
The distillery is over 5,000 square feet with a tasting room attached, where they host events. They hit the ground running with 10-15 events in their first two months of business. Prices range from $1,500-$3,500, which can accommodate a 150 person seated event or a slightly larger 220 person cocktail style event. As a wedding venue, it’s unique in a non-wedding sort of way.
Vista West Ranch
4505 McGregor Ln, Dripping Springs 894-3500 vistawestranch.com fb/vistawestranch
When searching for a wedding venue, it’s important for first impressions to fill your heart with anticipation and promise. If there’s no immediate wow, it’s best to move on. That’s what they believe at Vista West Ranch, a venue built with preserving wedding day memories in mind. Stunning wedding photographs from the ranch were published in various wedding publications over twenty times this year. The facility is unique, with a cathedral style main building and a vintage barn with rust that looks like it was put there intentionally to add a distressed look and texture. It’s just what you imagine when someone says “vintage.” A mix of dark stained wooden chairs that don’t exactly match blends well with the rusted patches, making the building and the yard a seamless whole. Opened in 2008, the facility is 5,600 square feet and can accommodate up to 250 guests, including lodging for wedding parties as large as 28.
If your day is more than a year out, make sure you check out their upcoming venue Creek Haus, which will be just as scenic but a little larger than Vista West Ranch.
Ma Maison
The French-inspired Ma Maison’s elegant ambience and lavish vision make it an obvious wedding venue, with a warm and inviting southern hospitality and a passion for hosting weddings that make their guests’ dreams come true. All kinds of requests are accommodated, from dinner by moonlight to crepes at dawn. They liken the Hill Country to the hills of the Provence region of southern France, surrounded by fresh breezes and historic oaks. Ma Maison stands out in their ability to provide unique support for each wedding with exemplary care. Each wedding is treated as if SMTXMAGAZINE.COM
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2550 Bell Springs Rd, Dripping Springs (512) 777-1642 themamaison.com fb/atxmamaison it were their own, and every circumstance is accommodated so that the wedding will reflect the personality, wants and needs of every bride. One of their most unique and creative weddings included a live music performance that was like a mini ACL in the Hill Country. Ma Maison opened in 2011 as a dedicated wedding venue, and sits on the pricier end, ranging from $3,000 - $7,000. They are located on a 23-acre piece of land, complete with kitchen areas for caterers, ceremony and reception spaces, bridal suite and groom’s den.
Dressed Up
It’s what girls dream about: the dress. The look. The fit. It all has to be perfect. Photos Ashley Haguewood
Designer: Sottero and Midgley Gown:Vivyana Model: Kaylene Ball
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Designer: Essense of Australia Gown: D1865. Model: Lindsey Barnard
Designer: Allure Couture Gown: Style C291 Model: Grace Marlow
Models
Lindsey Barnard Grace Marlow Kaylene Ball
Dresses
Celebrations New Braunfels 275 South Seguin Avenue, New Braunfels (830) 629-4419 celebrationsbridalandprom.com
Shoot Location Faust Hotel
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“The longest 30 seconds ever.”
Most Engaged Fans Texas State’s
By Jordan Gass-Poore Photos Ashley Haguewood
“I was so shocked and kind of nervous because everyone was watching us and cheering”
Calling The Play
Pre-Game Introductions
Not since Texas State University history senior Eddie Galvan played high school football had a game been so intense.
In high school, Galvan and Norgrove spent four years in the same building in Katy, Texas but never met. “I guess I knew of her, she was part of the popular crowd; I was part of the punk scene,” Galvan said.
Galvan orchestrated a “huge, massive plan” to get a ring into Bobcat Stadium. Not just any ring -- it had a diamond, and was bought to fit on the fourth finger of his girlfriend and Texas State alumna Nichole Norgrove’s left hand. A couple of people were in on the secret. They conspired to get the ring from Galvan’s roommate’s closet, then transport it to the stadium. There was also the question of the banner that would serve as Galvan’s voice in case he choked up. It was constructed from a king size sheet and partially sewn by hand by a mutual friend, who stayed up until 4 a.m. the day before the game to complete it.
Fast forward a couple of years. Galvan transferred to Texas State in 2010 from Blinn College. One of his friends took him to a party for a mutual friend’s birthday. It was also Norgrove’s birthday. The party’s attendees were “literally” everyone from his high school. His friend tried to introduce him to people but, for the most part, he knew everyone there. That night he and Norgrove just kind of hit it off. They argued about beer (her dislike of Guinness). They went out to The Square. Then they started dating.
The banner then was given to members of Texas State’s Loud Crowd, the spirit organization Galvan is a member of and Norgrove an “adopted member,” so they could hold it up in the stands after the third quarter.
2010 was a big year for Galvan and Norgrove. From stealing glances of Norgrove in the high school hallway to moving in with her a few years later, he was mindful of how important his next move was going to be for the two of them.
That was the plan. And Galvan was completely freaking out.
Thus, a year ago he set a reminder for himself on his phone to propose to Norgrove. He had the who (Norgrove), what (propose), when (in a year) and why (duh), just not the where.
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Maybe at a concert. Maybe at a family Christmas party. Maybe at home. None of these locations seemed to quite fit the couple’s personalities.
