Author: Ellie Harrison

Modern dating isn’t all about candlelit dinners and finding someone who laughs at your jokes, it’s a psychological, biological and even technological experience.

Whether you always swipe right, ghost partners when it gets too real, double-text or open up on the second date, your dating habits are a reflection of your personality, emotional history and attachment style.

Understanding these habits isn’t just about improving your love life, it’s about getting to know yourself better and increasing your chances of finding the right partner.

1. Serial swiping

If you have used, or still use, dating apps, you’ll know these platforms have made screening potential partners fast and convenient, allowing you to simply swipe your way through thousands of possible candidates.

The trouble is that these apps also reflect how quickly we form judgments and how shallow they can be. Studies show that many app users will make decisions about potential matches in less than one second! And there’s no denying this is usually based on their physical appearance (and perhaps the occasional unforgivably cringe bio).

Another issue is that this rapid judgment activates the brain’s reward system, similar to the dopamine hit you get from gambling or eating chocolate.

But serial swiping often suggests something deeper about your personality.

According to psychologists, a fast swiper is usually impulsive and seeks novelty traits and behaviours, like grand romantic gestures rather than everyday interactions. They want instant gratification and fear commitment, typically with a preference for superficial connections rather than real, deeper ones.

2. Ghosting

Have you ever been talking to someone and then just disappeared from the conversation or relationship without explanation?

Ghosting has become a common (and painful) part of dating culture and psychologists link this behaviour to avoidant attachment styles, where individuals struggle with emotional closeness and prefer to distance themselves when things get too real.

How you respond to being ghosted can also reveal something about your dating style and emotional resilience. People with secure attachment styles may process this rejection quickly and move on.

Interestingly, research also shows that people who ghost tend to underestimate the emotional harm it causes to others. They often justify it as a way to avoid conflict, suggesting discomfort with confrontation if they have to end a relationship with someone.

Unfortunately, those with anxious attachment styles may ruminate and overanalyse the situation if ghosted, and this can cause them to spiral into self-doubt.

3. Dating déjà vu

We recently mentioned this in another blog post, but if you find yourself drawn to similar types of people, perhaps emotionally unavailable partners, fixer-uppers or intense short-term flames, it might be worth asking yourself why.

These patterns can reflect unresolved issues from your past or unconscious desires. For instance, consistently chasing unavailable people might point to an anxious attachment style and someone who seeks validation through winning over a difficult partner.

Alternatively, if you gravitate toward emotionally safe but often mundane partners, you might be prioritising security over your happiness and passions.

4. Complete clarity

Do you enter the dating world clear about your intentions and what you want from a relationship?

There’s nothing wrong with that, provided you don’t push people away too quickly. In fact, people who value directness and clarity often feel more confident in their emotional needs and are less afraid of rejection.

On the other hand, those who send mixed signals or keep their date guessing may be struggling with uncertainty about what they want themselves. They could also be using ambiguity as a defence mechanism to avoid getting hurt.

5. Floodlighting

Do you have a tendency to give away a lot of details about yourself on a first date?

This is referred to as floodlighting and is when someone shares a lot of personal information about previous relationships, issues or childhood trauma with someone they’ve just met.

This can present as being open and vulnerable and could be done deliberately or subconsciously. Either way, those who floodlight tend to do so to test the waters and speed up intimacy, possibly to see if the other person can ‘handle’ them.

While some might see this as a good thing, psychologically, it can also be emotionally manipulative and actually suggests you’re putting on a bit of a front to make people think you’re open and communicative when really, you’re testing them.

6. Guarding

Some people walk into a first date ready to share stories, ask deep questions and be emotionally present. Others are more reserved, keeping the conversation light and avoiding anything too personal.

If you tend to keep your guard up during the dating phase, you might be more cautious due to past experiences. You could also show an avoidant attachment style, where closeness can feel overwhelming.

7. Double-texting

Your texting habits can reveal a lot about your dating style, too. If you’re someone who texts often and expects quick replies, you might be more expressive and value emotional availability.

Consider if you would ever text them twice in a row if they don’t reply. Some may see this as desperation, while others just enthusiasm. Of course, the truth lies in context, but frequent double-texting can suggest a strong desire for connection and responsiveness.

