Dating and Relationships

**This talk has completely sold out in advance and no door tickets will be available.** [Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Love and Monsters,”** on the inescapable bond between romance and horror, with Joshua Barton, scholar of horror and lecturer in English at Virginia Commonwealth University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/nv-love-monsters](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/nv-love-monsters) .] Romance and horror might seem like opposite genres, but they share a deep emotional core, and the combination of them has captivated audiences across time and culture. Put even your worst Valentine’s Day in perspective by hearing this strange relationship discussed by Joshua Barton, who has earned a big following among Profs and Pints fans with his past talks on cryptids, American horror, and Christmas ghosts. He’ll explore the undeniable and unsettling intersection of romance and horror and examine how and why love and fear intensify each other and combined to create tension, drive narratives, and explore human vulnerability. We’ll look at works that have blended passion and terror, including Gothic literature like the vampire novella *Carmilla* and modern films like *Spring* and *Crimson Peak*. We’ll study the fine line between obsession and adoration running through Stephen King’s “I Know What You Need,” Adrian Lyne’s *Fatal Attraction*, and the timeless *The Phantom of the Opera.* We’ll discuss the seeds of monstrous love that were planted with *Beauty and the Beast* and *Creature from the Black Lagoon* and bloom ferociously in works like *Twilight* and *The Shape of Water*. Through it all, we’ll find the threads of otherness and the taboo that intertwine horror, love, and reflections on identity. Join us for a journey through storytelling that combines the grotesque and the scintillating as we uncover why romance and horror are a match made in the dark. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: From the original 1954 advertising poster for *Creature from the Black Lagoon* (Artist: Reynold Brown / Public Domain).

**Leave behind the rushed pace of traditional speed dating and embrace a more relaxed approach to meeting new people, facilitated by a [Dating Coach](https://lovedandfulfilled.com/) with prepared Conversation Icebreakers.** **💕** All ages! 💕Different sections for different age groups. Must[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1657502206719?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[RSVP HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1981447001320?aff=oddtdtcreator)** (Event is posted on multiple platforms, attendees displayed here doesn't reflect the actual number) * Easy going greet and meet to socially warm up * Prepared questions to facilitate meaningful conversations to assess compatibility * Engaging discussions in small groups * Opportunity to talk to every single person present * Stress free matchmaking by the coach after the event (no need to ask for contact info on the spot, you will get it after the event) Whether you are an introvert or an extravert, welcoming and easy-going environment is guaranteed. You won't have to sweat the small talk, and event will be structured and organized to make connecting effortless. **Cost:** $35 (Pay through[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1299434316019?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1981447001320?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1972845805913?aff=oddtdtcreator)or **Venmo** to @Irena-Polyakova (1469)-include your email address if using Venmo) **Location**: Uncle Jalapeno Restaurant in Herndon, VA **Time**: 3:00 pm \~ Irena

Let's get together in a warm and open atmosphere to talk about ethical non-monogamy and how we actually do it. Ask for advice, give some in return, meet and mingle with your peers. Let's kick back and get to know each other and learn a few things. TOPIC: This topic came from my daughter, who expressed to me that she feels different expectations, both of the partner and of herself, when she enters a more romantic relationship as opposed to friendship. But she also felt that these differing expectations might be contributing to her dissatisfaction. Have you had this experience? The location of our group will rotate between VA and MD. This week, we'll be in Herndon, VA. As usual we'll send out the details on the morning of the event. FOOD: bring food that supports the diet you are undoubtedly on this month. Please consider bringing a vegetarian or vegan option; we do currently have active members who need these options. Cut-up fresh fruit is always great! If you don't feel like schlepping, we also always appreciate a donation. Please note: we share the address on the morning of the meeting, via the messaging/email system here. If you don’t have the details by Friday noon, you will need to message us directly to get them.

