Tag: matchmaking

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Are the dating rules of 2020 the same as 1990?

Dating in the Nineties

The 1990s.. what a time to be alive! The Stone Roses, Sex in the City or Friends (or both), Gladiators, Pulp Fiction, Blur vs Oasis, Keanu, the Spice Girls – oh, and Mandela was freed!

And an even better time to be on the dating scene. From making mixtapes to talking for three hours on the landline, getting ready for your date (with the help of your friends) was just as exciting as actually going on it. And of course, most of us learnt to navigate the dating world with the help of Cilla and Graham.

But it’s now 2020, Blind Date has been replaced with Take Me Out, Tinder has changed the way people meet and sadly cassettes are no longer a thing (I suppose you could always make your date a playlist on Spotify). So how much has the dating landscape changed in the last 30 years and are the dating rules of 2020 the same as they were in 1990?

The rules for dating in 1990

During the 1990s a very controversial book was released called ‘The Rules’ which claimed to be a time-tested guide to dating. Even for back then, it was full of some ridiculous and outdated suggestions – for example, don’t look at your date too much and don’t tell them what you want in bed – but despite this, there were some generally well-accepted rules for dating in the 90s. These were:

  • Pick your date up from their house – typically this means the man would go to the woman’s home instead of meeting at the chosen venue
  • Have a plan and something booked for the evening – don’t just wing it!
  • Ask questions and get to know them – don’t just talk about yourself
  • Don’t sleep with each other on the first date – remember the five date rule
  • Generally, men pick up the cheque at the end of the date – it’s the gentlemanly thing to do
  • If you like them, call them – calling on the landline or leaving a message on the answerphone shows them the date went well

Are these rules still relevant in 2020?

Clearly, there are some of these rules no longer apply, thanks in most part to big strides in equality and technology, and for the most part we should be grateful for that. For example, men are no longer expected to pick up the bill and it’s certainly less taboo to hook up on the first date. It is also no longer necessary for the man to pick up his date at her home – in fact, it is safer and recommended that you meet at the venue or in a public space during the early stages of dating.

That said, some of these rules – and arguably the less offensive ones – still remain today. It can be nice to have a plan for your date and you should always ask questions and get to know one another. Calling your date to let them know you had a good time is also appreciated, though nowadays WhatsApp seems to be the preferred method of communication. And to be honest, we’re a bit nostalgic for some 90s trends like writing little messages to one another on Post-It notes and being fully present during a date (not checking your mobile phone every two minutes)!

So I guess what we’re saying here is that the rules of dating have certainly changed over the last 30 years, with technology and equality playing a huge role in this. That said, some are as true as they have ever been and one or two others might make the dating world a better place. So let’s bring back the good parts and leave the rest in the 90s where they belong.

At Ignite Dating, we understand that the times have changed, but we know that dating agencies still remain a great and successful way to meet people. Our dedicated matchmakers are there to help you navigate the world of dating in 2020 and to find you the perfect match. If you’d like to know more, get in touch with our friendly team today.

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9 Things Matchmakers Can Do For You

In the era of dating apps and social media, you might think matchmaking is a bit of an outdated profession. But nothing could be further from the truth! Tinder is all well and good in the early stages of your dating life, but many quickly become bored with the casual hookups, fake accounts and deciding whether to swipe right on someone based on just 500 characters or less.

In fact, when you’re looking for a long-term partner, someone you can share a genuine connection with, dating apps can be a real let down. That’s why many hopeful singles will retire their profiles and turn to dating agencies to help them find true love instead.

There are a huge number of benefits to using matchmakers, in particular that they take their time to get to know you so they can help you find someone who complements your lifestyle and shares your dreams. But if you’re still not sure why you should outsource your dating life to a professional, here are nine things a matchmaker can do for you.

1. They work while you do

Gone are the days when you only had your evenings and weekends to spend flicking through dating apps or trying to meet someone in your favourite bar. Matchmakers are dedicated professionals, working tirelessly to find you the perfect partner. While you work, do your grocery shopping, go to the dentist or spend time with friends, they’ll be working hard for you.

2. They use their emotional intelligence to help you find the right match

Being a successful matchmaker is all about being emotionally intelligent and having a sixth sense about people. This is very often a skill they are born with and not something that can be taught or learnt. Matchmakers can use this intuition to quickly decide if two people are likely to work well together – particularly impressive given how unpredictable and mysterious love can be. This saves you time, effort and awkward dates with people who really aren’t right for you, protecting you from the stress and heartache that can accompany dating.

