The Perfect ‘Soft Launch’ Recipe
Image Courtesy: @SophiaIppoliti; @Dawn.Tan; @AishaPotter; @grace_noelleee
The era of the soft launch, as we know it, is over. This Valentine's day, everyone seemed to have a relationship they were ready to share. So we are no longer satisfied with the latte pictures and the no face, no case agenda. Instead, we want to know the who, what, and when of your relationships.
The original hard launch, or the simplicity of changing your Facebook status from 'single' to 'in a relationship,' was the way to share with the world you were off the market. But in recent years and with the rise of Instagram, a brief comment would just not do.
Although soft or hard launches are initially marketing and business terms, the announcement of your relationship is not meant to be (hopefully). Launching a relationship is truly an art form, and it is intended to be fun for you, your partner, and your friends.
A hard launch is an act of explicitly and suddenly announcing your romantic relationship. This could be done through any social media platform, especially Instagram, via story or post.
In 2019 celebrity couple Eliza and Bob Morley hard launched their relationship via Instagram post, announcing that they had gotten married after no one knew they were even in a relationship. The two were stars of the CW drama The 100. After their characters were romantically shipped, fans rejoiced as their favorite fictional couple got together, but in real life.
More recently (and traumatically) model Emily Ratajakowski and comedian Eric Andre launched their relationship, or whatever they are, on Andre's Instagram via story and post. A silly little nude photo of Andre lying on a couch and Emrata, also naked, taking the picture was definitely one to stir up some controversy and get people talking this Valentine's Day.
Although dropping some pics unannounced on Instagram is a more exciting way to reveal your new relationship, you must admit it is fun to tease your audience. As someone who has never been in the position to launch a relationship, I take great pleasure in watching a slow burn play out. As an official plea to bring back the soft launch, here are some ways you can do so while spicing up your Instagram feed (a win-win).
The last pic of an Instagram carousel. Not only is it a test to see if your friends make it that far, but it's also security in knowing that not everyone will actually make it that far.
Food. The most beloved way to soft launch is via Instagram Story. Taking a picture of you and your partner's food (most likely coffee or pizza) always gets a little buzz going.
No face, No case. The safest bet is always the back of their heads. It gets quite the aesthetic shot.
The shadow pic. It gives 2014 Tumblr but in the best way.
Launching your relationship is not synonymous with celebrities or influencers. You're just as young and hot, and people love seeing young and hot people thriving even more in a relationship. It's all good fun to launch your relationship. Just remember never to judge the art of a launch but always respect the commitment and efforts of one.
Strike Out,
Morgann Rhule
Boca Raton
Morgann (yes with 2 n’s) is a content writer for Strike Magazine. Her best friends describe her as a shopaholic bookworm who gives the best advice. Born in Jamaica, she wears it proudly with a beaded red, green and gold necklace she never takes off. You can reach her on insta @morgannrhule or email morgannrhule@gmail.com
