Searchmate

Her Majesty - Queen Elizabeth II

While our hearts are broken by the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, today we celebrate one of the world's most courageous and inspiring women.

Our Queen lived a life in service. She guided the British people through decades of change with dignity, kindness and stoicism.

She was our constant.
She was our smile in the darkness.
Our supporter when times became tough.

We watched her experience very human challenges as a wife and mother. Somehow, she felt like a much-loved family member to us all.

Our Queen showed us her joy, with twinkling eyes and a dazzling smile.

She also showed us her pain, particularly at the passing of her beloved husband.

Queen Elizabeth II, you served the British people magnificently.
We cared for you, deeply.

You will be missed for eternity.

https://www.searchmate.co.uk/

The Date!

It’s normal to feel nervous on a first date particularly if you haven’t been dating for a while.

Over the next few posts, we have put together some tips and suggestions on how to help you relax if you are dipping your toe back into the dating pool. Please also remember … it is only a date! You are not signing your life away to someone!

Dress Appropriately
Do dress up and make an effort. It shows a courtesy and appreciation of the person you are meeting. We are not saying you need to dress up to the nines, but it is common sense to look clean and presentable on dates. Leave football shirts, trainers, scruffy jeans and dirty clothes in the wardrobe, along with that cliche ‘they’ll have to love me for what I am!”. So do dress smartly, but also in a way that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

Prepare
If you are feeling nervous, it is more than likely that they are feeling nervous too! Remember to focus your attention outward; not inward. To combat first-date nerves, focus your attention on what your date is saying and doing and what is going on around you, rather than on your internal thoughts. Staying fully present in the moment will help take your mind off worries and insecurities.

Be Curious
The goal isn’t to have a list of questions you can pull out and recite. The idea is that a little prep work will help you feel confident and relaxed so you can have a fluid conversation. When you are truly curious about someone’s thoughts, feelings and opinions, it shows. However, remember to keep the conversation light. Avoid politics, previous relationships and refrain from any complaints and comments on how your life might be better. When you are smiling and having a good time, you are much more attractive to others than when you are venting!

Don’t use dates as therapy
Finding yourself in a relaxed environment with someone who seems caring, gentle and kind can prompt the floodgates to open for some people. But this leads to the other person feeling more like a counsellor than a potential partner and could stop things from developing further. Try and keep things light.

Pay attention
Make an effort to truly listen to the other person. Little things can go a long way such as remembering someone’s preferences and what is going on in their life.

So, you’ve got this far – to the first date! You both want to be there and are both looking for a connection. Relax and have fun! For a loving and authentic relationship, you need to be open and honest to the person you are on a date with and we are here to help. Our experienced and friendly matchmakers can offer advice and guidance every step of the way.

For more information on our Personal Matchmaking service, message the page or call us on 0800 644 4160
https://www.searchmate.co.uk/