Guide | First-Time In-Person Encounters
Meeting someone in person for the first time, especially within the BDSM community, can be both thrilling and nerve-wracking. Ensuring your safety and comfort is paramount. Here’s a friendly guide to help you prepare and feel secure:
Before the Meeting:
1. Get to Know Them: Spend time chatting and getting to know the person through video calls and messaging. Make sure they are who they say they are and that their online presence aligns with what they’ve shared with you.
2. Do Your Research: A little online detective work can go a long way. Look up their name, phone number, and any other details they’ve provided to ensure everything checks out.
3. Set Clear Expectations: Have an open and honest conversation about the meeting. Discuss your boundaries, the setting, and what you both hope to get out of it.
4. Pick a Safe Spot: Choose a public place for your first meeting. A busy café, restaurant, or park is ideal. Avoid secluded areas to ensure there are always people around.
5. Inform a Trusted Friend: Let someone you trust know about your plans. Share details like where you’re going, who you’re meeting, and when you expect to be back. You can even share your live location through a messaging app.
During the Meeting:
1. Daylight is Best: Try to schedule your meeting during the day when it’s light out and there are more people around.
2. Listen to Your Instincts: Pay attention to your gut feelings. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to leave. Your comfort and safety are most important.
3. Keep Personal Info Private: Hold off on sharing sensitive personal details until you feel more comfortable and trust the person.
4. Stay Clear-Headed: Avoid consuming too much alcohol or anything that could impair your judgment. Staying alert will help you feel more in control and aware.
After the Meeting:
1. Reflect on the Experience: Take some time to think about how the meeting went. Did you feel safe and respected? Consider if you’d like to see the person again based on your experience.
2. Communicate with Your Trusted Friend: Let your friend know how it went and keep them updated if you plan to meet the person again.
3. Plan Future Meetings with Care: If you decide to meet again, continue to prioritize safety and comfort. Choose public places until you feel completely at ease.
Additional Tips:
- Trust Your Feelings: If at any point you feel uneasy, trust yourself and do what you need to feel safe.
- Use Safety Apps: Consider using apps that allow you to share your location with friends or alert them if you’re in danger.
- Set Boundaries Early: Clearly communicating your boundaries can prevent misunderstandings and ensure both parties feel comfortable.
Remember, your safety and well-being are the top priorities. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy meeting new people within the BDSM community with confidence and peace of mind.