While some interpret it as neediness, others see it as confidence, especially when the messages are thoughtful rather than demanding.

Psychologically, people who double-text may actually be more successful when dating, showing that they’re not afraid to put themselves out there. In contrast, those who play it cool and hold back communication might do so because they value autonomy or fear vulnerability.

Not only that, but if you prefer space and slow communication, you could be more independent or protective of your personal time.

8. Hiding hints in your dating profile

Lastly, most people on the market have or will create a dating profile at some point, whether that’s on a dating app or through a matchmaking service.

Creating this profile is an exercise in self-branding, and the choices you make reflect how you want to be seen and what you value the most. For example, what photos you use, whether you are witty or sincere and how much personal information you choose to include.

We often project an idealised version of ourselves into these profiles, and psychologists say there could be a lot to read between those lines.

Let’s say your profile states, “sarcasm is my love language,” while this might come across as playful, it could actually be your subtle way of warning potential partners you are emotionally unavailable.

Similarly, if your profile emphasises travel and adventure, it might signal openness to experience, whereas a focus on career or goals may highlight ambition and conscientiousness.

Even the kind of pictures you choose can indicate your levels of self-esteem and social orientation, so think carefully about what your profile says about you both outwardly and under all those layers.

Do you recognise any of these habits?

Your dating habits are like breadcrumbs, pointing to deeper truths about how you relate to others and to yourself.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all formula for relationships, paying attention to your own behaviours when dating can help you break old patterns, communicate better and connect more authentically.

So next time you find yourself repeating unhelpful dating habits, pause and ask: what does this really say about me? And if you need more support in breaking these habits and finding the right potential partners, you’re in the right place.

Get in touch with our talented team of matchmakers for more dating tips and advice and help finding the perfect partner for you.

There’s something magical about the spring. The days are getting longer, the flowers are in bloom, and there’s a strong sense of rejuvenation in the air. 

This renewed sense of energy and positivity makes spring the perfect time to build new connections and embark on new journeys. 

So, if you’ve been waiting for the right moment to dive back into the dating world, here’s why spring is the ideal season to let romance blossom.

It’s the season of new beginnings 

Spring is often associated with new beginnings. Just as nature awakens after the cold winter, so do our emotions and desires. 

The fresh energy that it brings can inspire a renewed sense of optimism and excitement, making it easier to approach new people with an open mind and heart. 

If you’ve been hesitant about dating, hiding away through the tougher winter months, now is the time to shed those doubts and embrace the possibilities ahead.

It’s a mood boost for everyone

What’s more, the longer daylight hours and increased exposure to sunlight give our serotonin levels a much-needed boost after the winter.

This naturally makes us and those around us feel happier and more optimistic. This positive shift in mood makes it easier to engage with others and increases the likelihood of forming meaningful relationships. 

Because let’s face it, when everyone is feeling good, connections happen more naturally and you are more likely to find that spark. 

The weather is perfect for romantic outdoor dates

Not only are the days getting longer, but the weather is getting warmer, too. It’s time to shake off those heavy winter coats and get outside! 

Spring offers the perfect weather for lots of lovely, romantic outdoor dates. Whether it’s a picnic in the park, a nature walk, a stroll along your nearest beach or an adventurous hiking trip, there are countless ways to get outside and enjoy the change in weather. 

The warmth of the sun on your face and the cool spring breeze create an inviting atmosphere for meaningful conversations and deeper connections. Plus, with daylight extending into the evening, there’s more time to go on these dates and enjoy quality moments together.

There are more opportunities to be social 

As well as providing more opportunities for outdoor dates, the arrival of spring means people are naturally more inclined to go out and socialise or organise group activities. 

There are often more events taking place in your local area, from festivals and farmers’ markets to outdoor concerts and sports activities. This provides plenty of opportunities to socialise and meet new people. 

Spring fashion can be a real confidence boost

Spring fashion is all about bright colours, light, breezy fabrics and stylish outfits that make you feel good about yourself. 

After months of layering up in jumpers, coats, scarves and boots, stepping into a fresh, vibrant spring wardrobe can really boost your confidence and make you more open to new experiences. 

