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Why is mono-manic dating the trend you need to be aware of in 2021?

This year has had a fundamental impact on dating and as new lockdown restrictions came into play and social distancing was enforced, new dating trends emerged. From apocalypsing to ghosting, 2020 saw a manner of dating trends arise and as we enter into a new year of even more uncertainty, it seems mono-manic dating (or MMD for short) is the trend that we need to watch out for.

The mono-manic approach to dating really hinders a person’s chances of finding not just a partner but more importantly the right partner. A mentality that is often more common in women than in men, mono-manic dating is when an individual forms an obsession with one aspect of a person – whether it be their age or height for example – which in effect blinkers them from being able to see the whole package of a prospective partner.

How many people do you know that are insistent that they only find men over 6ft attractive, only to discover later that their actual chosen life partner and soul mate ends up being 5ft 8”. Or those that insist that they do not find women their age desirable and then end up falling in love with a woman a few years older? The answer, lots.

By fixating on one aspect of a person, you are missing out on all the other great qualities and traits that they have, leading you to potentially decline the perfect life partner for you all for the sake of one criteria that you have become attached to. It’s a fact of life that not everyone can live up to our expectations, especially if you’ve set the bar pretty high. So, when you’re dating it’s important that you review every profile and meet every prospective partner with an open mind.

Once people can get past the mono-manic dating mindset and see people for who they are rather than focusing on the number in their heads, the happier and more successful their dating journey will be. After all, life is too short to spend it lonely and looking for the ‘perfect’ partner that ticks every box on your checklist. So next time you look at someone’s profile and say to yourself “they’re great but…” be a bit more open-minded and ignore the mono-manic way of dating, because let’s face it, you might find something you never knew you were looking for!

Here at Ignite Dating not only do we guide you through the dating minefield, but our matchmakers will also recommend matches that may be different to your usual ‘type’, therefore steering you away from possible mono-manic dating. Many of our success stories have come from introductions that haven’t necessarily been the perfect fit on paper, but the sparks and chemistry have been there from the moment they met. Trusting your matchmaker to do their job and get the right outcome for you is imperative and the results can be highly rewarding. Don’t fall victim to mono-manic dating, let our matchmakers help steer you in the right direction to find your perfect life partner today.

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How to select the best agency for you

In the era of online dating, you would be forgiven for thinking that matchmakers and traditional agencies are a dying breed, but you couldn’t be further from the truth. While online dating apps have attracted the attention of singletons worldwide offering the premise of easy dating, many people have quickly become disenchanted with the labour-intensive scrolling of potential dates, the casual hookups and the alarming number of fake profiles.

When looking for a potential life partner you are essentially looking for a joint CEO

of your life. Someone who shares your values, aspirations and lifestyle and is genuinely looking for a long-term committed relationship – all areas where dating apps can fall short. As a result, there are a vast number of matchmaking and introduction agencies out there to help those looking for love, but with so many to choose from how do you know which is the right agency for you? Our guide on selecting a dating agency will reveal all.

Extensive expertise to help you get the best from your dating journey

You wouldn’t buy a car from a pushy salesman with no credentials, so why should outsourcing your dating journey to a professional be any different? While it is easy to play matchmaker for friends and family who you know well, it is an entirely different ball game when it comes to finding that life partner for a client.

An experienced matchmaker will spend some time getting to know all the little details that make you, you. It is not simply enough to know who you are and what it is you want from a partner. Sometimes the smallest nuggets of information that you give can help experienced matchmakers find a partner with similar interests, ambitions and aspirations. These nuggets can be crucial if you are to find that successful lifelong partnership you are looking for – but can be glossed over by inexperienced matchmakers, leading to unsuitable matches and a delay to your dating journey.

Matchmakers can help you learn so much about yourself too. You may think you know exactly what you want in a partner but find that after a few conversations with your matchmaker, they raise some good points that cause you to re-evaluate what you are really looking for in a relationship. Utilising the expertise of an experienced matchmaker when selecting a dating agency, can lead to more successful and fulfilling relationships overall, not to mention more fun and less stress on the dating journey as you go through!

Reputation and knowledge of the industry is priceless

When looking to select an agency, bear in mind that reputation and knowledge of the industry can be key differentiators when it comes to finding that perfect partner for you. Like most industries, technology and new fads have an impact on the dating sector and every year, new platforms or trends arise to “help” those looking for love, creating a minefield when looking for the one that is right for you.

Knowledge of the dating industry is key, and you will find that most reputable agencies have either been around for a long time or they are run by individuals with extensive expertise and previous roles within the industry. Always ask about the agency history as this will give you a good insight into how the agency came about and the people that are behind it.

