If you’re single then there is often that dreaded feeling of attending yet another wedding without a date! Parship (www.parship.co.uk) have conducted a recent survey asking 500 single people their thoughts on attending weddings without a partner, offering an insight into the UK single’s attitude towards marriage.

60% of the 500 had previously been married themselves and over 50% of the 500 questioned said they still believed in the institution of marriage and would like to marry or remarry themselves. With wedding season practically upon us, it would be understandable that single people would resent celebrating someone’s else’s happy relationship, but over 57% of singles surveyed said they looked forward to attending friend’s and family’s weddings. 30% of the singles surveyed said it made them feel envious that they are not in the same places in their lives as the happy couple but overall it seems we as a nation are happy for friends and relatives who are getting married, regardless of our own positions in life!

If you are single and experiencing wedding invitation overload, why not come for a complimentary consultation with Bowes-Lyon Partnership (http://www.bowes-lyonpartnership.co.uk/) to find out how we can assist you in finding your perfect partner. If you meet your bride or groom through us though, you have to invite us to the wedding……!!

It’s the modern day dilemma, our over reliance of digital technology is making users lazy with face to face communication. Social media has seemingly overtaken the lives of people aged between about 10 and 80! But we can’t live without it! In little over a decade, social networking has become one of the world’s most widely used communication tools and has embedded itself into nearly every facet of modern life. We use it to network with colleagues old and new, share information, stay in touch with friends and family and to market ourselves. Almost every business has a presence online and almost every person does as well and so it’s no surprise that we have let this modern day technology infiltrate the most personal of our personal lives, finding a partner! Online relationship expert Laura Ginney says, ‘It is too easy to hide behind emoticons or have a conversation limited to 140 characters. Social media has done wonders for dating but it has also made people lazy to look beyond cyberspace. People can control almost everything from their iPhone or Blackberry but they overcompensate and use it for everything-it’s a scary thought.’

Here at Bowes-Lyon Partnership, one of London’s leading introduction companies; we ensure we have a great social media presence to keep us at the leading edge of the premium dating industry. However, we do have to agree with Laura that there is an element of laziness when it comes to busy, single people finding a partner and a tendency to over rely on social media, with little reward in return. At Bowes-Lyon Partnership, we work with busy London professionals who simply don’t have the time to trawl through online dating sites or don’t want to put personal information in the public domain for all to see. We do the leg work for our members and have a significant membership base of like-minded, articulate single professionals all serious about finding a long term partner. We can also network on behalf of our members to ensure we find them just the right partner. The team at Bowes-Lyon Partnership are keen advocates that chivalry is not dead and know that our members prefer a door to be held open for them rather than a poke on a dating site!

Most dating websites are all about selling yourself to other ‘virtual’ single (or maybe not so single!) individiuals. At Bowes Lyon Partnership we personally meet with each and every member and offer a complimentary consultation so that we can truly understand your requirements. We will only take on members who we truly believe we can help and who fit within our calibre of members. Our comprehensive membership network will allow us to find you your perfect match even if you have a diverse range of requirements. You will also benefit from the Bowes-Lyon Index™, a strategic tool we’ve developed from years of matchmaking experience. It’s a fast and efficient way to help us find exactly the right partner for you.

Don’t forget you can find us on Facebook at Bowes-Lyon Partnership or follow us on Twitter @BowesLyonLtd

Many of our members at Bowes-Lyon Partnership have had long lasting relationships that, for one reason or another just haven’t worked out and so when it comes to dating again, it can be a daunting experience! Through our Bowes-Lyon index tool and years of experience, we help find your perfect match from our high calibre of members and although we are here to help guide you through the process and ease you into dating, we are well aware of the infamous ‘first date anxieties’ that we find both parties face!

We firmly believe that there are no set rules for dating other than being yourself and of course enjoying the experience but we do find that an awareness of ‘dating etiquette,’ can do wonders! By referring to the following as ‘tips’ and not ‘rules,’ they serve as gentle reminders rather than putting pressure on you before you’ve even left the house!

Tip 1: Remember there are TWO people on the date, it’s not all about you…

It is easy to over compensate for an awkward silence by filling it with stories about yourself and before you’ve realised it, the story about your last Christmas work party has taken over the entire night.

A first date is all about getting to know someone and asking them open-ended questions that they can expand on and really gets the conversation flowing. Subtle compliments and agreeing with the person are also a bonus but it’s always best not to over-do it!

