GET your place in order before you invite your new lady love. Draw her in with a suave bachelor pad that says you are a unique and mature individual. Greasy pizza boxes and stacks of skin magazines may be a turn-off if the target of your affections is a young professional looking for a serious partner. Consider this how-to more of a “Make Better” approach rather than a complete overhaul with a new personality. If you’re a jock, all-out feng shui may not be for you. Whether you’re in Bucktown or on the Gold Coast, there should be plenty of possibilities when redecorating.
What to stow:
Beer paraphernalia. Unless you currently own a bar, there is no reason to have neon signs for Michelob Light lying around. One of these by your pool table or bar is fine; more would be overkill and your place will start to look like a frat house.
Action figures, video games and other “toys”. These made for a cool room when you were 13, but now that you’re a suave bachelor looking for love, they should be put away. Consider selling more valuable items on eBay, rather than simply discarding.
Pictures of your ex. Chances are that your lady friend isn’t naïve enough to think you lived in a monastery and never had carnal knowledge of a woman before she came along – and she may have a few skeletons in her own closet. But a constant reminder of how attractive your ex was may bring insecurity, or cause her to question your intentions.
What to add:
Recessed lighting and a dimmer switch: An excellent mood setter- especially if you get amber light bulbs, whose tint brings a warming glow to the skin (and anything else in its path.)
Furniture that is inviting and contemporary: At the very least, give her a comfortable place to sit and relax. Keep the space clear and remember that less is generally more. If you’re on a budget, consider IKEA for some Euro-chic pieces or Restoration Hardware for modern essentials.
Fresh sheets and soft pillows: While this may sound like maternal advice, it is a true statement that if you want to get more intimate, every part of your pad – especially the bedroom – should lure her.
Mood music. Invest in a couple of docking stations, so suitable tunes can be reached at any second. Instead of hip-hop, consider jazz or soft rock.
Art that reflects your tastes and personality. Not only is this an excellent conversation starter, but it's a good way to show that you are a cultured man who appreciates the arts and has a deeper side.
Looking for Chicago singles? Check out Vertigo Sky Lounge at the Dana Hotel for young professionals, or consider a matchmaking service (see my user's guide.)
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