Scale Up Your Flirting Game With a Victorian “Acquaintance Card” Workshop

Nowadays, flirting is mostly limited to right swipes and emoji winks, unless you’re brave enough to wink at someone face-to-face (and if so, teach us your ways). But in the Victorian era, you couldn’t just pick up your phone and text someone an animated image — instead, you had to drop a cheeky calling card.
These cards, which National Geographic says were alternately called “escort,” “acquaintance” or “flirtation” cards, were ways for 19th-century singles to signal interest, kind of like an analog Hinge or Bumble. If that sounds more appealing to you than having to sift through hundreds of prospective suitors’ vacation pics, join the Seaport Museum and the Downtown Alliance at Bowne & Co. Stationers (211 Water St.) on Thursday, February 20 to bring romance back and make your own flirtation card!
From 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., you’ll have the opportunity to explore Bowne & Co.’s collection of vintage printing equipment, learn about the history of flirtation cards and make a few of your own. Plus, you’ll have a chance to get to know your neighbors and win prizes by participating in lighthearted games throughout the evening. Post-event, you can keep the party going at nearby Fresh Salt, which is extending its happy hour pricing until 9 p.m. for our attendees only. Whether you’re riding solo, rolling deep or on a date night, this is a great opportunity to connect with the community and maybe even leave with a new “acquaintance” or two — or at least a couple flirty keepsakes.
This event is free to attend but registration is required. Light refreshments will be served. Please note this event is 21+. Register here!
photo: smallcurio via Flickr
Tags: bowne and co