Love and Matchmaking has been helping clients take back control of their love life for years.
We are elite matchmakers that actually care. To become the best matchmaking company that we could be, we had to remember one thing – we are all human. Looking for love isn’t like shopping for a car or ordering a pizza, we are all souls with wants, desires and LAYERS. When you search for the “matchmaker near me”, what you are really searching for is that neighbor, that friend, that won’t let you down.
This is real. This is important. This is your heart. This is your love life. In all the chaos and confusion of life, love can be the calm. Let us help you get there.
Last year I wrote about Cuffing Season and it’s odds of changing with the times, even though it stays relatively consistent year to year, we always have to examine trends and shifts in culture. I’ll explain in a bit more detail what Cuffing is once more for those of you that are unsure what it is.
Cuffing is a biological (and partially socially produced) need to pair up with a significant other in the colder winter months. It is typically done by someone that loves likes to date around, then all of the sudden has the desire to bag themselves a long term, serious relationship (mmmm, nice and cozy right?). They are cuffing themselves to a commitment, but most likely only while the weather stays chilled. But this year we may see the biggest change in cuffing season yet. Why? Because a much earlier type of cuffing has already happened for many singles during the summer of 2020… Pandemic Cuffing.
Pandemic Cuffing took many of us by surprise. None of us have ever experienced a pandemic before, never experienced a global shutdown, a complete stop to life as we knew it. So, what is it about the pandemic that would make singles react in such a manner? It’s because traumatic, crisis situations push us into a high speed accelerator for our relationships. Everyone was lonelier than ever during the middle of the year. Most singles latched on to the closest thing they could find to a partner, to safety, physical touch, company…
People moved in after the first few dates and singles began to realize that they didn’t want to die alone. In a much less serious manner, this is what tends to happen biologically (and subconsciously) when the weather gets cold EVERY year.
The pandemic cuffing relationships that started 7 months ago are already beginning to fall apart or are long dead by now.
Does that mean cuffing season part 2 is upon those same individuals? Maybe. It all just depends on the state of our world and if it’s safe to go back to our day-to-day lives of meeting new people and falling in love all over again, the old fashioned way. You know, by swiping right and meeting up for an Old Fashioned, unworried about a plague that could befall you. Although most singles may hope this normal will return 100% soon, the odds are actually quite low that will happen. So, here are a few tips on how to avoid the first wave of the post-pandemic cuffing season and make it until the weather warms and we can all go back outside again:
Make it well known you are serious about a long-term relationship. If you are using online dating platforms, make sure to quickly move from the initial conversation to an actual call, to a digital date or in-person date if you feel comfortable. The word quickly may seem counterintuitive to avoid cuffing, but this sets the tone for a more serious approach to dating, getting to know someone on a much deeper level and makes it obvious you aren’t just looking for a winter cuddle buddy.
If a previous hook up is starting to cling and you sense cuffing vibes, cut ties! I’m not joking. It will be healthier for you both in the long run if you stop the temporary commitment before it begins. Do not respond to texts, DMs, plans to go distanced site seeing with your cute new masks on. Just don’t.
Try to take comfort in knowing you are not alone in being alone. Many singles are in the same situation now. Hold on to your healthy bubble of close friends and family and ride this one out. You will find a much more significant relationship post all of this.
Dating out of loneliness is the worst decision you can make. Doing anything out of desperation will always lead to chaos. Do not be with someone purely out of obligation or because it “sorta kinda” makes you happier than if you were watching Netflix alone. Focus on you. And if you happen to meet someone standing 6 feet behind you in line to get coffee or sitting distanced in the park, enjoy the ride and build a real relationship that doesn’t feel like settling. You will know the difference.
The most important thing, especially after experiencing 2020, is that whatever you do brings happiness and the journey is joyful. We all deserve that.
2020 is right around the corner, and this year your resolution should be YOU. It’s a new decade, it’s the future… shouldn’t you be in a relationship by now?!
We’ve helped hundreds of people get to where they want to be in life, now its time to let us help you!
Enjoy full service benefits before they are changed in the new year. Do it now!
