Dating in Grand Rapids

Find out what singles in Grand Rapids are looking for.
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Photography by Michelle Cuppy

Grand Rapids is attracting more Millennials and Gen Zers as the city grows and adds fun amenities. Upcoming projects are sure to continue to attract younger residents — many of them single and looking to find love alongside growing their careers and attaining their professional and personal goals. We wanted to find out what it is like to be single and dating in Grand Rapids, and what these young professionals are looking for in a potential partner. So, we decided to ask them to share their dating profiles with us.

Allyson Boomsma

Age: 24
Occupation: Teacher
Looking for: Men

Are you a texter or caller? Both.

Do you like to do the asking out or be asked out? Be asked!

What are your dealbreakers? Lazy men.

Any rules you set about how soon you text after a date? Rules about that are dumb.

Ideal first date? Walk in the park with coffee and my dog.

Favorite location for a date in GR? Anywhere where I can eat outside.

If money and time were no issue what would you do to impress someone? I would take a hot air balloon ride in Paris where we would sip champagne. We would snack on the finest cheeses and meats and watch the sunset.

Who is your celebrity crush? Adam Sandler, because he’s so funny.

What is your love language? Quality time and touch.

Do you believe in astrology? If so, what’s your sign? Aries. Kinda.

Favorite rom-com? “Friends with Benefits.”

What makes a good impression on a first date? He makes me laugh and smile — and he pays.

What makes a bad impression? A guy who only talks about himself and does not pay.

Do you have a daily mantra or quote you live by? If so what is it? Do not stress over what you cannot control.

If you could go on a double date with any couple living or dead who would you choose? The Obamas.

Which fictional character do you relate to the most? Jess from “New Girl.”

Favorite movie, book, album, and/or game? “Titanic;” “The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl;” Sudoku.

Where are you likely to be on a Saturday night? If COVID didn’t exist, out at a bar with friends having fun. Then home by a reasonable time, so I can cuddle with my dog.

Cat or dog person? Dog.

Introvert or extrovert? Introverted extrovert.

Name one thing you are passionate about? My career.

Favorite song to dance to? “Hips Don’t Lie.”

Go-to karaoke song? “I Kissed a Girl” by Katy Perry.

Last movie you saw? Or show that you binged? “Bob’s Burgers.”

What was the last thing you treated yourself to? Got my nails done.

Are you a morning person or a night owl? Morning person.

Are you an outdoors or an indoors person? Outdoors.

What are you kind of obsessed with these days? My dog and my students.

What’s next on your bucket list? Get my master’s degree.


Kirstin VanLoo

Age: 28
Occupation: Project coordinator at a home improvement company
Looking for: Men

Are you a texter or caller? That is hard! I am a talker so throughout the day, just texting. If I am looking for a quick answer or if I want to talk for a while, a call is best!

Do you like to do the asking out or be asked out? I would not say I am old-fashioned, but I like to be asked out. I honestly don’t think I have ever asked anyone out on a date.

What are your dealbreakers? Anything more than an occasional cigarette, not being obsessed with my dog Piper, not using your turn signals at four-way stops, looking for a polyamorous relationship, long distance, poor communication skills, xenophobia!.

Ideal first date? I would want to experience something neither of us had, while being able to talk and get to know each other. Taking a cooking class together sounds so fun! I have never done it. It would be a fun setting that is still relaxed and structured. You are able to interact together but learn things about each other. It is a bit more adventurous than the standard dinner and drinks.

Who is your celebrity crush? Paul Mescal.

Do you believe in astrology? If so, what’s your sign? I am not sure how much I believe that the stars influence our lives, but do you think I have Googled “most compatible astrology signs for an Aquarius?” Because I have … many times.

Favorite rom-com? “A Lot Like Love” and “Crazy Rich Asians.” So hard to choose between the two.

Number one quality you are looking for in a partner? Acceptance. As I get older, I realize that there isn’t one perfect person for anyone. You grow to love that person and accept them for who they are. We all have some sort of baggage and I need someone who is willing to take it all in and accept me, for me.

