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Could bad grammar be hindering your search for love?

Whether you’re looking for love online or enlisting the services of a dating agency, one thing is certain, your profile needs to be written perfectly. After all, that is the first glimpse that a potential love interest is going to get into who you are. And we all know that first impressions matter. 

It is becoming increasingly apparent that both men and women are deterred from dating a person if their messages and profiles are riddled with slang, bad grammar, and spelling mistakes. And quite often the most common errors that put people off are the simple ones. Using ‘your’ instead of ‘you’re,’ and improper use of ‘there,’ ‘they’re’ and ‘their,’ are among the most common annoyances when it comes to dating. The biggest ick however, comes down to poor grammar or text speak in text messages. While they are designed to be quick, that doesn’t mean that you should write things like ‘u r’ instead of ‘you are,’ as it gives the impression that the recipient is not worth the effort. 

Have you ever considered that perhaps your spelling and grammar are playing a part in your failing chances of a fairytale forever after? 

For most people, improper use of grammar and misspelling of words is often perceived as sluggish, lazy, inexperienced, and unattractive. Since evolving from meeting in bars to embracing the culture of matchmaking, the key thing to remember is that the first impression a person will have of you is which words you use and how you use them. Your words say a lot about you as a person, therefore it’s important that you take your time to present yourself in the best possible way. 

Let’s consider things differently. When getting ready for a date night, you take the time to get ready and choose an outfit that flatters you and makes you feel amazing. You wouldn’t throw on your Sunday lounge suit to meet a romantic interest because you want to look and feel like the best version of yourself. Similarly, proper grammar helps you express yourself with elegance and clarity. It shows that you are eloquent, sophisticated, intelligent, and self-aware. It’s a way to showcase yourself on the highest pedestal and truly stand out from the crowd.

That said, there are simple tricks that you can bear in mind that will ensure your dating profile and messages portray you in the best possible light.

1-     Proofread. It’s not necessary to rush anything that you publish or send. Take a moment, read what you have written, and make corrections before committing. Those few extra moments aren’t going to put someone off, but a gibberish message might!

2-    Spellcheck. Thankfully, most devices have a spellcheck built in these days, making spotting incorrect spellings easy to pick up and a quick fix. Always run a spell check if you can, but be sure to use correct English, as using US English spelling when you’re not American can be perceived as bad spelling.

3-     Utilise the internet. When it comes to writing your profile take the time to make sure it is right before publishing. With a plethora of online tools like Grammarly dedicated to perfecting your writing at the click of a button, it is easy to ensure that your profile is error-free.

If spelling and grammar simply aren’t your forte, fear not, we have you covered. We have a team of professionals on hand to create an outstanding and error-free dating profile for you. All you have to do is answer a few questions about your lifestyle, goals, and aspirations in your meeting with your matchmaker and then leave the creation in our hands.

While a perfectly punctuated profile may not be the sole determinant of your romantic success, it will undoubtedly contribute to making an everlasting positive first impression. 

Here at Ignite Dating, your dedicated matchmaker will be with you every step of the way, working with you to highlight what is important for you. From the first meeting through to your blossoming relationship, they are always on hand to ensure your dating experience is as streamlined as possible, leaving you to embrace and enjoy the process every time you meet someone new. Get in touch with our team of dating experts today to find out more about how we can help you with every element of your dating journey. 

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Love Is In The Air: Global Love Conference 2024

In May, our Managing Director and Founder, Michelle Begy, and International Matchmaker, Ellie Harrison, headed to New York for the Global Love Conference – an annual event organised by the Global Love Institute to bring together experts in the dating industry. 

Surrounded by over 120 other professionals from all aspects of the dating industry, the team had a packed two days filled with insightful discussions and meaningful connections where they were able to network, collaborate, exchange knowledge, and acquire valuable insights into the latest trends, strategies, and best practices in the dating industry right now. 

With speaker sessions on a range of topics including psychological theories behind attraction, lessons in international matchmaking, the art of ethical collaboration and the art of styling a client for relationship success amongst many more, there was plenty of alignment with the ethical and client-focused approach that Ignite Dating prides itself on. 