“I was like, ‘Oh, my god, it’s so cute,’” she said. “‘I think it’s so fun.’ And my girlfriends are like, ‘Really? At a game?’”
They both enjoyed football and all of their friends already attended the Texas State games. Plus, Norgrove previously mentioned to Galvan that she wouldn’t mind if he proposed to her during a Bobcat football game.
Galvan got a similar response from some of his friends when he told them his engagement plan. Others said, “Oh, my god, that’s so y’all.”
“I was like, ‘Oh, my god, it’s so cute”
A month away from the big day he bought the ring and called a friend about the idea for a banner. He was just thinking poster boards, but the friend told him he would handle it and periodically sent him photos of the design. Galvan then contacted a Bobcat Club representative to find out about the logistics of proposing during a Texas State football game. The representative told him that the Texas State Marketing Department wouldn’t let anyone propose on the football field or on the video board. That’s when Galvan got the idea to get the Loud Crowd involved.
Going For The Win
With the box in Galvan’s hand, the “most random thought” popped into his mind: what if I drop the ring onto the field? It was too late for what ifs. The banner was up. “I saw it go up and it was awesome.”
The day of the proposal, Norgrove said it was “weird” how many people attended the football game and sat in the same section as the couple. It was Homecoming. Even her dad came down from Houston to attend the game under the pretense of celebrating her upcoming birthday. Meanwhile, Galvan was mentally running through his list. Ring in the stadium. Check. Banner in the trusted hands of some of Texas State’s most spirited youth. Check. Third quarter complete… Not so much. It was the homecoming game against the University of Idaho, and both the Bobcats and Vandals kept taking time outs toward the end of the third quarter. With 30 seconds left in the quarter, a friend turned to him and said what Galvan had been thinking: “This is the longest 30 seconds ever.” As if members of the Loud Crowd could hear his friend across the field, they revealed the banner. “Will you marry me?” it read. Whoa. That was not part of Galvan’s plan. He was afraid everyone would notice, specifically Norgrove. He couldn’t blame members of the Loud Crowd; they had never done anything like this before. To his surprise, Norgrove told him later that she didn’t notice the banner. “I was just getting antsy because it was a really close game,” said Norgrove. She also had to pee. Galvan tried to distract Norgrove as she shifted her weight from left to right foot. The game is really close, he said. I don’t think you should go pee right now.
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Finally, the third quarter ended and Galvan’s friend handed him the ring in a small mahogany box. With the box in Galvan’s hand, the “most random thought” popped into his mind: what if I drop the ring onto the field? It was too late for what ifs. The banner was up. “I saw it go up and it was awesome,” he said. Norgrove, on the other hand, was talking to her dad beside her, looking in the opposite direction. Galvan turned around and with a rush of adrenaline asked Norgrove, clad in a maroon dress fitting for the occasion, if she could read the banner. She turned around. Read the banner. And the “cutest ‘lord’ came out,” Galvan said with a chuckle. He got down on one knee. In case he started to cry (or if the sun was too bright) he had sunglasses tucked inside the neck of his T-shirt. There were so many things Galvan wanted to tell Norgrove in that moment but all that came out was “Will you marry me?” Of course, Norgrove said yes. “I was so shocked and kind of nervous because everyone was watching us and cheering,” she said. “… I felt like I was on TV almost. I didn’t cry, but I think my dad did.” The life-changing secret had finally been revealed to thousands of game attendees. People cheered for the young couple, offered congratulations and asked to see the ring after the game when Galvan and Norgrove went to thank members of the Loud Crowd for making their engagement so memorable. The moment is immortalized on many a cell phone and on Norgrove’s Facebook, and it’s still fresh in the young couple’s minds.
The Post-Game Show Now Norgrove and Galvan live in Austin together with their dogs. They travel frequently to San Marcos for Texas State athletic events and donate money to the department. Bobcat games brought them closer after they were “reintroduced” in 2010 and they want to show their gratitude. As a couple, their lives have been filled with cheer, and their goal to win each other’s heart will be made official on March 21 when they’ll be married at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. That leaves them plenty of time to get back before the Bobcats’ Spring Game.
A LITTLE ADVICE
A BRIDESMAID CHECKLIST How to pick the best and skip the drama on your wedding day By Katie Ogletree
Bridesmaids are more than some friends walking before you down the aisle. They’re your support group, your sounding boards and your team for the big day. Picking your bridesmaids may seem like a no-brainer at first, but you need to make sure your leading ladies won’t cause more problems than you can deal with. After all, it’s your day, not theirs.
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.Choosing your bridal party is essential. Whether it’s just your closest friend, your two sisters or a few of your most trusted and loved ladies, think it through. You can’t un-ask. Be triple-sure that those you pick will stick.
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, Consider the size of your wedding. You don’t need 15 of your closest friends up at the altar when you say “I do,” especially if you only have 50-100 guests. Less is more, not only with makeup and salt, but also with your bridal party.
with some of the most important details of your special day. Make sure she’s an exceptional listener, since you may have pre-wedding jitters, fears, anxieties and perhaps a meltdown or two. She also needs to be a ton of fun, because who do you think plans all those awesome bachelorette parties and other gatherings? She does. Think hard, because this decision isn’t as easy as you may think.