Which fictional character do you relate to the most? Lately, Nick Miller. I feel like my life is a hot mess and I am just laughing my way through it. I, too, love beer and to moonwalk away from awkward situations.

Where are you likely to be on a Saturday night? Relaxing with my dog Piper while watching Netflix and drinking a beer.

What is making you feel positive these days? The election. I have never felt so much relief. I am hopeful for a brighter future for everyone and I feel like we have something to look forward to, finally.

Favorite song to dance to? “Savage Remix” featuring Beyonce. It’s a jam.

Go-to karaoke song? Oh, not happening unless I have lots of drinks, and at that point, I wouldn’t remember what song I chose.


Bryan Esler

Age: 34
Occupation: Photographer
Looking for: Women

Are you a texter or caller? Texter.

Any rules you set about how soon you text after a date? I typically wait at least a day or two.

Ideal first date? Going to Lantern Coffee and then on a walk downtown.

What is your love language? Quality time.

Do you believe in astrology? If so, what’s your sign? Not really, but I’m a Taurus.

Would you rather do the traditional dinner date or something more unique? For the first couple dates, traditional dinner or coffee dates are totally OK. But then I love to think outside the box! Go to the lakeshore, explore and just get to know each other more.

What makes a good impression on a first date? Being able to converse freely, laughing and enjoying each other’s company.

Number one quality you are looking for in a partner? Someone who’s caring and enjoys spending time together, but who can also open up my horizons to new things I wouldn’t have experienced otherwise.

If you could go on a double date with any couple living or dead who would you choose? John Krasinski and Emily Blunt, mainly because I can’t stop watching “The Office.” But if we’re talking fictional couples, Johnny and Moira Rose. Obviously.

Favorite movie, book, album, and/or game? “The Kingsman” is a long-time favorite movie, and I’m really into X Ambassadors music right now.

Name one thing you are passionate about? For me, it’s important to see and talk to my friends regularly. And a lot of times, that involves Spartan football.

What is making you feel positive these days? The Grand Rapids community coming together to support small businesses.

Favorite song to dance to? Pretty sure I’m the world’s worst dancer, so …

What was the last thing you treated yourself to? A pear and apple bar from Field & Fire Cafe. Love their bread and treats!

Are you an outdoors or an indoors person? Indoors, but I love getting out to take pictures.

What are you kind of obsessed with these days? When the weather was still nice, I played a lot of ultimate frisbee with friends. Loved getting out to play and finding a sport I’m actually not terrible at for a change!

What’s next on your bucket list? Really can’t wait to travel again after COVID. Prior to the shutdowns, I was traveling around 3-4 times a year, mostly in the states, but in February I made a trip to Costa Rica and had the time of my life.

Money tight, but still want to impress?

Explore these (nearly free) options in GR

Snowshoeing

With 4 miles of trails for you and your sweetheart to explore, Blandford Nature Center is the perfect place for a date night you’ll never forget.

For $25 you can experience winter in Michigan with a candlelit, easy-paced, snowshoeing hike topped off with hot chocolate and refreshments.

Ice skating

Every winter Rosa Parks Circle transforms into an ice-skating rink where couples can take advantage of a romantic night out for only $2 admission, which includes skate rentals.

Sledding

Grab a sled and head to Richmond Park or Belknap Park. It is always free to spend a day sledding at both parks. Both located on the north side of town, the winter tradition of sledding these hills would make a great date.

Bradley Haas

Age: 30
Occupation: Drag show director
Looking for: Men

Do you like to do the asking out or be asked out? I like a man who can take control, so I like them to do the asking.

What are your dealbreakers? Arrogance, self-absorption and no sense of humor.

How many dates before a first kiss? It all depends on how it goes! If I’m feeling the guy, I am not opposed to letting him kiss me on the first date. … I would prefer if he initiated it, though.

