How to Turn an Online Crush into Your Real Life Bae

Alli Hoff Kosik
Mar 05, 2017

Even if you’re at the very top of your online dating game, it doesn’t mean that making progress in an app-based convo suddenly becomes simple. The world of virtual romance can feel like a bit of a black hole — everything moves a little slower — and the usual rules about response time don’t really apply. We turned to three online dating pros to get some suggestions for how to best move your online flirting past the point of “hey” so that IRL dating feels like a more attainable possibility (imagine: a drink or dinner!). These tips will help you show your online crushes that you’re serious about moving outside app-land and that you’re actually looking for an opportunity to really win them over.

3 TIPS FOR TURNING ONLINE CHATTING INTO A REAL DATE

1. Ask one basic question. What’s the trick to moving forward with your online crush? According to Paul Brunson, a matchmaker and dating expert at Match, it’s a lot simpler than you might think. Just say this: “I would love to talk. Can I have your number?” If that makes you nervous, try this slight adjustment: “I would love to talk. Can I give you my number?” The longer you keep your interaction in the awkward gray area of websites and apps, the more likely the conversation is to lose energy and direction, so if you’re genuinely interested in exploring a relationship with someone, you’ll want to move it into “real world” space ASAP. If the answer from your potential S.O. is lukewarm, it’s a good signal that you should redirect your energy toward someone who will be more receptive to everything you have to offer IRL.

2. Show you’ve done your dating homework. If you still have cold feet about striking up a phone conversation and would prefer to keep your interaction limited to messaging for a bit longer, that’s okay, but make sure that your crush knows that you’re interested in what they specifically have to offer by personalizing your outreach to them. Your messages will stand out from the rest if you address details from their profile, like their interests, hometown, or even a subtle joke or pop culture reference buried in their bio.

“You’ll score points when you [show] that you’re reaching out because you found them interesting as a person,” says Rhonda Milrad, founder and chief relationship advisor of Relationup. Your potential partners will be more eager to jump headfirst into a conversation if they sense that you’ve taken the time to actually read their bio before saying “hello.”

3. Be upfront with your intentions. Confidence is attractive IRL, and there’s no reason that it can’t be just as much of a turn-on in the world of dating apps. Jeremy Arnold, co-founder of Launch, suggests an opening line like this: “Hey there. I hate the gamesmanship that comes with these apps. It seems like we have some core values in common. I’d love to go for a low-key date to test our chemistry in person.”

If you’re looking to pack an extra punch with a confident first message, you can also take this opportunity to tell your crush that you’re on the app in search of a real relationship — and not simply chatting with every person that catches your eye (as long as that’s the truth!). “Outline your philosophy for reaching out,” Jeremy says. “For example, ‘I try to message only one person at a time based on what seem like strong commonalities.'”

How do you get past “hey” with your online crushes? Tweet us @BritandCo!

(Photos via Getty)

Sorry Y'all, Andrew Garfield Might Be Off The Market

Andrew Garfield's relationship status is always a swoon-worthy topic. Whether he's gushing about how Emma Stone is like a shot of caffeine, he's getting flustered talking to Chicken Shop Date's Amelia Dimoldenberg, or he's kissing Demi Moore on the hand, this man is always making me blush. But it looks like he might not be single anymore if some recent outings with Monica Barbaro are any indication — including a post-Oscars party!

While neither Andrew nor Monica have spoken on the relationship rumors, a People source confirmed "they've been really lowkey and have been spending time together quietly"...and Monica shared a pretty funny moment with Amelia on the Oscars red carpet.

Here's what we know about those Andrew Garfield & Monica Barbaro dating rumors.

March 2025: Andrew Garfield & Monica Barbaro attend an Oscar afterparty together.

After the Oscars on March 2, Monica Barbaro and Andrew Garfield left the Vanity Fair after part together...and showed up to Beyoncé and Jay-Z's after party. No big deal! Monica wore a strapless gown with gorgeous teardrop jewel detail while Andrew looks dapper in a deep gray suit.