**Did you know that female friendships are critical for every woman's well-being and longevity? Scientifically proven fact!** *Ladies, join me for a special gathering, let's celebrate the power of female friendships* *and* *empower each other through sharing our stories 💕* **[RSVP HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1982403723903?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1982403723903?aff=oddtdtcreator) As a host &[ Life and Relationship Coach](https://lovedandfulfilled.com/), I will be there to create a safe, fun space to truly connect and have conversations about life & love. **When**: Feb 28th at 3:00 pm. **Location:** Ted's Bulletin - Front Bar area Metro Accessible. Short 5-7 min walk from metro station. Send me a direct message (571-315-1469) if you are running late and please only RSVP if you are coming. I look forward to seeing you there. \~ Irena

***Bethesda, MD*** * Doors open at 11:00 AM EST * Event starts at 12pm EST * **You must [register and purchase tickets](https://www.veemindful.com/bootcamp). *[Virtual options must also register. ](https://www.veemindful.com/bootcamp)*** **Are you ready to stop swiping and start connecting?** ***This Bootcamp is a fun, interactive & educational event.*** If you’ve been out of the game for a while, the digital world can feel cold. But your journey to love doesn’t have to be. Are you tired of feeling like your heart is on a shelf while everyone else finds their person? It’s time to move from feeling 'invisible' to feeling seen, chosen, and celebrated. Are your friends having success dating online and you don't know where to get started? Imagine waking up to messages that actually excite you, from men or women who truly "get" you. **[Join us for a live, interactive boot camp designed to help singles like YOU navigate the world of digital romance.](https://www.veemindful.com/bootcamp) (tickets MUST BE PURCHASED in advance).** **This is a [hands-on event](https://www.veemindful.com/bootcamp) during which you will:** Learn Practical exercises to help you master online dating, such as crafting a compelling profile, and writing engaging messages. Receive Strategies to overcome common mental barriers and build genuine confidence in your online dating life. Understand Insights into creating a positive mindset and setting achievable dating goals. **Embrace a supportive community of like-minded Men and Women.** **No judgment. Just support.** If you're tired of struggling or defeated with the online dating scene, don't think twice. **[This event is for you if:](https://www.veemindful.com/bootcamp)** * If you are tired of the Dating Games and Algorithms.. * If you have not a clue as to why you're still single after years... * If you are tired of Swiping Left & Right with no matches... * Or if you are constantly getting ghosted, unmatched, or left on read... We know that there's someone for everyone... **Who is this event NOT for?** * People who blame the opposite sex for all their dating problems. * People who believe that everyone else is the problem. * People who have given up on love. * People who are looking for bootycalls & sugar daddies. **We’re going to help you clear the path so you can stop matching with 'anyone' and start connecting with 'The One.** **[*VIP Access](https://www.veemindful.com/bootcamp)** * Front row seating so that you don't miss a thing * A private one-on-one coaching session with Vee Mindful to uncover your personal dating blocks. **[General admission access](https://www.veemindful.com/bootcamp)** **[Streaming online](https://www.veemindful.com/bootcamp)** **Stop waiting for "luck" to find you.** Sign up now and get ready to start attracting meaningful connections. *\*Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today and take the first step towards a dating life that actually feels good.* **What We Will Fix Together:** This is a **[hands-on workshop](https://www.veemindful.com/bootcamp)** where we roll up our sleeves and get to work. You will: * **Show Off Your "True You":** Most profiles are boring. We’re going to help you fix yours so it grabs the attention of the *right* person. You’ll learn which photos and words show the world exactly how awesome you really are. * **Talk Like a Pro:** No more "Hey" or awkward silence. We will practice exactly what to say in messages. You’ll leave knowing how to be fun, interesting, and totally relaxed. * **Get Your "Mojo" Back:** If you’re tired of being ignored or ghosted, it's time to hit the reset button. We’ll help you get rid of that "I’m over it" feeling and replace it with a "ready for anything" attitude. * **Know Your Worth:** Stop wasting time on people who aren't a match. You’ll figure out exactly what you need in a partner so you can stop settling for "okay" and start looking for "amazing." **[REGISTRATION LINK: this event is a paid event.](https://www.veemindful.com/bootcamp)**