3. They act like a life coach and therapist

When you’re working with a matchmaker you’ll quickly find they become a friend and life coach as well. This is because looking for love can be a tiring, emotional and sometimes long journey and you need someone who is there to support you and encourage you to keep going, even after a particularly rubbish date or when a relationship doesn’t quite work out.

They are the perfect combination of life coach, therapist and matchmaker. They listen to you and really get to know you. They give you a chance to talk about past relationships and then they motivate you to stay positive and strong, knowing that it can take time but you will eventually find the right person.

4. They run the background checks

Another huge benefit of using a matchmaker is that they will run background checks. Sadly, apps like Tinder have become a prime location for fraudulent accounts and cybercriminals looking to scam the unsuspecting and vulnerable. Not only this but with no background checks, people can be whoever they want to be  – even if that means they tell some pretty big lies in their bio.

Matchmakers can run ID and background checks to make sure every individual you meet is legitimate and is who they say they are. This gives you an increased sense of security and also means you aren’t going to be disappointed by meeting someone who wasn’t at all what you expected.

5. They get to know what you want

One of the most important things a matchmaker will do is spend some time really getting to know you. If they hope to use their skills to find your perfect match, they first need to know more about who you are and what it is you want from a partner – and this includes even the smallest details. You’ll be surprised how even the tiniest bit of information about yourself can help them to find you a partner with similar interests, ambitions and aspirations, hugely important when you’re looking for a long-term relationship.

6. They help you to learn about yourself

One of the greatest and most surprising benefits of using a matchmaker is that they can help you to learn so much about yourself. You might think you know exactly what you want in a partner, but after a few conversations with your matchmaker (and perhaps an unsuccessful date or two), you might find that they’ve asked some interesting questions and you begin to re-evaluate what it is you want from a relationship.

They can also give you more confidence and help you to relax. When you’re dating, it can be an additional stress worrying about whether someone likes you back or if there is a common romantic interest. Using a matchmaker can help to make this much clearer and after a while, even though dates may not always work out, you’ll come to feel better about the fact that they obviously weren’t right for you.

Ultimately, most people find the whole process of using a matchmaker eye-opening and they actually learn a lot about themselves. This can then help them to have more successful and fulfilling relationships overall, and more fun and less stress on the journey.

7. They will be honest with you

It’s not always their favourite part of the job but matchmakers will always be honest with you – because they have to be if they want to help you find the right person! Although it’s not always nice to hear either, if you’ve been on a date and the other person didn’t feel a connection, they’ll let you know right away. This way you can move on and begin meeting with other potential partners who may feel more of a spark.

They can also help to take some of the mystery and anxiety out of dating. Sitting by your phone for days waiting for a reply or wondering why your last date completely ghosted you is never fun. By being honest, your matchmaker will keep you motivated and on track to finding true love.

8. They give you a more personal experience

Dating apps, blind dates or speed dating sessions can feel very shallow and sometimes very cold and impersonal. By choosing to work with a matchmaker they’ll give you a much more personal and enjoyable dating journey.

After all, anyone can hide behind their keyboard and spend hours swiping right on dating apps, but this is often dissatisfying and can leave people feeling bitter or depressed about the dating world. Joining up with a matchmaker can help to turn this around and get you excited about dating again.

9. They can help you find love

Last but certainly not least, perhaps the most obvious benefit of all, matchmakers can help you to find true love. Using their skills, emotional intelligence and time, they can help you to find the perfect partner. And trust us, once you’ve signed up you’ll be forever glad you put your love life in their very capable hands.

At Ignite Dating, our expert matchmakers use a mixture of Myers Briggs personality profiling, intuition and their expertise to match you with potential partners. We offer support and absolute discretion when presenting you with matches and your dedicated matchmaker will work closely with you to get a better understanding of what it is you want from a partner. They will then present you with carefully selected and vetted matches so you can begin your journey to finding true love. Join us today.

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Dating ideas in Hampshire

Dating ideas in Hampshire

Whether you live in Hampshire and the surrounding areas or you just fancied a change of scenery, this gorgeous county can be the ideal location for your next date. The perfect blend of cities, coastlines and sweeping countrysides, you’re sure to find something that you’ll both love. You can spend days exploring the national parks or dine out in the ancient capital of England, and there are plenty of romantic settings to set the mood for your big date.