The post-conference party, graciously hosted by the lovely Bonnie Winston was definitely among the highlights of the trip. Bonnie’s ongoing support for the conference is well-known and this year’s party was a testament to her commitment to not only the Global Love Conference but also the dating industry as a whole. The atmosphere was vibrant, and everyone was enjoying themselves, making new friends and celebrating the success of the event. 

The whole event and the food were incredible throughout and has truly ignited the spark that drives Ignite Dating forward and we can’t wait to let you know about all the exciting possibilities we have in the pipeline. So, stay tuned for those!

But the biggest highlight for both Michelle and Ellie, was meeting our New York clients and the enthusiasm that they had for their dating journey. When it comes to dating, clients often go through a range of emotions – especially if they have been out of the dating arena for a while, but thankfully Ignite Dating’s support goes far beyond simply getting them a date. Instead, they are with you every step of the way, using personality profiling, experience and intuition to provide a dating journey that will leave you feeling confident, energised, and safe.

Now, with another event over, it’s time for the team to take what they have learnt and put it into practice to further enhance the multi award-winning service that our clients receive. As a sponsor and guest speaker at the event, Michelle and the team will also be attending the Global Love Conference when it comes to London in September to further enhance their skills and knowledge. After all, by continually learning and developing our service in line with what our clients need and the ethical approach we strive for, we can be sure that we are best placed to work with you to find your perfect partner and together make steps towards the ultimate goal of a committed relationship. 

Wherever you are in the world, if you are single and looking for love but don’t know where to start, then get in touch with our team of highly qualified expert matchmakers today. Using their skills, expertise and knowledge may be just what you need to get your dating journey on the right track.

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The Deceptive Allure of Future Faking

For the most part, dating can be an exhilarating and enjoyable adventure, filled with the excitement of new connections and the promise of future possibilities. However, it can also be a minefield of emotional pitfalls and avoidable dating trends – one of the most deceptive being future faking. 

The term, which has gained popularity in the dating world in recent years, refers to the actions of one partner making grand promises about the future to create a false sense of security and investment in the relationship, without any real intention of following through. But, when you’re in the initial stages of getting to know somebody, how can you be sure their actions are genuine?

Whether you are brand new to the dating world or been navigating it for a while, understanding and recognising the signs of future faking is crucial to the success of your goal of meeting a long-term, committed partner. 

So, what is future faking?

Future faking involves the action of making huge promises or speaking extensively about the future of a relationship in order to manipulate and secure a partner’s commitment. The tactic is often used by individuals who are either unsure of their own intentions or who seek to control the dynamic of the relationship and can manifest itself in various forms. Whether you’re talking about moving in together, planning far-off vacations, discussing marriage, or even naming potential future children, if these conversations are happening within a brief period of dating, there’s a chance that they could be signs of future faking. 

The emotional impact

While in the beginning it may create a euphoric sense of connection and excitement, as time passes, and the promises remain unfulfilled the deceived partner can experience confusion, insecurity, and deep hurt. This emotional impact can lead to a significant loss of trust and self-esteem, making it even more challenging for them to navigate future relationships. 

But how do you recognise the signs?

Recognising future faking can be tricky, especially when you’re caught up in the whirlwind of a new romance. However, there are some common red flags that you can watch out for:

  1. Rapid advancement: if your partner is pushing for you to take the next step in your relationship, like moving in together or talking about long-term plans incredibly early on, then proceed with caution. The quick progression in a relatively brief time frame could be a sign of future faking. 
  2. Inconsistency: pay close attention to whether your partner’s actions align with their goals. When you’re together, do they talk about what the future will look like or how they plan to do certain things like a proposal or moving close-by, but make no concrete steps towards it? If the answer is yes, it may be time to look a little closer as to whether their words are genuine. 
  3. Too good to be true: we all know when it comes to buying something, if the offer seems too good to be true it quite often is. But why when it comes to relationships do we gloss over that fact? If the promises seem excessively idealistic or too perfect, it might be a case of future faking. 

