Category: Uncategorized

Dating can be fun and exciting; getting to know new people and feeling those butterflies with each message and each meeting.

But for most people, the end goal is a healthy, long-term relationship built on mutual goals and genuine connections. 

The only way to find long-lasting love like this is to distinguish between your wants and needs in a relationship and take this on board when dating. 

Understanding the difference between the two can help you to build healthier, more fulfilling connections while avoiding unnecessary heartache.

But how do you make sure you get this right? 

Understanding what you need from a relationship

Your needs are the fundamental aspects required for a healthy, happy and long-lasting relationship. They are non-negotiable and essential for your well-being. 

If these needs are not met, the likelihood is that your relationship will be unfulfilling, and it could even be damaging. Some of the most common relationship needs include:

• Emotional support
• Trust and honesty
• Compatibility in core values for major life choices and ambitions
• Mutual effort, communication and commitment 
• Respect 
• Physical and emotional safety

Without these elements, a relationship is less likely to stand the test of time, and you’re more likely to be dissatisfied with your partner and relationship. 

Understanding what you want from a relationship 

Unlike your needs, the things you want from a partner are preferences that may enhance your relationship, but they are not essential for its success. 

Sure, they can contribute to attraction and enjoyment, but they should not override your core needs. Some examples of what you might want include:

• Physical traits and a specific appearance that is attractive to you 
• Similar hobbies and interests
• Financial status
• Social status or popularity

These aspects might be nice to have and can contribute towards a better relationship; however, they do not equal a safe, mutually respectful and successful partnership. They only enhance it if and when your basic needs are being met. 

How to differentiate between the two 

Recognising the difference between your wants and needs can help you make more intentional choices when dating. But, in case you’re unsure how to differentiate between the two, you should:

Reflect on your past relationships

Think about what made you feel truly happy and secure in past relationships and what it was that led to its eventual downfall. For example, were they fit and athletic and shared your love for TV, but there wasn’t healthy communication, and they never listened to you?

If that’s the case, then you need to focus on finding someone who is emotionally available to fulfil your needs. And if they share your love of crime series and playing tennis, well, that’s a bonus! 

Make a list

Take some time to write down what you believe are your absolute needs in a partner versus your ideal preferences. Those you could take or leave, as long as the core needs were being met. 

This list should include your deal breakers. These traits or values would genuinely affect your long-term happiness and well-being. 

Consider growth and adaptability 

Your wants may evolve over time, while your core needs are likely to stay the same. So don’t be afraid to re-evaluate your wants and consider how you’ve grown and changed since your last relationship. 

Seek balance

Finally, while it’s okay to have wants and desires, you should never compromise on your fundamental needs for the sake of fulfilling a want. So, try to get the balance just right. 

Look for someone who is ticking those fundamental boxes first before looking at those more superficial aspects. Of course, we’re not saying that attraction and personal traits aren’t important, but these need to be balanced with your core needs. 

By prioritising what truly matters in this way, you can attract a partner who aligns with your values and leads to a fulfilling, lasting relationship. 

At Ignite Dating, we understand that differentiating between the two can be tricky, which is why we work closely with our clients to understand what they need before matching this with what they want.  

By getting to know you on a deeper level, we can help you to get the balance just right and find the perfect match. So, if you’re ready to get your dating journey off to the best possible start, get in touch with our talented team today. 

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. 

Navigating the world of modern dating can be very exciting; those first flirtatious glances, planning the first date, getting butterflies in your stomach every time your phone pings. 

You know the feeling. 

But it can also be nerve-wracking and even overwhelming.

Should you message them first? What should your first message say? Where should you go and what should you do for your first date? What should you wear? 

There’s so much to consider in those early stages if you want to make a lasting impression, pave the way for a meaningful connection and, yes, secure a second date. 

So how do you make yourself stand out in a sea of potential partners?  

Well, we’re going to share some advice on getting it right from the very first message to saying goodbye at the end of your first date. 

Crafting the perfect first message

It doesn’t matter how you met, whether that was through mutual friends, a chance happening on the street or through a matchmaking service like Ignite Dating, your first message exchange can feel high pressure. 