This goes hand in hand with reputation. Matchmaking agencies that have been operating for a substantial length of time or run by individuals that have been involved in the industry for a long time generally have a stronger reputation than those that haven’t. Reputation is not something that can be bought, so look out for reviews and testimonials from clients as this will give you a good indicator as to how others have found the journey. Coverage in well-respected media publications is also a good indicator of those with strong reputations as it showcases their expertise and knowledge of the industry in an unbiased way.

Identity checks and in-depth interviews for peace of mind

One of the biggest downfalls of dating apps and unreputable agencies is the lack of checks, allowing people to be whoever they want to be. This makes them a prime location for fraudulent profiles and cybercriminals looking to prey on the unsuspecting and vulnerable.

Safety and security are high priorities for matchmaking and introduction agencies, and they will always carry out ID checks to make sure that every individual is legitimate and who they say they are. After all, they do not want to introduce a client to somebody that has not been through the same verification process that their clients have undertaken.

Qualifications speak a thousand words

Matchmakers and relationship coaches or therapists are completely different entities. While matchmakers make good sounding boards to discuss the emotionally-charged process of looking for love – often providing support and encouragement along the way – they are not qualified professionals trained to provide advice and opinions on matters of relationships or emotional disorders.

If services like these are necessary, a reputable agency will have specially trained professionals that they can refer you to rather than giving you that advice and guidance themselves, unless they have the qualifications to support it.

While selecting a dating agency that is reputable is important, it is even more important that you choose a matchmaker that is right for you. You will be working closely with this individual and have to trust them to understand you and what you are looking for, in order to find that perfect partner for you. To build this close working relationship you need to be sure that they are open, honest and empathetic towards your situation. Your matchmaker will use their skills, emotional intelligence and time to help you find the life partner for you – and trust us, once you’ve found the right agency and matchmaker for you, you’ll be glad you put your love life in their very capable hands.

At Ignite Dating, we pride ourselves on our extensive expertise, knowledge and understanding of the industry to ensure that you get the best out of your dating journey. Our expert matchmakers have a decade of combined experience under their belts and using a mixture of Myers Briggs personality profiling, intuition and proficiency, we will help you to find the perfect partner for you. Your dedicated matchmaker will work closely with you to get a better understanding of what it is that you are looking for in a relationship before presenting you with carefully selected and vetted matches so you can begin your journey to achieving the ultimate goal of a lifetime partner. Ready to commit? Get in touch and let us find the perfect partner for you.

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5 signs that he is losing interest or are you overthinking it?

You have been dating for a while and have enjoyed getting to know each other over coffees, lunches and even dinner dates but suddenly there is a shift that you cannot quite put your finger on – are these early signs he is losing interest?

To most, ‘he’s just not that into you’ may have been a hit romantic comedy of the past, but the overarching challenges of reading (or misreading) human behaviour are just as real now as they were 10 years ago.

So, what should you be looking for when your date has gone from hanging on your every word to being harder to tie down for a date than that exclusive restaurant in town?

When it comes to dating, the signs are always there you just need to learn how to read them. If you are struggling to decipher where things are heading and cannot help shaking that feeling that he is losing interest, look out for these 5 signs he is losing interest or just busy.

1. Phone calls and texts have steadily decreased

You used to talk and text daily, but lately there has been a shift in communication between the two of you without any reason. It may have resulted in arranging calls that simply did not happen or maybe there have been times where he has not reached out for days and then suddenly wants to meet up. If this behaviour is becoming more regular it could be a sign that he is just not interested.

Men are not very good at feigning interest, so the lack of communication might be his way of saying that he is not particularly interested in developing this into something more serious. However, by keeping in touch between the breaks of radio silence it is likely that he does not want to burn bridges between you but is looking for a more casual relationship.

If you are looking for more commitment it may be time to call him out on it, as playing along with him will only result in heartbreak for you. A real discussion needs to take place as to where you both stand on your dating journey and what you want from the future. If it does not align then moving on is the only choice you have.

2. Quality time together has started to dwindle

We all know that there are times when life gets a little busier and it makes it harder to pin down plans. But if you are finding that you are spending a lot less time together than you used to, or you are trying to make plans but facing a wall of excuses and reasons to avoid it then maybe it is time to take a step back and reassess.

You need to confirm whether he is genuinely busy with other commitments or whether he is simply avoiding you, and the best way to do that is to have an honest conversation about your feelings and asking him what is going on. Rather than play the role of the bad guy, men tend to distance themselves to make it easier to end things later down the line to avoid hurting you. If he is not interested in spending time with you, call it a day and spend time with those that relish your company instead.

3. Intimacy has become scarce

When you first started dating things were hot and steamy but these days those intimate moments are few and far between and you find it hard to remember the last time that you kissed, held hands, or even hugged.