How to protect yourself

When it comes to the early days of a relationship, it can be easy to get swept up in the moment. After all, you’ve had several dates, the chemistry is there and you have a deep connection, but it’s important to not let your heart run away with you. Here are some top tips to safeguard you from the possibility of future faking in your new relationship:

  1. Take your time: allow relationships to develop naturally without rushing into major commitments. Part of the fun of dating is in those initial stages where you’re getting to know each other and enjoying each other’s company without the pressure of knowing where it is heading. 
  2. Observe actions: we’ve all heard the age-old saying that “actions speak louder than words,” and dating is no different. Trust their actions over the words that they say. Consistent behaviour is a far better predictor of a person’s true intentions than lavish promises. 
  3. Communicate openly: foster open communication about your expectations and concerns in your relationship. A genuine partner will respect your need for clarity and transparency about how they’re feeling and where the relationship is going. 
  4. Trust your instincts: if something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Your intuition is a powerful tool when it comes to recognising manipulation, so if something doesn’t feel right in your gut, mention it, and remember the above point when it comes to the response. 

If you are a victim of future faking, it can tarnish your dating journey and have a deep emotional impact on not only that relationship but also future relationships that you enter into. But, by being aware of it and being able to recognise the signs will go a long way in protecting you and empowering you to navigate the dating world with greater discernment. 

Enlisting the help of a matchmaker can provide an added layer of security and expertise in your dating journey, helping you find a genuine, committed partner. Everybody that they introduce you to will have been ID-checked and interviewed to ensure that they are who they say they are and that their intentions are genuine when it comes to finding a partner. 

The key thing to remember is, the foundation of any successful relationship is built on trust, honesty, and mutual respect – qualities that no amount of future faking can replicate.

At Ignite Dating, your dedicated matchmaker is with you every step of the way, working with you to understand what is important to you in a partner and to make sure your dating journey is as streamlined and enjoyable as possible. They are on hand to help you navigate the trickier parts of dating, so you can relax every time you meet somebody new. Get in touch with our team of expert matchmakers today to find out how we can help you on your dating journey.

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What does quality look like in the dating world?

If you type dating agencies in the UK into Google, you’ll be met with an overwhelming number of possible agencies that all claim to be the ‘perfect partner’ for your dating journey. But with hundreds of agencies out there all offering slightly different services but promising the same results, how do you weed out the good from the bad and find the right agency for you?

While it can be overwhelming to go through them all, there are some subtle but powerful ways that can determine whether an agency is going to be right for you, and a major part of it lies in how they are set up.

Resources

Over the last few years more and more boutique agencies have been popping up with promises of extensive networks and resources to help you find your partner, but the problem with these is that they are usually run by one person. While you may be fooled into thinking that working with a single matchmaker will provide you with personalised 1-1 support whenever you need it, in reality it reduces the amount of time that they can spend working for you as that time needs to be spread across all their clients. 

To give you more insight to this, you can have a look on Companies House. If the agency you are considering has a low turnover, then it is often a reflection of the amount of clients, team and resources that they have to deliver service. Matchmaking, when done effectively, is a team effort and it takes a number of different people with varying skillsets and professional qualifications working together to provide a safe, enjoyable, and successful dating journey. From our copywriters to our coaches, stylists to matchmakers and everyone else in-between, our team works together to ensure that your journey is seamless from start to finish. 

Accreditation

Matchmaking goes far beyond the practice of simply matching two people together. After all, anyone can do that, but it doesn’t mean it will be successful. Instead, you should be looking at agencies that invest in industry training and relevant qualifications for their matchmakers. At Ignite Dating, our team of matchmakers all undergo qualifications with the Matchmaking Institute in addition to extensive in-house training. Add to this the fact that the agency’s founder, Michelle Begy, is Myers-Briggs and FIRO certified and a science based coach, our matchmaker Samantha Rowland-Jones is not only a qualified matchmaker but also a Myers-Briggs certified coach, along with Julie Drummond, an established and accredited dating coach. This means you can be sure that your introductions are based on recognised and psychologically backed profiling and matching techniques, as well as many years’ experience in the trade.

Compliance

Dating is a personal journey, and you want to make sure that the agency you select has stringent policies around data compliance and security of your personal information. Ignite Dating places a strong emphasis on discretion, privacy, and confidentiality. Our agency is ICO compliant and utilises the highest levels of security for its database, which means that you can be sure that any information you provide remains private and secure at all times. Our team is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and discretion, providing our clients with peace of mind as they embark on their search for love.