Our picks for the best locations when traveling to Los Angeles
We had a great time dishing out our picks for first date locations on KTLA news. If you missed tuning in here’s a recap…
Rachel and Destin with Lu Parker and Glen Walker
Luckily, LA is one of the greatest cities in the world to have a first date! There are so many eclectic and wonderful and random things to do, there is no reason it shouldn’t be creative or at least entertaining. Lets start with the traditional go to: food. And by food, we mean DINNER. No lunch dates (lunch doesn’t set the scene for romance).LA is the home to many delicious restaurants with great vibes: such as Vibrato – a high end delicious American food grill with fantastic entertainment that leans jazz. Its very impressive. For the less boastful, a fantastic eatery is Kabosu Sushi in Burbank. Sushi is an aphrodisiac, and this place has the best – make a reservation. Or for the more kitschy and edgy – Badmaash downtown. Indian fusion with a Canadian twist. Indian Poutine. Boom.
If you want a more adventurous first date, we recommend getting close at an 80s movie screening at Hollywood Forever Cemetery (you can still talk and get to know each other), or teaming up and sharing a brain to escape and Escape Room – we really love Level Games in North Hollywood.For the kid at heart, we recommend Two Bit Circus downtown – think Dave & Busters meets a virtual reality circus. There’s also the Santa Monica pier – rides, games… the ocean. Fun. Romance. Winning a stuffed animal. Its right out of a movie.
For a retro feel, get your groove on and go roller skating at Moonlight Rollerway in Glendale, or Neon Retro Arcade in Pasadena to show off your pac-man skills.As for the romantics, you can’t go wrong with a sip and paint at Wine and Design in Burbank or a stroll through the Japanese gardens at Yamashiro in the Hollywood Hills.
Dating with Disabilities: Empowering Love and Connection
Over the years, Destin, Rachel, and I (Mallory), as successful dating coaches and matchmakers, have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals – each with their own unique stories and life experiences. One area that has profoundly touched my heart and sharpened my skill is working with disabled people of all levels (physical and mental) in their quest for love and connection.
Dating as a person with disabilities presents its own set of challenges, but it also brings plenty of opportunity for growth, authenticity, and the potential for deeper connections. Here are some insights and strategies that have proven effective in my practice that may be helpful to you:
Embrace Authenticity – I always tell my clients that the journey to find love begins with self-acceptance and self-love. Embracing your disability as part of who you are, rather than a limitation, sets the foundation for authentic connections. Confidence in your identity attracts potential partners who appreciate you for the unique person you are. Remember, vulnerability can be incredibly attractive and paves the way for genuine relationships.
Highlight Your Strengths – Everyone has strengths and attributes that make them special. Identifying, focusing on and highlighting these qualities can boost your confidence and appeal to a future partner. Whether it’s your sense of humor, kindness, resilience, intelligence, sense of style, or any other trait, showcasing these strengths can help you stand out in the dating world, online and in person.
Be Clear in Communication and Comprehension – Open and effective communication is crucial in any relationship. Being upfront about your needs and limitations can prevent misunderstandings and foster mutual respect. With direct communication there also needs to be confirmed comprehension of what is being said. Having in depth discussions on topics such as mobility aids, personal care, and accessibility needs early on can help establish a strong foundation of trust and make the path to a long and successful future much more attainable.
Date On Your Own – Finding the right place/platform to meet a potential partner without professional help can significantly enhance your chances of locating a truly compatible match. Research local organizations, meetups, and community gatherings specific to disabled peoples or look into the various dating sites and apps designed specifically for people with disabilities. Some more mainstream options offer inclusive environments for many different types of people. Do some exploring. Find what best fits your preferences and needs!
Consider Accessibility for All – When planning dates, accessibility is key. Choose locations that are wheelchair-accessible and have suitable facilities. This shows consideration and respect for specific needs and will make the date much more enjoyable and stress free. Obviously, setting up a virtual date (like a video call) can be a great option for a first date, as it can eliminate physical barriers and allow you to focus on connecting with the person from the comfort of your own home. Pro-tip: Make sure to approach a virtual date like you would an in-person date. Lighting, location, and positioning of your camera are all key to making a great first impression.
Shutdown Stereotypes – Society often harbors misconceptions about disabilities and dating. Part of my role as a matchmaker and coach is to challenge and break these stereotypes on every level. People with disabilities can and do have fulfilling romantic relationships! Every person deserves love. By sharing success stories and promoting positive narratives, we can change societal attitudes and create a more inclusive dating culture.