If he has put intimacy on hold, whether physical or emotional, you need to reach out to him and find out what is going on. While there are things that you can do to bring that elusive spark back to the relationship, you need to decide whether it is worth the effort.

4. Things are becoming increasingly one-sided

In the early days you spoke regularly during the day and would often have long conversations about anything and everything – enjoying that feeling of getting to know each other. However, these days it seems like you are the only one checking in and asking the questions and your calls and texts often go hours or even days without a response.

You need to find out first if he is putting in no effort because he is losing interest, or he genuinely has a lot of other things going on in his life that are taking more of his time. It is important to open up a conversation and check in with him to see how things are going with him and if anything is bothering him. If he values you, he will respect the fact that you reached out and will slowly start to open up and put your mind at ease. If he does not and there is nothing else going on in his life, it is maybe time to walk away and place your effort elsewhere.

5. He dodges questions about your status or where it is going

When you first start dating, it can be hard to know when the right time is to put a label on the relationship. If you have been dating a while and he is not making any real effort towards making it official between you or giving vague answers when you question him about it, it may be a sign that you are not quite right for him.

If he is acting like you are a couple but unwilling to make a commitment to you there is a strong chance that he is not really interested in a deeper relationship. This does not mean that he is not enjoying the time with you or that you guys have no future – but the chances of things getting serious are unlikely. Instead, he is probably more interested in a casual relationship, so if that is not what you are looking for it may be time to call it off.

How to take back the power and pique his interest (if you want to)

If the above signs seem familiar, it is time for you to think about your feelings and what you want from this prospective love interest. If you are looking for a long-term committed relationship and see potential, then you need to be honest with each other and make sure that you are both on the same page.

When it comes to attraction, chemistry is something that cannot be forced. It is impossible to make somebody commit to you if those feelings are not there for them. Be true to yourself and understand if your partner is ready for what you are expecting out of the relationship. It takes time to move from dating to a relationship and you need to give it time to develop naturally.

During that time, concentrate on yourself too. If you feel that you are losing yourself and putting everything into dating, then make some time for the other people in your life. Whether that is spending time with family or hanging out with friends, it is important that you are not always available and dependent on your date for happiness.

If you still find that he is unsure about taking the next steps towards a committed relationship, then maybe a time out will be good for both of you. There is no point making yourself miserable and becoming hopelessly devoted to someone who is not quite where you need them to be. Instead concentrate on the other aspects of your life and who knows, maybe a bit of distance from you will make his heart grow fonder.

At Ignite Dating, we know how confusing it can be to read human behaviour – particularly in those early stages of dating when you are just getting to know someone. Our dedicated matchmakers are on hand to help you decode his behaviour and will provide you with constructive feedback after every introduction, so you know where you stand. If you would like a more supportive dating journey without the mind games, then join us today.

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Are you suffering from a case of dating burnout?

Going on dates can be exhausting at the best of times and may lead to the not entirely uncommon condition of dating burnout.

So much preparation goes into finding a potential suitor, talking to them and asking questions to get to know them better before meeting in person. And what happens when you’re finally ready to go on that date? Hopefully, there will be a spark and all that planning and preparation will be worth it as you get to know each other better and a blossoming romance ensues. But we all know the age old saying that you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you find your prince – so chances are every date that is right, there will be numerous dates that fall short of the mark. 

Dating takes up a lot of time and for those of us that are working and balancing families and home life, it is simply time that we do not have to waste on people that we aren’t going to connect with. And while lots of choice can seem great at first, after a while it can become overwhelming and even tedious. Sitting down on the sofa scrolling through hundreds of faces may seem like the height of ease and simplicity, but over time you can guarantee that it will leave you feeling exhausted, frustrated and low – none of which are good mentalities to have when meeting someone new.

Dealing with Dating Burnout

Dating burnout signs

While we’re becoming better at spotting symptoms of burnout in our professional lives, we’re much less likely to apply that same level of self-care when it comes to our daily sessions of hunting for potential matches. Searching for someone who checks all the boxes can be draining, particularly now that there are so many ways to find someone, but how do you know if you’re just frustrated with dating or legitimately exhausted by it?

Have you ever had that moment where you’re scrolling through profiles but not really taking in the information? Or maybe you’re getting ready for yet another date but there’s no feeling of excitement, so you find yourself regularly cancelling dates last minute? If so, it is likely that you are experiencing a case of dating burnout.

How to deal with dating burnout

If you recognise these symptoms in yourself, it’s a good idea to have a break from dating. Take some time out with good friends and family to appreciate what you already have in your life rather than focusing on what you lack and are longing for. This will ultimately give you a renewed purpose and when you’re ready to start dating again – try something new.

