Category: Blog

The leaves are falling, and a crisp chill is in the air, which can only mean one thing: Halloween is just around the corner! While Halloween might be synonymous with costumes, candy, and haunted houses, it’s also a fantastic time for dating.

Halloween dating is a fun way to enjoy spooky-themed activities together and create lasting memories. There’s something inherently magical about the season that makes it the perfect backdrop for romantic adventures.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some creative ideas for dating at Halloween time.

Costume Date Night Themes

Halloween is all about dressing up. The Themed Date Night Ideas are like dressing up in costumes, having a cozy picnic under the stars, or cooking a meal together based on a theme like Italian cuisine or a favourite movie.

Pick a theme, whether it’s classic monsters, famous movie characters, or historical figures, and go all out with your costumes. You can hit up a local costume store together, or better yet, make your costumes for a unique bonding experience.

It’s a great way to add some excitement and creativity to your time spent together on costume-themed date night. Then, enjoy a spooky movie marathon or a dinner at a themed restaurant while staying in character. 

Cat Pumpkin Carving Date:

Carved pumpkins are a quintessential Halloween activity, and they can be incredibly romantic. When it comes to pumpkin carving, the options are endless. Whether you’re into making cute cat designs or spooky scenes, having the right tools can make all the difference.

And if you’re feeling brave, why not try some scary pumpkin carving ideas on Halloween night? Pumpkin carving designs let you get creative, whether you’re making classic faces or trying something new and exciting.

Grab a couple of pumpkins, and some pumpkin carving tools. You can carve spooky faces or even carve your initials into a pumpkin as a symbol of your growing relationship. Don’t forget to roast the pumpkin seeds for a tasty snack.

Is A Haunted House a Good First Date?

A haunted house date is a chance for both people to get scared together and have a good time. It can be a cool first date if you both like scary things, but make sure you’re both into it before you go.

Holding onto each other tightly as you navigate dark and spooky corridors can create a strong sense of connection. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to show your bravery and protect your date from any lurking monsters. 

Just be supportive of each other if one of you gets scared, and have a backup plan in case it’s too intense. Overall, it’s all about having a great time and making memories together!

Gothic Picnic in the Cemetery:

If you’re both fans of the macabre, consider having a gothic picnic in a cemetery. It might sound unconventional, but many cemeteries are serene, peaceful places that can be quite romantic. Pack some dark-themed snacks and beverages, and enjoy each other’s company surrounded by history and gravestones.

Just be sure to be respectful of the location and its visitors. After selecting the cemetery, choose a secluded spot away from any recent graves or visitors.

Spread out a comfortable blanket and set the mood with some candles or lanterns. Remember to clean up after yourselves and leave the area as you found it, showing respect for the peaceful resting place of others.

Halloween-Themed Cooking Night

Halloween-themed food is like regular food but with a spooky twist. You can make cookies shaped like ghosts, hot dogs that look like witch fingers, or cupcakes with creepy-crawly decorations.

These fun foods are perfect for Halloween romantic parties and make the celebration even more exciting. Cooking together can be an intimate and entertaining experience. Search for Halloween-themed recipes like pumpkin soup, spiderweb cupcakes, or mummy hotdogs.

Spend the evening in the kitchen, also don’t forget to set the mood with some eerie music and candlelight for added ambience.

Ghost Story Evening

Gather around a campfire or cozy up on the couch with a flashlight and take turns sharing spooky stories. You can find plenty of ghost stories online or even create your own. The anticipation and thrill of these tales can bring you closer together. 

Consider incorporating props like fake cobwebs or flickering candles to enhance the ambience. Encourage each other to get creative with the storytelling, using different voices and gestures to bring the tales to life.

Don’t forget to have some comforting snacks on hand to enjoy during breaks between stories, and maybe even end the evening with a lighthearted comedy to balance out the spookiness. It’s a memorable way to bond.

Visit a Pumpkin Patch or Fall Festival

Spend a day at a Pumpkin Patches in Ohio or fall festival, enjoying hayrides, and corn mazes, and picking out the perfect pumpkins together. Many of these places also offer delicious seasonal treats like caramel apples and apple cider, making it a delightful date experience. 