They also happened to arrive at the Oscars red carpet at the same time...and Monica was sitting in Andrew's eye line the whole night. what a coincidence!

February 2025: Monica Barbaro & Andrew Garfield see Jonathan Bailey's play.

The two went viral on February 20 when they showed up to Jonathan Bailey's Richard II at the Bridge Theatre, and I'm obsessed with how locked in he is on their conversation. This man is an attentive listener if I've ever seen one!

January 2025: Andrew Garfield & Monica Barbaro are photographed together.

Andrew and Monica were first seen together at W magazine's Best Performances party, alongside Eddie Redmayne and W's editor-at-large Lynn Hirschberg, in LA. They were already getting cozy!

What do you think about Andrew Garfield & Monica Barbaro? I'm personally obsessed. Stay tuned for the latest news on this low-key couple! And check out Zoë Kravitz & Noah Centineo Fuel Dating Rumors After Leaving Another Party Together because Andrew & Monica weren't the only ones hanging out this weekend 👀.

celebrity couplespop culturedatingcelebrity

Trader Joe’s Mini Tote Bags Are Rumored To Return Next Month – In 4 Adorable Spring Colors!

Trader Joe’s always knows exactly how to get us excited for new products – and this time, it’s rumored that the grocer is bringing back their viral Mini Canvas Tote Bags in four brand-new colors that are all perfect for spring! Speculated to hit stores sometime next month, you’re not going to want to miss this TJ’s drop.

Here’s everything you need to know about the return of Trader Joe’s Mini Canvas Tote Bags for spring 2025.

@traderjoesobsessed

Trader Joe’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed first circulated the rumor that the Mini Canvas Tote Bags are set to return to Trader Joe’s this spring.

“Rumor has it that the pastel mini canvas bags will be here in April. Usually, they do release these on a Wednesday. How excited are you for these colors? I can’t wait to customize them!” the caption reads.

Another source, @zuncola, hinted that the totes could hit stores as early as April 8 or 9.

@traderjoesobsessed

It appears there will be four different colorways in this season’s Mini Canvas Tote Bag drop: pink, blue, green, and purple. But they’re not your ordinary pinks, blues, greens, and purples – per the rumors, they’ll come in pastel hues that all look stunning. From carrying your quick grocery hauls to toting each and every picnic essential you’ll need this spring, these bags get it all done in sheer style.

Trader Joe’s

In the past, the Trader Joe’s Mini Canvas Tote Bags have been a limited-time item that garnered plenty of attention from shoppers, even sparking a massivefrenzy inside stores with customers racing to snag their own tote. Some TJ’s locations have also placed a buying limit for bags like these, typically 1 per customer. Based on the reception of the rumors for this year, you’ll likely want to plan when and how you’re going to get your hands on one.

Instagram

Tons of Trader Joe’s fanatics sounded off in the comments of @traderjoesobsessed’s post about the rumors of the Mini Canvas Tote Bags’ return:

“Stoppppp no way!! 😱😱” one person wrote.

‘Yes! These will make great bags for Easter gifts,” another said.

“Looks like I need to buy camping gear cause I'll be in that line before sunrise 🤩,” one more fan commented.

Reddit

In previous years, the Mini Canvas Tote Bags went for $2.99 too $3.99, and we expect this pastel-filled drop to cost about the same.

Reddit

Though there’s no official release date for the mini totes, they’re speculated to hit shelves sometime in April 2025, possibly the 8th or 9th. Stay tuned here for more updates!

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay on top of all the best Trader Joe's news!

This post has been updated.

food newstrader joe'strader joe's new itemstote bagsgrocery shoppingfood

Zoë Kravitz & Noah Centineo Fuel Dating Rumors After Leaving Another Party Together

The 2025 Oscars were full of incredible red carpet outfits and fun moments (like Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo's Wicked opening medley!!), but before the iconic awards show aired, our favorite starts partied the night away...including Zoë Kravitz and Noah Centineo. This duo has been raising some eyebrows over the last few weeks and this marks the second party they've been spotted leaving together.