So if you’re looking for inspiration for the perfect date in Hampshire, look no further. Below are six ideas for beautiful days out and romantic evenings full of fine dining and entertainment.

1. Bombay Sapphire Distillery

Are you a gin enthusiast? Then why not take a guided tour around the Bombay Sapphire Distillery in Whitchurch. You’ll be shown around the distillery and taken on a sensory experience in the Botanical Dry Room, before enjoying a complimentary drink in the Mill Bar. This could be the perfect way to set the tone for your evening, before heading off into the night (perhaps to drink more gin!).

Bombay Sapphire Distillery Hampshire

2. Catch a show at the Anvil

The Anvil Arts in Basingstoke has hosted a huge range of famous guests over the years. So whether you like stand up comedy, music, drama or even dance, you’re sure to find something to keep you both entertained for the evening.

3. New Forest National Park

Enjoy a day (or even a weekend) exploring the New Forest National Park. Home to a number of quaint little towns and villages, plus plenty of beautiful walking routes, you’ll be spoilt for choice on your date. Here you can make the most of nature. So why not sit and have a picnic as you watch the wildlife go by or, if you’re keen cyclists or feeling a bit more active, grab your bikes and go for a ride around one of the many forest routes.

New Forest Hampshire

4. Dine out in Winchester

Did you know that Winchester used to be the capital of England? It’s no wonder then that this historic town can make for a very interesting and romantic night out. Along its cobbled streets are a number of delicious places to stop for dinner, from cosy pubs to Michelin starred restaurants. The tricky part is deciding where to go!

5. Spinnaker tower and Gunwharf Quays

Why not arrange a day out in Portsmouth, culminating in an evening of food and drink. Kickstart the day by visiting the 170-metre Spinnaker Tower and enjoying breathtaking views from the top. After this, you can enjoy a bit of shopping, eating and drinking around Gunwharf Quays, a beautiful waterfront outlet with over 30 bars and restaurants to choose from.

Spinnaker Tower Gunwharf Portsmouth

6. Beaulieu

If you’re looking for something a little different, Beaulieu is a beautiful small village in the New Forest. Home to the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu Abbey, a monorail and beautiful grounds and gardens, you can plan a fun and relaxing day out at this award-winning village.

If you’re looking for love in Hampshire, we can help! At Ignite Dating, we’ll take our time to get to know you and what you want from a partner, so we can help you find your perfect match. Join us today and soon it could be you organising a date at one of the romantic venues listed above.

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How to perfect your texting game at the beginning of a relationship

Texting tips for dating romance

You probably know the feeling, that moment when your phone pings with a message from that special someone. It’s enough to fill your stomach with butterflies and put a big smile on your face for the rest of the day but have you got the perfect texting relationship?

Since the early noughties, texting has played a big part in how we form new relationships (we all remember Nelly texting Kelly from the party, right?). Being able to communicate back and forth with each other throughout the day, without having to set aside time for an actual phone call, revolutionised the dating world some twenty years ago.

And though nowadays you may be more likely to use instant messaging apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger to chat up a new love interest, the same rules still apply.

To this day, texting is an important part of making connections and nurturing new relationships. Which is why we thought we’d help you to perfect your texting game, so you can always have your date coming back for more.

Create anticipation

One of the great things about texting is that although it is readily available and you can tap out a message in a matter of seconds, it’s great for building up the suspense over a longer period of time. Encouraging flirty or romantic conversations can build up real anticipation and excitement for the next time you see each other in person.

Plus, you don’t have to reply straight away, as things take a flirty turn, why not wait for a little while and keep them on their toes. That way they’ll be eagerly awaiting your response, helping to build this anticipation. Of course, don’t wait days or even hours to reply as this can be a sign you’re not interested, but just keep them waiting long enough to have them hooked.

Put thought into the language you’re using

As with any sort of writing, texting can be a real art form. Think about how much careful planning and thought went into creating your last online dating profile or your Facebook page, now consider the language you use when writing your texts.

Words are everything when you can’t see someone’s body language or when you have only met someone a handful of times. You need to be very careful and selective with your language when texting in order to capture their attention and leave them wanting more. You also want to be careful that you’re not coming across too full on or perhaps even too shy. In the early stages of dating, it’s best to keep it light and fun as you get to know one another.