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what? Ugly dresses surrounding you does NOT make you look more beautiful. Keep that in mind. Also, beware of the price tag hanging from that PERFECT dress you picked for them. Some girls don’t just have $300 laying around for a dress they’ll likely only wear once. So unless you plan on buying them as their bridesmaid gift, either choose another dress, or make sure each of them can afford it. If not, things could get ugly and awkward before you can snap your fingers.
.Be honest about your expectations. It’s best to get some ground rules and expectations out of the way .Don’t pick someone just because they picked you. as early as possible so your countdown to the big day Weddings are no time for quid pro quo. Don’t invite that girl from high school you haven’t seen in 3 .Include your family. Even if you’re not that close will be as seamless and easy as possible. It isn’t rude. It’s your day so it should go how you want it. years just because you were in HER wedding. Along to your sister(s) or sister(s)-in-law, they’ll be the same lines, don’t guilt-pick or feel like you need to around way longer than your high school BFF or your include so-and-so because your mom says you need college party-girl phase friends. Chances are, you’ll .The bridesmaids’ dress is extremely important to. No, you don’t. Pick the women YOU want to share become even closer to these women than anyone else and has caused a lot of controversy and humor over the years. Make them feel part of the ceremony. If throughout the years, but don’t let them be the butt of this incredible journey with, not some randoms you won’t be friends with 6 months from now. the idea of your sister as a bridesmaid makes you gag, any jokes at your wedding. Think about those shiny, at least include her in the ceremony. I promise, you’ll teal numbers you see in the movies, or maybe in the thank me later. back of your closet. Make sure you are kind to the .Make sure the women you pick are supportive of ladies in your bridal party when it comes to the dress, you, your soon- to-be husband and marriage. I not just in looks but also in price. Pick something mean, duh. .Make sure you choose a responsible friend for your Maid of Honor. The best Maids of Honor are flattering, for goodness sakes. Yes, you want all eyes on those who are reliable, since you’ll need them to help you, but you also want beautiful photos, right? Guess
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The moral of the story is that this day is for you and your husband, and it will be one of the most memorable and beautiful experiences of your life. The girls you honor by including them will be by your side through the thick and the thin that comes with this journey, so pick wisely and don’t stress. Leave that to the Maid of Honor. SMTXMAGAZINE.COM
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Food | Dish Reviews By Katie Ogletree |
|DATE NIGHT |
Sometimes, the most stressful part of going on a date isn’t what you’re going to wear, what your hair is doing or what you’re going to say, or not say. Sometimes it’s just figuring out where to go. Whether you’re looking for something more romantic and intimate with dark lighting, or a more relaxed and boisterous setting, we know where to go.
TRATTORIA LISINA Trattoria Lisina is the perfect place for special occasion dining. Why? First of all, it’s BEAUTIFUL. The grounds and the building itself mimic classical Italian architecture and offer an expansive and rustic dining area. There are verandas off the main dining room with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and vineyard. It’s also delicious. Super delicious. And of course, it’s extremely romantic. As you drive down the long and winding road and enter the gates of Trattoria Lisina’s grounds, it feels like you somehow traveled from the Texas Hill Country to the Italian countryside. With an extensive Italian-inspired wine list and a menu that will make you salivate just reading it, Trattoria Lisina is a great place to take someone on a first date, or an 11th. They consistently make fresh, exciting and innovative yet still classic dishes that will impress, like osso buco, lasagne, and a variety of pizzas and fresh-made pastas.
The Good Grub Guide highlights the dishes and neighborhood favorites in the area’s food scene. They are reviewed and selected by the editorial staff. Pro Tip:Don’t forget to end your meal with their delicious homemade gelato. It’ll be a sweet end to a meal, and maybe a sweet beginning to something more with your someone special. SMTXMAGAZINE.COM
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13308 FM 150 West Driftwood, TX 78619 Phone 512.894.3111 Hours of Operation Sunday 11am - 9pm Monday closed Tues - Thurs 4pm - 9pm Fri - Sat 11am - 10pm
YOUR ALWAYS WELCOME AT GRINS
VOTED BEST HAPPY HOUR PROUD PARTNER OF TEXAS STATE ATHLETICS GRINSRESTAURANT.COM • 512 392 4746 • 802 N LBJ
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FOOD
JOBELL CAFÉ & BISTRO
Jobell Café & Bistro is brand new to the scene, having just opened back in the middle of September. It has quickly made an impact as being super fresh, and a great new option for a special night out. The décor is simple, warm, inviting and comfortable. The Hill-Country inspired dining area is intimate and allows for relaxing conversation with your date. With a good beer and wine selection and a delicious selection of appetizers, you can get loosened up and get the date started right. The menu is limited, which makes it easy to find something to order, allowing you to spend more time getting to know the person sitting across from you. 16920 Ranch Road 12 Wimberley, TX 78676 (512) 847-5700 Hours of Operation Monday Closed Tuesday – Sunday: 5 – 10 p.m
MIDDLETON BREWING COMPANY
Want to do something exciting and different? Then cruise on out to Middleton Brewing Company for a ton of fun, great beer and grub. Middleton Brewing specializes in brewing Belgian, American and British style ales. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur, casual enthusiast or someone who knows nothing about anything when it comes to beer, the knowledgeable folks at Middleton will guide you and your date to the perfect beers just for you. Sample as many or as few as you’d like while you play games on the front porch, or relax on the roof deck, listen to live music and soak in the sights and sounds of the beautiful Texas Hill Country. When your stomachs start to rumble, head out to the Slingin’ Sliders, the resident food trailer, or grab some delicious and hand-crafted Antonelli’s Cheese provided by Austin’s Antonelli’s Cheese Shop. The whole experience is one to remember, and one you’ll want to recreate again and again 101 Oakwood Loop San Marcos, TX 78676 512-847-3435 Hours of Operation: Thursday – Friday 2 – 10 p.m. Saturday 12 – 10 p.m. Sunday 12 – 7 p.m. Pro tip: Don’t know what to try? Grab some “flights” (small samples of each style) to help make your decision easier. Get them to share and make it a fun activity for you and your honey to get to know each other a bit better.
