PDA etiquette part 2: Discretion doesn't mean no fun

If Mom and Dad were with you and they wouldn’t approve of your PDA, then you probably shouldn’t be so free flowing with the lovin’. Sure, personal preference plays a big role in approval of PDA, but general PDA etiquette still calls for keeping the lovin’ on the DL.

So I took the idea of tapping into other senses when expressing PDA and thought about the different places and ways we can be discreet but still convey actions of love and lust. Here are a few suggestions as to how we can utilize our senses in PDA and still keep it light and discreet.

Note: PDA doesn’t always mean that you both have to be on the go. Go to a park and rest easy. Go to a zoo or museum and take your time exploring the exhibits and each other.

Smell: (This one could take some planning…) Randomly allow him (guys can try this, too) to smell your wrist where you’ve sprayed a little bit of a new perfume. Challenge him then and there (this is where that whisper comes into play! And as you whisper, why not sneak in one or two kisses to the ear and cheek?) to later find out another area of your body where you’ve also sprayed some perfume. That’ll drive him nuts… and the PDA isn’t too much for onlookers.

Taste: Say you and your partner get a sundae topped with, well, whipped cream. A little bit of teasing never hurt anyone. Whisper something to look forward to in your partner’s ear. See how he or she responds.

See: Sure, light touches to your partner is great, but how about giving him a little show? Again, this one can be for the guys, too, if they’d like. Nothing too promiscuous is necessary, but a little light touch across your chest from collarbone to collarbone (may be more effective with a slightly dipped or low cut top) or down your neck can work wonders.

Hear: Whispers are awesome. What you say is completely up to your imagination, and see what your partner likes. But how about getting a little noisy for just your partner to hear? Don’t get me wrong. Don’t give your partner the whole show, but how about a one to two second preview? Could work.

Feel: Lose the words. A hot breath or two along the neck or on the ear is golden. It’s innocent play and not too much for onlookers.

All in all, PDA is all about knowing your surroundings and knowing self-control. Sure, PDA is about showing affection, but when it comes to a playful game of tease and be teased, know when to give just enough to get your partner’s attention. Then, back off and go on about your adventure. Everyone eventually has the need to play and it might just happen when there are tons of people around. Don’t make the public the issue when the issue is self-control and abiding by the rules of the game.

Hopefully this two-part series about PDA has helped some of you to reevaluate how much of your lovin’ innocent eyes are witnessing. Have fun, but have discretion as well.

How do you show PDA?

*Photos of Craig and Elaine taken by me. Playful PDA captured in downtown Portland.