Tip 2: Avoid talking about ‘old flames’

It may be something you both have in common, a recent ex, but on a first date isn’t the most opportune time to bring up the mechanics of your most recent break up. They are not important characters of your date and even if they are the mother/father of your children and you feel it necessary to mention them, don’t dedicate the whole of dessert to talking about them!

Never panic or apologise if you realise you have mentioned an old partner, instead change the direction of the conversation and engage with your DATE, ask them a question and be genuinely interested in what they have to say!

Tip 3: Be on time, if possible 10 minutes early!

No man or woman is impressed by tardiness because it shows lack of respect, especially on a first date! Obviously in the real world running late isn’t a punishable offence and happens to the most organised of us, but try your hardest not to keep your first date waiting and if unavoidable, make sure you give them plenty of notice!

Tip 4: You’re on a date with a person, not your blackberry!

It seems like most of the population have their phone surgically attached to their ear and find it hard to be apart from it even at the dinner table but on a first date, it is imperative that your phone is hidden away and on silent! It’s simple politeness that is so easily overlooked because of our reliance on our phones but there is nothing worse than your date constantly checking their phone, even if they really are waiting for a work email! We have found this to be a number 1 turn off because if you can’t focus on your first date, it doesn’t bode well for a second date!

Tip 5: Eye contact!

A simple tip that can work wonders is eye contact! Francine Kaye our qualified Relationship Coach, Imago Therapist, author and the UK’s Leading Relationship Expert regulaurly tells our members that the key to upholding confidence and sincerity is to maintain eye contact from the moment you meet. We’re not talking constant scrutiny of your date’s every movement but your ability to make eye contact will show your date that you are truly interested in them. Alongside checking your phone, constant looking around is another big turn off!

First dates can either make or break your chance of getting a second date. Knowing these first date etiquettes will certainly help you a lot to have a successful and romantic first date but remember every date is different and it is about allowing the conversation to flow, not about checking your list of conversation starters! Dating is an experience so you should never come back from a first date with a negative attitude but with the knowledge that you were yourself and had fun, hopefully!

If you have found yourself back on the ‘dating scene’ and are unsure of where to begin, contact Bowes-Lyon Partnership who are delighted to offer a complimentary, no obligation consultation to all enquirers of our service. The consultation will take place in either the relaxed surroundings of our Belgravia offices, or alternatively, one of our experts will be happy to meet with you at a mutually convenient location for an informal chat over coffee.

Speaking from experience, many single people struggle to cross paths with people who are refined and successful and looking for similar things out of life, whether they live in the City or in the countryside. Many of our members regularly commute in and out of London and this together with often busy lifestyles means they find it almost impossible to search for their soulmate in their local area. Living in the countryside is full of the classic perks such as fresher air, the inspiring landscapes and a slower pace of life, but there’s no mistaking the fact that in the countryside there just isn’t the volume of people that there are in a City.

Being based in the City however, also poses challenges when finding your ideal match – most ‘Londoners’ have little time to make new friends, many City dwellers travel regularly with their job and the majority just don’t want to date someone at work – just a few reasons why singledom is also rife in the City. Bowes-Lyon Partnership is based in metropolitan London, arguably Europe’s most vibrant and professional hubs. Being based in the City means we attract a diverse, accomplished and seemingly never ending stream of members, all serious about finding their perfect match and it’s our job to introduce them to one another!

So the answer as to whether it’s easier to find love in the City or the countryside is that both are as hard as each other but for different reasons – a lack of volume in the countryside and a lack of time in the City! But if you’re not ready to up sticks and move out to the countryside just yet and are serious about finding a partner to spend the rest of your life with, then considering an introduction company, like Bowes-Lyon Partnership, could be a great solution to overcome the challenges London presents when trying to address your single status!

Once again a year has flown by and the Anniversay of the Royal Wedding has come knocking at our door already! Of course this occasion is one that we, at Bowes-Lyon Partnership, will most definitely be celebrating!  A television spectacle viewed by over 2 billion people globally showed the transformation of Kate Middleton from university graduate to highly regarded member of society and showed a more down-to-earth side of the British Monarchy.