Patience, Persistence, and Perseverance – Like any other endeavor one may take on, dating requires patience, persistence, and perseverance. The three p’s. There will be setbacks and disappointments along the way, (this is almost guaranteed for anyone) but each experience is a step closer to finding the right match. Keep an open heart and mind, and don’t be discouraged by temporary obstacles.
Professional Services – Hi! I’m a professional! 🙂 Seeking guidance from a dating coach or matchmaker, like myself, can provide much needed tailored advice, support, and strategy. As coaches, we help our clients navigate the dating world, build confidence, and create meaningful connections. As matchmakers, we help in finding compatible partners who share your values and goals. Taking the leg work and vetting off your plate.
All in all, dating with disabilities is a journey filled with unique challenges and profound rewards. By embracing authenticity, focusing on strengths, and seeking the right support (professional or not), individuals with disabilities can build fulfilling romantic relationships for life. Here at Love and Matchmaking, we’re committed to empowering our clients to find love and happiness, celebrating every step of their journey towards meaningful connections. Remember, love knows no boundaries, and everyone deserves to find their perfect match.
Welcome back to our tour of the zany world of dating trends. Last time we covered the top ten, but the list doesn’t stop there! Brace yourselves for another batch of dating phenomena that are as bewildering as they are hilarious. Here’s your guide to staying savvy (and sane) in the dating scene.
11. Soft Launch
Picture this: You’re dating someone new, and it’s going great—but you’re not ready for the grand unveiling just yet. Enter the soft launch, the subtle art of sneakily introducing your new beau to the world via cryptic Instagram stories or casual mentions in tweets. It’s like a movie trailer for your love life; enough to tease but not enough to tell the whole story.
12. Zombie-ing
Just when you thought ghosting was bad, in comes zombie-ing. This is when someone who ghosted you suddenly rises from the dead and pops back into your life like nothing happened. “Hey stranger!” messages, anyone? It’s less “Thriller” dance and more thriller drama.
13. Kittenfishing
Ever meet someone online who seems just purr-fect, only to discover they’re more of a catfish lite? That’s kittenfishing. They might sprinkle their profiles with little white lies—from five-year-old photos to slightly exaggerated life stories. Remember, if the profile is too cute to be true, it probably is!
14. Wokefishing
In the sea of dating, watch out for the wokefish. They lure you in with their progressive bait—chatting about climate change, feminism, and social justice—but it’s all a performance. The moment you dive deeper, their “wokeness” washes away. Keep your political snorkel handy!
15. Caspering
If ghosting is harsh, caspering is ghosting with a friendly face. Named after the friendly ghost, this one involves letting someone down gently before you vanish into thin air. “You’re great, but…” messages lead the way. It’s still ghosting, but with a polite knock on the door first.
16. Cushioning
Ever felt like you need a safety net in dating? That’s cushioning. It’s when someone keeps a few potential love interests on the back burner just in case their current relationship doesn’t pan out. Think of it as emotional insurance; slightly cynical, but comfortingly soft.
17. DTR (Define the Relationship)
Ah, the big talk. DTR is when you and your maybe-more-than-friend sit down to label what exactly “this” is. It’s a crucial moment, packed with potential for clarity or awkwardness. It’s like turning on the lights at the end of a party—necessary, but revealing.
18. Rizz
Sliding into the dating glossary is “rizz,” the slang for charisma or charm that makes someone irresistibly attractive. It’s not just about looks; it’s the secret sauce of seduction. Got rizz? You probably don’t need any of these other terms!
19. Beige
Not every date can be full of fireworks. If your date has the vibrancy of a beige wall, well, they’re just beige. It’s when someone is so boring that you fantasize about your next dental appointment for excitement. Remember, even vanilla has more flavor!
20. Marleying
Named after Bob Marley and his song about stirring it up, this is when exes reach out during the holidays. Perhaps it’s nostalgia, loneliness, or the spirit of giving (a second chance). But beware, sometimes the past should just stay wrapped up.
There you go, another round of modern dating terms to keep you in the loop and laughing about the intricacies of finding love today. Stay tuned, stay skeptical, and above all, have fun. Happy dating adventures!