Ideal first date? Something I could get out of easily if it was going wrong. He takes me out, we meet at a nice downtown restaurant, the meal is amazing, we bond over how good it is, and then we go bowling or to an arcade, maybe. Then maybe back to his place for a nightcap if we’re vibing!

Favorite location for a date in GR? Stella’s! I think it’s a great atmosphere. They’ve got a killer deep-fried cookie dough, and their drinks are strong enough to take the edge off.

Least favorite location for a first date in GR? Rosa Parks Circle for ice skating! I fall too much, and then I’m stuck being cold for the whole night and I’m embarrassed.

If money and time were no issue, what would you do to impress someone? A cross-country camping expedition for a summer would be a riot! Just hop in an RV and go to all kinds of campgrounds across the United States.

Do you believe in astrology? If so, what’s your sign? Yes! I am a Gemini. I’m playful, expressive and curious.

Favorite rom-com? “27 Dresses!”

Number one quality you are looking for in a partner? HONESTY. I can’t make that word any bolder. I’ve been with a couple liars, and I’m good on that.

Do you have a daily mantra or quote you live by? If so, what is it? “What people think about me is none of my business.” — RuPaul

If you could go on a double date with any couple living or dead who would you choose? Barack and Michelle Obama.

Where are you likely to be on a Saturday night? Either home or directing my drag production company at one of several venues around GR with my co-director, who just so happens to be my mother and best friend! We raise awareness for all kinds of organizations while bringing the art of drag to the forefront for all to enjoy.

Cat or dog person? I love both but I’d have to choose dogs.

Are you an outdoors or an indoors person? Outdoors, totally. I spent almost all of last summer in a tent at a campground.

Looking for a unique date idea?

Candid Captures by Hayley offers first date photo sessions.

Hayley Estill, of Hayley Marie Photography, has been experimenting with the emerging trend of blind date photoshoots here in West Michigan.

How does it work? “Two single individuals, strangers, are put in front of my camera as a date experience for me to capture. I have noticed that when two people are put in a situation like this, it really brings them out of their comfort zone and displays their true character — it’s a truly beautiful process.”

Tell us about your blind date photoshoot experiences. “These sessions usually produce raw, authentic images as the couple gets more comfortable with each other. Sometimes the couples get so comfortable it makes me want to leave them alone — but I love the spicy and intimate art.”

Find out more at Haley Marie Photography on Facebook.

Joel DeJonge

Age: 23
Occupation: Emergency room scribe/college lacrosse coach
Looking for: Women

Are you a texter or caller? Caller.

Do you like to do the asking out or be asked out? It’s 2021, either.

What are your deal breakers? Narcissistic, disrespect to others or a lack of honesty.

Any rules you set about how soon you text after a date? Nah, playing games is overrated.

How many dates before a first kiss? Two or three, you gotta see if it works before going for it.

Ideal first date? Anything active, it takes the pressure off any potential awkward moments or lapses in conversation.

Favorite location for a date in GR? Meijer Gardens.

Who is your celebrity crush? Ryan Gosling.

What is your love language? Words of affirmation.

Do you believe in astrology? If so, what’s your sign? No, but I do believe the moon is flat so no judgment.

Favorite rom-com? “Crazy, Stupid, Love.”

What makes a good impression on a first date? Being open and willing to at least try to have a good time.

What makes a bad impression? Constantly checking your phone or being unkind to others.

Number one quality you are looking for in a partner? Intelligence.

Do you have a daily mantra or quote you live by? If so, what is it? There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes.

If you could go on a double date with any couple living or dead who would you choose? Barack and Michelle Obama.

Which fictional character do you relate to the most? Burton Guster from “Psych.” ‘

Favorite movie, book, album, and/or game? Books — Thrones. Game — Bananagrams. Movie — “Inception.”

Cat or dog person? Dogs. I don’t trust cats.

Name one thing you are passionate about? The environment.

What is making you feel positive these days? Found a couple new bangers on Spotify.

Favorite song to dance to? I can’t dance to save my life.

Go-to karaoke song? “I Want to Break Free” (Queen).

Last movie you saw? Or show that you binged? “Suits.”