Not only that, but confidence is attractive and makes you feel stronger, and when you feel good about yourself, it becomes much easier to connect with others.

Nature is the best romantic backdrop

There’s a reason why so many love stories take place in the spring, as this season sets the stage for romance in the most beautiful way. 

Nature itself seems to encourage connection and affection. The flowers are in bloom, the birds are singing birds, and the lush greenery creates the ideal backdrop for romance. 

In spring, even a simple stroll through a botanical garden or an ice cream in the park can feel like you’re living a moment straight out of your favourite rom-com. 

Get ready to turn your spring fling into a lasting love

Many people who start dating in the spring find that the excitement and new connections carry on effortlessly into summer and beyond. 

So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign to start looking for love, let spring be your inspiration. With its fresh energy, outdoor date ideas and endless opportunities for connection, this season creates the perfect conditions to meet someone special. 

And if you need a little help getting started, get in touch with our talented team of matchmakers today. Offering expert advice and matchmaking services, they can support you on your dating journey this spring.

Falling in love is a universal human experience, yet its timing, process and emotional response vary hugely for every person. 

Despite this, as a society, we are obsessed with the notion of love at first sight and what relationship milestones we should be hitting each decade. 

So, while there is no definitive answer to the question ‘how long it takes to fall in love’, plenty of research has been conducted on the subject. 

At Ignite Dating, we firmly believe that love isn’t confined by time but this doesn’t mean it can’t be helpful to understand the science-backed insights on how long it takes to form a bond with someone new. 

This is especially true when you’re dating, enabling you to recognise if you’re going too fast or perhaps if your partner is going too slow and may not be ready to commit. 

So, how long does it actually take to fall in love?

There is no one right answer to how long it takes to fall in love. Everyone is different, and there are many factors that can impact how quickly you make that connection with someone and how soon you’re ready to express those feelings. 

However, lots of studies have been conducted over the years, and a particularly in-depth study from 2013 found that the average couple will confess their love between 88 days (for men) and 134 days (for women). 

That’s right, these findings also show that there is a distinct difference between men and women and how quickly each sex falls in love. 

Who typically says ‘I love you’ first? 

Multiple studies indicate that men typically fall in love more quickly than women. In fact, a recent study from 2025 found that men fall in love almost twice as fast as women. 

Based on the findings published in Biology of Sex Differences, the mean love progression score for females was 1.92 months, compared to 0.98 months in males, indicating that men fall in love almost twice as quickly. 

The study also found that despite the outdated stereotypes of women being emotional partners and men having a tough exterior, males are also likely to fall in love slightly more often than females do.

Does love at first sight exist? 

The notion of love at first sight is romantic but contentious, though an impressive 70% of people say that they believe in this phenomenon. 

However, over the years, psychology and medical professionals have suggested that what is often perceived as love at first is more likely to be immediate physical attraction rather than a real, deep emotional connection. 

Therefore, while people might feel a strong, immediate connection, developing true love typically requires time and deeper understanding, even if it is just a couple of months.

This is also backed by science, which found there are three key stages to falling in love: lust, attraction and attachment. Each stage is driven by different brain chemicals and hormones. These stages can vary in duration and may overlap based on the unique nature of every relationship.

Just remember, time doesn’t (and shouldn’t) limit love

While scientific studies can provide general guidelines, it’s so important to remember that love doesn’t adhere to a strict schedule. 

Some people may fall in love quickly, while others may take their time developing deep, meaningful connections. 

Factors such as personal experience, emotional readiness and individual differences will play a significant role in how and when love develops. So don’t rush yourself (or your partner) and don’t worry about checking off those invisible boxes on your relationship timeline. It’s better to let these connections develop naturally. 

And if you’re still looking for love right now, then why not let the Ignite Dating team help? Our services are backed by science too (MBTI and FIRO) and accredited Science Based Coaches along with an expert team and years of industry experience. So, get in touch today to find out how we can help you on your dating journey.

Have you heard of the ’36 Questions to Fall in Love’ theory?

You may well have, as it is not new. In fact, it was an experiment developed by psychologist Arthur Aron in 1997, and it gained widespread attention in 2015 after being featured in an article in the New York Times. 