Now a year on, Catherine has proven her regal standing in a way that the public can relate to and the World began to see her as a fashion icon, a philanthropist and a possible future queen. After a year of marriage that many deem to be one of the hardest, Ingrid Seward, editor-in-chief of Majesty Magazine, believes the couple have “adapted to their role admirably. The key to longevity for them is their long, solid friendship-a tremendous and admirable benefit…true romance.”  Whilst it most certainly sounds nothing short of a fairytale, it’s one that for the most, we all believe in. There’s nothing more satisfying than celebrating such a captivating event that we can all remember where we were whilst waiting for the first glimpse of the Alexander McQueen dress or the star studded guest list and more importantly for us at the Bowes-Lyon Partnership office, the highly anticipated balcony kiss!

So as the Royal couple prepare for a humble and quiet celebratory anniversary, they can rest assured, the nation will do their upmost to raise a glass (or three) at some point this weekend!

Despite the Royal Wedding being such an apt occasion in the Bowes-Lyon Partnership diary, we understand the importance of all our members’ individual needs. We ensure that we provide support along the way and ease all of our members into the dating process , guiding them, for as long as they need us to!  If you want to take that first step to changing your life and meeting someone new, then contact Hayley or Natalie at http://www.bowes-lyonpartnership.co.uk/contact-us.html or call us for an informal chat on 0207 152 6011.

1. A favourite of the girls in the office is the Harvey Nichols Cocktail Masterclass. The conversation is guaranteed to flow because of the relaxed environment but you’re still investing in a special date and after you’ve chatted and flirted your way through your masterclass, you’re whisked away to a table for two at the adjoining fifth floor restarant to enjoy an intimate lunch. A perfect end to the date would be a romantic springtime stroll around Hyde Park just around the corner, depending on the weather of course!

2. This vibrant cafe-cum-winebar-cum-gallery-cum-music venue is truly one of London’s hidden gems. Nestled amongst the atmospheric Old Brompton Road, you will find the last 50’s coffee shop in Earls Court, The Troubadour! Our ideal time of day to visit is for brunch when you can really appreciate the nostalgic setting and we suggest you impress your date by letting them know that Jimi Hendrix, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon all played here in the ’60s!

3. Now this one is massively dependant that you have checked and double checked the weather but come late May early June, Regents Park Open Air Theatre is a great date venue. It is the epitome of a food, drink and culture date in the most relaxed setting. It is wonderfully atmospheric and the gardens provide the ultimate location (with a bar close by!)

4. This date was recommended by one of our gentlemen members so complete kudos to him! The 606 Jazz Club in Chelsea is an intimate venue famous for its live jazz music. It oozes atmosphere and will most definitely set the perfect mood for a date. They even serve food which is on par with the great music scene and if you wish to move on from there, you are situated right on the Kings Road with a host of perfect venues. Some insider information tells us that an appreciated gesture is to buy your date a CD from there of the up and coming jazz musicians to remember your night by!

5. A firm favourite with most is the Southbank walk starting at the London Eye. Perfect timing for this is an hour before sunset, which gives you time to slowly amble East along the riverbank to the Oxo Tower for breath taking views (and hopefully a well timed view of the sunset) and a drink or two. From there you can move onto Late Tate Modern where you can see an exhibition or listen to some music and head up to the seventh floor to try their incredible restaurant and inspiring wine menu, its up to you!

6. Kettners, on the corner of Greek Street and Romilly Street in Soho, is a certain must! It is one venue but with a multitude of options. Starting off with a glass of bubbly in the champagne bar you then move on to the brasserie (where it’s a good idea to book one of the private nooks for ultimate date sophistication) for some gorgeous dinner. Afterwards, you can move on to the pudding bar to sample their desserts and to finish the night off, head to The Apartment area where a liqueur coffee never fails to impress!

7. Literally a stones throw away from our offices in Belgravia is The Mango Tree. A super chic and classy Thai restaurant with a superb atmosphere. Thai restaurants seem to be fast over taking the world but we can see why! The Mango Tree is a superb date location and we can personally recommend their Sea Bass fillet wrapped in banana leaves on a cress salad! We have yet to find a person who does not appreciate Thai food so you can’t go wrong here!

8. A truly special date venue is Odettes. Nestled in Primrose Hill, this gorgeous restaurant is perfect for a cosy evening dinner provided by an award winning chef, Bryn Williams or an alfresco lunch (with a glimmer of sun!) They have a secluded bar area, which is ideal for cocktails or a glass of wine and some delicious canapés. Odette’s is a small wonder and there always seems an appropriate occasion to visit! It is so much more than a restaurant and too perfect to miss out from this list!