What was the last thing you treated yourself to? Booked a vacation with friends to go snowboarding.

Are you an outdoors or an indoors person? Outdoors.

What are you kind of obsessed with these days? Anything that has cheese on it.

What’s next on your bucket list? Medical school.


Matt Drolett

Age: 48
Occupation: Medical sales
Looking for: Women

Are you a texter or caller? While I find myself texting most of the time, I appreciate a good phone call.

What are your dealbreakers? Negative energy, unreliable, lack of common courtesy, lack of curiosity.

Ideal first date? Very simple. Dinner, drinks, maybe a walk and great conversation.

Favorite location for a date in GR? Bistro Bella Vita or Bostwick Lake Inn.

If money and time were no issue what would you do to impress someone? A long weekend in London, baby!

Who is your celebrity crush? Gal Gadot and Aubrey Plaza.

What is your love language? Acts of service.

Favorite rom-com? “Notting Hill.”

What makes a good impression on a first date? Great conversation.

What makes a bad impression? Pessimism or too much time talking about an ex.

Do you have a daily mantra or quote you live by? If so what is it? Everything happens right on schedule.

If you could go on a double date with any couple living or dead who would you choose? I lost my dad to cancer in June of 2019. So, a double date with mom and dad sounds pretty great right now.

Which fictional character do you relate to the most? While I’d like to think it’s James Bond, it’s probably closer to James … Halpert (“The Office”).

Favorite movie, book, album, and/or game? Movie: “Field of Dreams;” Book: “Tuesdays with Morrie.” Album: “Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace” by Foo Fighters. Game: Trivial Pursuit.

Where are you likely to be on a Saturday night? Since I’m writing this in COVID times, it’s probably home, cooking — with the Yacht Rock cranked up. (OK … on like 5 or 6).

Introvert or extrovert? I’m an introvert that does a good impersonation of an extrovert.

Name one thing you are passionate about? Orangetheory.

What is making you feel positive these days? My nieces and nephews and the funny, funny stuff they say.

Favorite song to dance to? “I Feel It Coming” by The Weeknd.

Go-to karaoke song? “Mack the Knife” by Bobby Darin (I don’t brag about much, but I can sing the hell out of this song!).

Last movie you saw? Or show that you binged? “The Comedy Store” documentary on Showtime.

What was the last thing you treated yourself to? A new sofa (adulting).

What’s next on your bucket list? Attending the three remaining professional tennis major tournaments. I’ve done the U.S. Open. Now on to Wimbledon, French Open and Australian Open.

Set the mood

Here’s how to create a romantic evening at home

Wine Shop: Leon & Sons
Founded in Brooklyn in 2015 by Chris Leon, Grand Rapids is home to the second location of the award-winning wine shop. For those looking for a night in, Leon & Sons offers a large online collection of high-quality wines that can be shipped directly to your home.

Charcuterie board: The Cheese Lady
Creating an impressive charcuterie board has never been easier than with The Cheese Lady’s large selection of rare cheeses, crackers, condiments and saucisson.

Flowers: Thelma’s Flowers
Thelma’s Flowers goes above and beyond just the typical red rose bouquet. Using fresh flowers to create unique and personalized bouquets, Thelma’s is the ideal place to pick up flowers for your sweetheart.

Chocolates: Mokaya
Mokaya offers some of the most exquisite chocolate creations: truffles, bonbons, pastries and more. There’s even a beer flight option.

Tom Hillen

Age: 33
Occupation: News anchor
Looking for: Men

Are you a texter or caller? I’m a texter 100%.

Do you like to do the asking out or be asked out? I like to be asked out.

How many dates before a first kiss? I would say two good dates before the first kiss, so first kiss on the third date.

Ideal first date? My ideal first date (pre-COVID) would be pick me up, we go to a restaurant in Grand Haven and then we go to the beach with a bottle of champagne and we watch the sunset.