Pro tip: The shrimp risotto is special: knock you down, wipe up the drool, full of flavor and punch-youin-the-mouth deliciousness. Order it.
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FLIP TO BOBCATFANS
FLIP BACK TO SMTX
BOBCAT BASEBALL POSTER
FINDLOVE DOWNTOWN
Mixing The Perfect Mojito
this Valentine’s Day
(muddled & shaken of course)
THE ELECTRONIC LOVE BUG MBERS GAME
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EVENTS & HAPPENINGS | FEBRUARY |
COMMUNITY HAYS COUNTY SHERIFF’S ADVANCED CITIZENS ACADEMY COMMUNITY 19th The academy consists of seven weeks of courses designed to give those who had already gone through the Basic Citizens Academy even more knowledge about law enforcement operations and current issues. Now accepting applications, contact Deputy Tom Ormsby at tormsby@co.hays.tx.us. or 512-393-7373. Texas State LBJ Student Center 1307 Uhland Rd., San Marcos TEXAS STATE LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE ANNUAL CONFERENCE COMMUNITY 20th and 21st from 5 – 10 p.m. This year’s theme is “Exploring Democracy’s Promise: From Segregation to Integration.” The primary purpose of the conference is to unite students from various statewide institutions to learn leadership skills and personal leadership. For more info, contact Ashley Spicer-Runnels at asr@txstate.edu or 245-5323. Texas State LBJ Student Center 601 University Dr., San Marcos RACIAL DESEGREGATION: SUCCESS OR FAILURE? COMMUNITY 26th from 10 – 11:30 a.m. Internationally renowned scholar Dr. Joe Fagin will discuss racial desegregation during this free event. Fagin specializes in the study of race, ethnic and gender relations. For more info, contact Deborah 6
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MUSIC SPORTS
Harris at dh57@txstate.edu or 245-4547. Alkek Library Wittliff Collections, 7th Floor 601 University Dr., San Marcos 2015 HILL COUNTRY JAZZ FESTIVAL: EDDIE DURHAM CONCERT MUSIC 6th from 7:30 – 9 p.m. This free annual event celebrates the life and works of San Marcos jazz legend Eddie Durham. The finale concert will begin at 6:15 p.m. For more information, contact Nancy Harris at nh17@txstate. edu or 245-3375. Texas State’s Evans Auditorium 601 University Dr., San Marcos ARMADILLO RISING: AUSTIN’S MUSIC SCENE IN THE 1970S MUSIC 9th from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. This free event showcases The Wittliff Collections’ vibrant and eclectic Texas music archives through handwritten lyrics, photographs and memorabilia from some of the state’s most popular musicians, like Willie Nelson and Jerry Jeff Walker. For more info, contact Lyda Guz at lwg11@txstate.edu or 245-2313. The Wittliff Collections, Texas State’s Alkek Library, 7th Floor 601 University Dr., San Marcos TEXAS STATE SCHOOL OF MUSIC’S YOUTH OUTREACH PROGRAM CONCERT
ARTS
MUSIC 17th from 6 – 7 p.m. The Texas State School of Music’s Community Outreach Program will present its string project fall concert. For more information, contact Nancy Harris at nh17@txstate.edu or 245-3375. Texas State’s Evans Auditorium 601 University Dr., San Marcos TEXAS STATE BASEBALL LEAD-OFF DINNER SPORTS 7th at 7 p.m. The Texas State Baseball Lead-Off Dinner is the primary fundraising event for the Bobcat Baseball Program. The event provides an opportunity for people to meet this year’s team and coaching staff over dinner, drinks and a silent auction. Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center 1001 E. McCarty Ln., San Marcos TEXAS STATE THEATRE DEPARTMENT: “A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE” ARTS 17th – 21st from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Tennessee Williams’ Pulitzer Prize-winning classic comes to Texas State. It’s 1947 and Southern belle Blanche DuBois has lost everything. In desperation, she turns to her sister and her sister’s new husband for refuge, but the low-rent apartment in a seedy part of New Orleans isn’t welcoming or safe. For more information, visit txstatepresents.com. Texas State’s Performing Arts Center 601 University Dr., San Marcos
LOVE DOWNTOWN CAMPAIGN
Fridays in February, shoppers are invited to “Show the Love” to downtown businesses by supporting local retailers displaying this banner, and choosing downtown as their Valentine’s Day date destination. The Main Street Program offers prizes to shoppers who spend more than $25 and submit their receipt. New this year, live music on the streets will add to the downtown charm.