Don’t make the mistake of sending something generic that can be ignored, like ‘Hey’ or ‘This is Tom’. These messages don’t exactly ignite that spark or encourage them to reply. Instead, it’s better to be more personal and specific, tapping into any information you already know about them. 

For example, if you know that they enjoy good coffee, ask them where their favourite coffee place is. This is also a great way to start lining up a venue  for a first date. 

Well-placed humour or a joke is also a great first step because who doesn’t love someone who makes them laugh? 

Just make sure that you keep your messages short and engaging. No one wants to read an essay, especially from someone they’ve just met. 

Keeping the conversation flowing

Once you’ve got their attention, you want to maintain an engaging conversation over the coming days before the first date. To do this, you should ask open-ended questions and share personal stories or anecdotes. This will build rapport and help you get to know one another. 

Just be careful to avoid overloading them with messages and follow-ups. Give them space to reply and let the conversation flow naturally.

It’s also important to recognise when it’s time to move on to the next step. Don’t let the conversation fizzle out into just another textual exchange. Once you’ve established a comfortable rapport with them, it might be time to suggest a first date. 

Asking for the first date

When planning the first date, timing is everything. Too soon, and you might come across as pushy; too late, and you both may have lost interest. 

With that in mind, the best time to ask is after you’ve established a fun and engaging conversation. When you do ask them, make sure to be confident but casual and give a specific but flexible plan. 

For example, you could suggest a specific activity or place to go whilst giving them the opportunity to choose the date and time. 

If they seem hesitant or have a busy schedule, don’t push them for an answer. A polite “No worries, let me know if you’d like to go another time” keeps things open-ended. If they’re truly interested in meeting you, they’ll get back to you to get more formal plans in place. 

Making a great impression on the first date

Now that the date is set, the next step is ensuring everything goes well.

It doesn’t matter what you decide to do or where you’re going, whether it’s dinner in the evening or a walk around the local park at lunchtime, you need to make a good impression if you hope to secure another date. 

In order to do this, you need to:

• Be punctual – Never leave them waiting, and if you are late for reasons out of your control, make sure to contact them and keep them updated on the situation until you arrive. 
• Dress appropriately – What you wear will depend on the activity, but it’s important that whatever you’re doing, you look well-presented and put together. Looking like you haven’t made any effort just won’t do it, even if you’re going on a muddy dog walk or just grabbing a quick coffee.
• Keep the conversation balanced – You don’t want your first date to feel like an interview; you also don’t want to dominate the conversation. So, make sure to actively listen to them and offer thoughtful questions or responses. 
• Avoid contentious subjects –  Similarly, there are some topics you should probably avoid on the first day, topics such as politics, unless, of course, this is a shared interest. 
• Choose the right venue – Opt for a place that allows for easy conversation or choose fun activities that you’re both interested in. Loud bars or crowded restaurants can be stressful and make it hard to have an enjoyable conversation with one another. 
• Be mindful of your body language – During the date, maintain good eye contact, smile naturally and use open body language to show you’re interested. Avoid crossing your arms or looking at your phone frequently, as this suggests you’re not all that interested in what they have to say. 

Ending on a positive note

If the date goes well, make sure to express how much you enjoyed spending time with them without going over the top. 

A simple “I had a great time today. Let’s do this again soon” should suffice. 

If you’re interested in a second date, it’s also a good idea to follow up within a day or two with a message reiterating what a nice time you had. This will increase your chances of getting a second date in the diary. 

Are you ready to put yourself out there?

Making a lasting impression from the first message to the first date involves authenticity, confidence and effort.

Of course, you have to meet that special someone and exchange numbers first. So, if you’re looking for love and genuine connection this year, get in touch with our team of talented matchmakers today and you could be arranging your first date in no time.

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.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and whether you’re in a long-term relationship or have just started dating, this can provide you with the perfect excuse for romance. 

The tricky part is deciding what to do, especially if you’re celebrating a milestone like your first Valentine’s Day together. 

From classic and romantic date ideas to unique experiences and adventurous days out, there are so many wonderful ways you can spend your day. 