If money and time were no issue what would you do to impress someone? I would get them on a private plane and fly them to the most beautiful island and have a private chef and steel drum band there to make us the most tasteful dinner and listen to the most tropical music as we had dinner.

Who is your celebrity crush? Matthew Bomer.

Do you believe in astrology? If so, what’s your sign? Leo.

Favorite rom-com? “Crazy Rich Asians.”

Would you rather do the traditional dinner date or something more unique? I would rather do the traditional dinner date.

If you could go on a double date with any couple living or dead who would you choose? Celine Dion … I know that she isn’t coupled but she is the person I would most like to meet in this world.

Favorite movie? “Air Force One.”

Cat or dog person? I’m a dog person.

Extrovert or introvert? I’m an extrovert.

What is one thing you are passionate about? I’m passionate about clean water.

Favorite song to dance to? “I’m Alive” by Celine Dion.

Are you a morning person or a night owl? Morning person.

What was the last thing you treated yourself to? An Apple watch.


Malissa Moore

Age: 31
Occupation: Campus recruiter
Looking for: Men

Are you a texter or caller? Texter

Do you like to do the asking out or be asked out? Asked out.

What are your dealbreakers? Judgmental and a bad kisser.

Ideal first date? He asks my input but makes the decisions (I’m really indecisive!). And, if live music is involved, I’m always a fan.

Favorite location for a date in GR? Stella’s or SpeakEZ Lounge.

Least favorite location for a first date in GR? Anywhere that closes before 9 or 10 p.m.

Who is your celebrity crush? Chris Evans.

What is your love language? Words of affirmation and receiving gifts.

Do you believe in astrology? If so, what’s your sign? Yes! Libra sun, Gemini moon and rising.

Favorite rom-com? “Crazy, Stupid Love” and “Two Can Play That Game.”

Would you rather do the traditional dinner date or something more unique? More unique, but food must be involved!

What makes a good impression on a first date? Having amazing taste in music and making me laugh.

What makes a bad impression? Being rude to any staff or persons we encounter — and a cheap tipper.

Number one quality you are looking for in a partner? Empathy.

Do you have a daily mantra or quote you live by? If so, what is it? Think good thoughts, speak good works, take good actions.

If you could go on a double date with any couple living or dead who would you choose? Bill Burr and Nia Renee Hill.

Which fictional character do you relate to the most? All of the Golden Girls, lol.

Favorite movie, book, album, and/or game? “Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Water for Elephants” by Sara Gruen, “Almost Here” by The Academy Is…

Where are you likely to be on a Saturday night? Dancing somewhere (in or out of the house, lol).

Introvert or extrovert? Ambivert.

What is making you feel positive these days? Reading stories of random acts of kindness.

Favorite song to dance to? “Work” by Rihanna. Go-to karaoke song? “Tearin’ Up My Heart” by N’SYNC.

What was the last thing you treated yourself to? A new pair of workout shoes.

Are you a morning person or a night owl? Night.

What are you kind of obsessed with these days? Documentaries on capitalist corruption.

What’s next on your bucket list? Travel to Australia to see my favorite DJs.

4 fun first date options

Instead of the traditional dinner date, try one of these activities.

Fowling
Fowling, the hybrid mix of football and bowling, is a different type of Friday night out. Fowling Warehouse, 6797 Cascade Road SE, hosts a competitive date night for those who love sports and a wholesome active experience. Grab a beer and game on!

Ax throwing
Channel your inner lumberjack for this unique date idea. As Michiganders, we are no strangers to chopping wood. But have you ever thought of doing it on a date? Grand Rapids has multiple ax-throwing facilities — one being FlannelJax’s, 601 Lake Michigan Drive NW.

Grand Rapids Art Museum
Do it Ferris Bueller style. Take your next date downtown to Grand Rapids Art Museum, 601 Monroe Center NW, and stare at beautiful works of art and contemplate life with your partner. A romantic night out on the town.

DIY class
A night full of carbs, Italian herbs and yummy smells is what this date consists of. At The Local Epicurean, 1440 Wealthy St. SE, make homemade pasta from scratch at one of its private cooking classes while enjoying imported cheeses, soft baguettes and tasty cocktails.

