Renee Miller, a chief certified love coach and CEO of The Love Camp, believes that love is the most powerful force for healing and transformation. She founded The Love Camp in 2022. Coaching, courses, retreats and self-love products are provided through her business.
“Black singles and couples face unique challenges in love and relationships, including low marriage rates, high divorce rates, and historical trauma. I’m committed to helping Black singles and couples overcome these challenges by providing the tools and skills to build healthy communication, conflict resolution, and intimacy. I believe that by developing these essential skills, we can create a new narrative for Black love,” Miller stated.
Photo courtesy of the Love Camp
Chad Smith, a certified love coach, is in a committed relationship with Miller. Together, the couple provides love-related services through The Love Camp. Ahead of Valentine’s Day on February 14, Smith and Miller answered questions to help singles navigate through today’s dating world.
First, Miller advised that singles should understand their desires, non-negotiables, and how they want to feel in a relationship before seeking a love connection.
“Second, recognize your season. Are you truly ready for a relationship, or do you need to focus on personal growth and healing first? Third, commit to being the most healed and authentic version of yourself. Bring your vulnerability, honesty, and assertiveness to the table. And don’t forget those strong communication skills! Finally, be patient and trust the journey,” she advised.
Miller cautioned that women should not lean on their accomplishments, degrees, job titles, and material possessions while seeking a meaningful relationship.
She added, “But true connection comes from sharing your genuine self, the beautiful soul beneath the surface. Learn to present yourself through the lens of who you are, not what you’ve achieved. This applies to men too, of course! Let’s focus on building connections based on authentic selves, not impressive resumes.”
Miller shared dating trends for people who are under 40 years old, and additional trends for people who are over 40.
“In 2025, people under 40 are prioritizing deeper connections, intentional dating, and embracing romance through small gestures. Black daters are especially focused on emotional, trust, and shared values,” said Miller.
Daters over the age of 40 have far less tolerance for drama. They value stability and long-term relationships, according to Miller.
The certified love coach also stated that intentionality and clear communication are key for them. Black singles of all ages want relationships that acknowledge cultural identity and allow for personal growth, rejecting superficial connections.
“Trends also show a shift toward valuing intimacy and trust over casual encounters,” according to Miller.
When it comes to crafting online dating profiles, daters can use a variety of recent photos that show different sides of themselves.
“Don’t just do selfies. Include pictures of you doing things you love. Traveling, exercising, enjoying hobbies, volunteering – whatever makes you, you. This gives potential matches a much better sense of who you are,” Miller explained.
Daters should be sure to be the person their pictures portrayed upon meeting in-person. Work on improving their conversation skills and learning good conversation starters.
She added, “Ask open-ended questions, be genuinely interested in their answers, and use your emotional intelligence to really connect.”
While online dating is popular, meeting someone special can happen anywhere. Meeting people face-to-face can still be very valuable.
Cultural events, such as festivals, art exhibits, and historical commemorations, often draw individuals with shared interests and a strong sense of community. Community gatherings hosted by various organizations, including social events, workshops, and volunteer opportunities provide further avenues for connection. Places of worship can also be a source of community and potential connections. Professional networking events like conferences and workshops offer a chance to meet driven, like-minded individuals in your field, according to Miller.
The love expert further explained that social clubs and groups centered around hobbies, from book clubs to sports leagues, create a natural environment for bonding over shared interests and offer opportunities for organic interactions.
“If you’re near a college or university, explore community events there,” Miller also suggested.
Smith added that singles should be open and approachable.
“Make eye contact, smile, and be willing to start conversations,” he advised.
While assessing if a person may have found a good match, Miller stated that a single person should reflect on what a prospective person offers beyond superficial attraction.
“Does this connection offer the potential for deep emotional intimacy, shared goals, and mutual respect – the foundation for something lasting?” she asked.
“To find a truly compatible match, ask insightful questions that go far beyond the surface,” Miller added.
Visit https://thelovecamp.co to find out more about The Love Camp.