How to Make Friends During Covid-19

The Covid-19 pandemic has truly upended the playbook on how to make friends. Under normal circumstances, making friends can be a challenge in itself, whether it be anxiety about meeting new people or the hustle that comes with our careers. But with over two years worth of unforeseeable lockdowns, masks concealing our smiling faces, the responsibility to socially distance, and the spike in cases due to the rise of the Omicron Variant, many of us are finding it almost impossible to make friends during Covid.

Although the world will eventually re-open and return to a sense of normalcy, things like remote work and online shopping will remain. The world during and post Covid-19 offers less time for in-person interactions and more time spent on our screens.

The impact of the pandemic has undoubtedly altered human behavior and how we go about socializing with others. 

Nothing will ever be completely the same, in particular how we navigate making new friends. 

New friendships are still possible

I want to share with you how  – despite these strange times – I was able to meet four of my closest friends. I will go through the strategies I used like connecting through social media, joining online support groups, getting involved in online advocacy work, and simply trying new things. Throughout this article, I will walk you through each of these strategies to show you how you too can make new friends during Covid-19.

Psst…we built an app to solve this.

We3 addresses some of the main challenges with making friends, like alleviating the anxiety that comes with meeting new people 1-on-1, or simply avoiding the struggle to find compatible people to hang out with by taking care of the matching. It’s free and private, and you can check it out here.

People standing six feet apart, looking at phones, and wearing masks

My Covid Story

Covid-19 wreaked havoc on countless lives: jobs were lost; graduations and weddings were canceled; millions suffered from its debilitating illness; and many others lost their lives. And in the midst of these devastating circumstances, like so many of us, I was racked with loneliness.

At the beginning of 2020, I was on a six-month university exchange in Thailand, pursuing the many opportunities I had to explore Southeast Asia. When I got the call to come home in March 2020, it felt like my entire world turned upside down. I never thought that I would be forced to leave my journey early, only to return home to my small, wintery village nestled in Eastern Ontario, Canada, because of a global pandemic. 

The notion that an infectious virus could sweep the globe was unimaginable before 2020. ‘Social distancing’, ‘getting tested’, and vaccine passports were all foreign concepts that soon became a part of our every-day vocabulary.

Coming home was even more of a culture shock than when I arrived in Southeast Asia. Going from meeting new people every day to being isolated at home with my dad and brother was tough. I longed for the familiarity of meeting new faces and creating new friendships. 

Even with the privilege of having access to technology, I still felt disconnected from my loved ones. I felt responsible to limit my contact with others as social distancing continued to be promoted throughout the media. 

But, I wasn’t alone in feeling alone. Now more than ever, so many of us are suffering from prolonged loneliness and a lack of human connection.

How the Term “Social Distancing” Impacted Us

Although ‘social distancing’ was a term coined to protect us and flatten the curve to preserve the ability of hospitals to keep up with the number of people who need care, it sent the wrong message about what people needed to do, and perhaps ended up causing more harm than good. Rather than encouraging safe connections we so desperately needed to support our mental health and well-being during a scary time, it actually pushed people to cut social ties.

Social distancing and physical distancing comparison

How Covid-19 Has Changed the Face of Friendships

This period of stillness also created the opportunity to reflect on our friendships. Many of us began to see how our values and views aligned (or misaligned) with our current friends and made decisions about which friendships were worth maintaining. For example, many ended as a result of things like perspectives on vaccines and political stances

The pandemic taught us that we really need human connections with people we are aligned with. 

Nevertheless, I was able to meet my best friends during the pandemic… and I think you can too. In the next section, I will share ways you can bridge new connections during this time and find friendships that will last.

How to Make Friends During a Pandemic

You might be wondering, “How can I be socially present but remain physically distant?”, “How can I find people who align with my values?”, or “How can I navigate making friends in this new world?”

Let’s start by exploring the different ways you can find new friends.

Use Social Media as a Tool

You might be thinking that reaching out to an acquaintance or stranger online is weird or that social media is a superficial way to connect with others. However, more than ever, strangers are forming friendships online. You can leverage social media as a healthy tool to build your network, engage in rewarding discussions, and even deepen your relationships with acquaintances. 

Let me introduce you to Erica. Erica is one of my best friends – we met on Instagram during the pandemic. We had been mutual followers for around three years as we both studied at the same university, but we had only ever left likes and the occasional comment on each other’s posts.