And now, just like waist chains, butterfly clips and matching tracksuits, this theory has become popular again in 2025. 

But what is the 36 questions theory, and how can it help you on your dating journey? 

The ‘36 questions to fall in love’ theory

The theory is a psychological experiment designed to create emotional intimacy between two people through a structured conversation. It was originally created to explore how emotional closeness between strangers can be accelerated through mutual sharing. 

The idea is that by answering increasingly personal questions, individuals can develop a deeper sense of understanding, trust and connection with one another, potentially leading to romantic feelings.

That is why this can be such a great tool when you’re dating. Not to mention, it can be a great icebreaker! 

Although, it might be one you want to save for the second or third date. 

How these 36 questions work

It’s not just about the rattling of 36 random questions. Instead, these fixed questions are divided into three sets, with each set becoming progressively deeper and more personal. 

The idea behind this structure is that as the questions unfold, individuals will gradually become more vulnerable and open with one another. 

The process typically ends with four minutes of uninterrupted eye contact, which is believed to enhance feelings of closeness. But you might wish to forgo this if it feels a little too intense in the early stages.

Some examples of the questions include:

• If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, who would it be?
• What is your most treasured memory?
• What is your greatest fear?
• When did you last cry in front of someone else?

As you can see, the questions start off relatively simple but eventually touch on deeper emotions, personal insecurities and significant life moments. 

As you answer these questions and listen to the other person’s responses, you’ll both engage in mutual vulnerability, which is a key element in building emotional intimacy.

Does it work?

While the 36 Questions experiment can help to facilitate conversation and closeness, for obvious reasons, it does not guarantee you’ll fall in love. This theory does not replace the deeper aspects of building a relationship, such as shared values, long-term compatibility and real-life experiences together.

That said, it can help you on your dating journey because it creates an intimate environment and encourages you both to open up emotionally and to be vulnerable with one another. 

This can accelerate intimacy as you share stories, memories, ambitions and truths that it might otherwise take months to share with each other. And as if all that wasn’t enough, these questions also give you talking points for in-person dates and any text conversations that follow. 

So, despite there being no guarantee, these questions do offer a great starting point when you’re dating. They can be an excellent way to get to know someone and to open up to them, and who knows, it might even lead to your true love. 

You can check out the full 36 questions in this Cosmopolitan guide. For more dating advice and help finding love this year, get in touch with our team of matchmakers today. 

The term intimacy typically conjures up images of grand romantic gestures and impulsive, passionate moments. 

And while these might be the moments that get our hearts racing, it is the more subtle yet profound interactions that are most important for building a strong relationship. 

These often small and simple gestures are referred to as ‘quiet intimacy’. 

But what is quiet intimacy, and how can the power of simplicity help you to build a long-lasting relationship? 

What is quiet intimacy?

Quiet intimacy refers to the understated, everyday moments that foster deeper, more meaningful connections between partners.

These are the moments that anchor relationships, that make them feel familiar, secure and deeply personal, and they can come from anywhere. 

It could be something as small as your daily interactions: hugs before going off to work, holding hands while out on a walk, finding comfort in shared silences and everything in between. 

How these understated gestures can strengthen relationships

These actions, though seemingly insignificant at the time, can play a crucial role in building and maintaining emotional closeness and a long-term relationship.

They communicate affection and appreciation without the need for words. They also demonstrate thoughtfulness and a deep awareness of your partner’s needs and personality. 

Over time, these small acts accumulate to strengthen the foundation of your relationship.

Ways you can practice quiet intimacy with a partner

There are lots of ways you and your partner can practise quiet intimacy, many of which you might already do without really noticing. 

But, if you’re proactively trying to strengthen your relationship or you’ve recently started dating and you’re still building your foundations, here is how to cultivate a deeper connection. 

Routine gestures 

It is the smallest gestures that can make the biggest impact. Be sure to offer little acts of kindness like preparing your partner’s favourite meal or leaving a note to say how much you love them. 

Then there are acts of service, such as taking on your partner’s chores without being asked. 

It’s important to regularly acknowledge and thank your partner for the little things they do for you, reinforcing feelings of love and gratitude in your relationship.

