Tis the season for homecoming and our favorite HBCU classic games. Though many of you may have already attended homecoming the end of year classics and in state rivalries are still upon us. Meaning, there is still time for more “Hey big head” texts and DM slide bys. So in the spirit of #ShootYourShot2017 and cuffing season, I decided to give you a guide to navigating a weekend filled with dating potential.
- Start Early and Do Your Research
Homecoming/ the Classic is always a walk down memory lane. It’s easy to recall past encounters with old boo thangs and have flashes of regret about the should have beens. With only 3 weeks left in the season, start identifying your prey now. Head to their social media pages. Phone a friend, frat, soror, or team mate for all the tea. Are they married? Single? Divorced? Still heauxing? In jail? Bankrupt? Back at home? Gay? Got 10 Kids? Whatever you do ask all the questions! Dig all the dirt! There’s nothing worse than looking forward to seeing an old crush or bae only to find out they are gay or married or both. But be mindful of the source cuz bishes (male and female) be hatin! Don’t accept no cold, stale tea either. Don’t listen to nothing about how they were in undergrad. People evolve.
- You gotta shoot to score
Do not let these internets shame you out of shooting your shot for the 99 and the 2000. You don’t have to say “Hey big head” but you definitely need to communicate with them. Find out if they will even be in town. You might be surprised; they may be checking for you too. This is also a good way to set intentions. My favorite line is “Hey friend! Am I gone see you at homecoming?” or “What parties are you going to?” or “Please tell me Imma see you at the classic!” Starting the conversation also helps to build some anticipation. It can also relieve the awkwardness of a face to face encounter after an extended period of time.
- Narrow the Options
I don’t recommend a homecoming roster. It’s too much goin on for all that. I tried it once…Ask my sissy. I got cussed out by both guys that year. *cue I don’t wanna be a player x Big Pun and Fat Joe* Narrow the choices down to 1 and a possible. Have a main thang and a backup plan in case main thang doesn’t pan out. We like options.
- Make Time
If you are serious about kindling or rekindling with someone you gotta make time; especially if this person is long distance. Seeing them on the yard in passing isn’t enough. Meet for a breakfast before the parade, game, or Sunday before you depart. Plan to meet for lunch or dinner that Thursday or Friday. Go to the parade together. Pull them to the side at the tailgate and go for a walk. Walk to the bookstore together. Meet up at Waffle House or IHOP after the parties. Make time to talk in the hotel lobby. WHATEVER YOU DO, FIND SOME TIME!!! People make time for who and what they want. Homecoming is no exception.
- Keep It 100
Be very clear about your intentions. Are you looking for a relationship or just trying to put the ho in homecoming? Whatever you decide, be honest. First with yo self then with the potential. That way you don’t feel like you wasted your hopes or time.
- Live in the moment
Go with the flow. Don’t put too much pressure on this. Potential bae may not make homecoming or pass out after the party and not answer his phone. (Yeah that happened to me). You might meet someone totally unexpected. You could also just turn up without a weekend bae. Just be flexible and enjoy yourself.
#HappyHomecoming
Dating with Dev 