19 Sep 2021 | 4 mins

Being the generation that uses Instagram the most, we all know when someone is dating a new boo. We probably don’t like to admit it but we thrive off it; we love the anonymity of it all. No matter who you are - celebrity, influencer or just your everyday Joe, your followers are frothing to know who you’ve been getting down and dirty with. 

Whether you’re getting back at your ex or simply showing off that you’re taken, it causes speculation without giving too much away - a bit of mystery and secrecy never hurt nobody.

But what exactly does it mean to soft launch?

The meaning of soft launch

It’s a low-key photo, a teaser or Instagram debut if you will of the person you’re seeing without being explicit about it. Is this idea of a soft-launch a sign that we’re taking personal branding a little too seriously online? Well, definitely not - they’re vague, wholesome hints that have people putting their FBI caps on, scurrying to find who it is and I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that.

@louis.hanson

Soft launch September! Love is love!

♬ Believe Me - Navos

Mad credit and love to the man above for bringing this to my attention. Also, according to the youngins, apparently it’s #softlaunchseptember? Who would've known.

We love soft launches because it alleviates the pressure of rushing to be official on your socials. There’s no hurry to be Facebook official for all your family members to talk behind your back (trust me, happens more often than not) or the tension of sharing your romantic, behind the scenes relationship on social media because it’s quite the commitment. 

A lot of the time, social media platforms are all about validation with likes, tagging, sharing and a whole lot of opinions. Maybe your relationship just isn’t ready for that - so here’s a few ways to soft-launch your new special person:

1. The classic holding hands pic

This is probably the most subtle and discreet soft-launch that really gives off I’m-taken-so-stop-trying-to-DM me vibes, as well as showing everyone just how happy you are. Strictly no faces allowed - just hands.

2. The discreet photo or video of their elbow or hand

Okay - this is what I tried to do five years ago but it clearly didn’t work, so take these updated pointers for example. This photo will generally be taken at a restaurant or bar - the location will be tagged, the food will be in focus but the person will only have their elbow or chest in the photo. How does it work? Nobody has any inkling on who they’re having lunch with. It’s perfect.

3. The hug or kiss with no tag

No, but really - if you’re dating someone new and you’re posting a picture that conceals their face, you’re winning. You’re leading this soft launch game. It’s risky but it does the job.

4. The back to the camera

 

You only know the person posting it, otherwise, who's that other person? This is a job for the FBI.

Whether you're contemplating a soft-launch for your new relo or thinking about going full blown, keep your friends in the loop, keep your followers guessing and always put your relationship over social media!