DIVA chatted with this couple about their long distance love story
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY BBC/TWOFOUR
In a tale as old as time, Nikita and Pippa were brought together by Cupid’s mischievous arrow… and Dannii Minogue. And an Italian Masseria. And a Kiss Off. And a whole bunch of sexy single sapphics. And a reality TV show that has completely captivated the entire queer community. Just your usual love story.
When Nikita first entered the I Kissed A Girl (IKAG) Masseria, true love didn’t seem likely when she was coupled up with Elisha. However, when newcomer Pippa arrived, things definitely seemed to pick up. Audiences have enjoyed getting to know this pair on the show, and we are very happy to report that this ship is still sailing.
In a DIVA exclusive, we caught up with Pippa and Nikita to find out about life post IKAG.
What first drew you to each other in the Masseria?
Pippa: In our first chat, it was so clear to both of us just how aligned we were in our values. Everyone who knows us knows it’s all about wholefoods, gym life, [etc]. It was probably such boring content that they edited it out! It was so crazy to go into a Masseria and find someone that you’re just so similar to.
Nikita: In our first chat, I was so surprised by how comfortable I felt. It felt really natural and easy. I knew that we had something we could build on.
Pippa: You don’t see it in there, but I did go in with quite a big tick list of what I was looking for. Everything I was looking for, Nikita was exactly that. You obviously go onto the show open-minded, but I didn’t realise I’d find exactly what I wanted.
Nikita: Both of our character arcs were quite flirty, so I think it’s quite funny that the two flirty ones have ended up together. Finally someone was matching my energy!
What was it like transitioning into a relationship in the outside world?
Nikita: I think the best thing we did was make sure that we arranged to see each other. We knew we were going to be doing long distance, so you have to make that extra effort when you’re outside the Masseria to actually see each other. We didn’t go crazy and U-haul, but we saw each other most weekends. We wanted to take it slow, and we both took our time.
Pippa: We didn’t jump on any labels too quickly. It’s made it so amazing because now we’re getting this whole new deep level 10 months later. We’re still so flirty and nervous and giddy with each other because we did take that time.
What was it like keeping your relationship a secret while the show was airing?
Pippa: I’m very physical touch, so not being able to even hold Nikita’s hand at the Pride in London march was so weird. A lot of viewers haven’t been as nice as we thought they would be, and are questioning how genuine we are. Having to sit on it and know how genuine we were has been one of the weirdest parts.
What have been some of your favourite moments as a couple over the last 10 months?
Nikita: Pippa’s a big skier, and I’ve never really skied before, so they taught me how to ski! It was so much fun. I love it when a partner is teaching me things. It was a really good bonding moment.
Pippa: It’s the first time Nikita told me that she loved me. It was on our second ski trip together, and we were on the coach on the way back from the airport. She was staring at me – it was really cute but also a bit weird! We got to the food court, and she said, “I think I might love you.” And it melted my heart. I literally had butterflies.
How have you made long-distance work for you?
Nikita: As trivial as it sounds, have a physical diary and schedule each other in. We prioritise seeing each other and living our own lives. With long distance, it’s nice if you want to take things slower because you get the chance to miss each other. Communication is so important in long-distance relationships, and having patience when things go wrong.
Pippa: On the phone, we try to come up with cute things like doing journal questions and actually planning something. We’ve always taken the time to really understand each other’s point of view. The biggest thing is just showing up and being reliable with it.
What is the biggest thing you’ve learnt from each other?
Pippa: Patience! I’m on the go all the time, and Nikita has helped me to slow down. We have very similar spiritual beliefs, and we’ve really fed off each other. She’s helped me to lean more into my spirituality, which has been beautiful.
Nikita: Low-key the opposite! I’m patient, but I’m also a faffer. I was called Faffiana in the Masseria. Pippa’s helped me find a balance. Pippa’s got this great mindset where you can achieve anything and make an effort to get shit done.
You can watch all episodes of IKAG on BBC iPlayer now.
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