As summer officially came to an end on September 22, lower temperatures and shorter days have started to ushering in a new season as we find ourselves preparing for a very important time of year for many — cuffing season, you know, the time of year when it starts getting cooler and people are looking for bodies to cuddle up next to.

No doubt the pandemic changed the scheme of things in terms of dating, but with many restrictions lifted than they were a year ago, many people are getting back into the swing of things.

For those looking for a guide on how to handle things during this year’s cuffing season, you’re in luck.

Georgia-based illustrator Davian Chester partnered with the popular dating app BLK to create this guide for singles and suitors. And in a recent interview with Essence, BLK’s Head of Marketing & Brand Strategies, Jonathan Kirkland spoke about the benefits of meeting potential mates in a digital setting.

We are still seeing people use BLK at the same rates post-vaccine. This tells us that people are getting to know one another digitally first before meeting IRL. Cuffing season will go on, but swiping, texting, and video chats are integral parts of the season this year.

Jonathan Kirkland