In Ohio, there are lots of places called pumpkin patches. These are farms or fields where you can pick your pumpkins. It’s a fun activity for families and friends during the fall festivals.

You can find big pumpkins for carving or small ones for decorating. It’s a great way to enjoy the season and make memories together.

Spooky Date Night at Home

Here are some ideas for a spooky date night at home:

• Dim the lights and add spooky decorations.
• Watch scary movies or series.
• Bake Halloween-themed treats together.
• Share ghost stories or play spooky games.
• Enjoy cuddling up for a cozy and thrilling evening at home.

Conclusion:

Halloween dating in the fall festivals in Ohio opens up a world of exciting and unique possibilities for couples. Whether you choose to embrace the spooky side of the season or simply enjoy the fall ambience, it’s a great time to create lasting memories with your special someone. So, grab your costumes, carve some pumpkins, and let the enchantment of Halloween romantic dating bring a touch of magic to your love life this autumn.

Happy haunting!

Dating red flags serve as warning signs that shouldn’t be overlooked. They provide insights into a person’s character, behaviour, and compatibility with you. Spotting these warning signs early can stop you from putting time and feelings into a relationship that might not make you happy or be good for you in the end.

Understanding why dating red flags are important involves acknowledging their role in preserving your well-being and happiness. While it’s natural to overlook minor flaws or quirks in the early stages of dating, certain behaviours can indicate deeper issues that could jeopardize the relationship’s success in the long term.

10 Red Flags Not to Ignore

• Inconsistent Behavior:

Pay attention if your partner’s actions don’t align with their words or if they frequently cancel plans without valid reasons.

• Disrespectful Treatment:

If your partner consistently disrespects you, belittles your opinions, or ignores your boundaries, it’s a major red flag.

• Lack of Empathy:

A partner who shows little empathy towards your feelings or struggles may not be emotionally supportive in the long run.

• Control Issues:

Be cautious of partners who try to control your actions, dictate your choices, or isolate you from friends and family.

• Poor Communication:

If your partner is unwilling to discuss important issues or avoids honest conversations, it may indicate underlying problems.

• Jealousy and Possessiveness:

Being overly jealous or possessive might mean someone feels insecure and could end up controlling or even hurting you emotionally.

• Unresolved Baggage:

Be wary if your partner has unresolved issues from past relationships or emotional trauma that significantly impacts their behavior and interactions with you.

• Lack of Accountability:

Partners who won’t admit when they’re wrong or always blame others might not be very honest or trustworthy.

• Secretiveness:

If your partner keeps their past, what they do, or whom they see a secret, it might mean they don’t trust you or they’re hiding something important.

• Signs of Addiction or Substance Abuse:

Substance abuse or addictive behaviours can strain relationships and lead to numerous problems if left unaddressed.

Impact of Ignoring Red Flags

Ignoring red flags can have far-reaching consequences for your emotional well-being and relationship satisfaction. By dismissing warning signs or rationalizing problematic behaviour, you risk prolonging your involvement in a relationship that may be detrimental to your happiness and fulfilment.

Furthermore, disregarding red flags can diminish your self-esteem and confidence, as you may internalize negative messages or doubts about your worthiness of love and respect. Over time, this can erode your sense of agency and empowerment, making it harder to advocate for your needs and boundaries in future relationships.

Taking Action

When you notice warning signs in your dating relationship, take action to protect yourself. Talk honestly with your partner, set clear rules, and get support from people you trust. Good communication is important for solving problems and making your relationship stronger.

If the issues keep happening, ask for help from someone you trust. They can give you advice and support to deal with the problems. Trust your feelings to lead you to better, happier relationships. Facing problems in your relationship helps you build a stronger bond based on respect and trust.

Conclusion:

Crush Confidential is your go-to source for all things related to crushes and relationships. We’re here to simplify the journey of understanding your romantic interests, from deciphering signals to recognizing warning signs. In severe cases, ignoring red flags may even contribute to instances of emotional or physical abuse, perpetuating a cycle of toxicity and harm within the relationship.

Dr Gary Chapman created the 5 Love Languages to help us understand how people show and receive love. According to Chapman, everyone has a main love language, which is their favourite way of giving and getting love.