So let us help you out, here are seven ideas for great dates to make this Valentine’s Day memorable, and not cringey!

1. Take a cookery class together 

If you’re passionate about food and looking for a unique way to spend the evening, a couples cookery class can be fun while also boosting your culinary skills. 

From pasta and curries to sushi and desserts, there are so many great courses to choose from; all you need to do is do a little research and find the right class for you and your date. 

2. Book a weekend getaway 

This year, Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday, making this the perfect way to start the weekend.  

So, for even more quality time together, you could plan an entire weekend getaway, whether that’s a road trip, city break or couple’s spa weekend. Alternatively, you could book yourself a cosy cottage or boutique hotel, somewhere with a hot tub, great views or a roaring fire to ramp up the romance. 

3. Plan a fancy dinner date

If you’d rather keep it classic, why not book yourself a table at your favourite restaurant? 

Ideally, somewhere with a nice, cosy ambience and great food. This will give you the chance to dress up and wine and dine each other. 

Or, if you want something more intimate, you could cook a gourmet dinner at home and create your own romantic ambience with candles and music. If your cookery skills are lacking, well, then there’s always your favourite local takeaway to the rescue! 

4. Go for a romantic walk (or hike if you’re feeling energetic) 

Let’s face it, the weather isn’t always great at this time of year, but if you get a crisp and sunny day, it can be so nice to get out in the fresh air. 

Whether you choose to walk around the local park, explore the city or head to the nearest beach, a romantic walk is a nice way to spend time together, talking and strengthening your connection. 

If you fancy something more active and energetic, gear up and go hiking, where you can explore a scenic trail or mountain path. You could even take a flask of coffee to enjoy when you reach your destination. 

5. Embrace the arts 

If you’re a lover of the arts, Valentine’s Day is a great reason to book tickets to the theatre, opera, movies, or even visit an art gallery if that’s your style. 

A quick online search will reveal which performances or exhibitions are currently taking place in your local area. 

6. Grab a coffee 

Who doesn’t love a cosy coffee date? And if you’re both coffee aficionado’s – even better. 

You could choose from a pit stop at your local cafe, a cosy pub lunch, or even just grab a takeaway cup while you’re out on a stroll; coffee is perfect for pretty much every occasion.

This can be a great date idea if you’re both short on time or if you’re still in the early stages of dating and you’re planning something more casual for your first Valentine’s Day together. 

7. Choose a cosy night in

The final suggestion on our list is ideal if you fancy a quiet night in or you are hoping to avoid the Valentine’s Day crowds. 

Sometimes, a date night at home is best. You can wear comfortable clothes, enjoy a movie marathon, or binge-watch your favourite TV series from the comfort of your sofa. 

But don’t treat this like any other evening; you can make it feel a little more special with candles, your favourite foods, perhaps a cheeseboard and wine or your go-to cinema snacks. 

What are you planning this Valentine’s Day? 

Whether it’s a fun day out or a relaxed night in, there are so many great ways you can spend your Valentine’s Day and enjoy some much-needed quality time together. 

If you’re still relatively new to the dating scene or you’re ready to find the perfect partner to spend next Valentine’s Day with, we can help. Get in touch with our talented team of matchmakers today for more expert dating advice and support on your dating journey.

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.

Playing house is a common trend for too many couples and can be a very subtle yet damaging behaviour. 

It happens when couples mimic the behaviours of a long-term, committed relationship without actually having the deeper conversations that are crucial for establishing a solid foundation.

While these relationships might feel genuine and fulfilling for a short while, they have the potential to lead to confusion and heartbreak. 

That’s why we’re here to share more details on the impact of playing house and how you can avoid this in new and existing relationships. 

What does playing house really mean, and how can it impact individuals?

Playing house can look (and feel) as real as living together, sharing expenses, and even acting like a married couple. However, this is all done without addressing long-term compatibility, giving full commitment or discussing plans for the future. 

The trouble is, this can lead to emotional dependence without accountability, which can result in superficial connections and, usually, one partner that is more invested than the other. 

The dangers of playing house

When one or both partners engage in this behaviour, the relationship (and the individuals) can suffer in a number of ways. 