Non-verbal communication 

They say actions speak louder than words, and that’s certainly true for quiet intimacy. Non-verbal communication becomes easier over time, though this is something that can also fade if you’re not careful. 

So, when your partner speaks, make sure to give them your full attention. This shows respect and validates their feelings. It’s also important to be expressive, giving them knowing glances and smiling so that you both feel connected. 

What’s more, simple physical touches, like a gentle squeeze of the hand, can be hugely reassuring and can convey affection and support without having to say a word. 

Spend quality time 

We live in an always-on culture, and it can be all too easy to get lost in our phones or the TV, but it’s important to set aside time to be present and free from distractions and technology. This uninterrupted time reinforces your bond.

It’s also important to engage in shared hobbies, whether that’s walking the dog, playing sports, going out with friends or playing games at home. It doesn’t really matter what you do; it’s just about making time for one another in your daily life. 

Moments of silence and reflection 

Finally, every now and then, it’s important to just pause and be mindful and present in the moment with your partner, appreciating the time you share together. 

Shared silences count for so much. Spending time together without the need for constant conversation shows a strong bond. Whether it’s reading in the same room or enjoying a quiet meal, these moments can foster a deeper sense of connection.

Embracing these little gestures and quiet moments 

It is these small gestures that form the bedrock of a strong and fulfilling relationship.

But while it might seem effortless and easy enough to achieve, quiet intimacy still requires awareness and work. If these little moments begin to disappear, this can have a much bigger impact on your relationship. 

So, by making a conscious effort to share quiet moments, offer acts of kindness and spend quality time together, couples can embrace quiet intimacy and thrive on those beautiful everyday moments. 

If you’re on the lookout for a meaningful relationship and someone you can build a genuine connection with, our expert matchmakers can help. Get in touch today, and you can begin to meet like-minded individuals to share those simple, quiet moments.

There’s no denying that as we get older, the dating landscape seems to get more complex. There is so much more to think about, from finances and family to careers and emotional well-being; there’s a lot more at stake than the carefree dating of your early 20s. 

As a result, more singles are being extra cautious with how and who they date this year. In fact, a staggering 95% admit that worrying about the future impacts their dating life, and many prioritise emotional stability above all else when looking for a partner. 

This has led to an important new trend known as future-proofing. 

What is future-proofing in dating? 

Future-proofing is all about proactively building a relationship with long-term compatibility in mind. It involves leading conversations and asking questions about the future after the first couple of dates, helping you to determine if the relationship is a good match in the long run. 

This could involve discussing career goals, living situations, children, and any other huge decisions that could impact your life. Taking this proactive approach to your love life might feel a bit forward or forceful, but it can actually be the perfect way to find true love. Here’s how: 

Sharing a vision for the future 

Most importantly, discussing long-term plans like marriage, children, or lifestyle choices means you will be in agreement on big-picture goals. This can minimise the risk of conflict or upset later in the relationship, allowing love to flourish without hidden tensions or uncertainty. 

Making sure your values align

Because future-proofing involves discussing your goals, ambitions and priorities in this way, you can ensure that your core values align. 

As we know, true love thrives when there’s mutual respect and a shared sense of purpose. 

However, if you can identify mismatched values or misaligned futures early on, you’ll save yourself time and emotional investment. 

Encouraging effective communication 

Encouraging open and honest communication right from the start of your relationship is always healthy, and in most cases, it allows you and your partner to address issues constructively. 

This can also help to prevent small niggles from escalating and create a bond based on trust and understanding.

Setting realistic expectations

Focusing on compatibility rather than idealised standards is so important to ensure the future of your relationship. 

Unrealistic expectations can lead to disappointment. But by being open, transparent and accepting your partner’s unique qualities (and occasional flaws), you can create genuine love and a deeper connection.

Supporting adaptability and growth

Having these big conversations early on in the relationship makes it possible to recognise that both individuals will change over time, and being open about this means you can adapt and grow together.

As love often deepens through shared experiences, being prepared to evolve together ensures that the relationship remains fulfilling long into the future, even as your circumstances change.

Are you ready to find true love? 

If you’re excited to have these open, honest conversations about the future with a partner, that’s the first step to a great relationship! But first, you need to find someone that you can click with, someone who shares your values and future life goals. 