Noah C. Nedd

Age: 23
Occupation: Quality assurance and technical business writer/part-time master’s student (data analytics)
Looking for: Women

Are you a texter or caller? I’m gonna call you.

Do you like to do the asking out or be asked out? Asked out.

What are your dealbreakers? A lack of respect — doesn’t matter if it’s toward me, yourself or others.

Any rules you set about how soon you text after a date? About a day; no strict rules though.

Favorite location for a date in GR? Grand Rapids Public Museum.

Least favorite location for a first date in GR? The movie theater. We can do that later. I want to get to know you.

Who is your celebrity crush? Bill Nye.

What is your love language? What’s the one where I receive a Gatorade shower after doing something romantic?

Do you believe in astrology? If so, what’s your sign? Idk Sarcophagus??? Next question.

Favorite rom-com? “Amélie.”

Number one quality you are looking for in a partner? Wisdom.

Do you have a daily mantra or quote you live by? If so, what is it? “Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.”

If you could go on a double date with any couple living or dead who would you choose? Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King.

Which fictional character do you relate to the most? Peter Parker, Abed Nadir (“Community”), Scott Pilgrim.

Where are you likely to be on a Saturday night? Playing games with my friends.

Cat or dog person? Cats.

Introvert or extrovert? Extrovert.

Name one thing you are passionate about? Social justice.

What is making you feel positive these days? I saw someone walking a dog and a cat at the same time; pretty neat in my book.

Favorite song to dance to? “More Than A Woman” (Bee Gees).

Go-to karaoke song? “We Didn’t Start the Fire” (Billy Joel).

Last movie you saw? Or show that you binged? “The Queen’s Gambit.”

What was the last thing you treated yourself to? Deep tissue massage and fascial stretch.

Are you a morning person or a night owl? Morning person.

Are you an outdoors or an indoors person? How cold is it?

What’s next on your bucket list? Visit every continent.


Jessica Laidlaw

Age: 30
Occupation: Account executive
Looking for: Men

Are you a texter or caller? Both.

What are your dealbreakers? Not having a job, living with parents, not wanting kids.

Ideal first date? Something outdoors or public.

Favorite location for a date in GR? The blue bridge to get that real GR feel.

Do you have a code word you call to a friend to save you from a bad date? Yes, “This is bad.”

How do you dress for a first date? Comfortable, but nice. Nothing too revealing and nothing too business.

Do you consider yourself romantic? Yes, to an extent.

What is your love language? Acts of service.

Number one quality you are looking for in a partner? Motivation.

Do you have a daily mantra or quote you live by? If so, what is it? Power of choice.

If you could go on a double date with any couple living or dead, who would you choose? My closest friend and her significant other.

Who would play you in a movie? Dakota Johnson.

Favorite game? Golf.

Cat or dog person? Dog.

Introvert or extrovert? Introvert.

What is making you feel positive these days? The constant reminder of the things I have to be grateful for such as a job, home and people who care about me.

Favorite season and activity you enjoy? Summertime for fishing, kayaking and camping.

Dream vacation? Switzerland.

Favorite song to dance to? All songs, cuz I love to dance.

What was the last thing you treated yourself to? A new kitchen table.

Go-to conversation starter? “What’s a day in your life like?”

What are you kind of obsessed with these days? Sushi, always.

What’s next on your bucket list? Road trip in 2021 making pit stops across the country for sightseeing.

Pimple on the big date?

We ask a dermatologist how to hide it.

“Aside from using concealer, you could use over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide preparations to dry it up quickly if you don’t have any medicine from your dermatologist! It doesn’t work immediately but could help a night or two before the date,” said Dr. Kurt Ashack from Dermatology Associates of West Michigan.

Connor Dood

Age: 25
Occupation: Internal auditor
Looking for: Women

Are you a texter or caller? Caller.

Do you like to do the asking out or be asked out? I like to do the asking.