For example, one person might believe they’re building a future together, while the other is simply enjoying the convenience of the arrangement. 

It might also take time for deeper incompatibilities to become apparent. This delayed realisation of misaligned goals can mean that one or both partners have invested significant time, energy, and emotion into a relationship that has no future.

Ultimately, this can cause resentment and heartbreak. 

Why has this behaviour become so common 

This phenomenon is certainly becoming more common in modern relationships, and this is because our fast-paced world makes it easier to fall into patterns and routines that feel like a relationship milestone. 

For example, moving in together or combining finances without actually taking the time to evaluate long-term compatibility and shared goals.

Then there is the fear of difficult conversations as more people shy away from discussing topics like marriage, children or financial goals early on in the relationship. This is usually through fear of commitment or a worry that having this deeper conversation could scare their partner away. 

Lastly, movies, social media and today’s societal expectations have romanticised relationships, showing the more superficial side of simply acting the part. Many don’t realise that while romance is important, relationships do require work, and open communication is vital for them to succeed. 

How to avoid playing house in a relationship

If you want to build a genuine and meaningful relationship, you need to avoid falling into the trap of playing house. To do that, you should: 

Be open and honest 

Have open and honest conversations early on in your relationship to discuss long-term goals and expectations. This includes being upfront about marriage, kids, career plans and any other big life decisions. 

While these conversations may feel intimidating, they are so important for understanding compatibility and ensuring you’re both on the same page. 

Make sure to define the relationship 

Just because you live together or spend a lot of time together, don’t assume this equals commitment. It’s important to explicitly discuss what commitment looks like to each of you, continuing these open and honest conversations. 

This may also include setting boundaries for living together or financial arrangements to avoid misunderstanding.

Pace yourself 

Try not to rush into domestic routines or significant commitments without fully understanding your partner’s intentions and future goals. Take time to evaluate compatibility beyond surface-level habits and take things slowly to ensure no one is misled or hurt. 

Look for actions, not just words

Yes, these conversations are critical, but it’s also vital that you pay attention to how your partner behaves rather than just what they say. 

Are they consistent in showing commitment, or do their actions suggest they’re only in it for convenience? 

Similarly, do they actively work towards their individual goals, as well as your shared aspirations? If not, they may not truly be committed. 

Don’t fall victim to playing house 

While playing house may seem harmless, especially when everything feels comfortable and fun in the moment, too often, it leads to disappointment. 

The key to a successful relationship lies in open communication, clear boundaries and mutual respect. By addressing the tough topics or questions early on and ensuring that you’re aligned on your intentions, you can create a relationship built on trust, honesty and lasting commitment. 

If you’ve been the victim of playing house before, or you’re simply on the lookout for a more genuine and meaningful relationship, let our expert matchmakers help. 

Get in touch today to start meeting like-minded individuals, those who share common interests and future ambitions for a committed relationship.

With the glitter of New Year’s Eve fading behind us and normal life returning post-Christmas, a quiet transformation begins. Many of us will set ourselves new goals for the year ahead and take some time to recover from December’s festivities. 

This is the exact reason that the new year is often overlooked as a good time for romance, but it can be one of the best times of the year to make new connections. 

The perfect blend of reflection, renewed energy and societal trends means that the new year actually marks a golden opportunity to find love – and here’s why. 

A season of fresh starts

The new year always carries an undeniable sense of renewal. After the late nights, endless party food, and the whirlwind of the festive period, people naturally tend to reflect on the past year and set new goals and resolutions for the future. 

For some, finding love may be at the top of the list; for others, it may be working on themselves. Whatever the case, this collective mindset of making a fresh start can be the grounds for meaningful connections, as many others are also motivated to open their hearts to new relationships.

Not only that, but the energy of January is quite unique. It’s hopeful and forward-looking. This means that you’re more likely to meet someone who, like you, is committed to making positive changes and connecting with new people. 

It is the extended ‘cuffing’ season

With many looking for something new in January, cuffing season often creeps on for another month, with people seeking companionship to stave off the cold winter. While cuffing season is not without its problems, there are still those who are looking for genuine relationships and are ready to invest in something lasting.

