Unicorn etiquette: for couples and for singles

Why it gets a bad reputation

"Unicorn hunting" is what people call couples who treat a single person, usually a woman, as an accessory to their relationship: one with no needs, no say, and an expiry date. It's common enough that many singles are wary of couples. Respect is how you stand out.

For couples

• She's a person, not an add-on. Her wants and limits matter as much as yours.
• Both of you must genuinely be interested in her, not one partner going along.
• Let her set the pace. Expect to meet socially, maybe several times.
• Don't hand her your relationship rules as non-negotiable terms. Talk about them.
• Be honest if one partner has veto power, and what happens to her if it's used.
• Plan for her comfort too: her own transport, her own space, and aftercare for her as well.

For singles

• Meet both partners together, in public, before anything else.
• Watch how they treat each other and you. Tension between them is a red flag.
• Ask direct questions: who wanted this, what their rules are, what happens if feelings get involved.
• Have your own way home, and tell a friend where you are.
• You can say no, or leave, at any point. That includes after you've said yes.

How the platform helps

Tags like Unicorn are hidden by default, and nobody can search for them unless the person chooses to be found. A first message from someone who isn't a friend arrives as a single request. Singles decide which couples to talk to, not the other way around.

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