Personal touch

Having a team of people around you doesn’t mean that you lose the personal touch. In fact, at Ignite Dating we pride ourselves on offering award-winning customer service to our clients from the moment that they enquire through to them finding true love. Everyone that joins, has been met face-to-face with a dating consultant, regardless of where you are based and your availability as we offer evening and weekend appointments around the UK as standard. This gives us the chance to meet you at a place and time that suits so we can get to know the softer aspects of your personality as well as what you tell us during the meeting, so that we can work with you in a way that is right for your personality and your individual needs. 

Not only that, but there are multiple touch points along the way before you’re even ready for matching. This is to ensure that you not only understand what to expect from your dating journey, but also ensure that you have everything you need to leave you feeling confident, energised, and safe throughout. At Ignite Dating, we don’t just take anyone on. Our clients have all been verified and ID-checked to ensure that they are indeed single and suitable matches for our other clients. This thorough interview process includes ID and address checks, questions around health, addictions, and criminal convictions as well as an in-depth digital footprint check. If a potential client doesn’t meet these standards, then we will decline them engaging our service  as we take the security and protection of our clients very seriously. 

Helping you make the right choice

Now these are by no means the only considerations you need to look out for when choosing a dating agency, but they do highlight the importance of reading through websites and conducting your own research carefully. We also recommend having an open conversation over a coffee with the matchmaker who will be working with you, allowing you to ask any questions and clarify anything that you are unsure of to get a better understanding of the services that they offer and how they work in order to decide which agency is right for you.

If you are single and have made that decision to join an agency, but are not sure where to start then get in touch with our friendly team today for an open and honest chat about how we can help you on your dating journey.

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Could the 777 rule change your dating journey?

When it comes to dating, everyone has their own opinions on what you should and shouldn’t do. While there are some bad pieces of advice out there – we all remember the age-old ‘treat ‘em mean and keep ‘em keen’ and the ‘wait three days before responding after a date’ to name a few –  every so often you stumble across something that genuinely works, and the 777 rule is just that. If you’re single and considering enlisting the expertise of a matchmaker, understanding this rule could be your first step towards a more fulfilling dating journey.

What is the 777 dating rule?

Offering a refreshing and structured approach designed to streamline the dating process, this simple yet effective guideline is perfect for those venturing into the dating scene, whether for the first time or after a long hiatus. It breaks down the initial stages of dating into manageable segments, emphasising patience and thoughtful progression and includes three key steps:

  1. Seven days of communication

When you start your dating journey and you have matched with somebody, the first step is to communicate with them to find out more about who they are beyond their profile. Spend at least seven days communicating with your potential match, whether through texting, phone calls or video chats, before going on a date. The goal here is to build a basic connection and get a feel for each other’s personalities and interests without the pressure of meeting in person right away. 

  1. Seven different dates

Once you’ve established a basic connection, aim to go on seven dates with this person. These dates should ideally be spread over several weeks and entail a range of different activities such as coffee dates, dinner dates and even an activity or two. This will give you ample time to see different sides of your partner in various settings and allow you to explore your compatibility, shared values, and mutual interests.

  1. Seven weeks of consideration

After completing these seven dates, spend seven weeks reflecting on your experiences and feelings. During this period, focus on assessing the potential for a long-term relationship. Discuss any concerns or thoughts with your matchmaker to gain additional insights and perspectives, helping you decide on the future of the relationship with clarity and confidence. 

Why the 777 rule works

The beauty of the 777 dating rule lies in its structure. The planned and controlled approach encourages a balanced and thoughtful approach to dating. In an age of instant gratification, this rule slows down the process and encourages patience, allowing genuine connections to form. It encourages you to invest the time in understanding your potential partner and what you are looking for from a relationship. 

Not only that, but by breaking down the dating process into clear stages, it reduces the overwhelming nature of modern dating. You know what to focus on at each step, making the journey less stressful and more enjoyable. If you embrace the 777 rule with an open mind and a commitment to follow each stage, trust the process and be patient you will enjoy a dating journey that is sure to leave you feeling confident, energised, and safe. 