If you find online dating laborious and want to cut down on the time, effort and emotional energy put into those dates that just aren’t quite what you are looking for, then why not outsource the hard work to someone who understands you and what you are looking for in a partner, someone like Ignite Dating?

Professional Matchmaker Zoom Call

By enlisting the help of a professional matchmaker, you can refocus your energy into the things that you want and need to do and say goodbye to the exhaustion caused by dating. 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 – while worrying that you’re not finding someone quickly enough. While you work, do your groceries, go to the dentist or spend time with friends, your matchmaker will be working tirelessly to find the perfect partner for you.

Hustle culture may have made us feel pressured to put our all into everything we do, but our success when it comes to dating unfortunately does not correspond to how much effort we put into it. So rather than fighting the signs of dating burnout, why not hand the job over to someone who knows you and understands what you are looking for, so you can get back to enjoying dating – after all it’s meant to be fun!!

At Ignite Dating, we take the hard work out of your search for love. Your dedicated matchmaker is with you every step of the way, using Myers Briggs and intuition to provide a dating journey that will leave you feeling confident, energised and safe. If you want to put the fun back into dating and avoid dating burnout get in touch today.

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Is your dating attachment style hindering your search for love?

You may have heard about dating attachment style before, where people use the terms anxious, avoidant and secure to describe the way in which they behave in a relationship – but do you know just how important they are when it comes to finding a relationship that really works for you?

Established in early childhood through your relationship with your primary caregivers, your attachment style is something that subconsciously you will take with you into your adult relationships. It determines how you relate to your partner, which subsequently affects how you behave in a relationship and how healthy or even unhealthy your relationships will be.

With three main types – anxious, avoidant and secure – understanding your personal attachment style can help you forge healthier relationships in the future and increase your chances of finding the right person for you, but where do you start?

Knowing me, knowing you

Do you ever get the feeling that you attract a certain type of person all the time, or that your relationships feel a little bit like déja vu regarding your behaviour? This could be your attachment style coming into play and the sooner you recognise it, the easier your search for love will be.

Identifying your own attachment style early, can help you detect potential problems before things go a little pear-shaped, allowing you to recognise behaviour in yourself and others and determine the attachment style that best complements your own to achieve a more healthy, stable relationship.

Dating anxious attachment style

Having an anxious attachment style can lead you to need constant reassurance in your relationships. You are likely to experience low self-esteem and insecurity, leading you to feel anxious, needy or worried when your partner goes out without you or shows interest in activities or hobbies different to your own. While a certain degree of anxiety in relationships can be healthy – remember the age old saying of absence makes the heart grow fonder – if you are finding that you are regularly causing arguments over such things or portraying controlling, jealous and possessive behaviour then it may be time to step back from the relationship and concentrate on addressing your attachment style.

Dating avoidant attachment style

An avoidant attachment style is most commonly represented by individuals that live a very independent lifestyle. You are likely to avoid emotional intimacy and deem connections with others as unnecessary, preferring to spend time alone than socialise with others. While independence in a relationship can be healthy, if you find it difficult to relate to or trust people and frequently find that relationships fizzle out after just a couple of weeks – something which you knew from the start – then it is likely that you have an avoidant attachment style which may need a little nurturing. 

Dating secure attachment style

Having a secure attachment style is the ideal when it comes to attachment in relationships as it means you have a strong connection with your partner, but you don’t display any possessive or jealous behaviours. You are likely to enjoy spending time with your partner, but also feel able to go out with your friends and enjoy different interests without the need to check in on each other every five minutes! A secure attachment style doesn’t necessarily mean that your relationship is perfect, but it does mean you are able to handle any problems in a healthy, balanced way.

Every dating attachment style is capable of finding love

Once you have taken a look into your own behaviours and figured out your dating attachment style, you will have a better idea of those who may be good or bad for you to date – and who it may be best to avoid completely.

Although secure attachment style dating is the healthiest when it comes to relationships, identifying your attachment style as anxious or avoidant isn’t necessarily a bad thing and it certainly doesn’t mean you can’t have a healthy, long-term relationship.

Those without secure attachment styles tend to seek a partner who can meet the emotional needs that they can’t meet themselves, but there is no reason why you can’t fulfil those needs on your own so you no longer have to rely on a partner to meet them for you. For example, if you identify as an anxious style you might need to work on your self-esteem and knowing that you don’t need to rely on somebody to prop you up but can cope when you are single, whereas if you identify as an avoidant style you may need to work on learning how to let others in.

As human beings, we crave a deeper level of connection with others. By identifying the traits in your dating attachment style, you will be able to work on any negative patterns and open yourself up to more healthy and balanced relationships in the future.

At Ignite Dating, we work with people across all dating attachment styles and understand how attachment styles and dating go hand in hand. Because everyone is different, we tailor our services to your specific requirements and your matchmaker will be on hand to advise and guide you to get the best out of your dating journey and your future relationships.