LOVE IS DOWN TOWN Things to do and see downtown this Valentine’s Day
DOWNTOWN EVENTS San Marcos Main Street hosts and promotes several events and programs annually designed to engage community members and visitors alike, while fostering support for downtown businesses.
Have a heart shaped pizza Valentinos 110 N LBJ Dr · (512) 396-8888
TRAILRIDERS
Monday, February 9 from 11:30am - 2:00pm We give the Greater Randolph Area Trailriders a big San Marcos welcome as they make a stop on the Square on their journey from Austin to the San Antonio Rodeo. Dutch- oven peach cobbler and a complimentary hot meal at a downtown restaurant send them off on their journey.
SAN MARCOS FARMERS MARKET
Oysters are an aphrodisiac! Louie’s Beer Garden 119 E Hutchison · (512) 878-8862
Every Tuesday at the corner of Edward Gary & CM Allen from 3-6pm and Every Saturday on the Square from 9am-1pm
ART SQUARED
The Second Saturday on the Square from 9am - 4pm Painting, Sculptures, Jewelry, Crafts, Live Music and More!
Pick up Valentine’s dog treats Stinky Dawg 145 S. LBJ Dr · (512) 262-9482
| Sponsored by Main Street San Marcos |
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BOBCATFANS | MIXOLOGY
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MOJITO DIVERSITY
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THE MUDDLER
It’s a cocktail with personality and unlike other long drinks, the basic recipe can be adjusted in order to pleasure each kind of person, by replacing the rum with gin or vodka, or the lime with other fresh fruits.
It’s origins trace back to 16th century Cuba, where the mojito was first called the “El Draque” in honor of explorer Sir Francis Drake. Legend has it the drink was first invented to make primitive forms of rum tolerable.
This pestle like device exists for one reason, FLAVOR! Muddling can make the difference between a so-so drink and one that is extraordinary. It extrudes the intense flavors trapped inside fresh ingredients.
| Mixed by Hannah @ Stonewall Warehouse | Photo Ashley Haguewood |
DRINK SPECIALS ALL PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
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After 8pm Mon $2.50 Brownie Shots & Wells Tue $2 Whiskey & Tequila Wed $2.50 Any Deep Eddy Thu $3.50 Jager Bombs Fri $3.50 Vegas Bombs Sat $2.50 Fireballs Sun $3 911’s (all day)
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BOBCATFANS | ATHLETES
Profiles
MADISON PEVEY | By Jordan Gass-Poore | Photos Ashley Haguewood |
A skull displaying the three swords used by Texas State Fencing Club members not only serves as the organization’s logo but as a reminder of its past, present and future.
YEAR: JUNIOR STUDYING: ACCOUNTING HOMETOWN: HOUSTON
The organization is the oldest active sports club on campus. It was started in 1975 as the South West Fencing Society and has produced regionally and nationally ranked fencers in all three weapons of modern fencing: epee, foil and saber. FENCING CRAFT LIVES ON Texas State Fencing Club President Madison Pevey has been a member of the organization since 2010.
Watch a sword fight TexasStateUniversity Fencing
“MOST PEOPLE ONLY SEE FENCING DURING THE OLYMPICS OR THE MOVIES.”
A Family and Consumer Economics graduate student, Pevey joins a long line of Texas State students and what the club calls “community members” (those not associated with the university) who are fascinated with the martial art. Former Texas State teacher and coach John Moreau taught Pevey when she was a student in his fencing course. Although Pevey’s the only fencer in her family, she said most of her Texas State friends are involved in fencing because of the club. “[…] I love my club and I am a much better ‘leader’ and president than I am an athlete,” said Pevey, who won a leadership award last year from National Girls and Women in Sports.
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THE “CONVERSATION” CONTINUES No prior experience is required to join the club. Pevey had no prior experience. Beginners are initially paired and learn basic fencing feet practices. From there, members learn the differences between the three weapons and how to use them. The epee, for instance, is a heavy thrusting weapon where the entire body is fair game. Members who may not have the upper body strength for the epee can try their hand at the saber or the foil, which is lighter and targets the entire torso, neck and groin. Pevey said the main difference between the weapons is how the points are scored and the blade. The club performs demonstrations at San Marcos elementary and middle schools in an effort to educate the public about the sport because of its historical prevalence and pervasiveness in pop culture.
“It gives the community a positive experience with the university students and it exposes people to the sport we love,” said Pevey. “Most people only see fencing during the Olympics or the movies.”
EN GARDE Pevey said she’s lucky to have never experienced any injuries while fencing, but she has seen a broken ankle, as well as a freak accident during a competition when a fencer’s blade went up the sleeve of their opponent and lodged into the flesh of their arm. “That kind of thing is rare,” she said. “But also really crazy to see or experience.” Fencing is a sport where friend “beating” is acceptable – and encouraged. But once members are no longer piste off, or off the piste – the strip where fencers compete – Pevey said they’re really just a group of friends.
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BOBCATFANS | BACK STAGE
Electronic music has changed dramatically in just a few years, going from a genre lightly influenced by electronic devices to being completely produced by them. Crizzly surrounds himself with other people who are involved with and harbor a love for music. He constantly gives and receives recommendations on new songs or artists, and is driven by the discovery process.