Words of Affirmation: Speak Kindness

Hearing expressions of love and receiving compliments are vital.  Compliments, encouragement, and expressing appreciation are powerful ways to communicate love to individuals with this love language. Being acknowledged and praised, even for small things, makes you feel valued.

• Hearing “I love you” means a lot to you, especially when it’s said unexpectedly.
• You appreciate it when your partner notices and comments on positive things you do.
• A simple “thank you” when you do something nice makes you feel good.

Acts of Service: Actions Speak Louder Than Words

For those whose love language is acts of service, actions matter more than words. They feel loved when their partner shows it through deeds. These practical acts of kindness speak volumes and show deep care and affection.

• When your partner helps out with chores or tasks, it makes you feel cared for.
• Following through on promises and stepping in to help means a lot to you.
• Small gestures to make your life easier, especially when you’re stressed, mean a lot to you.

Receiving Gifts: Tokens of Love

When someone’s love language is receiving gifts, it’s not just about getting stuff. For them, gifts show love, thoughtfulness, and gratitude. A special gesture or a heartfelt present can mean a lot to them.

• Taking home a memento from dates or trips is meaningful to you.
• Surprise gifts strengthen your bond with your partner.
• Commemorating special days with gifts is important to you.

Quality Time: Cherishing Moments Together

Quality time is spending time with loved ones is super important. Doing things together, having deep chats, or just being there for each other makes the bond stronger and shows love and connection.

• Spending focused time together, without distractions, is important to you.
• It’s meaningful when your partner prioritizes you in their schedule and doesn’t cancel plans.
• You’re okay with showing affection in public.

Physical Touch: The Power of Contact

For people who love physical touch, hugs, kisses, holding hands, or even a pat on the back means a lot. These simple gestures show love, and warmth, and make them feel safe. Being close and touching each other is important for them.

• Physical affection helps you feel grounded and wanted in a relationship.
• Being close to your partner and touching them often is natural for you.
• Sexual intimacy deepens your connection and makes you feel loved.

Discovering Your Love Language: Taking the Quiz

Now that you’re acquainted with the 5 Love Languages, you might be wondering, “What’s my love language?” Fortunately, Dr Gary Chapman has devised a simple yet insightful quiz to help you identify your primary love language.

The quiz asks you questions to figure out how you usually show love and how you like to get it. Answer honestly and think about your answers. This helps you find your main love language and understand what you need emotionally in relationships.

Applying the Love Languages in Relationships

Now that you know your love language, you can handle your relationships better. Knowing your partner’s love language and showing love in ways they like can make your bond stronger and bring you closer. Talking openly about your love languages, what you want, and what you need can stop problems and make sure both of you feel loved and cared for.

Conclusion:

At The Crush Confidential, we think the 5 Love Languages are super helpful. They help us understand love better and make our relationships stronger. Love can change lives and touch hearts in special ways, after all.

First dates can make you feel nervous. Your heart beats fast, and you might feel butterflies in your stomach. It’s okay to feel this way because meeting someone new can be scary. Lots of people feel nervous on first dates. You’re just trying to meet someone and make a good impression.

The good news is, there are simple tricks to help you calm those jitters and feel more confident.

Understanding Nerves:

Why do first dates make us nervous? It’s really about being scared of what the other person will think of us and feeling like we have to be impressive. We want our date to like us, to find us interesting and attractive. The fear of rejection looms large. Recognizing these feelings as normal reactions can help ease the intensity of nervousness, reminding us that everyone experiences first-date jitters to some degree.

Dealing with Anxiety:

First-date nerves show up differently for everyone. You might think a lot or feel shaky or sick. But it’s important to notice these signs and use easy tricks to deal with them. Breathing deeply, imagining good things, or saying nice things to yourself can calm you down. Then you can go on your date feeling calm and ready.

Learning and Growing:

Every first date is a chance to learn and understand yourself better. Don’t see nerves as a problem, but as something normal when dating. Take on the challenge, learn from each date, and use it to feel more sure of yourself next time. Remember, the more you date, the better you’ll get at it!

Communication Tips:

Effective communication is key to overcoming first-date nerves. Talking openly and listening well can help a lot on your first date.

