Mindful Dating (English)

Over dit evenement

**Introduction:**

Hi, I’m Katie— Hoku is my nickname.

I started Hoku events because I grew tired of swiping and the culture (or lack thereof) that often surrounds modern dating. I wanted to create spaces that feel more human: grounded, intentional, and genuinely connective.

Inspired by tea ceremony culture, meditation, conscious relating, embodiment, and relational awareness, these events are designed to help people slow down, put our phones away, and meet each other more openly and honestly.

But honestly, it goes beyond dating.

Hoku is about creating spaces where people can relax, connect, share conversation, enjoy good music, and simply be present together—without alcohol, pressure, or performance.

These events are guided, but always optional. You’re free to participate at your own pace.

Maybe you’ll meet someone and feel a spark that grows into something deeper. Maybe you’ll simply leave having shared a genuinely fun evening with beautiful new people. And honestly, that is already something valuable.

**Practical Information**

These events are approximately 3 hours long and guided throughout.

We’ll move through a variety of exercises, prompts, and forms of interaction designed to support genuine connection in a grounded and relaxed way.

Wear clothes you can comfortably move in, sit on the floor in, dance in, and feel good in.

Tea and light snacks will be served throughout the evening.

Alcohol and drugs are not permitted during the event. If you are visibly intoxicated, you will be asked to leave without a refund.

All genders and orientations are welcome. For the current events you will however notice that tickets are divided according to binary gender. This is an attempt to maintain a relative balance for heterosexual participants, so that the event can genuinely function as a dating space. I would also love to host LGBTQ+ events, if this is something you would be interested in, please feel very welcome to reach out by email so that I have some idea of interest. Check out our event on 31/7 for the poly/open relationship edition!

This event will primarily be guided in English. I also speak Dutch, and if clarification or translation is needed at any point, that can absolutely be accommodated. If the group happens to be entirely Dutch-speaking, we may naturally switch between the two languages.

**The Vibe**

Together, we co-create a safe and non-judgmental space where you are welcome to be yourself. No performance necessary.

All exercises are completely optional, and you are always free to take a break or step out at any time.

At the same time, we encourage everyone to approach these moments as opportunities for meaningful human interaction — even when you feel certain someone is not “your match.” Everyone can be your teacher in some way.

If you stay open, it’s often surprising what kinds of conversations, moments, and connections can emerge with the most unexpected people.

**After the Event**

After the guided portion ends, there is space to stay, mingle, drink tea, talk, and dance if you’d like.

If you connected with someone and would like to see them again, you are welcome to approach them and ask whether the interest is mutual. Please be respectful of both yourself and others.

An honest no is completely welcome here. At the same time, this space is intentionally created to allow for these kinds of open and respectful approaches, so there is no need to feel awkward or out of place for expressing interest.

There will also be a WhatsApp sign-up sheet available afterward for those who would like an easier way to stay in touch with people from the evening.

***Photography & Privacy***

Photos and short videos may be taken during this event for use on HOKU’s website and social media to help others get a feel for the atmosphere of our events.

We understand that not everyone wishes to appear in photos. If you would prefer not to be photographed or filmed, simply let us know when you arrive. We will explain our photography system at the start of the event and provide an easy way to opt out. Our photographer and facilitators will ensure your preference is respected throughout the evening.

Your comfort and privacy are important to us.