Plus, with structured communication and a series of dates, you get a comprehensive view of your potential partner’s character, values, aspirations, and lifestyle. This thorough approach helps in making more informed decisions about long-term compatibility. 

How a matchmaker can enhance this journey further

Enlisting the help of a professional matchmaker can significantly enhance your experience with the 777 rule. Matchmakers use their expertise and resources to provide personalised introductions with people who align with your values, interests, and goals, increasing the likelihood of compatibility from the start.

Matchmakers also provide ongoing guidance and support, helping you navigate each stage of the 777 rule and your overall dating journey. They offer advice on effective communication, suggest meaningful date ideas, and help you reflect on your experiences. Sometimes it can be challenging to see the bigger picture when you’re emotionally invested, but a matchmaker offers an objective perspective, helping you make clear, rational decisions about your relationship. 

By following the 777 dating rule and partnering with a professional matchmaker, you’re setting yourself up for a more intentional and fulfilling dating experience. This structured approach not only simplifies the journey but also increases your chances of finding a meaningful and lasting connection. 

If you’re ready to take that first step, then get in touch with the team today and let our expert matchmakers and the 777 rule guide you to the love you’ve been searching for.

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The best date ideas in New York City

New York is often dubbed the city that never sleeps and with so many great places to explore and must-see attractions that are open throughout the day and night, it’s easy to see why. 

To celebrate our recent expansion stateside, we’ve rounded up the best date ideas to enjoy in the city. Whether you’re looking for new places to head with a partner or searching for the ideal first date spot, here’s our top tips for the best experiences to share together. 

Get reacquainted with Central Park

More than 8.6 million people live in New York City, but it doesn’t feel that way when you head to Central Park. Spanning 840 acres, this all season and free-to-enter oasis in the middle of Manhattan has plenty to offer. Whether your idea of a perfect date is a paddle across Central Park Lake in a rowboat, a visit to see the animals at Central Park Zoo or a simple picnic lunch on the Great Lawn, you’re sure to find something to suit. 

Lose yourselves in the literary world of The Morgan Library & Museum

From ultra-rare first editions to manuscripts, drawings, and sheet music from some of history’s most famous artists, The Morgan Library & Museum has it all. What originally began as the personal library of financier, collector, and cultural benefactor Pierpont Morgan, has since grown over the years to create a dramatic organisation of literary delights all housed in a stunning and dramatic architectural design. 

Travel back in time at The Met Cloisters

Inspired by European churches, castles and monasteries, the stunning gardens and majestic architecture on show at The Met Cloisters is sure to set the perfect scene for you to live out your romantic medieval fantasies. With a focus on the Romanesque and Gothic periods, The Cloisters is home to a diverse collection of medieval artworks allowing you both to explore and happily reminisce on days gone by. 

Take a sunset stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge

It’s a scene played out in many a romantic movie, but whether you start at the Brooklyn or Manhattan side of the bridge, you’re sure to encounter a breathtaking view that really outdoes itself come nightfall. Time your walk with the beauty of sunset to make the most of the gorgeous backdrop as you walk along, chatting and getting to know each other better.

Visit an original New York City Speakeasy

Retro speakeasies have become relatively common in New York City over the years, so why not score some cool points with your date by visiting a true original? Little Branch was one of the first speakeasies on the scene back in 2005. Behind its nondescript entrance on Seventh Avenue, you can head down the stairs into a perfectly chic cocktail bar where the bartenders are on hand to create an expertly crafted cocktail just to your taste. 

Transcend time and space at The Met

Home of the infamous Met Gala Ball, the Met is an iconic powerhouse when it comes to the arts. Housing over 5,000 years of art from around the world, you and your date can travel around the world and across time through its 490,000+ works of art. Not only that but every Friday and Saturday night, it’s Date Night at The Met, allowing you to experience live music, drink specials and an assortment of light fare in this stunning building. 

Impress with dinner and a view of the Empire State Building

What could be more special than celebrating your relationship at New York’s most iconic landmark, the Empire State Building? Offering breathtaking views in every direction from the 102nd floor and complemented with elegant dishes at the STATE Grill and Bar, this iconic date is sure to impress day or night.  