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Why lockdown is the ideal time to start your dating journey

Well, we all hoped it wouldn’t happen again but here we are – lockdown 2.0! The good news is, this time we’re older and wiser and we’ve all been here before and come out the other side stronger.

But if you’re determined that you’re going to make this lockdown a little bit better than the last one, this could be the perfect time for you to start your dating journey with Ignite Dating.

Now you might be thinking ‘what do you mean lockdown is the ideal time to start dating, you can’t meet anyone new in person?!’ and you would of course be right. But that could be exactly why now is the perfect time to get started.

Not convinced? Give us a chance to persuade you. Here are four reasons why lockdown is the ideal time to start looking for love and why Ignite Dating is the best way to do it.

1. You have more time to perfect your profile – and we’ll help you do it

Whether you’ve been furloughed or you’ve just found yourself with more time on your hands now everything is shut, lockdown is a great time to perfect your profile and get a confident start on your dating journey. We’re still running Zoom interviews and doing socially distanced photo shoots so that we’re able to work with you to put together a great dating profile.

Our top tip – before you begin, spend some real time thinking about who you are and what you’re looking for in a partner. Our matchmakers will also take their time to get to know you during these interviews, so they can put their expert skills towards finding you the perfect match.

2. We’ll help pair you with like-minded singles

Lockdown leads to bored individuals, some of whom will strike up conversations just to pass the time. You know the type, the serial swipers of Tinder that just need a quick ego boost and a bit of fun to get them through another evening at home. Time wasters, in other words. But if you work with the team at Ignite Dating, you’ll be safe in the knowledge that everyone we introduce you to and those that are using our services are on the same page as you – on their lockdown dating journey and looking for something more serious.

3. We offer a safe and stress-free service 

Lockdown can be a stressful time for everyone. Whether you’re working or not, being separated from friends and family and unable to go out and socialise can take its toll – especially if you live alone. So don’t let looking for love add to your stress levels! We can make getting started feel fun and stress-free by taking the hassle out of writing your profile, finding people who suit your preferences and matching you with like-minded people.

With Ignite Dating, we offer a safe space for you to build your profile and start getting to know other singles. We actually think that lockdown allows for a more relaxed “get to know you” time, chatting over the phone and on Zoom. And you’ll also feel safer when the time does come to meet as we run ID checks on every individual that signs up to our services.

4. We let your creative side shine

Through lockdown, we’ll be helping to set up virtual dates between you and your matches. We’ll lay the foundations and the rest is up to you! When you can’t meet up in-person, you have to find fun ways to make the most of dating from a distance.

And if things are going well, why not get creative with it, perhaps considering virtual happy hours, dinners or online games nights. Our team has gathered its top advice for fun virtual date ideas that can bring the two of you closer together, regardless of lockdown!

If we’ve convinced you and you’ve decided that lockdown is the perfect time to start your dating journey, book a chat with our friendly team at Ignite Dating today. This time around lockdown doesn’t have to feel like a lonely slog, and you can begin building genuine connections from the comfort and safety of your own home.

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All I want for Christmas is someone to share it with

You’ve heard the sayings ‘Christmas is a time for joy, for love and for sharing’. It’s the time when you come together with family and friends to celebrate another year gone and to overindulge in gift-giving, Christmas puddings and roast dinners. Couples swapping gifts and wearing matching novelty jumpers – it’s no wonder so many people like dating during Christmas!

But when you’re single, it can sometimes feel like there’s something missing; that special someone to wake up with on Christmas morning and to kiss at Midnight on New Year’s Eve. Sounds familiar? Well, it doesn’t have to be that way, if you’re looking for love this Christmas, we might just be able to help you out!

Start looking for love this month

Winter is here and you might have noticed that the shops have already begun to fill the shelves with Christmas items. So, if you’re hoping to find love in time for Christmas, don’t hesitate! Starting your dating journey this month will give you the best chance of having someone to hold when the festive season and New Year rolls around.

Make the most of the changing seasons

The colder seasons are here and though the weather might not be great, they do offer plenty of opportunities for dinners with friends, celebrations, glasses of mulled wine and cosy nights in front of a roaring fire. All whilst being mindful of government guidelines.

These are the perfect circumstances for any blossoming new relationship. From dates at your local pop-up ice rinks to sitting in pub gardens snuggled under warm blankets, this romantic time of year can be the perfect catalyst for finding love in time for Christmas.

Give yourself the gift of love this year

Meeting someone through agencies or online dating sites used to feel a bit taboo, but in today’s busy world it can offer you the best chance of finding the right person. After all, we are all busy people and most of us don’t have time to spend optimistically hanging around in bars, coffee shops or libraries every day just hoping to find the perfect partner.