Our trained and globally accredited team of matchmakers can help you on your journey to finding true love. So, if you’re ready to begin meeting like-minded individuals and making genuine connections, get in touch with the Ignite Dating team today.

If your dating journey has just begun, tis the season to find love. This time of year is notoriously romantic – think Love Actually and The Holiday – and there are so many festive events taking place. 

This gives you plenty of magical ways to break the ice and get your relationship off to a good start. 

So, if you’ve got a date coming up and you’d prefer to swap the traditional dinner for something a little more creative, we’re here to help. Here are five great ideas for festive first dates this holiday season. 

1. Wander around a Christmas market 

From huge German-style Christmas markets in the city to smaller local setups, there are Christmas markets popping up everywhere at this time of year. 

So why not go for a wander around your favourite spot, taking in the smells, the cold air and the twinkling lights? 

Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s always nice to browse the stalls, stop for some food and get close over a cup of mulled wine. And who knows, you might even find some great gifts for your loved ones along the way. 

2. Enjoy a seasonal workshop

It’s not just Christmas markets popping up either, there are also loads of great seasonal workshops you can attend. This can be the perfect idea if you want something fun and creative to do as you get to know one another.  

For example, you could sign up for a wreath-making or ornament-painting workshop. Alternatively, take a festive-themed cooking class and bake yourself a gingerbread house or batch of Christmas cookies. 

All of these can be a fun and interactive way for you to bond and create lasting memories right from the start. 

3. Warm up with a festive drink at your favourite cafe

Going to a cafe is always a good first date idea, but during the chilly winter months, this can be an even more romantic way to warm up. 

Head to your favourite local cafe for some festive-themed drinks, whether that’s a cinnamon latte, salted caramel cappuccino or peppermint hot chocolate. 

The holiday atmosphere is the perfect way to get the conversation flowing.

4. Hit the ice 

If you’re active and always up for something a little different, why not break the ice by going ice skating? As long as you’re pretty confident in your skating ability, that is (the last thing you need is to end your date with a trip to A&E and a twisted ankle!).

At this time of year, there are loads of wonderful pop-ups and outdoor skating rinks you can visit, complete with festive lights, Christmas music, and usually tasty seasonal food and drink to help you warm up afterwards. 

Not only is this a romantic setting, but it’s also a great talking point, and let’s face it, it’s a wholesome bit of fun for your first date. 

5. Go on a winter wonderland walk

You never have to travel too far to find a festive light display or winter wonderland walk. Whether it’s your local park or a short train journey to the nearest city, these settings create a dreamy, romantic vibe. 

The illuminated paths and Christmas creations, paired with the chilly air and crackling fires, offer the perfect setting for a first date, especially if you prefer to be out in nature, enjoying a stroll, rather than sitting in a busy pub or restaurant. 

Are you ready to make the most of this time of year? 

The festive period presents you with so many opportunities for fun and romantic first dates that you don’t get at any other time of year. 

So, make sure to embrace this opportunity and try out some of the suggestions from our list above. 

Of course, it’s not just suggestions for first dates that we provide. If you’re ready to start dating and making the most of the festive season, we can help you get your first date in the diary. Get in touch with our talented team of matchmakers today to get the bauble rolling on your dating journey.

Winter is often regarded as one of the most romantic times of the year and, therefore, one of the best times to date. 

Sure, it’s cold outside, but that only makes the evenings cosier, whether you’re huddled in front of a roaring fire, sipping on hot chocolate, exploring Christmas markets or staying in watching movies. 

The colder months provide the perfect setting for romantic, intimate dates that encourage connection. But don’t just take our word for it, here are some other reasons why winter is one of the best times of year to go on a date (or three). 

There are romantic settings abound 

The season is naturally charming, from snow-covered landscapes (if we’re lucky) to twinkling lights, festive decorations and inviting smells in the chilly air. These settings create the perfect backdrop for dates, whether it’s a walk through a winter wonderland or staying in and eating dinner by candlelight. 

Holiday cheer is in the air

The build-up to Christmas and the New Year, in particular, is full of events, traditions and a general sense of cheer that you don’t get any other time of year. 

This extra cheer means that people are often happier, more open and settling into the festive spirit, making it the ideal time to go out on dates and get to know each other. 