These are just a few of our favourites, but with so many attractions and great places to explore, the sky really is your limit when it comes to date ideas in New York.

If you’re based in New York and looking for a new way to date, then get in touch with our team today to find out more about how we can help on your search for love.

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Why Dating When Your Partner Has Dementia Might Not Be The Best Choice

Love is a powerful force, capable of transcending boundaries and overcoming obstacles. However, there are certain situations where the complexities of life challenge the conventional notions of romance. One such circumstance, which is highly contested and debated, is when a spouse is grappling with dementia or other debilitating illnesses and the other has a desire to start looking for companionship and maybe more in time.  

While the yearning for connection and companionship may persist, the decision to embark on or continue a romantic relationship outside of marriage during such a trial raises profound ethical, emotional and practical dilemmas. 

Dementia can erode memories, distort personalities, and alter the very fabric of intimacy and partnership that a couple shared for many years. For the spouse left to witness this gradual unravelling, emotions oscillate between heartache, resilience, and unwavering commitment to their loved one’s wellbeing. Yet, amongst this turmoil, the allure of external affection and intimacy may beckon, presenting a moral quandary that demands careful consideration.

At the heart of this very dilemma lies the ethical question of fidelity and consent. When you got married you made a promise to have and to hold in sickness and in health, but what does that mean in reality? Dementia strips away the cognitive faculties essential for meaningful consent, blurring the lines between informed choice and vulnerability. Even if the spouse with dementia seems to express acquiescence or indifference to the possibility of their partner dating again, it’s imperative to question whether they possess the cognitive clarity to comprehend the ramifications of infidelity. Engaging in extramarital affairs under such circumstances can betray the trust and integrity of the marital bond, casting a shadow of deceit over the sanctity of the relationship.

Not only that, but the emotional toll exacted by dementia is profound and unrelenting. Witnessing the gradual dissolution of the person you once cherished, coupled with the demands of caregiving, can inflict a heavy burden on the spouse left to navigate this harrowing journey. Emotions of grief, guilt and profound loneliness may be unavoidable, tempting the search of solace and connection outside the confines of marriage. Yet, the pursuit of external affection risks further exacerbating the emotional turmoil you are currently feeling, compounding the complexities of an already fragile relationship.

Practical considerations further complicate the intricacies of dating while caring for a spouse with dementia. Providing round-the-clock care demands resolute dedication, patience, and a willingness to sacrifice one’s own needs for the sake of their partner’s wellbeing. Introducing the distractions of an extramarital relationship can undermine the quality of care provided, diverting attention and resources away from the essential responsibilities of caregiving. 

Furthermore, the blurring of boundaries between caregiver and romantic partner can precipitate conflicts of interest that can ultimately jeopardise the integrity of both relationships. Caregiving necessitates empathy, compassion, and a solid commitment to meeting the needs of the spouse with dementia. By introducing external romantic dynamics to the equation, you can fracture this delicate balance, eroding trust and compromising the dignity of all parties involved – ultimately ending up feeling hurt and lonelier than before. 

The decision to engage in extramarital relationships while caring for a spouse with dementia is a deeply personal and morally fraught choice. It demands introspection, empathy, and a steadfast commitment to upholding the sanctity and dignity of the marital bond. While the pursuit of external affection may offer fleeting solace amidst the turmoil of caregiving, it risks inflicting irreparable harm on all parties involved. Ultimately, love, in its truest form, transcends the boundaries of desire, demanding unwavering fidelity, compassion and integrity, even in the face of life’s most formidable trials. Whilst at Ignite Dating, we are sympathetic and understanding of these complexities, we ensure that all matches are single and in the right emotional space to date ethically and morally.

Are you looking for a partner who understands the complexities of being a widow following a journey of dementia? Someone who shares your values, life goals and aspirations for the future. Get in touch today to find out how we can help you with a safe and enjoyable search for love.

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Spring date outfit inspiration for women

Luxe Collective is a preloved luxury reseller that buys and sells the most sought-after pieces from the world’s most renowned designers. Here experts from the brand share their top tips for revitalising your wardrobe and feeling your best with designer bags, shoes, and accessories.  