However, in November 2020, Erica spontaneously messaged me to discuss an article she had been working on as she noticed I had also been promoting my blog on my Instagram story throughout the years. She said, “Hey! I noticed you write blog posts! That’s so cool!” The conversation led to her sharing with me a piece she had been working on and we decided to set up a Zoom call to talk about it. This call ended up being three hours where we discussed so many different things about our lives, from writing to embarrassing things we did during a night out. The next day we went for a coffee, and since, it has blossomed into an incredible friendship.

Girl video calling friend

How to Connect With Someone Over Social Media… Without Looking ‘Weird’

#1 Before you connect, make sure your account is “active”

When you send a request or try to connect with someone new, the first thing they will do is visit your profile to determine whether or not they want to connect. It’s important to have photos of yourself so they don’t think you’re a robot or a fake account. To show that you are real, post photos that show your face and reflect your life. Share your favorite travel pics or even the cutest photos of your dog. By showing up online as your authentic self, people are more likely inclined to connect with you.

#2 Connect with them 

Send a follow request and hold off interacting with them until they follow you back. If they don’t follow you back, your message may go into their spam box, or they may not even see your message at all. If they do follow you back, let them get to know you before you message them. Ensure you post often so that they have time to see your content and learn more about you so they will know you when you message. 

#3 Support them with likes, comments, and shares

Once you are connected, start by simply engaging with their content. If you message right away, it may come across as coming on too strong or they may think you’re trying to flirt (save that for the dating apps!). Comment something genuine on their recent post or retweet something they shared. This kind of engagement can help you make a good first impression and when you do message, it won’t appear out of the blue. 

#4 Message them 

When it comes to striking up a conversation over social media, the words you say and how you say it matters. It’s important to remember that they cannot see your face or hear your tone, so choose your words carefully. Additionally, the timing of the message is important. Avoid messaging them at night or else it can come across as you flirting with them. 

Instead of messaging them something random or saying a one-liner like, “Hey,” relate the message to something they posted. For example, say something like, “Hey I saw your recent post on how you xyz! It was so inspiring!” or, “Hey! I just had to ask, where did you get your dress from?” Ensure the message is genuine so that it can lead to a longer conversation. 

A simple message to someone, like the one Erica sent me, has the potential to lead to an incredible friendship in your life. But remember, when it comes to chatting online, sometimes people won’t respond the first time around for reasons that have nothing to do with you. They may have other messages they are still sorting through, or they just forgot. Don’t hesitate to message them again because it will show that you’re genuinely interested in getting to know them. If they don’t respond the second time around, seek out new people to connect with because there are so many people out there that are wanting to connect with people like you.

Join Online Support Groups

Another great way to connect with others is by joining online support groups. Support groups are communities of people who have usually experienced common adversity, such as a loss of a loved one or have a health condition, like cancer.

What Makes a Support Group Different Than Other Groups? 

Support groups are different from other online groups because they specifically focus on a common lived experience that is viewed as traumatic or significant hardship. Some examples of support groups include Cancer Survivor Groups or Addiction Recovery Groups.

If you are looking for more communities outside of a support group, like Plant Lover Groups or Knitting Groups, do a quick Google or Facebook search and several results should come up.

These groups can offer numerous benefits such as emotional support and a sense of belonging, but they can also lead to new friendships. 

Woman in meeting with online support group friends

Support Groups Can Be Formed in Different Ways

Support groups come in different forms. Some are more formal and structured, such as those organized by a clinic or nonprofit. Other groups may be formed by someone like you who wants to connect with a few people to discuss a common experience. These less formal groups can be found on Facebook by searching terms like, “mental health support group” or “cancer survivor support group”.

In the past year, my mom caught Covid-19 and was hospitalized twice. Fortunately, she was able to recover, but a side effect of the virus caused a ton of her hair to fall out. During this difficult time, she was able to find a Facebook group for survivors of Covid-19, called Survivor Corps, where many members had similar side effects. Not only did she feel supported, but she was able to find friendship in a few members. 

The best part about these groups is that it’s normal to strike up a conversation with a stranger.

Often, there are moderators or members who facilitate conversations in the group’s feed. I encourage you to engage in their discussions or even start your own discussion post. If you find yourself engaging with someone, message them to get to know them on a deeper level. Who knows where it will lead! 

Use Social Media as a Tool

Advocacy work is an incredible way to cultivate meaning in your life and develop new friendships with those whose values and interests align with yours. Advocacy work is where one takes action to create change on behalf of a specific group. It helps give communities a voice and tackle issues they are struggling to solve. 