1. Breathe: When you’re feeling anxious, take slow, deep breaths. Shut your eyes and take a big breath through your nose. Then let it out slowly through your mouth. Do this a few times. It helps your body and mind relax, so you feel calmer.
2. Positive Thinking: Instead of focusing on what could go wrong, try to think positively. Remind yourself of your strengths and what makes you a great person to be around. Visualize the date going well and imagine yourself feeling confident and relaxed.
3. Prepare Conversation Topics: One of the biggest worries on a first date is running out of things to talk about. Ease this fear by preparing a few conversation topics in advance. This can keep the conversation flowing smoothly and alleviate awkward silences.
4. Be Yourself: Don’t pretend to be someone else. Just be yourself and show who you are. Let your true self come out.  Your date will appreciate you for who you are, and trying to be someone else will only add to your anxiety.
5. Focus on the Present: Think about what’s happening right now, not what might happen later. Pay attention to where you are, talk to your date, and have fun getting to know them. This way, you won’t think about bad stuff.
6. Practice Self-Care: Take care of yourself leading up to the date. Make sure you sleep well, eat healthy food, and do things that help you relax, like going for a walk, doing yoga, or listening to music. Taking care of yourself this way can make you less anxious.

So, if you’re nervous about a first date next time, just remember these easy tips. Good luck!

Conclusion:

First dates can make you nervous, but they also bring the chance for new adventures and fun times. If you know why you’re anxious and use ways to deal with it, you can handle those nerves and feel confident on your date. Just relax, be yourself, and have fun getting to know someone. You can do it!

Valentine’s Day is almost here, and you might be thinking about someone special you want to ask to be your Valentine. It could be someone you have liked or a long-time partner. Saying how you feel genuinely and caring can mean a lot. Don’t worry if you’re not sure how to do it!

Here are some simple and heartfelt ideas to help you pop the question and make this Valentine’s Day one to remember.

Simple and Sweet Approach:

Keeping things simple can be powerful. Even small acts can mean a lot. A straightforward “Will you be my Valentine?” accompanied by a warm smile can melt hearts. This way is great for people who like honesty more than big displays of affection.

Handwritten Note:

In today’s world of texting and emails, a handwritten letter is special and unique. Write down your feelings on paper, telling them why you want them to be your Valentine. Slip the note into their bag or mailbox, or hand it to them in person for an added personal touch.

Small Tokens of Affection:

Show your admiration with a small gift or gesture that reflects their interests. You could give them a bunch of their favourite flowers, a box of chocolates, or a cute little gift. Attach a note saying, “Be my Valentine?” to clarify your question.

Creative and Playful Proposal:

Get creative with your proposal by incorporating elements of fun and playfulness. Consider setting up a scavenger hunt with clues to different spots significant to your relationship. The final clue could lead to you holding a sign that says, “Will you be my Valentine?”

Cook Together:

If you share a love for food, invite them over for a cooking session. Choose a simple recipe for a sweet treat like cookies or cupcakes. While baking together, casually bring up the topic of Valentine’s Day and ask if they’d like to spend it as your Valentine.

Write a Poem or Song:

If you’re good at writing, consider writing a poem or song to express your feelings. It doesn’t have to be super fancy; just be honest and let your creativity show.

Plan a Memorable Date:

Take the lead and plan a memorable Valentine’s Day date according to their interests. Whether it’s a romantic dinner at a cozy restaurant, a scenic hike, or a movie marathon at home, make it clear that you’d love for them to join you as your Valentine.

Virtual Connection:

If distance prevents you from asking them in person, use technology to your advantage. Send them a heartfelt message or create a personalized e-card asking, “Will you be my Valentine?” Schedule a video call to ask them face-to-face and make the moment special despite the distance.

Casual Conversation:

Sometimes, a casual conversation can pave the way for deeper connections. Find a comfortable moment to talk to them one-on-one, express your feelings honestly, and ask if they’d like to spend Valentine’s Day together as more than just friends.

Surprise Them at Work:

If they’re comfortable with public displays of affection, consider surprising them at work with flowers, balloons, or their favourite snacks, along with a note asking them to be your Valentine. Make sure it’s okay for them to receive it at work before you send it.