As a result, you can take advantage of the extended cuffing season to start meeting new people and making new connections. 

Adopting a mindset of growth and reflection

As well as a fresh start, the new year brings with it a mindset that is all about growth and reflection. This could include looking back at past relationships, bad habits, and things you wish to improve about yourself. This self-awareness can lead to healthier and more fulfilling connections.

On top of that, as you work on your own resolutions, whether that’s improving your fitness, being more active, learning a new skill or anything else for that matter, you are more likely to become more confident and magnetic to others. Plus, you’ll have more talking points for those all-important early dates! 

Less pressure, more authenticity

January also lacks the high stakes of romantic holidays like Christmas, New Year’s Eve and Valentine’s Day. There’s no pressure to perform, impress or rush into any grand gestures. This makes it easier to build connections that are based on authenticity rather than societal expectations.

How to make the most of the positive New Year energy 

With lots of positive New Year energy floating around, you should make the most of this underrated time of year. 

Set your intentions for January  

You don’t have to set solid resolutions as such, but be clear about what you want to achieve this year. In particular, what are you looking for in a partner and relationship? A clear and positive mindset and openness to new experiences can make all the difference to your dating journey.

Expand your social circles

Whether you choose to join a club, take a class, attend events or sign up with a dedicated matchmaking service like Ignite Dating, take this opportunity to expand your social circle. 

New environments bring new people into your orbit, and with more optimistic people looking for change, you’re more likely to make genuine connections. 

Focus on self-love

The best way to attract the right person and feel good in your new dating journey is by feeling confident and fulfilled on your own. Use the new year’s energy to invest in yourself first, so you can go into any new relationship as the best version of yourself. 

Make January the month you find love 

All too often, we hear about how long the month of January can feel and the impact of things like Blue Monday. But as most people embrace renewal and growth in the new year, January actually provides the perfect stage for love to find its way into your life.

So, don’t wait for Cupid’s arrow to strike in February; it’s time to embrace the glow of the post-New Year. Get in touch with our team of dedicated matchmakers today to start your dating journey and let 2025 be the year you find the love you deserve.

In a world where swiping left and right has become synonymous with modern romance, it might come as a surprise that dating apps appear to be declining in popularity this year. 

Recent studies suggest that instant online gratification and quick hookups are no longer enough, and many individuals looking for love are choosing more traditional, in-person encounters. 

But is this really the end of dating apps or are we simply on a break with these digital matchmakers? 

Some apps have already begun rebranding  

There has been a noticeable shift away from dating apps over the past 12 months, as Ofcom reports a 16% drop in the use of the top 10 most popular dating apps. More specifically:

• Tinder saw over half a million users leave the app since May 2023.
• Bumble lost 368,000 users in the same period
• Even Hinge, the “app designed to be deleted,” experienced a drop of 131,000 users

This shift is highlighted by the recent announcement that Dating App Thursday is shutting down in order to pivot its focus toward hosting in-person dating events. 

Its founder explained that while dating apps may once have revolutionised the dating industry, they have also contributed to a sense of fatigue among users. In fact, another survey on the subject found that a staggering 78% of users reported feeling “emotionally, mentally, or physically exhausted” by dating apps. 

So, it’s clear that a growing number of people seem to be turning their backs on this once-dominant dating strategy – but why? 

The reasons so many are ditching dating apps 

Dating apps have lost their romantic allure and is this really a surprise? The endless swiping, ghosting and superficial connections can take their toll on even the most optimistic of daters. 

But there’s no denying this is a convenient way to date with thousands of potential matches just a swipe away, so what are some of the other reasons so many are ditching dating apps?

A sense of shallowness

Dating apps have an inherently superficial nature. Photos and bios become the basis for big dating decisions. And let’s face it, we’re all complex individuals who can’t be summed up in a sentence or two – no matter how witty it may be. 

So the swiping and judging of photos can feel transactional and hollow, leaving many craving deeper, more meaningful connections.