Spring is the season of new beginnings, and the perfect time to make the most of the opportunities the new season presents to plan your next romantic rendezvous. Whether you’re meeting someone new or enjoying a night out with your significant other, the right outfit can make all the difference to how you feel. We understand the importance of making a lasting impression, which is why we’ve curated the ultimate guide to spring date fashion for women. From coffee in the park and cocktails on a sunny terrace to a romantic dinner in a beautiful restaurant, we’ve got the perfect styling ideas to put a spring in your step and help your confidence shine through.  

Coffee in the park  

There’s something undeniably charming about a leisurely coffee date in the park. The crisp spring air, the budding flowers – it’s the perfect setting for getting to know someone new. For a look that’s casual yet stylish, opt for a pair of white straight-leg jeans and a cashmere knit. Pull on a canvas jacket or trench coat and pair your outfit with classic leather ankle boots or luxury sneakers. Our favourites would be a pair of Valentino VLogo boots or a pair of Chanel CC runners that can add a pop of colour to your look. The beauty of a luxury sneaker? Not only are they comfortable for a stroll in the park, but they also add a touch of personality to your outfit. Finally, complete your outfit with a luxury crossbody bag, perhaps a Hermès Constance or a Louis Vuitton multi-pochette, to keep your essentials close at hand while you enjoy your coffee.  

Cocktails on a rooftop terrace  

Brighter evenings are best enjoyed with cocktails on a sun-soaked terrace. This is also a prime opportunity to showcase your fashion-forward style with an elevated outfit that seamlessly transitions from drinks to dinner.  

Consider pairing relaxed denim with an oversized blazer or a boxy tailored jacket for a sophisticated yet cool date night look. When elevating everyday staples like denim, accessories play a crucial role. We adore vintage designer jewellery for adding a touch of glamour, whether it’s vintage Chanel earrings, layers of delicate necklaces from Van Cleef & Arpels, or stacks of Cartier love bracelets.  

Finish your outfit by slipping into a pair of stunning designer heels like a Louis Vuitton mule or a classic Jimmy Choo sandal, and you’re ready to sip cocktails, bask in the sun, and hopefully savour some stellar company too.  

Romantic dinner date  

For a more intimate and romantic evening, nothing beats a dinner date in a beautiful restaurant. Strike a sophisticated yet sexy balance with a little black dress and a pair of killer high heels. Classic silhouettes like a Louboutin So Kate stiletto pump would be perfect. But if you’re looking for a heeled sandal, it’s got to be a pair of Saint Laurent Opyum heels that deliver flirty and fun. Add a finishing touch with an elegant bag. Choose from a Chanel classic flap bag, perhaps a vintage Dior Saddle, or even a trending Prada bag. A beautiful dinner is the perfect opportunity to wear some of your glamorous and luxurious pieces. Whether it’s an LBD or a tailored set, adding luxury designer accessories, be it bags, shoes, or jewellery, will help you achieve date-night luxe perfect for the spring season.   

Continue the love story  

From Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and more, Luxe Collective offers 100% authentic designer bags, shoes, and accessories for both men and women. Whether you’re on the lookout for the perfect new piece to add to your collection or you want to streamline your current closet, Luxe Collective offer an expert-led preloved luxury service. We allow you to maximise the earning potential of your preloved pieces as well as the opportunity to buy incredible designer items.  

Looking for a more personal, 1-2-1 selling experience? Luxe Exclusive VIP Buyer Lauren Green is on hand to help streamline your closet. Simply email Lauren at lauren@luxecollectivefashion.com to start your selling journey. 

Luxe Collective is offering all Ignite members £30 off their first order with code IGNITE30

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5 things I have learnt from building a business in a pandemic

When I look back to 18 months ago when I first launched Ignite Dating, I never could have imagined just how successful it would be after just one year. Even though we now have two offices – a head office in central London and a regional office in Rutland, a team of nine and accreditation from the Matchmaking Institute under my belt I still have to pinch myself as I can’t believe that this is real.

