Struggling to know what to do this 14 February? Gay dating app Chappy has some recommendations…
The dating platform – who has been helping gay and bi men find their Mr. Right or Mr. Right Now for a year now – have listed five alternatives to the usual last-minute box of chocolates.
“The reality is, Valentine’s Day is now reduced to men purchasing last minute flowers, chocolates and wine in the hope of not disappointing their female partners,” the company states.
“It means that Valentine’s Day 2018 is likely to be a particularly fluffy, heteronormative and uninspiring day for many gay men.”
With that in mind, Chappy teamed up with psychotherapist Lee Valls to come up with some top tips for gay men this Valentine’s Day.
- Men love experiences, get him something you know he’ll love (perhaps for the two of you) get out of town – try something new!
- Treat yourselves to a spa day, yes we want to look good too but we want him to be his best self also!
- Cook a slightly ambitious meal together – this isn’t about cooking for him so he can put his feet up. It’s about teamwork, bonding and sharing the amazing fruits of your labour, together!
- Find an independent alcohol brand – adding a personal touch, an alternative to his favourite standard branded tipple!
- Subscriptions. Men, we’re simple folk! We know what we like, and we like what we know – so make sure it’s something he definitely likes!
“Valentine’s Day has long been about men wooing women, or husbands and boyfriends showing their female partners affection, making the day and the gift ideas particularly female-focused,” said Valls.
“It can be easy and damaging to think that men don’t require affection, appreciation, or simple gestures of romance.”
Jack Rogers, Co-founder of Chappy, added: “Dating can be intimidating, especially in the lead-up to Valentine’s Day. We’re very happy to share our recommendations based on Lee Valls’ insight.
“It is our responsibility to create an environment that is safe, fun and trusted. Chappy wants to mobilise positivity and respect, Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to remind ourselves of that.”
Last year, Chappy launched its new Pledge in a bid to offer a safer and more responsible dating platform for gay men to communicate on.
The global Don’t be a Dick campaign highlights the regular use of prejudicial language and attitudes from users on gay dating platforms, with Chappy creating a video that hears gay men speak openly about their experiences.
They range from blatant racism and ageism, to fat-shaming, fem-shaming, and even homophobia.
The Chappy Pledge must be signed by all new and existing users, and commits them to being considerate to fellow users.
If anyone does not adhere to the new pledge, they will be permanently banned from using the platform.
To find out more about Chappy, you can visit their official website here.
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