5 things do do on a first Venn-meet

August 3, 2022
by
The Venn team

This is for those of us who feel we are ready to meet up with a new potential friend – but hesitate because of lack of ideas on what to do.

No need for overthinking or complicating! Here are some low threshold Venn-favorites;

1. Go for a walk or a hike

A walk is a good activity for the first meet up, as it doesn’t require any preparation and can be done at any time of day. The movement stimulates blood flow and the changing surroundings become a continuous inspiration for conversation. Our recommendation is to choose a scenic route that demands little of your breath. This way you have plenty left to get to know each other.

2. Pub crawl

It’s easy to depend on alcohol for a lively first in-person conversation, but you really don’t need it. All you need is something interesting to talk about. Don’t hesitate to revisit a theme that engaged you both on the app, and continue to discover your common interests. Pubs with their informal atmosphere are excellent for this purpose, and don’t forget that mocktails and non-alcoholic beers also are fine refreshments! Look for places with a comfortable volume, so you don’t have to shout to be heard. And if the flow of conversation should falter, just move on to the next bar!

3. A game of shuffleboard

When already at the bar, perhaps there is a shuffleboard within reach! With its simple rules, easy gameplay and low skill required for enjoyment it's an excellent start for shared fun. We prefer shuffleboard over games as pool or dart, as they require more concentration and can take longer to get started. The more technical games can also lead to a higher level of frustration, which is not ideal. Unless you have a common interest in a specific game, we recommend starting with something easy. Leaving ample room for conversation.

4. Watch live sports

If you share a passion for sports – why not watch a game together? The level of competition is of less importance. Get carried away by the crowds roar and seize the chance to shout “whaaat?” before smiling and nodding enthusiastically like you agree. You will have lots to talk about and stats and fun facts to share. And in crowds it's perfectly natural not to talk all the time, watching the game unfold.

5. Café

Cliché? Maybe! But it is a great way to meet a new friend. Providing a safe and comfortable space for a good conversation. Historians argue that tea and coffee were instrumental in the prelude to most modern revolutions, as invigorating beverages to convene around. Without getting drunk, and tired the following day. Instead remembering what had been said and agreed upon! (Something to keep in mind).

If anxious about not being able to keep the conversation going, just ask questions about the person you are with. Most people enjoy getting to talk about themselves a little, all the while getting to know your new acquaintance.

Perhaps you are sitting opposite a new lifelong friend, whom you in retrospect wonder how you ever managed without.

If you don’t take a chance, you may never know!