Happy Mardi Gras!  Creating an online dating profile can be a daunting task if you don't know exactly what to do.   Today, Brenda and Val gives you some tips on how to make your online dating profile stand out!

 Take pictures that slay

It's important that the photos on your online dating profile represent who you are as a person.  If you like to be out with your friends, show a picture of you with your gals.  If you like ComiCon, show a picture of you at ComiCon.  The first thing someone sees when they see your profile is you and what you're all about.  If you post a provocative picture, then the outcome will be likely that the person on the other end probably wants to get in your pants.
The photo is a representation of who you are.  Take some time and make the picture count.  Brenda suggests getting one of your friends to take some shots with a professional camera.  That will give you the opportunity to put your best foot forward and create a profile that speaks to who you are physically with some personality tossed right in.

K.I.S.S.

There is no need to write long, elaborate essays about yourself on your online dating profile.  Some things are better left to the imagination or the third date.  Keep it simple silly (in journalism school it's not silly, it's stupid, but I wanted to be nice).  You want to portray who you are in no more than one or two short paragraphs.  Hit the highlights of who you are as a person.  For example:

I'm a single, independent woman who loves to travel.  Some of my favorite places highlight history and adventure.  I am also a dog lover who enjoys taking her pup out to the park every weekend.  Move over boys; I love football too.  I'm a die-hard New York Giants fan.  I'm looking for someone who likes adventure like I do and isn't afraid to make friends.

What I said was that I'm an adventurous person who loves animals and wants a partner in crime.  That's it.  No fluff.  No crazy family history.  Keep the profile upbeat and about the things you love.

How to break the ice

After you've written the most amazing, bomb profile and you have the best pictures, the next thing to do is start reaching out to someone who peaks your interest. Take a moment to use their pictures and profile as ammo.  If they have a picture of them traveling, then comment on their traveling.  Guys, please don't go straight to the anatomy and say more than, "Hey!"  A woman loves a man that can make her laugh.

If the process still seems a bit confusing or you need a little help, feel free to reach out to us at val@valsbytes.com or brenda@valsbytes.com.