What a lot of people don’t know about me is that I suffer massively from imposter syndrome. Contrary to the evidence of all that I have achieved over the last year and a half (despite the pandemic), I still have those moments where I feel that familiar wave of self-doubt wash over me and struggle to recognise my competence and skills – and I know that I’m not alone in this.

As I reflect on all that I have achieved so far and continue to achieve, I feel so lucky that despite the challenges that have seen many industries and businesses suffer the Ignite Dating brand continues to go from strength to strength.

My secret? Staying true to my values for an ethical and moral industry, listening to my clients and what they really wanted and building a network of the most supportive, smartest, and passionate people who share my aspirations and dreams for the future of Ignite Dating.

1. Set your goals and stick to them

From the moment I decided to launch my own matchmaking agency, I knew what I wanted to achieve and how to get there. Having worked with one of the UK’s largest introduction agencies, I realised that the dating world was going through another transition. Educated and successful people were bored of labour-intensive online dating, had perhaps found that database matching wasn’t quite hitting the right note and wanted to be more prescriptive as to what they wanted in a partner. So, I set myself one rule, always listen to my clients and develop a personalised service that meets their needs.

If the pandemic taught me anything, it’s that not everything goes to plan. You can never fully know what is going to happen in the future, so it is important to remember that if the plan doesn’t work, change the plan but never change the goal.

2. Never stop pushing no matter what challenges you face

When I set up Ignite Dating, I had no idea what was to come in just a few short months. Ten weeks after launching, the whole country went into lockdown. For an industry that thrives on personal contact and building relationships, there was no way of knowing the true impact that this situation was going to have on not only Ignite Dating but the industry as a whole and everyone seemed to have a bleak outlook on the future.

Faced with a situation where we couldn’t meet face-to-face to interview clients, and they in turn weren’t able to meet up to date, I was concerned with the impact this would have on the new business. However, rather than give up at the first hurdle I took a “push harder, work longer and build faster” approach.

When many people in the industry decided that they would concentrate solely on the clients that they had already taken on to see them through the pandemic, we took a different approach. Instead of waiting to see what happened as the pandemic unfolded, we embraced the opportunities of lockdown and the more traditional relationship approach that it necessitated. This determination to stay positive and swim against the tide allowed us to come out of lockdown stronger and in a better position than ever – something which looks set to continue.

3. Networking is the foundation to a successful business

Those first few months of launching Ignite Dating passed by in a haze of networking events and business meetings. From morning through to late evening, I would be meeting other matchmakers, potential ambassadors and clients that were interested in the unique way in which Ignite Dating works and the service that we offer. I networked relentlessly, and even to this day a huge part of my day is spent growing my network, seven days a week.

4. Don’t underestimate the value of sisterhood

Working in a very female-heavy industry, sisterhood and community are vital when it comes to building a business in the dating sector. Over the years I have formed fundamental relationships and a close-knit community, and we support each other with all aspects of growing a business. From collaboration on the services offered to swapping skillsets and supporting one another, those connections have been my driving force to achieve success, especially Genevieve Gresset our in-house coach who has been my ongoing sounding board and Peter Brodnicki who has had constant belief and passion in what we do.

Even in these modern times, only 1 in 3 UK entrepreneurs are female. This highlights the importance in increasing opportunities for women to be able to start their own businesses and it is something that I am deeply passionate about. To help combat this, we offer women a business venture that is truly their own, allowing them to fit work seamlessly around their personal life to give them time to focus on their children or give them a more balanced work and social life – something that can prove quite difficult when employed. After all, just because you’re a mum doesn’t mean you can’t also have your own successful business!

5. Build a supportive and passionate team

Not every day in a new business is going to be a good one – that is just reality. But with a strong team around you keeping you connected, focused and healthy you can face anything – no matter what life throws at you. This is something that is very important to me and part of the key building blocks behind the Ignite Dating brand.

To drive the team and keep morale boosted, we have implemented strategies to ensure that all Ignite Dating Angels maintain a happy and healthy work life. From a compassionate workplace to flexible hours, promotion of a good work-life balance to team building activities and small gestures on birthdays or when they achieve their first sale, these strategies make the world of difference to morale and encourages both employees and franchisees alike to achieve a happy and healthy work-life balance.