It’s Just Lunch Dating Survey Debunks Valentine’s Day Myths

A recent research questionnaire by It’s Just Lunch revealed a number of interesting trends on dating preferences and expectations for single men and women on Valentine’s Day.
It’s Just Lunch surveyed 627 men and women on a range of topics from gift-giving and date planning to first dates and blind dates. While people may see Valentine’s Day as “couples only” holiday or even disparage it as a “Hallmark holiday,” the survey suggested that many singles see February 14^th as a day to try something new or even expand beyond one’s dating boundaries.

“Our ability to be interconnected, whether it’s through social media, the Internet, or even through a matchmaking service allows men and women to gain a better understanding of what the opposite sex other looks for,” said Irene LaCota, a spokesperson for It’s Just Lunch. “Our research through this survey aligned with these trends.”

Over 83% of respondents said they would accept a first date request even if it falls on Valentine’s Day, and over 70% said they would be open to being set up on a blind date.  Even though many respondents feel that date-planning responsibility still lies with men, a majority (54%) believes that a couple should plan the date together.

Flowers remain a Valentine’s Day staple, with almost 38% of respondents saying a bouquet is the perfect gift. However, with social deals and online gift certificates becoming more popular over the past few years, almost 33% of men and women said a gift for an activity that a couple can do together is rising in popular. What’s out in 2012? Chocolate, with a meager 7% of respondents saying it’s an excellent gift idea.

While answers from both men and women aligned with each other, one idea differed: 57% of men said they do not feel pressure to find a date for Valentine’s Day, but 52% of women said they do feel pressure to either date or be dating on Valentine’s Day.

How are you spending your Valentine's Day?  Post your comments on our Facebook page.

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Valentine's Day Guide to Finding a Dating Service

Is Cupid’s aim a bit off for you?  Thinking about turning to a dating service to redirect Cupid’s arrow in time for Valentine’s Day?

It’s Just Lunch, Vancouver’s premier matchmaking service, and director Jacquie Brownridge are offering tips for singles looking for a dating service.

Before You Start Your Search

Contemplating getting into the dating scene?  There are a few things a person should consider before beginning the search for a dating service.

• Know What You Want From a Dating Service
  Most dating services have the same goal – to get singles in touch with one another.  From speed dating to matchmaking, each service has its own unique spin or niche market.  Make sure you know the type of person you are searching for and find the service that fulfils your requirements
• Do Your Homework
  Do a little research before signing up or posting a profile.  The best way to learn more about a company is to read their privacy policy and “About Us” sections of their websites. 
• Dating Frame of Mind
  No matter the type or organization, dating is an investment of your time, energy and emotions.  Take stock of your life and what you have going on before committing.

Before You Join A Dating Service

You’ve narrowed down your options and selected the agency that will fit your dating needs.   The following is a list of questions you should ask ANY dating service before signing on the dotted-line:

• How long have you been in business? 
• What is your track record?  How do you define success? 
• Do you have special training? Qualifications? Awards?
• How many active members?
• What is the average age of your members? Ratio between men and women?
• If you live outside the metro area, ask how many members live in your area. 
• How do they select dates? 
• Ask the agency to put in writing the minimum number of introductions you will receive.  
• Ask the price before you attend an interview.

Dating 2.0: Matchmaking with a Modern Twist
It's Just Lunch specializes in matching busy professionals who would love to date but barely have the time for dinner -- let alone browsing online profiles, cruising the bars or enduring yet another blind date.

It's Just Lunch, with over 20 years of service and over 100 locations, minimizes the stress and maximizes the efficiency of dating by sending single professionals on casual, no-pressure dates over lunch, brunch or drinks after work.

It’s Private:  We respect your personal life.  You choose when you are ready to reveal your personal information to your date.  There are no online profiles and all of your information remains confidential.

It’s Real: IJL believes real chemistry happens face-to-face.  From the interview to the date, you will be meeting real people.  With IJL, you are guaranteed to go out on real dates with real people. 

It’s Personal: Our matches are selected by hand, not by a computer.  IJL’s award-winning matchmakers get to know their clients personally so they can make informed, intuitive matches.   We also feature relationship coaching and date feedback.

It’s Convenient:  We arrange a casual lunch or drinks after work that fits into both of your schedules.  We even choose the restaurant you’ll both enjoy and make the reservation.

It’s Flexible: For the busy executives who spend time in both Toronto and Vancouver, It’s Just Lunch offers a dual-membership for both regions.

It’s Time:   The only thing you have to lose is your single life. 

It’s Just Lunch is dating simplified.  We take care of the stressful, annoying and time-consuming parts of dating -- leaving the fun parts for you.

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20 Years of First Dates – Part 3: First Date Tips for Women. Kindness is Key

Magazines and advice columns often say being standoffish or playing “hard-to-get” is an attractive quality in women that men notice. We’re going to debunk that theory. If you’re on a first date, don’t play coy, ladies. This is a chance to get to know someone. You’ve agreed to go on a date with a guy; be kind and approachable and you’ll radiate attractiveness.

1. Dress for Success: Give a guy an opportunity to use those compliments he has saved up for you and dress like you’re interested, whether it’s an intimate dinner date or a casual walk in the park. Style points count toward chemistry.   It's Just Lunch Toronto's matchmaker Laila shares tips on  what to wear on the first date that will maximize your wardrobe and flatter your figure. Click here.   
2. Be On Time: While you really shouldn’t be late for anything, being late for a first date can be a mood-killer for men. Trust us.
3. Kindness is Key: Whether it’s directed toward your date or toward the wait staff, 34% of singles mentioned kindness as the most important character trait in a partner.
4. Avoid Negativity: Leave unflattering remarks about your ex-boyfriend, your boss, your family at the door. And avoid self-deprecation too.  Men appreciate a positive attitude. 
5. Be Light and Playful: While going on a first date might often feel like a job interview, there isn’t any reason to make it stay that way. Create banter and levity and your date will appreciate it and respond. You’re meeting someone new—enjoy yourself!
6. Make Eye Contact: See #9 in the men’s first date tips section below; replace “her” with “him” and “she’ll” with “he’ll.”
7. Smile: It’s not surprising that in our It’s Just Lunch survey, well over half of singles polled said a simple smile is the most attractive physical feature a date can flash. Use it.
8. Pay Him a Compliment: While he’s trying to make you feel comfortable and at ease, try and return the favor too. It’s all part of chemistry-creation.
9. Avoid Political Posturing: Intellectual conversation is stimulating as well as sexy, but leave strong opinions at the door. You’re on a date; not at a debate.
10. Show a Different Side: If you show a softer side, it makes it easier for your date to find common ground with you. Relax and be open toward him. You’ll develop a better connectionr that way.

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