Daters wanting to prioritise quality over quantity 

When it comes to dating, in-person meetings foster a stronger sense of chemistry and authenticity. And sure, this means you can’t have six different conversations at once, but it supports quality time and real conversation rather than multiple shallow or meaningless interactions. 

The alternatives to dating apps

As dating apps lose their lustre, we thought we’d take a look at how today’s singles are choosing to meet potential partners instead. 

For many, in person dating events like speed dating and singles mixers reflects a renewed interest in meeting people face-to-face. These gatherings offer a more natural way for people to connect and have been on the rise since the lifting of lockdown. 

Community and hobby-based groups are also great ways for singles to find love through shared interests by joining clubs, classes or social groups. This could be cooking, running, reading, and so much more. 

By putting themselves out there more and regularly visiting coffee shops, parks, and bars or meeting through mutual friends, many are even embracing a return to spontaneity and finding potential partners in everyday life.

Then, of course, there are dating agencies and expert matchmakers like Ignite Dating. For those looking for a more strategic approach, dating agencies and matchmakers can offer a personalised experience with better results.  

Is this the beginning of the end for dating apps? 

While there’s no denying that the decline in dating app use is significant, it’s unlikely they’ll disappear entirely. Let’s face it, for many, they remain a convenient way to meet people, especially in today’s fast-paced world. 

However, it’s clear that app fatigue is increasing and that there is a growing awareness of the limitations of these tools as many look for a more authentic way to connect.

So, if you’ve decided that it’s time to break up with dating apps, we can help you kickstart a more rewarding dating journey this year. Get in touch with our matchmakers today to begin making genuine connections.

We’ve all heard (and probably said) it a thousand times: ‘new year, new me’. This mantra means that January is a popular time to make a positive change, and for many, this means looking for a new partner or resuming their dating journey. 

In our experience, the best way to be successful in the dating world (other than working with one of our expert, trained and globally accredited  matchmakers, of course) is to understand all the latest dating trends. 

In 2024, this meant understanding throning, freak matching and future faking, but all that looks set to change in 2025. 

So, to help you date knowledgeably, we’ve put together a list of five of the top trends set to shape the dating landscape this year. 

1. Swamping

This trend might not sound romantic, but the concept behind swamping is all about genuine connections. 

Basically, swamping refers to partners feeling so comfortable with each other that they are happy to be their authentic selves without fear of judgment. This is a welcome trend that builds deeper, more meaningful connections. After all, if you aren’t your authentic self, how can they fall in love with you?

2. No-habiting

You’ve heard of cohabiting, but this year, more and more individuals are choosing to delay moving in with their partner. 

This trend, referred to as no-habiting, is becoming more popular with those who value their personal space and independence and would prefer to wait a bit longer before moving in together. 

3. Fiscal attraction

There was a time when money was not something you openly discussed in a relationship, especially with someone you were newly dating. 

But this year, financial stability (including bizarrely enough, credit scores)  and openness about financial situations are becoming increasingly important in relationships. 

Discussions about finances are now common early in dating, especially among younger generations, with many looking for financially stable partners who earn similar salaries to themselves. This trend is being referred to as fiscal attraction. 

4. Fine-wining

A playful spin on fine dining, this trend emphasises the growing search for sophistication and elevated experiences in our love lives. 

As a result, this trend sees individuals proactively looking to date those who are older than them and who’ve aged like a fine wine. 

5. St-ick-ing

We’ve heard a lot about people getting the ‘ick’ over the last year, so what is st-ick-ing, and how has it made its way into the dating world? 

Well, this trend highlights couples bonding and choosing to stick together through their shared quirks or peculiarities, those that might give others the ‘ick’. 

As we increasingly value authenticity, embracing eccentricities like this has become a way to foster deeper, more meaningful connections. For example, these shared interests could be unusual hobbies, gaming or very niche interests that others might find odd. 

Are you ready to find love in 2025? 

Understanding the latest dating trends is all well and good, but in order to utilise (or avoid) these trends, you need the support of an expert. 

If you’re looking for love in 2025, get in touch with our team today. Our expert matchmakers will introduce you to like-minded singles and help you to build genuine connections. So don’t delay; reach out to the team and get your dating journey started now.