“THAT FOR ME IS WHAT DJING IS, THAT MOMENT, WHERE PEOPLE ARE JUST LIKE ‘FINALLY, WE CAN DANCE!’
SMALL TOWN, BIG CULTURE, SMTX RANKS ALONGSIDE SOME OF TEXAS’S TOP PARTY VENUES | By Heather Yzaguirre | Photo Sam HIckey|
Although the Central Texas music scene mostly revolves around live artists in open airs, sometimes you just want to get out and dance. Professional DJ Chris Lee (a.k.a. Crizzly) grew up in Boerne, where he discovered early on that his passion for music could become his livelihood. From the first time he got behind the booth he realized that his daily jams were unheard gems to others and fell in love with the process of discovering, producing and showcasing music. Lil Flip - The Way We Ball (Crizzly Remix)
crizzly.com iamcrizzly @iamcrizzly
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Seven years later he spends weeks at a time on the road, hitting major cities and party towns alike, performing three to four shows a week. Nocturnal Wonderland in 2011 was his first festival and he’s since been on stages at major festivals like Lollapolooza and Van’s Warped Tour, growing as an EDM and Trapt sensation. He gravitates towards hip-hop and electronic music, with early influences like Daft Punk and Gorillaz. Electronic music has changed dramatically in just a few years, going from a genre lightly influenced by electronic devices to being completely produced by them.
A few years ago he played at California’s Beyond Wonderland when a blackout hit just before his set. Despite buckets of rain pouring down, crowds were required to clear out of the massive warehouse venue for safety reasons. Halfway through his time slot the power kicked back on and he wasted no time getting the music going. A massive wave of festival goers rushed back in as if by gravitational pull and started dancing. “That for me is what DJing is, that moment, where people are just like ‘Finally, we can dance!’” San Marcos has a special place in his heart. “San Marcos has vibes. Good vibes.” The Marc consistently has talented DJs like Crizzly who know how to bring the hype and energy a party needs. Not every night needs to be awesome; sometimes it’s just about getting out, letting loose and dancing off some everyday-life stress. Crizzly almost always plays at the Marc when he comes to town, citing it as one of the better party scenes around. He even compares it to the strongest venues in Texas including Austin’s 6th Street. “It caters to all types of people, and has a small town vibe, but a very distinct culture and attitude. I just love it.”
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BOBCATFANS | LOOKING
CALLING COMPANIES LIKE 1-800-FLOWERS JUST FORWARDS THE ORDERS TO PLACES LIKE FLOWERLAND, TAKING A PERCENTAGE OUT OF THEIR POCKET AND PREVENTING YOU FROM MEETING A LOCAL SAN MARCAN.
LOVE ARRANGEMENTS | By Heather Yzaguirre | Photos Andres Sotomayor |
Meet the folks who make it their mission is to deliver the perfect message with flowers. “THE GREATEST THING ABOUT WHAT I DO IS THAT EVERYDAY IS A FRESH NEW DAY; WE START WITH THE SAME THINGS BUT IT ENDS UP LITTLE DIFFERENT EVERY TIME.”
Wrapped up in the everyday stresses of life, it’s easy to forget the simple things. A float down the river. Good coffee on a cold day. Fresh picked flowers to brighten someone’s day. Flowerland has been around for nearly 40 years, owned by three local ladies who combine high quality designs with neighborly attitude. They get their flowers from several area distributors who deliver freshly cut flowers daily. They’re then taken into the shop and arranged by one of their in-house designers. Senior designer Janie Parra has designed flowers for over 40 years. Things have changed a lot since she started. “Back then it was basically carnations, gladiolas and roses, that was about it. People would come in and pick one and you would just make an arrangement based around that.”
flowerlandsm.com flowerland.sanmarcos
While a large part of their business comes from online orders, which are based off pre-determined arrangements, Janie lights up when someone comes in for a customized bouquet. The process starts by picking one flower as a centerpiece, one that most closely suits the occasion. Janie uses her creative freedom to branch out from there, recommending classic pairings or experimenting with new ones. It’s also common for people to bring in pictures, requesting arrangements that closely match, giving her new challenges and connecting her to other designers who create new and extravagant flower arrangements. As expected, February, primarily Valentine’s Day, is the busi-
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est time of year. Flowers aren’t just for lovers, though. Sending someone a spontaneous bouquet can brighten up their whole week. Top selling arrangements include flowers such as gingers and birds of paradise, because they look exotic and elaborate. If you don’t know much about flowers, but want to send something special, they have created an app that makes shopping and designing bouquets simple. You can find Floralapp on iTunes and Google Play. DON’T KNOW WHAT COLOR ROSES TO ORDER? USE THIS HANDY GUIDE: Red: Romance Pink: Appreciation Yellow: Friendship Orange: Passion White: Marriage/ Spirituality
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| Words & Photos Eric Morales |
“Now it’s really unusual to not know someone who has a met a significant other or spouse through an online dating site.” -Julie Spira
16 BOB CATFANS | 02.15
| By Xander Peters | Photos Ashley Haguewood |
THE ELECTRONIC LOVE BUG | By Xander Peters | Photo Ashley Haguewood |
ONLINE DATING GOES MAINSTREAM
Like outer space for mankind in the 1960’s, the internet is the dating world’s 21st Century final frontier. Hybrid speed dating, virtual swinger bars, the final curtain call for romance—regardless of how you dress it up, we’re talking about online dating in the 21st century. Some swear by it, others find it trivial and shallow. Either way, more than 40 million Americans are currently registered members on dating sites and mobile apps like Tinder, OKCupid, Match and more. It doesn’t take a team of social scientists to determine there’s been a shift in contemporary courtship. More people are coming down with the electronic love bug.