For example, instead of saying ‘can we arrange another date?’ why not say something more casual and flirty like ‘so when do I get to see you again?’. This suggests that you enjoyed meeting them and want to see them again, but it relieves some of the pressure and could just be another step to perfect the perfect texting relationship.

We’re not suggesting you spend hours agonising over every reply, just choose your words wisely. Don’t be afraid to use flirty and friendly language, this just adds to the excitement in the early stages. And hey, if you really want to feel like a giggling 18-year-old again, why not read the text out to one of your close friends and get their seal of approval too.

Get to know one another

Texting gives you the perfect opportunity to get to know one another, to ask questions, share jokes and find out what you have in common.  It can also be great to start speaking to each other this way before setting up an official date, as this can give you some talking points when you do meet in person.

That said, you don’t want to give too much away too soon, save something for your date night. Otherwise, you might find yourselves going round in circles talking about the same stuff over and over again. This means finding a balance when texting and this is a great skill to master in the early stages of a relationship.

Sometimes you might even want to scatter some proverbial breadcrumbs in your texts. Give them insights into stories or things they didn’t know about you before saying ‘I’ll tell you all about it when we next meet’. This gives you an instant talking point when you do see each other and helps to add to the anticipation we spoke about earlier. That way they’ll be excited to meet with you and find out more.

Talk about the things you have in common

The reason you’re getting on so well is probably that you have things in common and shared interests, so use these to keep the conversation flowing. Talk about movies you enjoyed or TV shows you’ve both watched. Perhaps you love the same bands and you’ve both been to see them in concert. Whatever it may be, use your common ground to keep the conversation flowing and to build rapport.

Do this to avoid flooding your conversation with mundane, everyday chat that could cause the conversation to fizzle out. We get it, Brenda in HR might have been driving you mad all day, but your new love interest doesn’t know Brenda and probably doesn’t want to hear about her! So avoid bitching and moaning or talking about the boring and humdrum. After all, you’re still in the early stages of getting to know one another, so you want to keep it fun and exciting.

Sometimes simplicity is key

In the early stages of the relationship you might find yourself penning (well typing) long messages to each other that could rival the work of Shakespeare, putting thought into every word. But never underestimate the effectiveness and simplicity of a quick text message just to let them know you’re thinking about them.

Imagine them waking up and looking at their phone to see a simple ‘good morning’ or ‘have a great day’ text from you. This shows that you’re thinking about them and can be enough to change their mood and have them daydreaming about you for the rest of the day.

Remember this is supposed to be fun

One of the most important things to remember when perfecting your texting game in the early stages is that it’s supposed to be fun! So even though you will understandably want to put some time and thought into your texts, don’t let this become an obsession and certainly don’t find yourself waiting by the phone desperate for a reply.

Use texting (or WhatsApp or Messenger) as a way to get to know each other and begin to build rapport. To let your date know you’re thinking about them and to build up anticipation and tension for the next time you get to meet in person. Texting can be a real asset when you’ve met someone new, so don’t underestimate it.

Getting to know someone new is an exciting time. That’s why at Ignite Dating were dedicated to helping you find someone special, someone who will fill you with excitement each time your phone pings with a message from them. We use a range of tried and tested techniques to do this, but we’re most proud of our dedicated matchmakers who will work closely with you to find out what you want in a partner. If you’d like to know more about how we can help you find that special someone, get in touch with our friendly team today.

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What we really want in a partner

What we really want in a partner

You’ve probably been asked on more than one occasion what you look for in a partner. Often the most obvious answers come to mind – you want them to be attractive, funny and kind. But people are complex and no one is perfect, so over the years psychologists and scientists have conducted a lot of research into exactly what men and women are looking for in their significant other.

Every study has thrown up different results, but largely come to the same conclusion: looks usually find themselves near the bottom of the list, with traits such as honesty and kindness more likely to appear at the top. And while everyone is different and will seek out different things in their partners, research has highlighted some of the key personality traits that are important to us.

We’re going to take a closer look at what people really want in a partner and why these traits are so important for a successful relationship.

Honesty

Honesty is a key component in any relationship, which is probably why it is very often rated as one of the most important attributes in a partner. Honesty is important on so many levels. No relationship should be based on lies and you should always be able to be open with the person you love. But it’s also about being honest about who you are as a person and what you want from the future and from your relationship. Telling the truth is important, just as long as it’s always in a constructive way that both parties can use to improve and move forward in the relationship.