By signing up to dating agencies and by getting yourself a dedicated matchmaker, you can massively boost your chances of finding love by Christmas. You’ll be able to build your profile and really get to grips with what it is you’re looking for in a partner.

How can we help?

At Ignite Dating, we understand that though you might want someone to kiss under the mistletoe this year, you also want a partner for life, not just for Christmas! That’s why our matchmakers work tirelessly to get to know you, so they can introduce you to like-minded
individuals. Someone who shares your interests and ambitions and wants to settle down.

We can help to take the stress out of dating and we to cut out the time-wasting serial swipers who ‘aren’t looking for anything serious’. So why wait? Make this the gift you give yourself this year and get in touch with our friendly team today for more information on how we can help you to find your perfect match, get in touch with our friendly team today for more information on how we can help you to find your perfect match.

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Dating advice for entrepreneurs

You’re an entrepreneur. You live and breathe your business and this means going above and beyond – for 9-5 read 24/7. Even when you’re not in the office you are thinking about the business, your plans and your employees because your company is like your baby, to the point where it’s difficult to tell where the business ends and you begin.

But that can take its toll. You might ask “How can someone so successful, dedicated and organised be so unlucky in love?”.

The answer is time – between the long hours, meetings and keeping the business afloat, it’s hard to steal a moment for yourself, let alone set aside time for someone else. After all, building a successful business (or two, or ten) takes a lot of time and dedication.

But while you might be a very successful entrepreneur, you’re also a human being and it’s totally understandable that you want to create meaningful connections and find love outside of your business. You will ask, can an entrepreneur really have both? Of course, if you want to! Much like a business, you just need to put in a little planning and persistence.

So if you’re still feeling like dating as an entrepreneur is almost impossible, let us help you. Check out our expert advice below.

Be prepared to give a bit of time

Although it can feel hard when you’re already juggling so much, you need to get your priorities straight and decide whether dating is really important to you right now. If it is, then you need to be prepared to dedicate a bit of time to your journey, otherwise, it won’t work. You can sign up to dating sites and agencies to take some of the time and effort out of finding a partner, but ultimately if you’re not prepared to make the odd sacrifice and find time and space, then it will be much harder to find the right person.

Don’t just leave it to chance

When the balance between your work and your private life is nice and relaxed, it’s much easier to meet people naturally. You have time to socialise in your favourite bars, sit and grab a coffee from your favourite shop or even just bump into someone in the supermarket. But when you’re living and breathing your business you often don’t have that luxury and leaving love to chance could mean you end up waiting a long time. So it’s best to treat your dating journey like you would any venture, with careful planning and the right investment. 

Have a game plan

Before you dive in, think about the different ways you can approach the dating world, and which of them are going to work for you as an entrepreneur. There are plenty of options out there, from speed dating to dating apps, but many of them can take up an awful lot of your time. And that’s before you discover that anyone can sign up for a dating app, and you find yourself bombarded with messages from unsuitable matches and people who won’t complement your lifestyle.

Instead, we’d recommend you look for a more professional service such as a dating agency. Take Ignite Dating, for example. You’ll be assigned a dedicated matchmaker who will get to know you and they’ll understand your unique position. They can help you to find someone that will understand and work with your lifestyle and they will to search for suitable matches when you’re busy running your business. They can take the noise away and protect your most valuable asset – time.

Choose a confidential dating agency

If you do opt for a dating agency (and you should!!), think about choosing an agency that values confidentiality. As an entrepreneur, you may well be well known or recognised in your industry (or if not, you’ll want to be!) and so you want to keep your private life private. Using an agency that values confidentiality protects you from public online dating profiles and means you can avoid the swipe lottery of dating apps.

Keep an open mind

When you’re used to being in control it can be hard to let go and you might have a very specific way of doing things at work but when dating, even more than in business, you have to keep an open mind. There might be certain aspects you want in a partner that you’re really not willing to budge on but beyond that try not to rule people out just because they don’t immediately tick all your boxes.

This is another benefit of using a dating service, your matchmaker will get to know you and using their expertise will connect you with people they think will be a good match, and they’ll challenge you in the process. This can help you to keep an open mind, because this is what they do for a living and sometimes they’ll see something you don’t. And hey, sometimes it can be nice to branch out and find someone that isn’t your typical “type” – especially if your “type” hasn’t been working out for you so far…

Let your friends and family know you’re looking for love

It also pays to let your friends and family know that you’re looking for a relationship. After all, you never know who they might know. They might have connections that they think would be a good match for you. If you and your friends swim in similar circles (or even better, completely opposite circles) they might be able to introduce you to someone they think could complement you and would not be put off by the entrepreneur lifestyle. It’s far from a foolproof way of dating but the fact that they know you can give you that extra advantage.