Ask:

Sometimes, the simplest approach is the most effective. Find a quiet moment to sit down with them, look them in the eyes, and ask if they’d like to be your Valentine. Sometimes, a direct and honest conversation can be the most meaningful gesture.

How To Ask A Girl To Be Your Valentine?

Asking a girl to be your Valentine can be difficult, but keeping it simple and genuine is key. Start by finding a quiet moment to talk to her one-on-one, whether during a casual hangout or a quiet moment together. Look her in the eyes and express your feelings honestly, telling her why you’d like her to be your Valentine.

You can say, “I’ve enjoyed getting to know you, and I would love for you to be my Valentine this year. What do you think?” Remember to respect her response, whether yes or no, and appreciate the courage it takes to express your feelings.

Conclusion: 

What’s most important is being real and honest when you ask. Whether you do something big or talk, ensure your feelings come across. Valentine’s Day is about love and being together, so don’t hesitate to ask them to be your Valentine.  Who knows? They might say yes to sharing this special day with you!

Absolutely! They appreciate feeling wanted, just like anyone else. Interestingly, many men grapple with the same anxieties about making the first move as you might. Still, the fear of rejection or stumbling over your words is a common concern that can’t be ignored.

How to Make the First Move on a Man?

Making the first move can feel like a big step, especially when it comes to starting things off with someone you’re interested in. Whether you’re a guy or a girl, taking that initial leap can be nerve-wracking but also exciting. So, let’s see how it works.

1. Be Confident: Confidence is key! Believe in yourself and your worth. Don’t forget, there’s no harm in making the first move.
2. Watch for clues: Pay attention to how they act and what they say. Are they smiling, making eye contact, or engaging in conversation? These signs can indicate that they might be open to your advances.
3. Start with Small Gestures: Sometimes, the smallest gestures can make a big impact. Compliment them, strike up a conversation about shared interests, or simply smile and make friendly eye contact.
4. Be Yourself: Authenticity is attractive. Don’t try to be someone you’re not just to impress them. Let your genuine personality shine through.
5. Take Initiative: Don’t wait around for the perfect moment to come to you. Seize the opportunity and take the initiative to make the first move.

How to Make the First Move on a Guy:

Flirting can be a fun and playful way to show your interest. Use body language like light touches or playful teasing to let him know you’re interested. Strike up a conversation about something you both have in common, whether it’s a shared interest, a hobby, or something happening in the environment around you.

Don’t be afraid to take the direct approach and ask him out on a date. Confidence is attractive, and he’ll likely appreciate your honesty and initiative. Sometimes, actions speak louder than words. Use nonverbal cues like leaning in close, maintaining eye contact, or smiling flirtatiously to let him know you’re interested.

Tips on How to Make the Guy Make the First Move:

Talking about flirting and asking someone out might seem like a big deal, but it doesn’t have to be super complicated. Here are some easy tips to make it less stressful and more positive, even if things don’t go as planned.

1. Give hints: Sometimes, guys appreciate a little nudge to take the first step. Drop subtle hints that you’re interested, like complimenting him or finding reasons to be near him.
2. Create Opportunities: Put yourself in situations where he feels comfortable making a move, like inviting him to join you for a group activity or spending time together in a relaxed setting.
3. Give Him Space: It’s important to give him the space to make his move in his own time. Avoid putting pressure on him or rushing things.
4. Be Approachable: Make sure you’re approachable and open to his advances. Show interest by smiling, making eye contact, and chatting with him.

How To Make The First Move On A Guy Physically:

1. Start Slow: Physical touch can be a powerful way to show your interest, but it’s important to start slow and respect boundaries. Begin with subtle touches like brushing against his arm or hugging him.
2. Watch how he reacts: Notice how he responds to your gestures. If he seems uncomfortable or pulls away, respect his boundaries and dial it back.
3. Talk: Speaking up is important, especially when it comes to physical closeness. If you’re unsure about making a move, you can always ask for consent or express your feelings verbally.
4. Be Respectful: Above all, respecting his boundaries and comfort levels is essential. Don’t push him into anything he’s not ready for; always ensure you have his consent.