Common examples of advocacy work include: fighting to end world hunger or poverty, striking against climate change, or standing up against domestic violence. You can also advocate for things like mental health accessibility, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and more. There are various ways to go about advocating, both on a local and national scale, including: connecting with local and national leaders to engage in policy change, attending protests, organizing campaigns in your community or online, or starting a petition.

Person holding sign at social protest

During the pandemic, there has been a shift to online activism especially around topics like the murder of George Floyd and the increase in protests for #BlackLivesMatter, and the presidential election in the United States. People began to take notice of social issues more during this period of stillness which inspired many to contribute to the conversation and take action.

Getting involved with something that’s aligned with your values and beliefs can lead you to people with whom you are aligned. For example, when the pandemic began, I got heavily involved in mental health advocacy work online. I made several social media posts on Instagram about my perspective on mental health issues. Not only did it make my Covid experience brighter, because it gave me a sense of purpose, but it also allowed me to connect with other incredible people. My advocacy led to my involvement with a non-profit where I befriended two other members, Jess and Anna. Today, they are both my roommates!

How to Get Involved in Online Advocacy Work

Strategy #1: Find Existing Advocacy Groups & Reach Out

There are several advocacy groups out there, big and small, and they are almost always looking for new people to advocate for their cause. Do a quick Google search for organizations or social issues that interest you. If a specific search result piques your interest, visit their website, go to their contact page, and send them an email expressing your interest to get involved. 

Another way to scour the internet for these groups is by searching on Facebook. Similar to support groups, many advocacy groups can be found on Facebook. Once you find yourself in one of these groups, be sure to engage, ask for tips on how you can make a greater impact online, and befriend its members. 

Strategy #2: Put Yourself Out There By Sharing Your Views So Others Find You 

Putting yourself out there and sharing your point of view can be nerve-wracking. But remember, online advocacy work is becoming more and more popular because of the pandemic, so you may be surprised by the amount of support you receive. The first step is to pick a social media platform that you’re comfortable with, whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or even TikTok! 

You can also take it a step further by starting your own blog. This is a great way to share your point of view in-depth and you can use social media to promote your blog posts. I recommend using these web-hosting platforms as they are really easy to set up and have a ton of tutorials: 

If you’re struggling to come up with engaging content, I highly recommend following content creators as a source of inspiration! For example, throughout my mental health advocacy work, I looked to creators like @mikzazon and @thebirdspapaya for content inspiration as they promote all things health and wellness.  

By putting myself out there, I was able to meet passionate mental health advocates around the globe. I did so by using hashtags related to the issue at hand (such as #MentalHealthAdvocacy), which allowed me to find other advocates and be found by them as well. If I saw that another person using these hashtags had interesting content I’d send them a message. 

Try New Things to Make Friends

As intuitive as it may sound, trying new things is a great way to expose yourself to brand new people. For example, during the pandemic, I learned how to start a podcast. It was a very uncomfortable endeavor at first, but it allowed me to build so many new genuine connections and have amazing conversations.

Things to try to make new friends

If you’re not sure what to try, ask yourself, “What have I always wanted to do but haven’t had the chance to try?” or “What did I enjoy doing when I was younger but stopped because life got too busy?”

This may take the shape of trying advocacy work or doing an outdoor fitness class. Or it may look like learning to cook new foods and inviting a friend for a picnic. Whatever it may be, ensure you are putting yourself out there in the process so you can meet new people. Some activities may be independent in nature at first, but you can leverage your social media to share what you’re up to and potentially bridge new connections.

Here are some additional ideas that that may lead to new connections:

  • Learn to sew 
  • Test out new makeup and start a YouTube channel
  • Learn to draw or paint (use Bob Ross as your guide)
  • Take a masterclass
  • Play an instrument
  • Learn a new language
  • Learn to cook
  • Engage in creative writing

Five friends laughing outside

Once You’ve Connected With New Friends, Extend the Invitation to Hangout

Assuming that you’ve tried the tactics above and you have been able to make new connections, it’s time to extend the invitation to hang out so you can get to know each other better.

Plan a Virtual Hangout

Depending on how far away you are or your comfort levels about seeing someone in person, a virtual hangout can be a great way to deepen your friendships. 

The first step is to schedule a time to hang out so that way it will happen. There’s nothing more annoying than hearing “we should hang out” and then nothing happens. Also, when you have a virtual hang-out, it’s important to keep your cameras on and limit distractions so you can experience a more human connection. 