Opportunities for memorable shared experiences 

Sharing cute and festive experiences is a great way to make lasting memories. Activities like ice skating, attending Christmas markets or enjoying winter sports give you unique ways to bond.

As well as creating memories, these experiences are often tied to the warmth of companionship in the cold, providing you with even more opportunities for toasty, intimate moments. 

Any excuse to dress up (or down) 

With everywhere lit up and sparkling, why not do the same? Winter date nights give you the perfect chance to dress up and show off your style; whether that’s sequins, layered outfits or your best jacket, it’s a chance to feel glamorous. 

Alternatively, you might prefer to lounge around and get comfortable in casual sweatshirts and fluffy socks during more relaxed hangouts, staying in and baking or watching a movie. Both vibes add to the charm of dating at this time of year. 

Opportunities for thoughtful gestures

Winter holidays provide lots of opportunities for thoughtfulness, from small gifts to acts of service. For example, giving a potential partner a Christmas card or gift or preparing a hearty warm meal after being out in the cold. 

These gestures can help to nurture a sense of care, connection and affection.

A focus on togetherness

The quieter, reflective nature of winter can help to shift the focus from external distractions to making personal connections. 

Unlike the busier summer months, where everyone is making the most of every second of sunshine, people may feel more inclined to prioritise relationships during the winter. 

Plus, with more time spent indoors, there are more opportunities for real conversation and connection.

Essentially, the cold weather encourages people to seek warmth and comfort in each other, whether it’s through physical closeness or emotional support. This means you can get more from your dates, providing a better environment for meaningful moments and close connections.

That is why winter provides the perfect mix of wonder, charm and intimacy that can make dating during this season uniquely special and fulfilling. 

So, if you’d like help finding love this winter, you’re in the right place. Get in touch with our team of expert matchmakers today to get your dating journey off to a great start. 

‘Throning’ is the latest buzzword being thrown (no pun intended) around the dating scene. 

While it might sound like a good thing – who doesn’t want to sit on a throne and feel like the king or queen they are? –  it can actually be a harmful practice for those involved. 

But what exactly is ‘throning’, and is this trend as grand as it sounds? 

What is ‘throning’?

Throning is where one person chooses to date another in the hopes of enhancing their own social status. They ‘throne’ themselves by going out with someone who has more influence, status or social clout than they do.

Essentially, they try to elevate their own social standing by associating themselves with someone more popular and visible. 

In most cases, the motivation behind these kinds of relationships isn’t long-term love; it’s about appearing successful and gaining a higher social status. It’s about simply being seen to be ‘sitting on the throne’ rather than building a deep and meaningful connection with someone. 

This trend is driven by today’s social media culture, where online presence is heavily valued, and individuals want to appear successful or well-connected. They use these relationships to boost their personal brand or image, access new networks and increase their online following. 

However, this isn’t necessarily a new dating tactic. In the past, those hoping to ‘throne’ someone might have been said to be ‘gold-digging’, ‘clout chasing’ or ‘dating up’. 

What are  the challenges with ‘throning’?

Let’s just clear something up, if both people in the relationship are throning and they are both aware that the relationship is being used as a way of elevating their social status, this is not necessarily a harmful thing. 

That being said, it is often the case that one person will be trying to boost their reputation and ‘get on the throne’, while the other believes they are genuinely interested in them and looking for love. 

As throning is a strategic dating move rather than a genuine, authentic act, this can lead to superficial relationships that are unlikely to fulfil deep emotional needs. In this case, throning can be detrimental to the unsuspecting individual who is truly looking for a meaningful relationship. 

Another potential pitfall of throning is emotional manipulation when one partner is using or exploiting the other for their social standing. This can lead to much deeper trust issues. 

Lastly, relationships built on throning are likely to lack the strong foundations of trust and friendship that a loving relationship requires, leading to disillusionment or messy breakups when the allure of status and popularity eventually fades. 

Can ‘throning’ lead to love? 

Now, it’s worth saying that there is every possibility throning could lead to something genuine. 

However, as many of these relationships lack emotional depth and are often based on external benefits like money or status, this is unlikely to lead to a meaningful connection. 