Here's what we know about those Zoë Kravitz and Noah Centineo dating rumors.

Zoë Kravitz and Noah Centineo partied the night away in Hollywood.

'Twas the night before the Oscars (or the morning of the Oscars depending on how you look at it), and Zoë Kravitz and Noah Centineo were seen leaving a pre-Oscars party together. DeuxMoi sources claim they hopped into a car around 2:20 in the morning on March 2.

While these two haven't taken their relationship official, leaving the same party together definitely has the internet talking — especially since this isn't the first time they've been spotted together recently! Zoë and Noah were also spotted leaving Danielle Haim's birthday party in New York City on February 15.

The parties come four months after Zoë Kravitz and ex-fiancé Channing Tatum called off their wedding. "The split is amicable," one source told People. "They realized they're at different stages in life."

“Ultimately once [Blink Twice] ended, they realized they were on different pages with what they wanted. It fizzled fast after their press tour wrapped," added an Us Weeklysource.

But Zoë has nothing but good things to say about Channing, telling Elle (after the premiere of their movie Blink Twice) that "I love this thing that we made together, and I care for him very much."

"He has so much more coming, and I think he's in a place as an actor where he's feeling really confident and people are seeing different sides of him," she adds, saying she's "excited for people to keep witnessing that."

What do you think about Zoë Kravitz and Noah Centineo hanging out this last few weeks? Read up on what happened when Glen Powell & Lily James Just Got Cozy In The Back Of A Car for more on another favorite maybe-couple!

celebrity relationshipsdatingpop cultureoscarscelebrity

Prime Video’s Steamy Remake Of This Reese Witherspoon Classic Just Got Cancelled

The only thing better than spending two hours with your favorite fictional characters? Spending 7 hours with them! Cruel Intentions (you know, the 1999 classic starring Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, and Selma Blair) turned 25 last year, and Prime Video released a brand new TV show inspired by the movie. The series featured a fresh twist that will keep even the most dedicated Cruel Intentions fan on their toes — but unfortunately the show was cancelled after just one season.

Here's everything you need to know about Prime Video's Cruel Intentions TV show — including why you should watch it despite its cancellation.

Why was Cruel Intentions cancelled?

Prime Video hasn't made an official announcement about why the series was cancelled, but per Variety, Cruel Intentions didn't make it onto the Nielsen Top 10 Streaming charts. Plus it only got a 24 percent Rotten Tomato score. Cruel indeed.

Where can I watch Cruel Intentions TV show?

Cruel Intentions Release Date

All eight episodes of Cruel Intentions dropped on Prime Video November 21, 2024. That means you can watch them all in one sitting (and then watch them again...and again). Is there anything better than watching a new TV show with a cranberry cocktail? I think not.

Did they remake Cruel Intentions?

Jasper Savage/Prime Video

Cruel Intentions Plot

Yes, the Cruel Intentions TV show is a remake of the 1999 movie! This new adaptation takes place at a prestigious college in Washington, D.C. Step-siblings Caroline Merteuil and Lucien Belmont are determined to stay on top of the food chain — especially after a dangerous frat hazing threatens to eliminate the school's Greek Life. The best way to keep the sororities and fraternities on campus? Seduce the most unexpected sorority sister: Vice President's daughter Annie Grover.

Who's in Cruel Intentions?

Jasper Savage/Prime Video

Cruel Intentions Cast

Prime Video's new Cruel Intentions is full of standout actors, and I can't wait to see their moment in the spotlight! The cast includes:

  • Sarah Catherine Hook as Caroline Merteuil
  • Zac Burgess as Lucien Belmont
  • Savannah Lee Smith as Annie Grover
  • Sara Silva as Cece Carroway
  • John Harlan Kim as Blaise Powell
  • Khobe Clarke as Scott Russell
  • Sean Patrick Thomas as Professor Hank Chadwick
  • Brooke Lena Johnson as Beatrice Worth

The original Cruel Intentions movie stars Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon, and Selma Blair. Selma told Variety on October 24 that even though she hadn't been asked to join the series, she'd love to make an appearance. "Maybe there will be a cameo or something," she says. "I’m excited to see it.”