You can watch a movie together using Teleparty or even better, start a TV series together so that way you can plan times to hang out again. You can also play games together like Among Us or other multiplayer games. Or, if you want to take a more educational route, sign up for a masterclass or conference together. Sometimes it can be as simple as having a virtual coffee together and chatting about anything going on in your lives. In this new world, there are so many opportunities to connect virtually in creative ways.

Propose an In-Person Meetup

Meeting up with friends in real life can allow for deeper interactions than in a virtual setting because it enables you to engage in different activities together that go beyond the limits of a screen. This is critical because for friendships to last, you need to have a breadth of experiences together, all while being able to withstand the different stages you both undergo in your lives – the ups and downs, highs and lows. If your friendship is based on one common connection or experience, the relationship will eventually fade because you won’t know each other well enough to see the value in continuing the friendship.

It’s important to note that the virus is still circulating and that unvaccinated and immuno-compromised groups are still at high risk. I recommend asking if the person you are meeting up with is vaccinated, or if you don’t feel comfortable doing so, propose outdoor activities instead.

List of Covid-friendly meet-up activities to do with friends

As restrictions continue to lift and things open up, there are many opportunities to do the things you’ve missed the most these past couple of years. After several conversations online, extend the invite to hang out if they live near you.

The other friend I connected with on a deeper level during the pandemic was Meg. When we moved back to campus in September 2020, we started going on weekly walks. We would have so many different kinds of conversations on our walks, allowing us to get to know each other on a deep level. Before the pandemic, we weren’t as close, but as we continued spending time together, she has become one of my closest friends.

Three friends hanging out and wearing masks during covid-19

Here are some other activities you can do with friends in-person:

  • Hanging out on a porch for some evening drinks
  • Do a workout/fitness class/yoga in a park
  • Read in the park
  • Walk your dogs together
  • Do some lake activities like swimming, kayaking, canoeing, etc.
  • Go rollerblading or biking
  • Order takeout from your favorite local restaurant and have dinner in the park
  • Have a movie night on your lawn
  • Explore your local farmers market
  • Hit up a restaurant patio
  • Go skiing or have a snowman building competition
  • Visit your local ice sculpture garden
  • Go skating or tobogganing 

Ready to make new friends? Check out We3

You’ll connect with some of the most compatible people in your area in groups of three. And remember, it’s free!

A Final Note

The process of making genuine friends often takes time and can be a bumpy journey, especially during a pandemic. But regardless of what life throws at you, don’t give up. People will disappoint you, and you will feel discouraged at times. It’s normal. Just know, the more you put yourself out there, the closer you will be to finding the true friends that will have made the struggle worth it. 

Despite how challenging the circumstances have been, I am grateful that the pandemic led me to Erica, Jess, Anna, and Meg. I hope that you no longer let the pandemic get in your way of making new friends because there are people out there waiting to meet you.

Best Craft Beer Spots in Boston

craft beer sign

 

If you’ve tried We3 and already found an awesome group of people and you’re reading this, then consider it our job to be your personal concierge and help you guys find the best place to grab a beer in Boston.

We’ve scoured the internet and found the top rated spots for craft beer in the city, and have our recommendations for you below.

Let us know in the comments how it went, or if there’s a spot you think we should include that’s missing.

Harpoon Brewery

Get a tour of the brewery or hang out in the beer hall and enjoy one of their raved-about pretzels.

Expect friendly staff and a social environment. Oh, and parking may be a hassle, so look for a garage or take an Uber!

Harpoon Brewery Site – Google Maps – Yelp

The Brewer’s Fork

If you’re looking for a tasty, trendy restaurant while also enjoying a great selection of craft beer, The Brewer’s Fork may be a great choice. With small pates and excellent pizza, everyone raves about the food.  It’s got a cool vibe, so make a reservation if you’re going on a weekend night to be safe!

The Brewer’s Fork SiteGoogle MapsYelp

Craft Beer Cellar Fenway

This is a local favorite spot, with a 5 star rating on Yelp and an enormous selection of brews from across the country. Expect to pay a little more for the great service and selection, though. Craft Beer Cellar is not a bottle shop, so you won’t be able to hang out in the store after you purchase to drink your beer. If that’s what you’re looking for, you might look at…

Fenway Craft Beer SiteGoogle Maps – Yelp

Tree House Brewing

Boston.com’s highest rated brewery, and a bit of a hike from Boston’s city center, but we think it’s worth it. From a beer lover perspective, Tree House Brewing is going to be hard to beat, as its one of the highest rated and most loved in the area. At the brewery itself there’s both outdoor and indoor spaces, and despite Tree House being something of a destination, they appear to have quite an efficient system down.