TIME WELL
SPENT?
“At least with online dating, you know that person is interested and looking.” -Victor Kronberg
According to a spokesperson for Tinder, the average user spends 77 minutes per day on their app, exceeding the approximate 40 minutes per day Americans spend scrolling through their Facebook newsfeed. An American Time Use Survey conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that citizens nationwide spend less time doing basic tasks, like taking care of their pets (39 minutes) and going outside to check the mailbox (17 minutes), than they do refreshing their social media pages.
B O B CAT FA NS | 02.15 17
Hard Facts and Experiences In late 2013, the Pew Research Center released their most recent study on online dating. For the first time, a majority of Americans agreed that digital romance is a productive way of seeking a potential long-term relationship: rising from 44 percent approval in 2005, to 59 percent. Meanwhile 42 percent know someone who has online dated (up 11 percent since 2005), and 29 percent know someone who has used it to find their spouse (a 14 percent increase.)
“It’s shallow,” he admits. “Because it really is a numbers game.”
Also buried in the data was one not-so enthusiastic statistic. Twenty eight percent cited how they had been contacted in a way that made them feel uncomfortable in the past. Which touches on one of the community’s most frequent headaches: online harassment. In a separate survey released by the Pew in October, 26 percent of women ages 18-24 reported that they have been stalked online at some time. Only seven percent of men disclosed the same. “Guys are just hungry and online dating is convenient,” Texas State student Edwin Rivas says. Rivas, 20, became acclimated with online dating through the popular mobile app Tinder— where users comb through profiles within a set mile radius, swiping right if interested and left if not, until two users both swipe right and “match” to instantly connect via chat function. To date, after brief stints of involvement with two women he met through the app, Rivas says he has yet to see much success come of it. “It’s shallow,” he admits. “Because it really is a numbers game.” Then there are those who got lucky and knocked it out of the park, such as Bethany Jones, 25, and Victor Kronberg, 26. Early last summer, Jones, a recent Texas State graduate, finally caved and downloaded Tinder for her-
self. Within a week of setting up her first online dating profile, it was pointless for her to keep the app any longer. That’s all the time it took for her and boyfriend Kronberg to swipe right, match and ride off into the sunset. “We didn’t really small talk at all,” Jones remembers. “I think we met up that same day.” “It was the next day,” Kronberg says, before explaining how meeting people through the app was easier for him than introducing himself at a coffeehouse, the classroom or at a bar. “At least with online dating, you know that person is interested and looking.”
Extra Help: Ghostwriters and Dating Coaches Referring back to Pew’s 2013 study, one-in-five online daters have asked for assistance when putting together their profile. That’s where dating coaches Matthew Valentines, founder of Personal Dating Assistants (PDA), and Julie Spira, founder of cyberdatingexperts.com, come into the picture. Both of their careers span from dial-up through mobile, over 20 years: Valentines met his first date online in a chatroom and Spira was a charter member of Love@ AOL. They’ve online dated since before online dating was cool. PDA, Valentines explains, is a service for men to help navigate the online dating process. A personal dating agent—a “wingman”— takes over each customer’s profile. The agent then sends messages on the user’s behalf, refers him to a photographer and “helps win dates,” Valentines says. “The dating assistant, just like an office assistant, handles your dating life. They’re really with these guys every step of the way.”
(both male and female) like the 64 colors of a crayon box: catering to everyone individually, including site selection to fit their personal needs and a digital matchmaker search to find potential dates. “I teach them how to write emails that would catch their attention, and how to respond,” she says. Most importantly, she teaches them how to take the relationship from online to offline. Whose strategy is more efficient? That depends. “Our job is to get in and get out as quickly as possible. That way the guy can take over and make the real magic happen in person,” Valentines says. “There’s a misunderstanding that we create these pseudo-relationships on a dating site. What we do is we help facilitate more opportunities for somebody to connect with somebody who they might really like. We don’t sell relationships. Because who knows what’s going to happen when these people meet in person.” Spira’s strategy takes the slow and steady route. “For me, it’s all very, very personalized. We have to realize that, of all the singles out there, there are different relationship stages,” she says. “Nothing goes out that they haven’t seen. The worst thing that can happen is you go on a date and you don’t even remember what you said to the person in the email correspondence. It’s a little embarrassing.”
“Our job is to get in and get out as quickly as possible. That way the guy can take over and make the real magic happen in person.”
On the other hand, Spira doesn’t sit in as a ghostwriter. Instead, she shadows the wooing process by treating her clientele
There’s no one source for everybody. From traditional sites, such as eHarmony, to not-so traditional sites, such as FarmersOnly, BlackPeopleMeet, ChristianMingle and FetLife, where people’s sexual bondage and orgy fantasies become a reality, there’s a place to meet everyone’s relationship needs online.