What are your dealbreakers? Faith and family are two of the most important aspects of my life, and I’d look for the same in a girlfriend.

Any rules you set about how soon you text after a date? Not really. I think it’s nice to send a “had a good time” type of text shortly after the date (if that was the case).

Ideal first date? Out to dinner, walk the pier and watch the sunset in Grand Haven, and then grab drinks or dessert. All about the threefold date.

Favorite location for a date in GR? One Twenty Three Tavern — great atmosphere, good food and walking distance to other great spots in GR.

If money and time were not an issue, what would you do to impress someone? Probably charter a jet to St. Thomas and then spend the day cruising around on a catamaran.

Who is your celebrity crush? Jennifer Anniston during her “Friends” years.

What is your love language? Quality time.

Favorite rom-com? “Just Go with It.”

What makes a good impression on a first date? Eye contact and engagement in the conversation. Asking questions and actually listening.

What makes a bad impression? If one person talks too much or too little, or if the conversation stays too surface level.

Number one quality you are looking for in a partner? Drive. I find it super attractive when someone is really driven to pursue what they’re passionate about.

Do you have a daily mantra or quote you live by? If so what is it? “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

Which fictional character do you relate to the most? Schmidt from “New Girl.”

Name one thing you are passionate about? Adoption. I have two siblings who were adopted, so it’s a cause that’s near and dear to me.

Go-to karaoke song? “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston.

What was the last thing you treated yourself to? A long weekend trip to Florida.

Are you a morning person or a night owl? I used to be such a night owl but am becoming more of a morning person. I love the feeling of accomplishing things on my to-do list right away in the morning.

Are you an outdoors or an indoors person? Definitely an outdoors person. I love being on the water in the summer and love to ski in the winter.

What’s next on your bucket list? Either skydiving or a tattoo.


Tegan VanLoo

Age: 29
Occupation: Accounts receivable
Looking for: Open to men and women

Are you a texter or caller? Texter.

Do you like to do the asking out or be asked out? I like to be asked out.

What are your dealbreakers? Poor hygiene, ultra-religious, or wanting to have additional children.

Ideal first date? A hike and then a picnic.

Favorite location for a date in GR? I really enjoy walking around downtown near the water, over the blue bridge and through the catwalks.

Least favorite location for a first date in GR? Any place where you have to yell to talk to your date.

Who is your celebrity crush? Kristen Stewart/Bruce Willis circa 1995.

What is your love language? Touch. Words of affirmation is a close second.

Favorite rom-com? “Bride and Prejudice.” Yes, the Bollywood rendition of the classic by Jane Austen.

Would you rather do the traditional dinner date or something more unique? I’d prefer something more intimate like cooking dinner together or walking in the park.

What makes a good impression on a first date? When someone talks about their passions or what they are currently working on for self-care or improvement.

What makes a bad impression? When someone isn’t respecting my boundaries or has prejudiced attitudes.

Number one quality you are looking for in a partner? Empathy.

If you could go on a double date with any couple living or dead who would you choose? Lisa Bonet and Jason Momoa.

Which fictional character do you relate to the most? Fleabag.

Favorite movie, book, album, and/or game? Favorite movie: “Jurassic Park.” And I can and have reread Neil Gaiman’s “American Gods” multiple times.

Introvert or extrovert? Introvert.

Name one thing you are passionate about? Conservation.

What is making you feel positive these days? Extra time spent with family.

Favorite song to dance to? “Footloose.”

Go-to karaoke song? I will never sing in public.

Last movie you saw? Or show that you binged? I have binged all the seasons of the “Great British Baking Show.”

What was the last thing you treated yourself to? Sushi.

Are you a morning person or a night owl? Morning person — I rarely stay up past 10 p.m.

Are you an outdoors or an indoors person? Outdoors.

What are you kind of obsessed with these days? Weightlifting. Just getting into it but I’m really enjoying it.

This story can be found in the February 2021 issue of Grand Rapids Magazine. To get more stories like this delivered to your mailbox each month, subscribe here

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