Confidence

Confidence is also consistently rated as one of the most important traits in a partner. Being insecure can lead to a number of issues in a relationship. Firstly, if you’re with someone who lacks confidence they may constantly question your relationship. Secondly, their negative feelings towards themselves aren’t just affecting them. They can also cause you to feel like you’re not trying enough or cause you to be upset that your partner is unhappy with themselves. These negative emotions can take their toll on both of you, and can ultimately bring the relationship down.

Sense of humour

It seems like a bit of a cliché, but a sense of humour is hugely important to lots of people. In fact, SBS did a study of people courting over Facebook and Tinder and found that a sense of humour was ranked as the top trait people were looking for in a potential partner. You spend so much of your life with your significant other and most people want to be with someone who makes them smile and laugh. This is especially true during difficult times when we may need humour to help lift our mood and bring some positivity to the situation.

Positivity

Positivity is hugely important in every aspect of your life. If you are surrounded by negative people, it can be easy for these feelings to be passed on to you and start to affect your emotions in a detrimental way, and this is particularly true if you it’s someone you live with or spend a lot of time with, such as your partner. Instead, people want to date someone with a positive outlook who can try to see the brighter side of things. Of course, there will always be times when this isn’t possible, but as a general rule people want a partner who is a happy and positive person.

Ambition 

Most of us have goals and things we’d like to achieve in life and in our career, and so we often hope to find a partner that also has this drive. It can be very deflating to be with someone who is quite content doing nothing and has no ambition to try new things or reach for their goals, especially if you yourself are a very driven person and you’re always onto your next challenge. This is why ambition has consistently ranked as one of the top traits people look for in a partner.

Kindness

The app Clue ran a study of over 68,000 people across the world and found that kindness was very important in a potential partner, particularly for women. Kindness can be such a valuable trait in a relationship as it involves showing care and love to your partner, as well as doing things to help and support them. But it also extends further than just your relationship, and many people enjoy being with someone who is kind to everyone they meet. This can be the hallmark of a great person and someone who will naturally strive to make you happy.

Loyalty

Being loyal is about more than just being faithful to your partner, it’s about sticking by their side no matter what and standing up for them in times of conflict. It’s about building trust and respect and it shows that you’re dedicated to that person and committed to nurturing your relationship with them.

Academic intelligence

For many people, a certain level of academic intelligence is desirable and someone who is knowledgeable, interesting and smart can be very attractive. This doesn’t have to mean a Nobel Prize winner, but academic intelligence is also important for understanding each other and for finding things in common. It’s this intelligence that allows you to have debates with one another and to find shared interests, leading to stimulating conversations with one another over a shared passion.

Emotional intelligence

You can have all the book-smarts in the world, but if you’re not emotionally available this can cause problems in a relationship. Emotional intelligence is so important because it allows us to empathise with one another and to see things from each other’s perspective.

No one wants a partner who can’t read the mood or who doesn’t know how to help cheer them up when they’re down or support them when they’re going through a tough time. Emotional intelligence doesn’t always mean you have to agree with one another, but it gives you the ability to compromise, to listen to each other and to grow as a couple. This is why so many people consider emotional intelligence important when looking for a partner.

Self-esteem

There’s a popular saying ‘how can you love someone else if you don’t love yourself’. Self-esteem not only affects the way you see yourself but your ability to give yourself to another person and to love them fully. Therefore, it’s not surprising that most people want a partner who is confident and happy with who they are and has high levels of self-esteem.

Conscientiousness

This is an interesting one and not something you may typically associate with desirable traits in a partner, but a study published on Psychology Today found that conscientiousness was a surprising but important aspect people were looking for in a partner. This is because they associated conscientiousness with caring, always being honest and always keeping promises to one another, very important parts of a happy and fulfilling relationship.

At Ignite Dating, we understand the importance of finding the right person for you. Someone who complements your personality and lifestyle. That’s why we spend time getting to know you, so we can use a perfect mixture of Myers Briggs personality profiling, your feedback and our expertise to match you with great potential partners. If you’d like to know more about how we can help you find love, get in touch with our friendly team today.

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Summer Dating in Surrey

Summer Dating in Surrey

Despite being so close to London, Surrey is one of England’s most wooded areas with plenty of beautiful outdoor spaces and countryside to be explored. The perfect mix of quintessentially English villages and vibrant metropolitan hubs, it’s a wonderful place to go on a date any time of year.