Taking the first step can feel scary, but it can also open doors to wonderful new relationships and adventures. Remember to be confident, authentic, and respectful, and most importantly, have fun!

How to Make the First Move on a Guy Online

Making the first move on a guy online is all about being friendly, without being too pushy or explicit.

• Start with a friendly message that shows you’ve read their profile.
• Keep talking by asking questions that need more than a yes or no answer.
• Message regularly, but don’t overwhelm them with too many messages.
• Keep it flirty, but avoid being too explicit or forward.

Conclusion:

Making a move on someone you don’t know might feel easier than on someone you already know. With strangers, if they say no, it’s not a big deal. But what about making a move on a guy who’s already a friend? That’s a bit trickier because it feels riskier. If they’re not interested, things might get awkward, especially if you see them often or share mutual friends. But if you like them, it’s worth taking the chance and making your move.

Feeling tired of being single? Feeling like you’re stuck in loneliness that never ends? You’re not alone.  Many people yearn for companionship and long for a partner to share their life with.

Living a single life isn’t always easy, especially when it seems like everyone around you is coupled up. It’s natural to feel lonely and disheartened when your search for a partner doesn’t quite pan out. But here’s the thing: even though more people are flying solo these days, the desire to find love remains strong.

Finding love can be hard, but stay hopeful. You can take steps forward with optimism.

Understanding the Feeling

If you feel like ‘I’m tired of being single’ then this is completely normal and understandable. We’re naturally social and crave connection and closeness. When we see friends or family in happy relationships, it’s natural to crave that same level of companionship and support in our own lives.

Choosing Self-Reflection

Before looking for the qualities of a partner, it’s essential to take some time for self-reflection. Think about what you want in a relationship. What matters to you? What do you enjoy doing? Knowing yourself better will help you find someone who’s right for you and who shares your interests and goals.

Self-love is priority

Taking care of yourself is important. Even though it’s natural to want a romantic partner, don’t forget about loving yourself. Spend time doing things you enjoy and that make you happy. When you learn to love and appreciate yourself fully, you become more attractive to potential partners and better equipped to build healthy, lasting relationships.

Online Dating

Online dating has become increasingly popular and accessible for all those thoughts like  ‘God, I am tired of being single and lonely’ Dating Platforms offer a convenient way to connect with potential partners based on shared interests and preferences. While online dating can feel overwhelming at times, approaching it with an open mind and a positive attitude can lead to rewarding experiences and meaningful connections.

Practicing Patience

Finding the right partner takes time and patience, so try not to get discouraged if you haven’t met someone special right away. Remember that good things come to those who wait, and the journey to finding love is often filled with twists and turns. Believe that things will work out, and stay open to new chances. The right person will come along when it’s meant to happen.

Seeking Support

If feelings of loneliness and frustration become overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist. Talking about your emotions and experiences can provide valuable insights and perspective, helping you navigate the ups and downs of the dating journey with greater resilience and self-awareness.

Hope for the Future:

Finally, hold onto hope for the future. Trust that love will find its way to you in unexpected ways and divine timing. Stay optimistic and resilient, knowing that your journey towards finding companionship is filled with possibilities and potential. hopeful, and know that you’re not alone.

So, what’s the deal?

First off, we’ve become pickier about who we want as our partner. With online dating, it’s simple to keep looking for a better match. Whether you’re young or young at heart, these experiences can shake your confidence and make you doubt yourself.

But fear not, because there’s hope.

Find Yourself:

Many people don’t know themselves or what they like. They feel stuck and don’t have much fun. But it’s never too late to change. Try new stuff, find what makes you happy, and hang out with people who make you feel good.  When you’re living a life you love, you become infinitely more attractive.

Choose Happiness:

Even when life is hard, there’s something to be thankful for. Being grateful is important for feeling happy. Instead of thinking about what you don’t have, think about what you do have. It’s surprising how looking at things differently can make you feel better.

Love Yourself:

You’ve heard it a million times, but it bears repeating: you can’t expect others to love you if you don’t love yourself.  Don’t listen to that mean voice in your head that says you’re not good. You deserve love and happiness, just the way you are. You’re the hero of your own story.

