By Lori Mendelsohn and Abi Blears
LM: Abi-you are a matchmaker in London and I am a matchmaker in the
Midwest of the United States. During this pandemic, let’s face it-next
to impossible to meet people unless its virtually through a dating app.
How have your clients met-and what are some traditional ways that have
worked for you?
AB: As we’ve been quite restricted in the UK our clients have been
meeting virtually, whether that’s a zoom date, texting, emailing and
having phone conversations too. I don’t necessarily think that this is a
bad thing. It means we focus more on the quality of conversation and it
also means things are moving a little bit slower, giving us a chance to
get to know more about a person before things become physical. We’ve
been telling clients to keep initial virtual dates nice and short and to
have a glass of wine or a coffee together. Now that things are adjusting
people are meeting (at a distance) in parks, going for walks and having
picnics together- the weather here has been surprisingly fantastic in
London! As for when we’re not restricted, I think that we should be
really open-minded about the possibility of initiating conversation with
people in a variety of settings. I don’t know about you but I think we
can meet people in real life ANYWHERE! What approach have your clients
been taking and what would you advise someone to do to increase their
chances of meeting someone lovely?
LM: Right now, we are “supposed” to be wearing masks, so attracting
people while partially covered up can be challenging. However, I also
believe that the EYES are the gateway to the soul, so I am telling
people to make eye contact, smile (which you can see in your eyes) and
speak up! It’s a perfect time to say “How are YOU?”
AB: I agree! You can say so much with your eyes. I know that making
eye-contact can be difficult especially if you’re attracted to someone
but getting out of your comfort zone and shaking up your routine is
proven to increase your chances of meeting someone. I have noticed that
many people are connecting more with their neighbours and getting
involved with volunteering within their communities. I had a glass of
wine with my neighbour over the fence a couple of weeks ago and I hadn’t
even spoken to him prior to this! I think at the moment there is a
greater sense of community and people are more willing to connect from a
distance. Whilst the people you engage with might not be potential dates
they might connect you with someone who is.
LM: We are on the same page. Shop local. Thank you for these ideas. Stay
well and safe, Abi.
ABI BLEARS Dating Coach and Matchmaker
www.abiblears.com |www.littleblackbooklondon.co.uk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abi-blears-18b30299/
Lori Mendelsohn is a Dating Coach and Matchmaker
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorimendelsohn/
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