Tree House Brewing Site – Google MapsYelp

Big Boss Brewing Company

A typical brewery set up with tons of room, games, and usually food trucks. Check out Big Boss Brewing Company for a quiet and friendly place with a great selection of beers

Big Boss Brewing SiteGoogle MapsYelp

Winter Hill Brewing

This place feels more like a pub-cafe-restaurant combination than a pure brewery. Who doesn’t like beer and coffee in one place? Check out this unique concept which is definitely socially oriented (there are even board games). And private parking – win!

Winter Hill Brewing SiteGoogle MapsYelp

Night Shift Brewing

The Night Shift Brewing tap room has a great vibe, and the place is dog friendly. The food truck is also pretty popular (you can bring your own, too), and there’s plenty of space and parking. Oh, and obviously there’s a great beer selection.

Night Shift Brewing Site – Google MapsYelp

brewery

Downeast Cider House

If cider is your thing, check out this spot at the East Boston Shipyard. There’s a free tour with complimentary drinks, and they may have some pretty unique flavors available (such as a cider infused with bourbon and coffee). And it looks they have a popup bar on the greenway going on right now.

Downeast Cider House Site – Google MapsYelp

–  –  –

Haven’t tried We3 and open to meeting cool people who like craft beer (and other things you like)? Give it a try here – it’s completely free.

Got any Boston craft beer tips for us? Leave a comment and we’ll pass it along to future readers!

-Julian

 

photo: brewery, glasses, craft sign, pour

Best Board Game Spots in Raleigh

The Raleigh board game scene is more hoppin than you might think. Whether you just moved here, or are simply looking to get out of the house and play your favorite games with some new people, below we got you covered with some of the best spots in Raleigh.

The Gamer’s Armory

Technically in Cary, The Gamer’s Armory is all about building an awesome gamer community in the Raleigh area. They have a lot of game space, host events regularly, and have a great selection of games with reasonable prices.

With 5 stars on Yelp, this is definitely one to check out if you’re serious about board games. Oh, and be sure to check out their calendar via meetup for regular events.

Game Theory

Game Theory is located in northwest Raleigh and is another excellent social hobby shop. Their motto, “The ultimate place for gamers to meet, shop, and play” helps tell a story about what they’re trying to create.

They specialize in role-playing games, board games, card games, and miniatures and sell some basic snack food and drink for long gaming sessions. And they also have a meetup calendar with regular events. 

Event Horizon Games

If you’re looking for a bigger selection, Event Horizon Games might be your best bet. I mean, check out how massive their store is. They even have semi-private RPG rooms (and host games and events as you’d expect). Their calendar of events can be found here.

East Coast Gaming

East Coast gaming is another fairly large space with a huge selection, and these guys focus on cards and table top games. You’ll see that reflected in their events, a lot more card games than other stores. They also have a demo rack for free use for in-store play, and insist you’ll never have an issue finding space for a game. They have a special Friday night event for Magic and even a page for new players.

Atomic Empire

Technically in Durham, a highlight for many players at Atomic Empire is the bar in the back selling beer and snacks. It also might be one of the largest places on the list. Their event page is huge, and in addition to selling games of every sort they also sell a ton of comics. If you’re closer to the Durham area or just looking for a one stop shop and hangout with friends, check out Atomic Empire.

–  –  –

What places in the Raleigh area have we left off the list that deserve a mention? If you stop by any of these spots with your new gamer friends (that you made off of We3 of course), leave us a comment below and give us your honest review.

And if you haven’t checked out We3 as a free way to find other board game loving people in the Triangle, check it out (it’s completely free!).

 

-Julian

 

photo: catan, board game, dice

Best Game Stores in Boston

Whether you just moved here, or are simply looking to get out of the house and play your favorite games with some new people, below we got you covered with some of the best board game and gaming spots in Boston.

Pandemonium Books & Games

Definitely a game store by gamer’s, Pandemonium claims it has “hands down the biggest event space in the Boston area.”

Reviewers suggest it may be a store for more experienced gamers and less welcoming to newbies. As both a bookstore and a game store as the name would imply, expect a great selection all around.

Eureka Puzzles

Eureka Puzzles is a unique game store in that it incorporates the puzzle theme to give some character to the traditional game store vibe. Less a niche store for the nerdiest gamers, Eureka puzzles boasts the stock “over 1000 jigsaw puzzles, over 1000 mechanical puzzles, 1500 games, 1000 puzzle books of all types, and about 500 items directly related to Science.” They say they aim to sell things which “stimulate the mind, is playful to the spirit, and has lasting value. ”

Compleat Strategist

Compleat Strategist is definitely a smaller and may look a bit disorganized, but is said to be well stocked and caters to D&D and wargaming folks. Reviewers do mention it’s a bit hard to find, so make sure you take a look carefully at the location before you go.