And in the warm summer months, Surrey becomes even more beautiful as its lush green spaces fill with flowers, restaurants begin to offer alfresco dining and pub gardens flood with happy guests soaking up the sunshine. So whether you’re a local or you live nearby and you’re looking for the perfect place to have your next date, here are six ideas for summer dates in Surrey.

1. Go for a walk around Virginia Water

Originally a royal pleasure ground, the beautiful lake at Virginia Water can be the ideal location for a romantic day out. The woodland shores and ornamental waterfall add to its majesty, so whether you’re walking the perimeter or simply relaxing and watching the world go by, it can be the perfect place to get to know one another. You could even stop in at the Piccolino La Griglia Restaurant, situated by the lake, for some delicious seasonal food.

2. Dine alfresco at the Thai Terrace

If you love Thai food, but a trip to Thailand seems like a bit of a stretch for your next date, then we’ve got just what you need! On the Palm Terrace, you can enjoy beautiful views, Thai cuisine for lunch or yummy exotic cocktails in the evening as you watch the sunset.

3. Have a picnic at Painshill Park

If you love spending time in nature, the award-winning Painshill Park in Surrey is a wonderful choice for a date. The gardens are 158 acres, so you’re guaranteed to find a nice quiet spot for a picnic, perhaps you could even tuck yourself away amongst the Heritage Collection of North American trees and shrubs. The mystical grounds are full of wildlife so you can spend the whole day exploring, just be sure to stop by the beautiful Serpentine Lake on your way around.

4. Enjoy a drink at the Abinger Hatch

Enjoy a cold drink or a delicious lunch in the Abinger Hatch pub garden. The pub is a beautiful 17th-century building located on Abinger Common and the large garden is complete with an outside kitchen and wood-burning oven, so you know the food is going to be good! Perfect if you want to create a more relaxed date whilst enjoying the sunshine.

5. Get lost at RHS Gardens Wisley

From exotic plants and glasshouses to bonsai tree walks and Japanese-style rock gardens, the gardens at Wisley have it all! Recognised as one of the most beautiful gardens in the world, RHS Wisley is Surrey’s pride and joy and it can make for a very romantic atmosphere surrounded by incredible floral displays and luscious green spaces.

6. Stop by the Weyside

Whether you want a drink in the sunshine or some traditional pub grub, The Weyside pub in Guildford is a great date venue. You can sit in the beautiful garden or up on the decking and choose from a huge range of delicious wines, gins and meals prepared from locally sourced produce.

Planning a memorable date in the Surrey area? It’s much easier to choose the perfect location when you know more about your date. At Ignite Dating, we take our time to get to know you so we can match you with like-minded individuals, so you’re guaranteed to choose a date venue that you’ll both love. Get in touch with our friendly team today.

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Has the Coronavirus changed the dating landscape?

dating during coronavirus lockdown

You’d be forgiven for feeling like we’ve all been transported back in time to the 1940s (or woken up in a Danny Boyle movie). There’s no one out on the streets, there is ongoing uncertainty about what the future holds and people are stressed about rationing their food and supplies. But we do have one thing that they didn’t have back then. Sophisticated technology!

At this stage, it’s fair to say that Coronavirus has affected almost every aspect of our daily lives. The good news is, that each new day brings us one step closer to returning to normality. That said, things won’t return to normal right away and the effects of this global pandemic are likely to be seen for years to come.

As part of this, we’re likely to see a shift in the dating landscape. There’s no denying that dating during the Coronavirus outbreak is a strange concept and many are relying on apps, agencies and virtual dates to help them connect with people. While this shift might not last forever, over the next few years we’re going to see some big changes in the dating world.

More people are looking for love

Our new-found appreciation for companionship means more people are looking for love than ever before. The ongoing lockdown has meant people are stuck at home with lots more time on their hands and in many cases no one to share it with. The result has been a spike in people registering for dating apps, sites and agencies.

These numbers are unlikely to drop just because the virus has gone – people (particularly those who had to isolate alone) will be craving human affection and relationships now more than ever. So it looks like love is going to be on the cards for many people in the coming years, even those who may have previously prioritised work, hobbies or their social life above starting a relationship.

People will take their time to look for a partner

In recent years, our lives have become all about instant gratification, being able to access a world of information at the click of a button or get 100 likes on a photo within the hour. We’re used to results being instant and thanks in no small part to dating apps, the dating world became the same.

