Kelleher International gets especially busy during the holiday dating season.
Because of the matchmaking holiday rush, many couples have only just begun dating and are still testing the waters with their new partner.
“The holidays can be a romantic time to develop your connection with a new match,” explains Kelleher International CEO, Amber Kelleher-Andrews. “Capitalize on fun and flirty opportunities to learn more about each other and share in the spirit of the season.”
Navigate the holiday dating season like a pro with our matchmakers’ tips for the best holiday outfits, gifts, and even ideas to spend quality time together.
DO: Wear red. Numerous psychological studies indicate that individuals of either gender who wear red are rated as more attractive and are estimated to be more powerful and successful. Use this trick to your advantage on a night when you want to wow your date. Red is also commonly associated with the cheerful holiday season, so you’ll fit right in!
DON’T: Underdress. Ripped jeans have no place in formal holiday functions. We recommend dark denim or slacks for men. Fun, colored pants or dresses for women. When in doubt, opt for a classic look with a timeless feel. Look for holiday dating season outfit inspiration that will please everyone – especially your date!
DO: Personalize your gifts. Zero in on something specific from your time together. If there is a hobby you share or a fun place you visited together that stands out, get your date a memento to remind them of that particular memory. Try our gift guide for new couples to get some holiday gift ideas that are easy to personalize based on your date’s unique interests.
DON’T: Give your new match a gift that (not so) secretly benefits you. Ladies, avoid certificates for couple’s massages and men, avoid buying her something you wish she had around the house. Don’t opt for something that is gender generic, either. After all, not all women like bath salts or flowery smelling soaps.
DO: Decide in advance how much time (if any) you will spend together over the holidays. Your new match might have travel scheduled this season, and if the relationship is fresh, those plans might not include you. Also, be prepared that it might be too soon for inclusion in each other’s family plans.
Be respectful of pre-existing plans during the holiday dating season. Make each other a priority by pre-scheduling together-time on your calendar, so you have something to look forward to when your new match is available.
DON’T: Spend every moment together. Even if you and your date have unlimited free time this season, remember that distance makes the heart grow fonder. Continue with work and social obligations as usual and volunteer somewhere on your own to help spread the holiday cheer. Use your time apart to plan fun dates you will both enjoy the next time you are together.
DO: Give your new match options. If you’re going to invite a date over to meet the family, ask them to come just for appetizers or dessert. Keep your family time a priority but make your date feel included – without holding them captive while Aunt Martha tells yet another story about your childhood. Plan for one to two-hour gatherings when it comes to family time.
DON’T: Bias your date. It’s okay to fill them in on everyone’s interests before the big friend or family get-together, so it’s easier to find common ground, but don’t share personal opinions about people. You never know how people are going to mix, so our matchmakers recommend giving your date the basics and then let them figure everything else out from there.
Are you ready to find the ultimate “do” this holiday dating season?
Contact Kelleher International for personalized support and better quality matches. There’s no replacement for the gift of love.