Hobby Bunker

Woah! Hobby Bunker really is a bunker. Filled with games of every type, they boast selling over 13,000 items online and focus on toy-soldiers and minatures. They also have a gaming space and events page you can check out.

JP Comics And Games

Another small store with a niche in comics, JP Comics and Games reviewers boast amazing customer service, where, err, many of the above stores were faulted. This may be a friendlier spot for beginners. Has a friendly local feel and Thursday is open game night.

–  –  –

What places in the Boston area have we left off the list that deserve a mention? If you stop by any of these spots with your new gamer friends (that you made off of We3 of course), leave us a comment below and give us your honest review.

And if you haven’t checked out We3 as a free way to find other board game loving people in the Triangle, check it out (it’s completely free!).

 

-Julian

 

photo: catan, board game, dice

Best Craft Beer Spots in Raleigh

craft beer sign

 

If you’ve tried We3 and already found an awesome group of people and you’re reading this, then consider it our job to be your personal concierge and help you guys find the best place to grab a beer in Raleigh.

We’ve scoured the internet and found the top rated spots for craft beer in the city, and have our recommendations for you below.

Let us know in the comments how it went, or if there’s a spot you think we should include that’s missing.

House of Hops

If you’re serious about beer and prefer a casual hangout, you’ve found your spot. House of Hops has 5 stars on yelp after over 100 reviews (!). 

It’s a standard bottle shop: you’ll pay a small “corkage fee,” but as you’re picking the beers off the shelf yourself, it’s far cheaper than drinking at a bar (with far better selection).

Plus, you’ll there’s corn hole, darts, ping pong, arcade games and board games to keep you entertained.

House of Hops Site – Google Maps – Yelp

Brewery Bhavana

With 10 core beers and beer 40 taps, Brewery Bhavana’s incredibly unique interior space and upscale food makes it one of Raleigh’s most unique spots to drink amazing beer.

Unlike many of the other spots on the list, Brewery Bhavana is a bit upscale, feeling more like a cafe in Paris than a beer garden or pub. It also made Forbes’ list of top ten restaurants in the whole United States in 2018.

Brewery Bhavana SiteGoogle MapsYelp

Trophy Brewing Company

Trophy is brewery and pizza place, and has a vibe to fit. Close to the university with outdoor seating. Trophy is social but still chill, and very friendly.

Trophy Brewing Company SiteGoogle Maps – Yelp

The Beerded Lady Bottle Shop

This bottle shop has some serious character and is a community favorite. They have a tap and sell beer by the bottle, and people rave about the selection and price.

Technically they’re in Garner, south Raleigh.

Beerded Lady Site – Google MapsYelp

Big Boss Brewing Company

A typical brewery set up with tons of room, games, and usually food trucks. Check out Big Boss Brewing Company for a quiet and friendly place with a great selection of beers

Big Boss Brewing SiteGoogle MapsYelp

Lonerider Brewing Company

This no frills Texas themed brewery has a simple, very casual feel. No need to dress up to go out and have a beer here, and you’ll have access to smaller but excellent selection of beer. Check it out of you’re looking for something low key.

Lonerider Brewing Company SiteGoogle MapsYelp

Bottle Revolution Raleigh

This local bottle shop has insane variety and outdoor seating. Like many other bottle shops, it is loved by locals and is said to have great staff and owners. One of the original bottle shops in Raleigh, and with amazing food nearby, sitting out in the patio is hard to beat on a great day or night.

Bottle Revolution Site – Google MapsYelp

brewery

Raleigh Brewing Company

This is an extremely social spot, with an emphasis on how many games and ways there are to get people interacting. They often host large events and have a large outdoor space. Is this the best place on the list for enjoying the company of friends or meeting new people? Check it out and let us know what you think in the comments.

Raleigh Brewing SiteGoogle MapsYelp

–  –  –

Haven’t tried We3 and open to meeting cool people who like craft beer (and other things you like)? Give it a try here – it’s completely free.

Got any Raleigh craft beer tips for us? Leave a comment and we’ll pass it along to future readers!

– Julian

 

photo: brewery, glassescraft signpour

50+ Ways to Make Friends In College

college friends campfire

Making friends is always hard, but in college there are a ridiculous amount of spaces practically designed to help you get to know other people.