Endlessly swiping right or left and receiving instant matches can feel more of a game than a search for love. In this post-virus world, it’s likely that we’ll see people letting go of this need for instant gratification and going back to a more old school approach, taking their time to get to know potential partners and building genuine connections with them until they find the right person.

Virtual dates will continue

Our need to stay connected with loved ones has grown in recent weeks. Can you honestly say that you used to call your parents, friends or partners as often as you do right now? This need to stay connected has led to virtual date nights, pub quizzes and family games nights. As such, it’s likely we’ll see people continuing to use virtual dates as a way of staying connected with their partners on days when they cannot be together in person, even after lockdown has lifted and life has returned to normal.

The way we date will have changed

People may also change the way they date. It’s becoming apparent that places like pubs and restaurants will be some of the last to reopen. This coupled with our new appreciation for the little things in life is likely to see couples choosing alternative dates like going for a walk or bike ride, instead just heading straight out for a drink and dinner date like they may have done in the past.

If this recent pandemic has shown you what’s important in life and you’re ready to find love, we’re here to help. While we can certainly start you on your journey to finding the right partner, we also know it’s important that we listen to Government advice. So while lockdown continues we advise that you don’t try to meet with someone new and instead make the most of technology, virtual dates and services like ours. Get in touch with our friendly team today.

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7 Virtual Date Ideas and the Apps That Can Bring You Together

Tips for Dating during Coronavirus

With the UK on lockdown for the foreseeable future, technology and apps are playing a huge part in keeping us all connected to one another and providing us with a new wave of virtual date ideas. In fact, you may have found that you’re actually talking to friends and family more now than you ever have before! This could be due to the fact that many of us now have a lot more free time on our hands and are trying to stave off boredom and insanity while confined to our homes!

You’ve probably seen the videos that are popping up all over the Internet of funny and creative ways people are staying in touch, having fun at home and making the most of technology to stay connected. And despite these troubling times, we’re lucky enough to have this technology at our disposal to allow us to keep some degree of normality in our lives. People are able to work from home, children can continue their schoolwork and most importantly, we can retain some sort of social life despite not being able to see our friends or partners in person.

So whether you’re planning a first date or you’re in a new relationship, there are still so many ways you can have fun together and keep in touch despite being on lockdown. Below are seven virtual date ideas and the apps that can help bring you closer together. So next date night, why not consider trying one of these?

Having a games night over House Party

The House Party app has blown up since the UK went into lockdown, with people across the country using the video chat to hang out with their friends, virtually. So why not choose this platform for your date? Not only can you see and talk to one another, but the app also allows you to play games with each other. These include the app’s own version of trivia quizzes, Pictionary and charades. 

Getting to know one another on WhatsApp

Video chat might not be your first choice of date if you’ve not met before. Weirdly, it can sometimes feel more embarrassing to connect with someone via video link than in person (usually because we look a little different on a grainy camera and we never like hearing our own voice!). But this doesn’t mean you still can’t get to know your date.

Choose an evening and make sure you put some time aside when you’re not distracted with work, TV or anything else. Chat to each other via text or WhatsApp and get to know a bit more about one another. This will give you a chance to determine whether they are a good match for you.

WhatsApp is also great for connecting with your date periodically throughout the day – just don’t fall into the trap of worrying over when they were last online and if they’ve read your message. Remember, some people are continuing to work despite being at home and others have families to take care of.

Watch a movie using Netflix Party

Does your favourite date night include going to the cinema or getting cosy on the sofa and watching a movie? Well, you still can, thanks to Netflix Party. You can watch the same movie at the same time from different locations and there’s even a messaging option which allows you to discuss the film with one another (of course, you can always keep each other on the phone while watching too!). A great way of watching a movie together, even when you’re not and one of many virtual date ideas.

Cook together over Skype

Do you love sharing a meal with your partner? Whether that’s attending a cooking class, going out for dinner or cooking a romantic meal at home. The great news is that you don’t have to stop just because restaurants are closed. Why not log onto Skype and join each other as you prepare your dinner and eat it together through video chat. You might want to choose the same meal to make it feel even more authentic, but even if you don’t, having the camera set up on your kitchen table while you chat and cook can make it feel like your date is right there in the room with you.