Don’t Settle:

Fear of being alone can lead us to settle for less than we deserve – whether it’s in relationships or other areas of life. But trust me, settling only leads to regret. Be picky, follow your heart, and don’t be afraid to let go of anything (or anyone) that doesn’t bring you joy.

Conclusion

Always Feeling ‘God, I am tired of being single and lonely’? Remember that your worth is not defined by your relationship status, and love has a way of finding its way to you when you least expect it. In the end, being single isn’t a curse – it’s an opportunity. So live your best life, and who knows? Love may just find its way to you when you least expect it. And if it doesn’t? Well, you’ll still be living a life filled with joy. And really, what could be better than that?

I am going to tell you (a single person researching matchmaking) something that is going to blow your ever-loving mind. Here it is: the “database” you worry so much about, doesn’t matter. {insert shocked face emoji} I know, you are wondering, why I would spew such nonsense??! Well, because it is true. Let me explain further.

First, you, the client, could sign up with a matchmaking service, and pay thousands of dollars for matchmaking, only to receive a matchmaker that does not do any custom searching for her clientele. She relies on the database of said company only. Now, before you start blaming the matchmaker, let me tell you that most matchmaking companies pay very little for target recruiting efforts, and it’s a TON OF WORK. Like, a lot. So, matchmakers (if they care about their livelihood) think, “Why on Earth would I waste hours and hours trying to find good matches for my client when my company does not pay me for said efforts, nor value my time?” Let me tell you something, I have not been successful in this industry by working for free. Matchmakers’ efforts should be rewarded, and workers should always receive monetary fruit for their labour. So, in circumstances where the database is considered “weaker” (let’s say in a rural area), if the client is given to a matchmaker that doesn’t recruit, that is a problem, because there are not enough candidates to match with the client. For a high percentage of clients to be successful, they need to be placed with matchmakers who have their boots on the ground!

Second, let’s say you are in an urban area with a large single dating pool (say, New York City), the database might be quite large, but you might be less likely to have success because many of the singles are dating with a “grass is always greener” dating mentality. They realize that they are going to be put out on dates constantly (especially the men), and so they are not willing to commit to anyone. They are just having way too much fun! And, they know that the next date is just right around the corner. Again, custom search efforts are likely necessary in this case.

Third, let’s pretend that you have someone very niche that you are seeking, such as a specific ethnicity or religion in an area where the demographic is low, this is, again, going to create a need for custom searching for you. It does not matter if there are 3,000 women in the database if they are all Christian, and you are searching for only Jewish. Are you picking up what I’m putting down here? The database is not what matters.

So, what does matter? BOOTS ON THE GROUND! Here are the questions you need to ask:

1) Am I being placed with an experienced matchmaker, who understands my requested match demographic, and has had success matching in said demographic?

2) Does my matchmaker know how to search for me, beyond the walls of the company database; and, is she/he compensated for doing so?

3) Does my matchmaker network with other matchmaking firms, so that I am being placed with high calibre candidates and clientele, such as myself?

4) Is my matchmaker willing to put herself out there, potentially even in the needed communities, to find my special person for me?

And, in case you are wondering, the answer is “Yes” to all of those when I am your matchmaker. 😉 But, something tells me, you probably knew that.

It is important to understand how a six-figure earner gets to the point where they are ready to quit their fruitful matchmaking career and take a giant leap of faith. Why would I do something so crazy?! Well, it boiled down to two things: my clients’ success and my integrity. Let me explain further.

Many matchmaking companies like to boast an 80-86% “success rate”. It is perfectly normal and acceptable for a client when contacting a matchmaking service to ask, “Tell me, what is your success rate?” And, the companies answer by saying, “We have an 80% success rate” or “We have an 83% success rate”, sometimes even higher. The client gets very excited. He’s playing the odds! Sounds pretty good, right? Little does he realize that this success rate is defined, in the matchmaking industry, as two individuals saying “yes” to a meeting after one introduction. That’s all.

Because matchmaking companies are merely that, introduction services, they are not responsible for true client success. Sure, it’s exciting when a couple moves in together or gets engaged or ends up married. This is great! But, this is not part of the success data that the company keeps, or even cares about keeping. This is shocking for clients to hear because they have defined success as a long-term relationship, at the very least! Nope.

