Country music star Kelsea Ballerini gave fans a rare glimpse into her personal life this week, posting a throwback TikTok video from before her first date with actor Chase Stokes. The video, originally recorded on January 7, 2023, shows Ballerini preparing for the evening with a mix of excitement and nerves. She captioned the clip, “heres a video i sent to my best friend before my first date with chase,” instantly resonating with fans across social media.
The candid moment highlights the beginning of one of country music’s most talked-about relationships and showcases Ballerini’s relatable charm.
Kelsea Ballerini posted a throwback TikTok video on October 28, 2025, originally filmed on January 7, 2023, before her first date with Chase Stokes. The video was shared from her Nashville home, where she was seen getting ready for a sushi dinner date. The post was intended as a personal message to her best friend, capturing the nerves and excitement of a new romantic chapter.
Outfit, Song, and Setting
In the video, Ballerini models her outfit in a full-length mirror, pointing out her boots and a hair clip. She jokes, “we’re trying to be a cool girl,” while her own song “How Do I Do This” plays in the background — a track about dating again after a long time. She tells her friend, “He’s picking me up and we’re going to a sushi place,” and promises a full update the next day.
The clip ends with a pep talk: “I can do this. I can do this,” followed by a lighthearted dance and the reminder, “It’s just a date… you just eat food and talk about things that you do.”
Quotes and Reactions
NBC Insider noted:
“Ballerini’s video is a masterclass in vulnerability — it’s rare to see a celebrity share something so personal and unfiltered.”
Fans on TikTok and X praised the authenticity:
“This is the most relatable thing I’ve ever seen from a celebrity.” “Kelsea’s nerves are exactly how we all feel before a first date.”
E! Online added:
“The clip offers a sweet look at the start of a relationship that fans have followed closely since early 2023.”
Fan Connection and Cultural Resonance
The video’s success lies in its relatability. Ballerini’s openness about her emotions and uncertainty before a first date humanizes her in a way that few celebrity posts do. It also reinforces her brand as a grounded, emotionally honest artist. The use of her own song adds a layer of storytelling, tying her personal life to her music in a way that deepens fan engagement.
The clip has already garnered hundreds of thousands of likes and comments, with fans sharing their own first-date stories in response.
What’s Next: Relationship Timeline and Music Tie-Ins
- Relationship Status: Ballerini and Stokes have since gone public, appearing together at events and on social media
- Music Connection: “How Do I Do This” featured on her Rolling Up the Welcome Mat EP
- Upcoming Projects: Ballerini is expected to release new music in early 2026
- Fan Engagement: More behind-the-scenes content may follow, especially as she continues to blend personal storytelling with her artistry
Fans can follow @kelseaballerini on TikTok for future updates.
