Death of the casual hangout: When did every catch-up become a planned activity?

We used to just call our friends. Now we pick an activity and book a slot. Alina Shafique asks: Why does meeting your friends feel like it requires a theme now?

'Pottery painting. Saturday, 3pm.'

There is a moment of social vertigo that has now become very familiar to anyone in their 20s or 30s. A friend texts you. You feel a flicker of warmth. You open it. It is a booking link.

“Pottery painting. Saturday, 3pm.”