We suggest picking a handful of options on this list it’s less about any particular thing, and more about getting out there with a friendly and determined-to-meet-people attitude.

Once you’re out of your dorm room or apartment on a regular basis, that moment where you smile and relax because you are actually connecting with someone you like? That will come a lot sooner than you think.

  1. Go to campus events (speakers, protests, music).
  2. Join a student activity/organization.
  3. Strike up a conversation in class.
  4. Chat people up in your dorm.
  5. Get a job on campus.
  6. Say yes to invitations.
  7. Try “mind if I sit here” at a dining hall.
  8. Become an RA.
  9. Don’t be someone you think is cool, just be yourself.
  10. Message people before the school year starts.
  11. Volunteer on campus.
  12. Reach out to people in your class to collaborate on homework or study.
  13. Get off of social media. Get off of your phone.
  14. Host something and invite people.
  15. Start a study group.
  16. Use We3 for free and the app will find awesome people for you.
  17. Go to a party. Use liquid courage.
  18. Find a social butterfly friend and stay close by.
  19. Talk to people at orientation. Or your first day of class..
  20. Keep your dorm room open.
  21. Clean yourself up, dress as well as you can.
  22. Actually say hi and introduce yourself… You can do it. Seriously.
  23. Play rec sports.
  24. Go to the org fair.
  25. Have a few starter conversation topics in mind.
  26. Join a fraternity or sorority.
  27. Join an on campus religious community.
  28. Hang out in common areas.
  29. Become a tutor.
  30. Smile (this one helps a lot).
  31. Call on old friends from high school if you’re still in the area.
  32. And relax – most people are pretty nice and often anxious themselves.
  33. Strike up a conversation at the gym.
  34. Show up early for class and strike up a conversation.
  35. Ask better questions.
  36. Become a student leader on campus.
  37. Room with someone you don’t know.
  38. Use social media to find real life events and go to them.
  39. Tell more interesting stories.
  40. Overcome anxiety or shyness slowly by setting small goals.
  41. Chat up people on the bus.
  42. Find the late night food spots and be sociable.
  43. Make small talk in the laundry room.
  44. Hit a coffee shop.
  45. Do research with a professor.
  46. Try social dancing (contra, swing, etc).
  47. Be friendly everywhere.  From an elevator to the quad.
  48. Not sure where to start? Leave your room and just show up.
  49. Be kind; give authentic compliments.
  50. Challenge yourself to go outside your comfort zone. It may be required!
  51. Don’t trip yourself up. That was just # ways to meet friends; the only thing stopping you is you.

Are there any social spaces you’ve met people that we’ve missed? Our mission is to connect you the person you’re best friends with in a parallel universe, but somehow never bumped into in this one.

After letting us know a little about your interests and personality, we connect you in small group of two other people who like what you like and are already “your person.” If you haven’t given it a try, it may save you a lot of trouble (psst, did we mention it’s free?).

-Julian

 

 

photo

17 Boston Events You MUST Check Out in June

Warm weather, outdoor art and music, parades and secret gardens?

Boston in June is pretty awesome.

Here’s our list of the 17 events not to miss this month:


Not sure who to go with?
Try We3 for free, and find
awesome people in Boston.

  1. Park Fest

June 23rd

Art-making, sculpture discovery, local artists and artisans, live music, performances, food and more at the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum.


  1. Roxbury International Film Festival

June 20th-30th

Kicking off a Juneteenth celebration with a showing of Black Panther, the Roxbury International Film Festival at the MFA is “the largest New England film festival dedicated to celebrating films by, for, and about people of color.”

Check out the lineup here, filled with a mix of narrative, documentary, youth, and experimental films.


  1. See Cirque Du Soleil

The world famous Cirque Du Soleil will bring its Luzia show to Boston beginning June 27th.


Photo courtesy of Georgi

  1. See Boston for Free

There are some awesome shows, tours, and exhibits in June, but if you prefer to see the town without opening up your wallet, you’re in luck.

Check out the loads of free events over at the Greenway. Play croquet, check out a film screening, or catch fireworks at Christoper Columbus Park.  The Juneteenth Celebration at the MFA is free. The Boston Calling Block parties, with an awesome summer lineu, is free all summer long. And beginning on June 29th, Free Fun Fridays makes many popular museums and galleries free for a day.


  1. Battle of Bunker Hill Day Parade

June 17

Dating back to 1786, the annual commemorates the American Revolution’s first battle. The parade begins on Vine Street and Bunker Hill Street, and will include reenactment, music, floats, and more.