“Now, it’s really unusual to not know someone who has met a significant other or spouse through an online dating site,” Spira
According To A 2013 Pew Study More than half of online daters felt someone else seriously misrepresented themselves in their profile. One-in-five adults ages 25-34 admit to having used an online dating source. Millennials (of Generation Y) are the generation most likely to pursue romance via the internet. Twenty-one percent of internet users thought “people who use online dating sites are desperate.”
18 BOB CATFANS | 02.15
Choices
B O B CAT FA NS | 02.15 19
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says. “At this point, when I go to a nail salon, I overhear people telling stories about their match. com date from the night before or how somebody is talking about how she got engaged to somebody she met on eHarmony.” If there’s any advice for those looking for love on the internet, it’s to have both an online and offline strategy. Whether it’s through Facebook, OKCupid or at a bar, it doesn’t matter how or where two people meet if they hit it off in the end. All that really matters is that those two people had the chance to meet.
DATING BY THE NUMBERS
THE ONLINE DATING INDUSTRY IS WORTH $1.049 BILLION PER YEAR.
CUSTOMERS OF DATING SITES SPEND AN AVERAGE OF $239 PER YEAR
OF SINGLE WOMEN USE PRIVACY SETTING ON THEIR FACEBOOK TO LIMIT PICS, POSTS OR BOTH FOR THE PEOPLE THEY DATE
31% OVER
OF ADULTS IN AMERICA
KNOW SOMEONE WHO HAS USED AN ONLINE DATING SITE
90% OF SINGLES AGREE IT’S NOT OK
TO TEXT SOMEONE TO BREAK UP
AVERAGE PERSON LOOKS AT 20+ ONLINE DATING PROFILES A DAY
5
AVERAGE PERSON SENDS ALMOST MESSAGES A DAY VIA MOBILE APPS | Score: Online Dating Reports |
B O B CAT FA NS | 02.15 21
BOBCATFANS | DO’S & DON’TS
1.
DO EXPECT TO GO OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE: Regardless of the situation, spending an evening with an attractive stranger will already be a bit uncomfortable. That said, self-deprecating humor couldn’t hurt in order to lighten the mood.
2.
DON’T TURN YOUR DATE INTO YOUR THERAPIST Everyone has their own set of problems. But save the conversations about your terrible boss and awful ex-significant others for a later date.
3.
DO REMEMBER TO BE YOURSELF: It might make for good movie rom-coms, but the biggest mistake you could make while out on a first date is pretending to be someone you’re not. He or she agreed to enjoy an evening with you as you already are. Not who you wish you could be.
4.
DON’T LET HIM/HER KNOW THAT YOU’VE BEEN SOCIAL MEDIA STALKING THEM: Social media can be useful in getting to know the bare basics of another person—the kinds of music they’re into, their pets, their social life. But if you’re going to take that route, do your best to keep the means of research to yourself.
5.
DO ASK QUESTIONS: THE NUMBER ONE CONVERSATION KILLER ON A FIRST DATE IS PAST RELATIONSHIPS (49%), WITH DIETING OR BODY IMAGE COMING IN AT NUMBER TWO.
10 FIRST DATE THRILLERS AND KILLERS | By Xander Peters |
The idea of love at first sight may be a little far fetched—but a good first impression definitely isn’t. What defines the perfect first date? Is it charm? The necessity of good conversation? Or is it the kiss (or more) at the end of the night that deems it perfect enough for a second date? For many, the awkwardness involved with dating is second nature. Especially that very first night out with someone potentially special. There’s a certain etiquette to the dating scene: avoid awkward silences whenever possible, try not to look like a slob, and at least pretend to be normal. Dating advice varies depending on who you ask, and an algorithm defining the perfect first date is yet to exist. Until that day comes, here are a few tips on what to do and not do while out on those (at times) tense, romantic evenings. 22 BOB CATFANS | 02.15
Lots of them. And make sure to act as if you’re interested in whatever he or she has to say, too. Listen, smile, nod—be polite, yet inquisitive and intrigued.
6.
DON’T OVER BOOZE IT: Alcohol has a tendency to be a social lubricant. Although, like with most situations, too much of a good thing can take a turn for the worst. Don’t be the date who has to be escorted to a personal cab after dinner.
7.
DO READ INTO THE MOMENTS LEADING UP TO THE FIRST KISS: There’s a certain formula for the right kind of first kiss. One person goes about 20 percent of the way, and the other makes up for the other 80 percent. Just don’t get trigger happy when it comes to the end of the night.
8.
DON’T WEAR YOUR SUNDAY BEST: It’s a date, not a job interview. Most likely there won’t be a reason to wear a suit, unless the occasion calls for such. Dress sharp, dress cute, but be casual.
9.
DO BE PREPARED TO KISS A FEW FROGS: Did you step up to the plate and hit a homerun the first time at bat in T-ball? Probably not. The same goes for the dating game.
10.
DON’T OVER THINK THINGS: It’s inevitable. Instead, just go out there and do your best to enjoy an evening of one on one time with someone who could potentially have a special place in your future. You never know, he or she may be the right fit in the puzzle you call yourself. And if not, at least you had a good time.
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