Dating has become notoriously difficult in the modern era. Between online dating and the pandemic putting a wrench in everyone’s love lives, we need help. Luckily for us Dallasites, we have a tried and true dating expert in our own backyard.
“I grew up in my own little fairy tale,” says Abbriana Cox, founder of Build a Date. “My stepdad always courted my mom. It was like a realistic Cinderella and her prince story.”
Growing up this way, Abbriana fell in love with love - especially the way that love is so different for each person. As the oldest and only daughter, she also developed a knack for planning everything from family vacations to holidays to weekend plans. Abbriana quickly became the go-to person for restaurants and activity ideas for her friends and family.
Abbriana never knew that this could turn into a real business. She thought she was just a helpful friend. “I’m a foodie and I like to go out. I like to be surrounded by romance and fun,” she says. “But I wouldn’t be this type of consumer. I didn’t realize that I was the outlier.” Abbriana’s natural ability to plan dates where people can truly connect and either rekindle a spark or start one turned out to be a valuable one.
Her bubbly personality and genuine care for others shows through when she speaks about relationships, dating and love. With this charisma and expertise, Abbriana officially launched Build a Date in January 2020. This was no longer a side hustle or free advice for friends but an actual entrepreneurial endeavor.
“Covid was actually my success,” says Abbriana of the pandemic that hit many small business hard. “People had expendable income that used to be spent on vacations or going out and couples were tired of looking at each other day after day in the house.” A big majority of Build a Date’s clientele at the moment are couples who are married or in a committed relationship. Abbriana’s services help these people come up with ideas to keep the romance alive. This year, she is excited to launch singles-focused services with matchmaking consultations.
The company’s website touts “Romance isn’t dead, you’re just busy.” Their services range from date night ideas to planning full-out proposals or getaways. Every detail is prepared just for you - each custom idea catered to the occasion and couple.
For more information on how to book a date or experience, visit buildadatedfw.com.
Want to try something new with your sweetheart? Take a page from Abbriana’s recommendations. These ideas are perfect for a date that will make for special memories, as they are all offered virtually or outside.
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At-home craft class, such as pottery or painting
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Cooking class
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Wine tasting
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Museum tour
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Picnic