Relax and leave work behind

When you do secure a date, it’s important that you’re able to make time, relax and leave the office behind. The first few dates can set the tone for your whole relationship. If you’re always distracted, talking about work or cancelling dates because you’re too busy, it’s unlikely you’re going to land yourself a lasting relationship. So remember, it’s a bit of give and take. If you’re serious about finding love you need to be prepared to leave work behind sometimes, even if it seems impossible to switch off at the start, but you need to give your date the time and attention they deserve.

Let us help

At Ignite Dating, we’ve worked with people from all walks of life, including many highly successful entrepreneurs and we understand that discretion and a tailored service is important to you. We also know you’re short on time which is why we give you access to your own matchmaker and they will be with you every step of the way to guide you on your journey and help you find the perfect match. They will ask all the right questions and use their years of knowledge in the industry to get to know you almost as well as your friends do, and really focus on getting the best out of you. That way, they can find you the best matches. 

Because everyone is different, we make sure that our services are tailored to your specific requirements and your matchmaker will always be working away behind the scenes to find great matches, even when you’re going about your business as usual. We offer a safe and discrete environment for you to meet like-minded individuals so you can feel safe that all your personal information is kept completely private.

If you’d like to know more, get in touch with our team of expert matchmakers today.

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Date ideas to help you escape the city

September marks the beginning of autumn; it’s the time when children return to school, the leaves begin to change and the air is filled with the smell of pumpkin-spiced lattes. 

The city can be an exciting place to live, work, socialise and go out on dates, but every now and then it can feel a bit too busy or overwhelming and it can be nice to take a break and escape for a little while. This can be especially true when you’re dating someone new and
trying to get to know them away from all the hustle and bustle.

So if you’ve decided it’s time to swap the city for something a little different on your next date, we’ve got just what you need! In this guide, we’ve pulled together a list of some of our favourite alternatives when it comes to dating. But don’t worry, you won’t have to travel
too far, the UK has plenty of beautiful locations right on your doorstep for the perfect romantic date.

Read on to find out more about some of our top swaps and beautiful locations to help you escape the city on your next date.

Swap: London for
Brighton

OK, this one’s a little cheeky because Brighton is technically still a city, but its quirky shops, winding lanes and seaside charm can make you feel like you’re a world away from the busy pavements of London. By choosing to spend a day or night out in Brighton instead, you can swap the busy bars for quirky pubs and a walk down the Thames path for a stroll along
the seafront.

From shopping in Churchill Square to dining at the Marina or zip-lining past the pier, Brighton is a diverse and vibrant city where you’re sure to find something perfect to do on your date. There are plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from and if you want to stay for the night, the city is home to a range of romantic hotels and rustic B&Bs.

Brighton is also famed for its events and its music in particular, and there is usually something going on. Whether that’s the Brighton Festival throughout the whole of May, a stand-up comedy gig in a cosy pub or live performance in one of the many quirky music venues, entertainment is never far away. Though you might be just a stone’s throw from
London (an hour on the train or two if you drive), choosing this seaside city can make a welcome change for your date.

Swap: Manchester
for the Peak District

There are plenty of great places to go for a date in Manchester but sometimes you just need to get away! So why not swap the city for the beautiful Peak District instead? The national park is just 25 miles from Manchester and yet you’ll feel like you’re in an entirely different part of the country.

As you can imagine, the Peaks are a great location for outdoor activities, even if that’s just relaxing walk in the great outdoors. Then, after a long day exploring, you can cosy down in a small country pub for some delicious pub grub and a drink (or two).

If you and your date love long walks, hiking, cycling or even camping, then the Peaks is the ideal place for you. Not only is it great to get back to nature, but there are also lots of lovely towns and villages to be explored. And if camping’s not your style, there are also lots of B and B’s, cosy cottages or holiday stays you can rent out for the night (or a weekend if
you want to extend the date).

Swap: Birmingham
for the Cotswolds

Trade the bustle of Birmingham for the rolling hills and breathtaking panoramic views of the Cotswolds. About an hour and a half away by car, it won’t take you long to reach your chosen destination and there are a number of beautiful spots to choose from in the region. Made up of quaint little villages, towns, beautiful walking trails and even the birthplace
of Shakespeare, there’s plenty to see and do while you’re there – so you might want to make a weekend of it!

The Cotswolds also boasts some beautiful hotels, cottages and spas. So why not take it one step further and have a truly relaxing break from the city. Book yourselves in for a day at a local spa or wellness centre for a very indulgent date they won’t forget. 

Swap: Leeds for the
Dales

Another one of the UK’s great national parks, the Yorkshire Dales could be the perfect alternative to a date in Leeds city centre. If you’re looking for something different to do and you want to spend some time out in nature, the Dales offers countryside walking trails, castle ruins and even what remains of a 12th-century monastery.

