Linda Prescott has been a professional matchmaker for over 22 years and in that time, has seen it all, and heard it all. As the Director of introductions agency Ideal Introductions, Linda, with the rest of her team, have over 1,066 weddings and thousands of happy couples to their credit.
As a Love Doctor in this modern age of digital connections, Linda has the perfect remedy for lonely singles as Valentine’s Day approaches. Her top piece of advice is: “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there: you never know when Cupid’s arrow will hit.”
“There is no time like the present to get out there and start dating,” Linda says. “Valentine’s Day always brings a hoard of singles events and ways to put yourself out there and meet people. So don’t be afraid to try something new.” Linda meets with hundreds of singles who don’t know where to get started. They may have been out of the dating game for a while, have moved to a new area, or may have just been unlucky in love. The key to success is being proactive – not sitting at home alone and wondering why that special someone isn’t knocking down the door.
Coming up to Valentines is always busy for Ideal Introductions, but straight after, they are overwhelmed with new clients. Everyone who is left without a date vows to not let the same thing happen next year and come to Linda seeking guidance. “If you want to meet someone new, then you have to try new things and put yourself out there. You might be surprised by the results,” Linda suggests. Valentine’s Day can be a difficult time for singles, as happy couples are everywhere celebrating the love that they share. It can also be a reminder of past loves as well. “If you are single on Valentine’s Day,” Linda declares, “unfortunately, it is the biggest reminder of the year that you are alone. Let’s face it though, there is someone for everyone. Sometimes it’s hard to find that person.”
| LINDA’S TOP TIPS FOR SINGLES TO SURVIVE VALENTINE ’S DAY |
Be proactive, if you have a crush why not ask them out on a date? You’ve got nothing to lose!
Grab your single friends and go to an organised singles event, a great restaurant or your favourite bar.
Plan a boys/girls night out and surround yourself with your friends and people you love.
Throw your own singles party and get your friends to invite their single friends. You could always take a leaf out of The Sex and the City handbook and get your guests to bring along someone they’re not interested in.
Come up with a plan of action of how you will meet Mr/ Ms Right. Like a Valentine resolution, you can look at what you can do to put yourself out there and find that special someone.
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. After all, it is only one day; and just because you’re single doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time. Do something you enjoy. You’ve saved yourself money and been spared the pain of scratchy underwear and tacky Valentine’s gifts.
If all else fails: Be your own Valentine. Spend the night pampering you.