  1. Dragon Boat Races

June 9th-10th

The 39th annual festival includes not only boat races, but performances, arts and artisans, and admission is free.


  1. Tall Ships

June 16th-22nd

Kicking off at with Boston Harbor and the Boston fireboat ceremonially spraying water as a backdrop, check out this series of free events. Don’t miss the festival and public boarding of the ships on June 17th.


  1. Visit Fenway Park and Cheer on the Red Sox

June is the best time of year to sit back and enjoy a hotdog under the lights at Fenway Park. If that’s not enough to get you out, maybe the concert series at Fenway will.


  1. Whale Watching

According to the New England Aquarium Whale Watch, the Boston area is home to several types of whales, “including acrobatic humpback whales, finback whales, minke whales, as well as pilot whales and the critically endangered right whales. White-sided dolphins may also put in an appearance.” Buy whale watch tickets with Boston Harbor Cruises, 7 Seas Whale Watch, or Captain Bill & Sons Whale Watch.


Photo courtesy of  Ted

  1. The Boston Duck Tour

Check out Boston via land and sea with the famous Boston Duck Tour. Departing from the New England Aquarium and Prudential Center & the Museum of Science, the Duck Tour boasts its experience as “Boston’s most popular tour.”


Photo courtesy of  ILuvGadgets

  1. Check out a Show

Whether Blue Man group at Charles Playhouse, or one of the many other concerts this June, there’s no shortage of excellent shows this month.


  1. Boston Pride Parade

June 9th

Beginning at City Hall around 11 a.m., this year’s pride parade will showcase over 300 organizations. Check out events happening all month long in June here.


  1. Harbor Fest

June 28th-July 4th

“Boston Harborfest is a 37-year-old tradition celebrating Boston’s harbor and history. With hundreds of activities over Independence Day weekend at Boston’s best landmarks, this family-friendly event is the country’s largest Fourth of July festival. Activities include the annual opening ceremony at Faneuil Hall, historical reenactments, Freedom Trail walks, boat tours, live entertainment and much more!”


  1. Tour Boston’s Secret Gardens

Each year many of  Boston’s private gardens open their gates for a limited time and allow the public a peek inside. Most tours take place in June, so be sure you check out every hidden oasis you can before time runs out!


  1. Bamfest

June 23rd

“The Boston Art & Music Soul (BAMS) Festival is an epic one day, outdoor, multistage, fun-for-fall festival that aims to promote, connect and celebrate Afro-centric  culture, heritage, and contributions to the American fabric as expressed through art, music, food and entertainment with a global community.” Check out the lineup here.


  1. Chefs in Shorts

Leading chefs come together t`o grill and create their favorite dishes in an outdoor summer style barbecue. Ticket includes complimentary beer, wine and tastings.


  1. Sail the Charles River

June is nearly the middle of sailing season in Boston. Whether you want to learn how to sale via lessons, or looking to charter, there are many options on Boston’s waterfront.


Don’t have someone to go with?

Don’t miss out on an awesome event because your friends aren’t interested in going.

We3 will match you in groups of 3 people based on a magical algorithm for compatibility. New awesome people, guaranteed. Completely free and for friendship only (no dating).

Give it a try here.

Why_tribes_are_of_the_same_gender

Why Tribes Are of the Same Gender

We3 was designed to make the friendship-making process as safe, comfortable, and creep-proof as possible.  Especially during our early stages, we are committed to creating spaces that allow our pioneering users to make connections, make plans, and make memories, without having someone make moves.

To prevent We3 from sliding into a dating or mating project, we match you into a Tribe of three, we keep your profile photos private, and we currently divide our Tribes by gender. This last choice is mainly for our women users, who have reported being accosted online and are tired of unwanted and unsolicited attention.

Since our launch exactly two months ago, we have received a lot of thoughtful messages from users that were disappointed with the binary nature of Tribes on We3.

We are really sorry if this move doesn’t represent all our members in terms of identity and sexuality, and we are also very aware that most people have only good intentions. We made this decision based on feedback from our pilot users last year and from our female friends in general. Although it is a minority of users who will be prone to misuse We3, given that they can negatively impact on the two other people in the Tribe, we can’t take that risk just yet.

Nevertheless, we definitely welcome any suggestions to help us make the We3 environment accessible, secure, and positive for all our members. Thanks to some of your feedback, we are already thinking of how we can make an eventual transition to a more mixed-gender-inclusive environment, without compromising the experience of others.