As a part of our maudern people series, we asked New York-based couple Patrick Janelle and Erik Speer for insights on modern intimacy. Patrick is the founder of brand marketing agency Untitled Secret and Erik is a mix-medium fiber artist focusing on organic materials.
What is your relationship status?
Quarantining together after five years
How do you make time for intimacy?
During quarantine, we always set aside time for dinner together. We are both usually involved in building a meal, regardless of who is taking the lead that night. Since we both work from home, even in normal times, we will occasionally check in with each other throughout the day in small ways. Even if it's preparing a cup of coffee, peeling an orange or giving a small kiss or touch of affection to the other. So even the process of preparing for dinner creates intimacy for us. Weekend mornings tend to be the times where linger in bed, not worrying about getting up and getting the day started as we would during the week. Those are the moments we cuddle the most or are the most physically connected.
With social distancing & quarantine, how has human contact changed for you?
To be honest, Erik is a bit of a homebody. We like to joke that he only has one friend… so not much has changed for him. Patrick, on the other hand, is typically out four-nights a week during “normal” times, so he’s been rediscovering the joys of being home. While we have different needs for human contact in general, this time together during quarantine has been really great for us. As a couple, we actually do the best when we have consistent time together. Though we are surprised that we’re going on seven weeks in quarantine in a 450 sq ft apartment and that’s still the case!
A favorite literary or on-screen romance:
I love the final scene in My Best Friend’s Wedding–Julia Roberts and her gay best friend Rupert Everett alone together.Unexpected turn-on:
a freshly-cleaned apartmentThe perfect date:
an impromptu walk through the neighborhood that ends in an unplanned night out at a favorite restaurantYour in the mood food:
whatever it is will be paired with a bottle of funky red wineDrink of choice:
Junglebird (I have a lot—but that’s one we can both agree on)A sexy or intimate song you love:
Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack (for real!)Dating advice to your younger self:
Don’t try to hook up on the first dateWhat your parents said about love and relationships:
Never let the sun go down on your angerFavorite scent:
Tempo by Dyptique and French Lover from Frédéric Malle