Team up for a virtual pub quiz on Google Hangouts

As a nation, we love the pub and we also love a good pub quiz. Trivia and drinking has been a date night favourite for years and the internet is refusing to let the lockdown change that. If you love a pub quiz, there are plenty of providers and groups out there that are putting these together and hosting their quizzes on Google Hangouts, for others to enjoy. You and your date could team up (communicating via your phones) or play separately (but on the same quiz).

You might even find that your local pub is hosting their regular quiz night but now online, or that one of you has a friend who has chosen to organise the event themselves. There is plenty of quizzing going on across the nation right now, making this a great option for your virtual date.

Take an exercise class together using Zoom

Are you and your date gym buffs? If you love nothing more than to workout and enjoy an exercise class, this could make for a fun date idea – even when you can’t go to an actual class. Many personal trainers and gym owners have taken their business online since gyms were forced to close to promote social distancing. Using platforms like Zoom, they are able to connect participants from across the country via a video link, where you can all take part in the workout as instructed by your PT.

Zoom allows for multiple participants to join (as many as 100 in some cases), so you and your date can join the same class and you’ll be able to see each other as you take part.

Go for a walk and chat over a phone call or FaceTime

For many of us, going out for our daily walk and getting some fresh air is the highlight of our day, so why not share this with your date? You could simply put some headphones in and give them a call, or you might even want to video call them so they can see where you are and you can feel more like they’re there in person. FaceTime is a great app for video chats as it provides a good, clear connection so you won’t lose each other mid-way through your conversation.

Be sure to choose somewhere quiet and local to take your walk, like your local park. Just be careful to choose a spot that isn’t too crowded and be sure to practise social distancing wherever you go.

We completely support the government’s guidelines on COVID-19 and social distancing. However, just because the country is on lockdown, it doesn’t mean life has to come to a complete standstill. At Ignite Dating, we believe it’s possible to continue meeting new people and forging meaningful relationships, even though you can’t be together in person right now. Using some of our virtual date ideas, you and your love interest can set aside some time each week to get to know one another and have some fun. Don’t let lockdown stop you from finding love. Dating apps and agencies have never been more popular as people look for comfort and connectionsm so now could be the ideal time to join. Get in touch with our friendly team today.

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Tips for dating during the Coronavirus

Dating tips during Corona Virus

The recent lockdown means people have A LOT more time on their hands and not being able to go out and socialise in person has forced thousands to find comfort in their smartphones. And guess what? Dating agencies and apps have seen a huge influx in people looking for love and companionship during these strange times.

Of course, if you have recently begun dating someone or you do find a good match during isolation, you won’t be able to go out and meet in person for a while. But you will have plenty of time at home to get to know one another – virtually. So why not throw it back to the days when you’d spend hours talking on the phone and really get to know one another before starting a relationship.

If, like all of us, you’re just trying to make it through this difficult time as safely and sanely as possible, whilst trying to hold onto something that resembles a normal life, here’s how to keep dating during the Coronavirus pandemic.

1. Make the most of the Internet

Let’s face it, nowadays not many people start relationships by approaching one another in the street. We rely on dating sites, apps and agencies to help us juggle our busy lives with finding the right partner. But for most of us, our busy lives have now been taken away and we’re confined to our living rooms for the foreseeable future. So it’s the perfect time to jump on the internet and get yourself signed up for a dating agency, and perhaps even download some apps on your phone.

2. Talk the night away

Whether you choose to spend your nights texting one another, or you decide to brave it and go for a phone call, being stuck inside and miles apart doesn’t have to stop you from getting to know one another. You could even set a dedicated day and time for your phone date to make it feel more like an actual date.

3. Video apps have never been more popular

Whether this is someone you’ve met before or a new connection, there are video apps popping up from everywhere right now, making it easier for people to see each other from the safety of their own homes. Apps like House Party or FaceTime allow you to video chat with one another and after a while, it really begins to feel like they’re right there in the room with you. Again, you could set aside a dedicated time for your video date, perhaps even sit and have dinner or drink with one another through video.

This is a trying time, but technology has made it possible for us to still connect with one another despite being so far away. In fact, you might find that through this experience you actually talk more with your date than you normally would and really build a great connection before you’re finally able to meet in person again.

At Ignite Dating, we understand that dating is an important part of our social lives, but it’s also important that we listen to Government advice. During this period of uncertainty, it’s vital that you don’t try and meet up with someone new. Instead, make the most of modern technology and services like ours and by the time lockdown is over, you’ll be even more excited to meet one another face-to-face. Get in touch with our friendly team today.