Matchmakers and daters alike have tons of new dating terms to make dating even more difficult. Our professional matchmaker Mallory Love breaks them down for you.
If you think attorneys speak a funny language (“Legalese”) then wait till you see the terms that professional Matchmakers deal with.
Welcome to the wild world of modern dating, where finding the perfect love match means mastering a whole new language. So, whether you’re back on the market or just keeping up with the times, here’s your cheat sheet to the top 10 dating terms that are as fun as they are confusing. Buckle up, it’s going to be a snarky ride!
1. Cuffing
Ah, cuffing season. That magical time of year when singles suddenly want to become doubles. As the leaves fall and the temperatures drop, so do people’s standards. It’s all about finding someone to cuddle with through the winter months—even if they’re more of a temporary shelter than a forever home.
2. Breadcrumbing
This one’s for the Hansel and Gretels of the dating world. Breadcrumbing is when your potential boo leaves a trail of digital crumbs (texts, DMs, likes) just enough to keep you hungry for more but never enough to lead to a real feast. It’s the carb diet of dating!
3. Ghosting
Boo! Did you get scared? Because that’s how fast ghosters disappear. One day, you’re planning your dream vacation, and the next, they’ve vanished faster than free samples at a cheese shop. No calls, no texts, just the eerie silence of the ghosts of relationships past.
4. Benching
Think of this as the sports strategy of dating. You’re not exactly out of the game, but you’re definitely not playing in the big leagues. Benching is when you’re kept around “just in case” the first string doesn’t work out. Remember, nobody dreams of being a backup dancer!
5. Orbiting
Ever broken up with someone but they still haunt your Instagram stories? That’s orbiting. They keep you in their social media solar system, close enough to see everything you do, but far enough never to talk. It’s the cosmic ballet of the ex-files.
6. Pocketing
If you’ve never met their friends, family, or even their cat—you might be getting pocketed. It’s like being a secret snack that never gets to come out of the bag. Fun for a bit, but eventually, you just want to be part of the main course!
7. Situationship
More than friends, less than lovers, and nowhere near a relationship. A situationship is that ambiguous sea of “what are we?” without any land in sight. It’s perfect if you love sailing the ocean of uncertainty!
8. Love Bombing
If it feels like you’re in a romance movie because everything’s moving too fast and too furious, you might be getting love bombed. This whirlwind of over-the-top affection is explosive, and not always in a good way. Strap in, it’s a bumpy flight!
9. Haunting
Just when you thought ghosting was spooky, along comes haunting. This is when an ex-lover likes your photos or watches your stories after ghosting you. They don’t want to be with you, but they sure want to see what you’re up to. It’s like having a personal, romantic poltergeist!
10. Gaslighting
Last but not least, the mind game champion: gaslighting. This one’s where your potential partner manipulates you into questioning your own sanity. They’ll deny things they’ve said, twist your words, and generally try to make you feel like you’re losing your grip on reality. Remember, if they say the sky’s green and the grass is blue, it might be time to run!
So there you have it, folks! The dating world might be a labyrinth, but now you’re equipped with a map and a good dose of humor. Whether you’re swiping, liking, or just mingling, keep these terms in your back pocket (just don’t let anyone pocket you). Happy dating!
Love is a powerful force that can transform our lives in ways we never thought possible. It can bring us joy, fulfillment, and a sense of belonging that nourishes our souls. But finding love can be a challenging journey, especially in the modern age where technology and social media have changed the way we connect with others.
This is where matchmaking comes in. Matchmaking provides a personalized approach to finding love that takes into account each individual’s unique needs, desires, and preferences. It’s a way to cut through the noise of online dating and find genuine connections with people who share your values and interests.
But matchmaking is more than just a way to find love. It’s also a way to transform lives. When people find love through matchmaking, they often experience a sense of purpose and meaning that comes from being in a committed relationship. They also tend to have better mental health, higher self-esteem, and a greater sense of overall happiness.
Matchmaking can also have a ripple effect on the wider community. When people find love, they tend to be happier, more fulfilled, and more generous with their time and resources. They also tend to be more compassionate and understanding of others, creating a more peaceful and harmonious society.
In short, matchmaking is about more than just finding love. It’s about changing lives and creating a more loving and connected world.
