Netflix and........

by Leyla [Thisdayilove] - 21:23

There seems to be a new trend at the moment, one which is doing the rounds online but yet has many different meanings - Netflix and Chill. For those of you who would like to know more and don't have any ideas what this is, this guide will explain all about it. There are actually three different interpretations of this increasingly popular pastime.

Explanation #1

An opportunity to binge watch a whole series of a favourite TV show with your long term boyfriend or girlfriend.

Explanation #2

A sedate kind of party where you invite your friends and watch a movie together with some nibbles and drinks. A perfect way to get to know friends, especially if you have just moved into student housing in Manchester

Explanation #3

A chance to ask the person you've been admiring from afar to spend some time together and get to

know them better, in other words - a cheap first date.

Ok so now you know what Netflix and Chill means, this article will help you figure out the details and give you a step by step guide to prepare for the night ahead.

Step #1 - invite your guests

Deciding who to invite will pretty much determine the rest of the night. A Netflix and Chill night is a great way to get to know new friends and find out what you have in common. Make sure they know your address, how to get there and get them to bring their PJs if they intend to stay over, have bus and train timetables available if they need to travel or organise alternative transport home for them.

If you're wanting to spend time with a new love interest, then be specific about what's going to happen. Do you actually want to spend time with them or are you expecting a little more? The phrase "Netflix and Chill" has become code for something more intimate in some parts of the world, so be upfront if all you actually want to do is watch a movie and talk.

Step #2 - organise refreshments

This may depend on how long you intend the night to last. As a bare minimum you should get some typical movie treats like popcorn and beer, nachos with dip or whatever your friends would prefer. If it's

something a little more intimate or extravagant, then arrange for pizza to be delivered and have a bottle of wine chilling in the fridge. You don't want to be spending half the time making something in the kitchen, when you were hoping to spend time with whoever you have invited, so keep it simple.

Step #3 - set the scene

If you've made some new friends since coming to University and it's the first time they are coming over, then it's important that you relax and be yourself but also make a good impression. Clean your room, put away your laundry, make sure your bed is made and ensure there's somewhere for them to sit with some snuggle blankets and throw cushions for extra comfort. Prepare the viewing area, do the usual checks like making sure the TV is plugged in, your Netflix account is working and you've got somewhere to put your snacks. Close the curtains, turn on your side lamps and light a scented candle. You're looking to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, regardless of who's coming over.

Step #4 - choose something to watch

There's nothing more annoying than nobody knowing what they want to watch and spending at least an hour debating and deciding. There are a few things you can do to help this process. If you're having friends over then give them a choice of three movies to get the evening started, or give everyone a piece of paper and a pencil and ask them to write down something they want to watch, then put all the suggestions in a box and draw one out.

If you’re spending time with someone on a one on one basis, have a few suggestions up your sleeve or pick a genre you're both into like comedy or drama and choose one together. This gives you something to talk about and is a great opportunity to find out what kind of movies you both like and whether you have compatible tastes.

Step #5 - the end of the evening

If you're having a pyjama party, it's pretty much assumed that your friends will be staying over and will probably fall asleep with Netflix still playing in the background. If this is not the case and you followed Step #1 and arranged transport for your friends, make sure they are ready to leave in good time to catch their bus or train or are ready to leave when their taxi arrives. Making sure your friends get home safely is not only very considerate and thoughtful, it also brings the evening to a natural close which may be a good thing with friends you've just met.

If you're with a date, what happens at the end of the night between two consenting adults is up to the both of you, but never feel pressured into doing anything you don't want to do. Just because "Netflix and Chill" has taken on a more intimate meaning does not mean that this should be an expectation. Make your excuses and let your date know it's time to go if you don't want the evening to progress further.

Well, there you have it. Your guide to a Netflix and Chill evening! No matter what happens, have a great time and don't forget to blow out that candle and clear away any half full glasses before heading to bed. It's always wise to be careful, safe and responsible.

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