Let us know on Instagram what you thought about the Cruel Intentions TV show, and check out the March TV shows you absolutely can't miss this month.

This post has been updated.

entertainmentpop cultureprime videotv

These 24 Green Cocktails For St. Patrick's Day Are Full Of Luck

St. Patrick's Day means green is queen. We're talking green recipes, green outfits, and green cocktails! Now that you've got the recipe for pot of gold cupcakes, it's finally time to find the perfect green drink for St. Patty's day to pair them with! With our list of green cocktails, you'll be full of luck come March 17.

Find every spirited cocktail worth celebrating here – from Grasshoppers to green margaritas, we're here to make sure your St. Patty's is nothing but fun!

What is the most popular drink for St. Patrick's Day?

Denys Gromov / PEXELS

Green beer, Guinness, and green cocktails made with creme de menthe and Irish cream are the most popular drinks to have for St. Patrick's Day. You'll see celebrations chock full of themed foods and drinks, especially green in color. We love a good cocktail, so enjoying a green spirit like the ones listed is our favorite way to party!

What do Irish people drink on St. Patrick's Day?

RDNE Stock Project / PEXELS

Among a tall pint of Guinness, Irish people typically indulge in local ciders, Dublin Mules, Irish whiskey shots, and Black and Blacks for St. Patrick's Day.

What is the most popular cocktail in Ireland?

Arina Krasnikova / PEXELS

For many, the Irish Maid is one of the best cocktails in Ireland. It's made with quality whiskey, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Other popular cocktails include the Irish Espresso Martini, Irish Eyes, and Irish Sour.

Green Beer

We had to go there. This is one of the easiest and most quintessential American-Irish drinks. (via Brit + Co)

Cucumber Gin Slushie

Brit + Co

This green slushy makes our hearts soar since you only need 6 ingredients for the recipe. This is one of the best St. Patrick's Day cocktails you can make if it's hot outside on the holiday. (via Brit + Co)

St. Patrick's Day Green Shots

Sarah Anderson

Okay – this green cocktail is actually a dessert shot, but we had to include its yumminess. You'll build a chocolatey Oreo base on the bottom before layering on the boozy pudding. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Pickleback

Kurt Andre

Green pickle juice and bacon bourbon in a salt-rimmed glass is all you need for a green shot to remember. (via Brit + Co)

Mezcalima Lime Cocktail

Brittany Griffin

This citrusy margarita is a great addition to your St. Patrick's menu. It's got ginger beer, so it's a good option for anyone who isn't a fan of thick, sweet drinks. If you desire a sweet sip, whip up some simple syrup to mix in. Mix in some addition green food dye to up the color! (via Brit + Co)

Midori Lemonata

Brit + Co

Don’t let the green color of this drink scare you. This St. Patty's cocktail tastes just like melon-flavored lemonade – with a boozy kick, of course. (via Brit + Co)

Shamrock Sour Cocktail

Pizzazzerie

Adding a little bit of Irish Whiskey into your drink makes it St. Patty's Day-appropriate, like this version of a whiskey sour from our collection of St. Patrick's Day recipes! (via Pizzazzerie for Brit + Co)

Avo-Keto Margarita

Don Julio

Just because you may be going low-cal doesn't mean you shouldn't be able to St. Patrick's party with the rest of 'em. This keto-friendly margarita earns its green hue from fresh avocado. (via Don Julio for Brit + Co)

Cucumber Gimlets

Brit + Co

Forget normal glasses — you can drink right out of a cucumber with these green cocktails! All you need to scoop out the inside is a melon baller, then you're all set to fill to the brim with gin and Sparkling Ice. (via Brit + Co)