Love is a beautiful thing and finding someone special to share it with can be a challenge. With the busy pace of modern life, it’s harder than ever to find the time to meet new people and form meaningful relationships. That’s why many people are turning to the matchmakers at Love And Matchmaking to help them find love. Despite the popular belief that matchmakers are old-fashioned, they are still a great investment for those looking for love, especially around Valentine’s Day.
One of the key advantages of working with a matchmaker is the personalized attention you receive. Unlike dating apps and websites where you are just another profile among many, a matchmaker takes the time to get to know you and your preferences, and only introduces you to people who meet your criteria. This level of personalization leads to higher success rates and more meaningful connections.
Another advantage of matchmakers is the level of screening and background checking they should provide. When you meet someone through a dating app or website, you never really know who you’re dealing with. However, with a matchmaker, you should be confident that the people you are being introduced to are who they say they are, and that they meet certain standards and requirements. This added level of safety and security can give you peace of mind when dating.
The matchmakers at Love And Matchmaking also provide a level of expertise that you won’t find anywhere else. They have years of experience in bringing people together, and they use their knowledge and intuition to find the best matches. They understand what makes a relationship work and what doesn’t, and they use this knowledge to help you find love. They can also offer advice and support throughout the dating process, which can be incredibly helpful for those who are revisiting dating or who have had a string of bad experiences.
Despite the many benefits of matchmaking, many people still hesitate to use it because of the cost. While it’s true that elite matchmaking services can be more expensive than online dating, it’s important to remember that you get what you pay for. The money you invest in a matchmaker is an investment in your future happiness and well-being, and it’s well worth it in the long run.
Although you may not find a match by Valentine’s Day, its the perfect ‘incentive’ holiday to begin your journey! Matchmaking is a process that takes time, and it’s important to remember that love is worth waiting for. A matchmaker will work tirelessly to find the right match for you, and while you may not find someone by Valentine’s Day, you will likely find someone soon after. In the end, what matters most is finding the right person, not the timing!
With the right matchmaker, you can be confident that you will find love, and that you will be happy with the outcome! With personalized attention, intuition and knowledge, and a focus on safety and security, the love experts at Love And Matchmaking offer a level of service and support that you won’t find anywhere else.
If you’re ready to find love and invest in your future happiness, consider working with us today!
Like most of the world, we’re thinking about loveeeee, but before you head out in search of just anyone to spend that special day with, you should do a deep dive into what you truly want and how to prepare for it.
Mallory Love (Head Matchmaker and Love Expert) with the elite matchmakers at Love And Matchmaking has the scoop for you when it comes to getting ready to meet the one!
Know who you are. This may seem obvious to most, but to really be ready to find your match, you’ve got to know yourself and be mentally prepared to meet the love of your life.
Learn that settling is not the answer. You wouldn’t settle for a terrible doctor (just because he works near your home), so why would you settle when it comes to matters of the heart?
Be the “chooser” in your life. You have the power to control the outcome of your life and relationships. Choose only the best options for you (or take the first step by choosing to hire us!).
Let your head and your heart be a team in beautiful harmony! Balance is key and it can be hard to find. Are there red flags you are overlooking in a person? Think things through. Your heart can be a fickle beast. Don’t let it run your life.
Be open and ready to any possibility. Your person could come in a completely different package than how you imagined and that’s okay.
Be the man/woman you would like to meet. I can say this until the cows come home! You must live a life mirroring what you would like to find to be able to attract someone that will support, love, and drive you.
While we’re working on finding your person, beef up on your dating awareness and flex that sexy flirting muscle. Learn all you can to improve your skills and deepen relationships. Knowledge is power guys! That’s another area we can help you with.
Remember that everyone is human and don’t expect one person to be EVERYTHING in your life. Your ‘person’ shouldn’t have to be your ONLY person. Get some badass friends, family, and loved ones to keep you feeling supported and loved, even after you’ve found the “one”.
Build that confidence. Be assertive. Say yes to what you want and learn it is okay to say no to what you truly don’t.
Finally know that at the end of the day you should feel successful with and without a relationship. Relationships don’t define you. Neither does being single. I truly believe people are attracted to our energy. Put out the vibe you want to see in return.