I have changed the game by creating a company that focuses on a technique that I have been using with my clients for several years called the “three-date try”. When in your life have you met a stranger and thought, “Wow, I want you in my life forever!”? Likely never. It just doesn’t typically happen. And, simply because you don’t have those thoughts or feelings on the first meeting does not mean that the person you just met isn’t your soulmate! She might likely be the woman of your dreams…you just don’t know it yet! This is where the “three date try” has been so successful for my clients. If you go out, and you have a relatively nice time, you give it three dates to feel out that chemistry to see if it can build into a romance!

When I started this strategy, it was great for my clients. They became more open-minded about dating and started saying yes to seeing almost every person they met for three dates. But, frustration would set in when the other person (sometimes another matchmaker’s client or a database member) would not know anything about the “three date try”. I would host intuitive coaching sessions with my clients between matches, making them better and better single daters, but the people they were meeting were not receiving coaching or positive dating strategies, so I began to see (and sadly, predict) right when these tender new romances started to fall apart. And, the worst part…there was NOTHING I could do about it, because it was not part of my job duties. Ugh…the frustration.

I knew what needed to happen. It made so much sense! In full transparency, I have been married for almost 20 years. And, when my husband and I were going through a hard time in our marriage, around year eight, we both decided to attend marriage counselling for about 18 months, which was quite successful. I wondered how successful it would have been, or if we would even still be together today if only one of us went to counselling. How would be working on our marriage together, if we weren’t doing the work TOGETHER? Light bulb moment!

At The Crush Confidential, all packages include three dates (with the same person, should both agree to continue dating) and coaching for both parties between dates. This process equates to about three to four weeks per person the client meets. This is why we are a relationship curation agency and not merely a matchmaking company. I am incredibly passionate about launching a real relationship versus setting up a date with two strangers and assuming they have all the tools they need to create a prosperous relationship.

I guarantee that every client will leave here empowered, affirmed, knowledgeable, and a better single person than when they arrived.

In the age of digital connections, your dating profile serves as the first impression you make on potential matches. While it may be tempting to enhance your appearance with AI-generated pictures, the importance of authenticity cannot be overstated. Embrace your true self and show off that outstanding personality that is so very YOU.

We need to build trust here, people!! Trust is the foundation of any meaningful relationship. Using AI pictures can create a sense of deception, eroding the trust potential partners place in you. Authenticity fosters trust and sets the stage for genuine connections.

Don’t you think real connections supersede perfection? Embracing imperfections and showcasing your real self attracts individuals who appreciate you for who you are. AI-generated images, often flawless and idealized, may lead to unrealistic expectations and hinder the formation of authentic connections. Authentic, recent pictures are a simple step to laying the groundwork for relationship longevity.

A successful relationship is built on compatibility and shared values. By accurately representing yourself, you increase the likelihood of attracting individuals who align with your genuine interests and personality. Embracing vulnerability is incredibly attractive!! Authenticity involves being vulnerable and open.

Using AI pictures sends a message that you’re not comfortable with your true self, hindering the potential for deeper emotional connections with others. Have you met someone in person, after reviewing their profile, and they look completely different? How did you feel? Were you disappointed?

The ultimate goal of a dating profile is to meet someone in person. Using AI pictures can lead to disappointment when the reality doesn’t match the digitally altered images. Authenticity ensures that your offline self aligns with the expectations you’ve set online. Additionally, respecting the other person’s time is vital! Misrepresentation through AI-generated images can lead to wasted time for both parties.

Genuine connections are more likely to form when individuals are upfront about their true selves, allowing for more meaningful interactions from the start. Show off who you are by sharing images of your fun, amazing self! Embracing your authentic self boosts self-confidence. When you present who you truly are, you attract individuals who appreciate and value you for your unique qualities, contributing to healthier self-esteem and relationship dynamics.

In conclusion, the allure of AI-generated pictures may seem appealing, but the benefits of authenticity far outweigh the temporary attraction of digitally enhanced images. Building connections based on truth and genuine representation not only leads to more fulfilling relationships but also contributes to a dating landscape grounded in trust and understanding. So, ditch the AI pictures, be yourself, and let true connections flourish! Whoot-whoot!