In order to find true love, both partners need to see each other as equals and build a foundation of trust and mutual respect. This is not something that usually occurs when throning. 

Ditch ‘throning’ to find true love 

Are you looking for true love and concerned that your intentions may not have been honourable in past relationships? Or perhaps your social status has caused you to be the victim of throning yourself?

No matter what has gone before, it’s time to ditch that throne. 

Relationships based on real connection, not just perceived social benefit, are going to be more rewarding. So, rather than relying on gamified dating apps or social media hookups, it’s important to invest in making meaningful connections. 

Working with a professional matchmaker enables you to invest more time in shared interests, mutual goals and authentic emotions. 

Using their years of expertise, they will get to know who you are and what you want from a partner, so they can introduce you to someone with similar values, goals and passions. That way, you can focus on what really matters. 

Remember, you’re more than just your social status, so if you’re ready to make meaningful connections, get in touch with our expert team today for a confidential consultation.

When searching for love, how many times have you ruled out a potential partner who seems perfect in every way but there’s something missing when you meet in person? In the search for love, attraction is often viewed as a magical spark that either ignites or fizzles out. But beneath that initial chemistry lies a fascinating blend of psychology, biology, and individual life experiences that influence who we find attractive and why. 

In this blog, we take a deeper dive into the science and psychology behind attraction and how you can harness it to find a real, lasting connection. 

The science of chemistry

When we say we have chemistry with someone, we’re acknowledging that we feel something, but we may not fully understand what it is or why we feel that way. Chemistry is essentially a mix of physiological and psychological responses to another person. When we fall in love, our palms sweat, we can stutter and become breathless, we may not be able to think clearly, and it feels like we have butterflies in our stomachs. This is due to the chemical reactions that are happening in our brains, the surging release of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These chemicals create feelings of happiness and bonding, giving that exciting spark feeling when you’re close to someone you admire.

Similarity and familiarity

Aside from the chemical reaction, psychologists have found that we are often drawn to people who are similar to us. This similarity-attraction effect forms a solid foundation to a real, lasting connection, due to the shared values, aspirations, lifestyle, and interests that this person possesses which are in line with our own. However, sometimes this can mean that we gravitate towards the familiar too. Quite often people are drawn to those who resemble someone they have loved or admired in the past, even subconsciously, which is where being known for having a ‘type’ comes in. These people may not always be the best for you, but because they are familiar to what you’re used to, you can’t help but feel attracted to them. 

Complementary traits

While similarity is crucial, complementary traits can also play a significant role in attraction. You’ve likely heard the phrase that ‘opposites attract,’ and to some extent, that’s true. Traits like introversion and extroversion can balance each other out, creating a harmonious dynamic where both partners bring different strengths to the table. However, compatibility is key here; the differences that you have must enhance rather than disrupt the relationship.

The role of attachment styles

Our attachment style – the way we form bonds and connect emotionally – plays an important role in who we’re attracted to and how we experience relationships. If you have a secure attachment style, you’re more likely to seek out healthy relationships that feel supportive and stable. However, if you have an anxious or avoidant attachment style, you may find yourself drawn to emotionally unavailable people or patterns that ultimately leave you feeling unsatisfied.

Timing is key

Finally, timing plays a surprisingly vital role in attraction. Often, we might meet someone who seems perfect, but if we aren’t ready for a relationship or are carrying unresolved issues, that attraction may fizzle out before it’s even started. Attraction is as much about being emotionally available as it is about meeting the right person.

Why a matchmaker could be your secret weapon

When it comes to finding love, attraction is complex and multilayered. While online dating might promise an endless array of potential partners, it often fails to capture the subtle elements that make two people truly compatible. Collaborating with a matchmaker means you’re supported by someone who is trained to understand the psychology behind attraction, someone who can cut through the noise of superficial connections to find someone who genuinely complements you. They look at who you are beneath the surface and carefully select matches based on deeper compatibility. For those who want something more than a fleeting attraction, a matchmaker can be the guiding hand that helps you find not just a spark but a steady flame. 

If you’re ready to explore attraction and find a connection that lasts, contact our team of experts today. After all, sometimes it takes a little science, and a lot of heart, to truly find love.