If you want to see the best that nature has to offer you can enjoy the
natural wonder that is the Aysgarth Falls in Wensleydale, take a guided tour through the White Scar Cave or explore the geographical splendour of Malham Cove. Or, if you love taking in a bit of the culture and history of our great nation, why not explore Bolton Castle or Fountains Abbey. It certainly makes a change from the bustling streets of Leeds and the
hustle of a night out at busy bars and restaurants.

That said, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy great food and drink in the Dales! From the Black Sheep Brewery to the Wensleydale Creamery and all the cosy country inns along the way, there’s plenty of hearty and traditional treats to try during your date.

Swap: Bristol for
Weston-super-Mare

Although Bristol is a city on the water it does not have its own beach. So if you fancy a change from the city and you love nothing more than an evening stroll on the sand, Weston-super-Mare could be a great alternative location for your next date.

This beautiful town in Somerset has an incredible stretch of sandy beaches, and whether you’re travelling by car or train, the journey should take you around 45 minutes, so you don’t have to go far to reach the sea. The classic seafront means you have the opportunity to swap the Michelin star restaurant for the traditional fish and chips or tea rooms by
the seaside, but if you fancy something a little classier, there are plenty of quality eateries and romantic bistros serving global cuisines.

Then at night, you can tuck yourself away in a cosy corner at one of the town’s local pubs, enjoy live music from local bands or even try your hand at singing yourself at one of the regular karaoke and open mic nights.

Finally, if you want to stay the night (or the weekend), there are plenty of options there too. You could choose a quaint B&B, luxury hotel or even go glamping if you fancy something a little different. If you love to be by the coast, then Weston-super-Mare should definitely be on the list to think about for your next date.

If you’re looking for love in the city but you still haven’t found the right person, let us help! Ignite Dating has hubs across the UK so we’re able to bring people together and help them find the perfect match. Not only this, but we love to share our top dating advice, so we can be with you every step of your dating journey. If you’d like to know more about our services and how we can help, get in touch with our team of expert matchmakers today.

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Why September is a good time to start your dating journey

September marks the beginning of autumn; it’s the time when children return to school, the leaves begin to change and the air is filled with the smell of pumpkin-spiced lattes. 

For many people, between the ‘back to school’ mentality and the changing of the seasons (plus the slight guilt of overindulging over the summer), September also ushers in a period of change. 

And more than that. It’s less than 4 months till Christmas – and as well as causing panic buying and gift anxiety, that can trigger many people to look more seriously for a partner to potentially share the festive season.

This is perhaps why the month has been dubbed ‘cuffing season’ (and not in a Christian Grey type way!!). It’s the time when many individuals feel ready to let go of their single status and find someone to settle down with. 

In fact, September is one of the best times to start looking for love and below we’ll look at four reasons why you should start dating this month and how a matchmaker can help you on your dating journey.   

1. Summer is drawing to a close 

As the long summer days begin to disappear, people look for new excitement and new things to look forward to in the upcoming colder months. More people decide to start their dating journey at this time than any other, meaning there are more potential partners out there also looking to take things more seriously.

2. Autumn is a romantic season 

Though it’s not quite woolly jumper season, the days get shorter and often the temperature begins to drop. This can leave people craving hearty meals, autumnal walks in the park and cosy nights at home in front of the fire (or at least the telly!). Autumn can be such a romantic time of year – so make the most of it!

3. Life changes pace 

Summer is a busy time for most people. Between summer holidays, days spent sunbathing in the park, family barbecues and having just one more pint in the pub garden, it can be hard to fit everything in!

By the time September rolls around we’re usually ready for a change of pace. Plans slow down and people aren’t as busy as they were, meaning they have more free time to dedicate to finding love.

4. Looking for love ahead of the winter 

Finally, people are more inclined to couple up in the colder months, looking for someone to keep them warm during the winter. This might date back to prehistoric days but it’s just as true now!

And as we’ve said, it’s also approaching the festive season and many like to have a partner to share this time of year. Starting your dating journey in September gives you the best chance of finding love for the winter and having someone to pull your cracker on Christmas Day!!

Start your dating journey this September with the help of a matchmaker 

It’s easy to see why September can be the best time to start dating, but before you panic that the clock is already ticking, let us help! By choosing a dedicated matchmaker, you can set yourself up for dating success.

Your matchmaker will get to know you and what you want in a partner, they will then deliver the best matches to you, taking the hard work out of dating.

At Ignite Dating, we love the change of pace that Autumn brings, which is why we are dedicated to using this time wisely to help you find the right partner, just in time for those cold winter months! If you’d like to know more about our services or our talented matchmakers, get in touch today.