Matcha Gin Sour

Takes Two Eggs

Prep this appealing matcha-based cocktail for all the green on the 17th. Think of this creative recipe as your #1 St. Patty's sip! (via Takes Two Eggs)

Key Lime Margarita

Barley & Sage

Take this classic margarita to the St. Patty's hang, and your buds will be hooked. This is a great option for when you want to serve green drinks that don't have Guinness or Irish cream. (via Barley & Sage)

Luck Of The Irish Sunrise

First Light Whiskey

Shake 2 oz First Light Whiskey, ½ oz blue curacao, ½ oz orange juice, and ¼ oz simple syrup with ice, then garnish your festive green sip with cherries and a brown sugar rim. This delicious drink will definitely keep the party going. (via First Light Whiskey)

Grasshopper Cocktail

Culinary Hill

Whip up this dessert-y green drink using just three ingredients: green creme de menthe, creme de cacao, and cream! Finish your St. Paddy's cocktail off with delicious chocolate shavings! (via Culinary Hill)

Bali Squeezed Mocktail

Chef Bai

Just because you're not drinking drinking, doesn't mean you can't sip on something delicious for the holiday. Get in the St. Patrick's spirit with this green cocktail that's full of nutrients from superfood supplements and coconut water. (via Chef Bai)

Spicy BLT Green Bloody Marys

Heather Christo

What's better than a bloody Mary? A themed bloody Mary with bacon, of course! Sip this green drink for an unforgettable St. Patrick's. (via Heather Christo)

Frozen Mint Lemonade

The View From Great Island

A slushy, minty limonana is only St. Patty's-approved when rum is added to the blender. All your pals will love these green cocktails. (via The View From Great Island)

Classic Mint Julep

Salt & Lavender

Throw back a sip so refreshing, you'll immediately want a second one. And that's totally accepted to amp up the St. Patrick's party! (via Salt & Lavender)

Taffer's Grasshopper

Taffer's Browned Butter Bourbon

To make this creamy green cocktail, shake 1.5 oz Taffer's Browned Butter Bourbon, 1 oz crème de menthe, 1 oz crème de cacao, and 1 oz crème over ice. Strain into your go-to martini glass, then top everything off with a generous amount of shaved dark chocolate. Yummm! (viaTaffer's Browned Butter Bourbon)

Cucumber Gimlet

Leite's Culinaria

Add a splash of cucumber juice to a gin classic, and your tastebuds will be in luck for St. Patrick's Day. (via Leite's Culinaria)

Vodka Limeade Punch

Crazy For Crust

Mix up a pitcher of this easy green punch for a breezy bartending duty. Tons of green lime and fresh mint leaves means there's no pinching to be had! (via Crazy For Crust)

Moscow Mule Push Pops

What Should I Make For

The warm weather will be in full spring mode come St. Patty's, meaning it's time to bust out your freezer pop molds for a cooling boozy treat! These sweet popsicles draw inspo from the classic Moscow mule. (via What Should I Make For)

Sweet Liberty's Grasshopper 2.0

Sweet Liberty

This unique green cocktail reimagines the ever-popular St. Patty's Grasshopper in the tastiest way. To make it, shake .75 oz Tempus Fugit crème de menthe (colored with green dye), .75 oz Giffard crème de cacao, .5 oz Del Maguey ‘Vida’ mezcal, .25 oz Branca Menta, 1 barspoon of absinthe, and 1.25 oz heavy cream over ice. Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice and grate some dark chocolate over top! (via Sweet Liberty in Miami Beach, FL)

Mint Matcha Latte

Chef Bai

This matcha drink is luckily super healthy for you! Enjoy this green drink recipe on its own, or spike it with Irish cream for a nice buzz. (via Chef Bai)

Cucumber Margarita

The Endless Meal

Tequila, triple sec and lime join cucumber to form a refreshing green cocktail. Everyone at the party will adore this fun refreshment! (via The Endless Meal)

Tweet us your favorite green cocktails @BritandCo and follow us on Pinterest for more!

This article has been updated.

cocktailscocktail recipesfooddrinksst patricks day