Valentine’s Day 2017 is approaching whether you like it or not and since all of us over here subscribe to different schools of thought when it comes to relationships, we thought we’d take this opportunity to give you a little insight into who we are and where we stand on subject of love…not to mention some unsolicited advice while we’re at it.

Raquel Silver, Age 28

Current relationship status: Coming up on 1 year into my relationship

Your standard dating modus operandi: Serial monogamist but I took time to get to know myself between my last relationship and current one

The 3 traits you find most important in a partner: Someone who makes me laugh, responsible/ reliable, understanding

Your 3 defining relationship characteristics:  I’d say I’m a good listener, motivating, supportive

Your best piece of dating advice: Whoever you’re with should make you want to be the best version of yourself and should give you the space and support to develop yourself as an individual so you can stand on your own two feet. There’s no rule book for relationships and no two relationships are the same so enjoy and appreciate the individuality of the one you’re in.

Michelle Jimenez, Age 28

Current relationship status: Engaged

Your standard dating modus operandi: Prior to my engagement I was a serious serial monogamist

The 3 traits you find most important in a partner: Honest, reliable, patient

Your 3 defining relationship characteristics: Unconditional love, loyal (ride or die), adventurous

Your best piece of dating advice: No sex before monogamy (must have boyfriend/ girlfriend status before intimacy!) Don’t ever settle or change your interests for the person you’re dating. Your significant other must love you for you (the good and bad).

Amina Brown, Age 28

Current relationship status: Newly single

Your standard dating modus operandi: Forever single

The 3 traits you find most important in a partner: Reliable, funny, honest (faithful)

Your 3 defining relationship characteristics:  Reliable, good listener, loyal, willing to cook and clean!

Your best piece of dating advice: Take your time to get to know a person. Be friends first. Trust your gut always.

Alexa Rodriguez, Age 22

Current relationship status: Single-ish

Your standard dating modus operandi: Hopeless romantic

The 3 traits you find most important in a partner: Good sense of humor, creative, loyal

Your 3 defining relationship characteristics:  Supportive, funny, loving

Your best piece of dating advice: Keep true to who you are. Try new things with each other, step out of your comfort zone and be open to learning and experiencing new things with one another.

Samuel Alemayhu , Age 22

Current relationship status: Single

Your standard dating modus operandi: There’s a lotta fish out there…and I’m always fishing!

The 3 traits you find most important in a partner: A sense of humor, supportive, nurturing  

Your 3 defining relationship characteristics:  I’ll make you laugh, support your interests, keep things fresh

Your best piece of dating advice: Don’t take things so seriously. There’s so much pressure and anxiety in our work lives, it’s important to have someone who can make you laugh and keep things light. Also, be completely honest about who you are, what you like, and what you don’t like…no surprises!

By Raquel Silver