Pick Up Tips From… The Gay Guy

NASA’s Curiosity may have successfully scored a date with Mars this month, but the rest of us are still in the dark when it comes to the perfect pick up. If men are from Mars and women are from Venus, it stands to reason that the best guy pick up tips would come from…well, another guy. I caught up with Peter Maxwell, a senior photography major and openly gay male at the University of Georgia, on the dos and don'ts of dating dudes. 

Where’s the best place to meet potential dates?

All social events are good for getting dates and connecting with people. Keep in mind; boys out at bars are RARELY looking to just get your number.

What’s the oddest pick-up line you’ve ever heard?

 “An attractive ginger! Shouldn’t you be in the Smithsonian?” I was just like, “…Really?” 

What's your signature move?

I like the eye-contact-slight-smile move; it invites him to come over so I can introduce myself. Or, I’ll get a friend to dance with me in his vicinity, make eye contact with him, and then move gradually until I’m dancing with him. Whatever move you make, you have to back up with confidence; self-confidence is what people are drawn to, not a move.

Datable men are…

Men who have passion. I like when a guy is really interested in something because it’s more exciting getting to know them. I don’t care if we end up talking about mustard as long as we’re enjoying the conversation.

What’s your date deal breaker?

I hate when guys play games. If we like each other, then we like each other. There’s no need for power play.

What’s your perfect date?

The first date would be dinner and drinks at a place with a comfortable atmosphere, where we can get to know each other. A perfect second date would be a day where we do something that involves our passions. I’d take him to a cool photography exhibit, so I could show him a bit of my world. 

Who should pay for dinner?

Always expect to pay for your own dinner; if he pays, it’s an awesome bonus. A date should be about trying to connect with someone, not about getting a free meal.

What makes a relationship work?

All the cliché factors: communication, trust, respect. Once those start to go, it’s hard to get back on track.

What are the pros and cons of being in a same-sex relationship?

Since gay couples aren’t the social norm, they’re free to engage in unconventional forms of dating. There’s no rulebook, which can be both good and bad.

What’s the one piece of advice you would give to gay guys about dating?

If you just want to have fun, go have fun; with this mindset, you’ll attract people looking for the same thing you are. If you want a relationship, be patient; don’t expect it to happen from drunken interactions. Find him at a gallery opening, dinner party or other social event. People will pick up on whatever vibes you’re putting out. It’ll happen, trust me.