Dear DAVID

QI am 25 years old, and I quite honestly have a lot of anxiety when it comes to dating. With all the apps and the rampant hook-up culture in the gay community, it is so difficult to find out if a guy is just trying to hook up or if he wants to date and get to know you. Plus, many couples are opening up their relationship, which makes it even harder to figure out what they are into or not. I really want a deeper connection with someone, but I am both outraged and a nervous wreck at the same time–are there really no genuine guys left out there anymore? How do I break this negative way of thinking? And how do I ultimately find love?

ANo matter what, it is always difficult to put yourself out there. The first step for you (and for soooo many others in the dating pool) is to admit that you are indeed anxious about dating! Anxiety is normal and should honestly be expected, but the moment you let go of your judgment of having anxiety, you will also relax a little bit more–maybe in yourself or perhaps even on a date. Another thing you can assess is if the hook-up and dating apps are actually hurting or helping you. If you’ve had it with biased preferences and rudeness from strangers, then take a break–apps are not the only way to meet guys! If you do feel the need for an app in your life, stay clear of the sex apps and go for one catered more towards dating. Create a profile that is honest and realistic, which is the best basis for an online conversation either way.

Regardless of how you meet someone, start by communicating and get to know the person even before you meet up in person for a date. A good indicator is how good a communicator the other person is and how well, for instance, texts are responded to. Down the line, once the connection has been made, it is okay for you to voice your concerns and even fears. You don’t want to be needy but being open and honest about feelings and expectations will also create the basis for a deeper connection. Yes, dating can be time-consuming and even anxiety-inducing but if you put in the effort, it will eventually pay off.

Glitz! The Competition

@ Mary’s | February 2, 9 pm

12 drag competitors are going head to head in this weekly drag competition put on by the queer and quirky folks over at Mary’s in East Atlanta Village.

Back Room: Black Party

@ The Heretic | February 3, 10 pm

First Queen Butch party of the year serving you DJ Mike Servito (The Bunker NY) & Atlantas very own, Alexis Curshé (Deep South ATL). Recommended Attire: Black on black on black on black... on black!

High Frequency Friday

@ The High Museum | February 3, 6-10 pm

Set out on a musical journey with the city’s most popular DJs. Take in the Museum’s collection, create a piece of art, and participate in a docent-led tour. Tickets at high.org.

House Fridays

@ X Midtown| February 3, 11:30 pm – 3 am

Hit the dancefloor every Friday night at X Midtown, with resident DJ VAL VERRA. Spinning House Classics, Nu/Disco, and Pop Remixes.

UNDERGROUND Dance Party

@ Boggs Social | February 3, 8 pm

Anglophiles uniteat Boggs Social & Supply for the “UNDERGROUND” Britpop, UK Indie, Madchester, New Wave Dance Party!

Kai Lin Art presents Paper Boxes

@ Kai Lin Art | February 3-4

Kai Lin Art is pleased to announce our first exhibition for 2023, PAPER BOXES: a solo exhibition featuring ten new artworks from Asheville-based artist Kevin Palme.

20th Annual Oyster Crawfish Festival

@ Park Tavern | February 4, 2-11 pm

The Park Tavern Oyster Crawfish Festival Returns for the 20th year in a row! Tickets at bigtickets.com.

Party of The Krewes

@ The Hideaway | February 4, 3 pm

All day party into the night a rugby social, beer bust, and daytime drag.

The Talon Show

@ The Atlanta Eagle | February 6, 8 pm

New Comedy Variety Show at The Atlanta Eagle featuring Atlanta comedians, drag queens, and showstoppers.

Speed Dating

@ Woofs | February 7, 6 -10 pm

Come find the right person for right now, or forever! It’s a fun night of debauchery, games, and meeting cool new people. If you’re taking it too seriously, welp.

Moulin Rouge at the Plaza

@ Plaza Atlanta | February 8, 7 pm

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your besties at this Wussy one-night special screening of Baz Luhrmann’s classic 2001 musical, starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor.

A John Waters Christmas in February

@ Variety Playhouse | February 8, 8-11 pm

Go ahead! Knock over that tree! Stomp your presents! Manger Danger! A raging new critical theory that no PTA can ever stop. Scream! Scream again! It’s a John Waters Christmas for Chrissake! Get Your tickets now!

We all have those moments of ‘wait, did they just say that?’ Lucky for you, we compile the best of the best right here on this page. Want to join in on the b*tch session? Submit your own nuggets to info@davidatlanta.com.

What happens if someone slaps you at a high frequency? It Hertz.

I identify as a threat. My pronouns are try / me.

There’s really nothing worse than a Disney gay.

Why do pet pner feel the need to write the word ‘hooman’ on social media?

I don’t hate you. I’m just not necessarily excited about your existence.

Why is the cost of living so high? I’m not even having fun!

I really wish guys on the apps would stop saying “looking for a gym buddy”. Honey, please stop. You’re a bottom looking to get railed!

So January is over, and I’m honestly already over this year.