These are just a few ideas to give you some date inspiration as Spring arrives and we at the Bowes-Lyon Partnership offices are always keen to hear about your fabulous date locations! If these tickle your fancy but you are still looking for that special someone to share them with, then contact Hayley or Natalie at http://www.bowes-lyonpartnership.co.uk/contact-us.html or call the Bowes-Lyon Partnership office for an informal chat on 0207 152 6011.

The months leading up to Summer are definite mood changers! The evenings are getting lighter and the dull Winter months are well and truly behind us and just as flowers start to bloom, there is scientific proof that your heart doesn’t just get happy about the little things-it’s also more ready for love-for a variety of reasons.

According to sociologist Dr Julie Albright, ‘As the weather gets warmer and there is more sunlight throughout the day, the melatonin in our body decreases, which studies show leads to an increase in energy and vitality bringing about mood changes that make it easier to find a relationship.’

We all notice the difference a sunny day makes, (even to the most stressed commuters!) and so it makes sense that relationships are scientifically proven to be at a record high as we approach the Summer time. Culture also plays a role in the love that blooms in Spring. Dr. Albright says in the Winter we tend to hold on to relationships, not wanting to end them before the holidays. Then, as the new year comes and we look for new opportunities, it’s easier to let go of something (or someone) not making us happy and search for something else . ‘There’s a tendency among couples who are in shaky relationships to stay together during the December holidays so they won’t be alone during what’s considered a special time of year. The start of a new year motivates a lot of people in this situation to break up. By the time spring arrives, they’re ready to start dating again, so the pool of potential mates widens.”

This definitely isn’t news to us in the office as we’ve had a huge influx of members from both sides over the past month! We think it’s highly likely to be a Summer of love!

Bubbledogs will open in July on Charlotte Street in Fitzrovia, with James Knappett (previously of The Ledbury, Noma and Marcus Wareing at the Berkeley, among others) as head chef and Sandia Chang (who has worked at The Berkeley, Noma and Per Se) as General Manager.

Bubbledogs will serve hot dogs and grower Champagne. Yes,that’s right! There will be a menu of ten hot dogs served on traditional steamed buns, including the BLT dog, wrapped in bacon and served with truffle mayo and caramelized lettuce; the Jose dog with guacamole, sour cream, salsa and jalapenos, and a regularly changing guest chef’s special.

So if you’re looking for somewhere relaxed with a sophisticated twist to go on a date, Bubbledogs could be just the ticket!

Thank you Bon Vivant for another great venue recommdation!

Many of our members at Bowes-Lyon Partnership have previously been in long-term relationships or marriages, and overwhelmed by the thought of being single and starting the dating process.

A common worry, when returning to dating after a long break is that the dating rules have changed considerably from when they were last single. It has only been in the last decade that online dating and introduction agencies have become more commonplace in the market. It can often seem strange to members to even think about going on a blind date, let alone meet with someone new every week! We always inform our members that the only difference is in the process of being introduced to new people. Agencies and dating sites allow you to connect with people you wouldn’t cross paths with in your everyday life, but after this initial contact has been made, all the other skills and practices required to form an attachment are exactly the same as they have always been.

At Bowes-Lyon Partnership, we recognise that members, who have not experienced being single for many years, may enter the process with a degree of trepidation. We ensure that we provide support along the way and ease all of our members into the dating process, holding their hands and guiding them, for as long as they need us to! If you want to take that first step to changing your life and meeting someone new, then contact Hayley or Natalie at http://www.bowes-lyonpartnership.co.uk/contact-us.html or call us for an informal chat on 0207 152 6011.

1) Take pride in your appearance.

You wouldn’t turn up to a job interview with unwashed hair or un-ironed clothes so take the same attitude when meeting a date for the first time. Whilst it is personality and compatibility that will ensure the longevity of a relationship, first impressions DO count. Make sure your hair is styled and your clothes are flattering and if you feel comfortable, your confidence will shine through, making you all the more attractive!

2) Jump in with both feet

Those that jump into dating with both feet and enjoy the process are the ones that have the most success. Half-heartedness will make the process harder and longer. Make a concerted effort to be proactive and dedicate time to meeting new people. Love won’t find anyone sitting on the sofa!

3) Choose venues wisely

If you are meeting someone for the first time, sitting in a dark cinema for 3 hours isn’t going to help you get to know someone. Bowes-Lyon Partnership recommends choosing somewhere relaxed and informal in a public place for a first date; a coffee, a light lunch or an early evening cocktail, that way if there is no spark you can politely make your excuses and leave or, ideally, order that second mojito and enjoy!!

4) Be interested and interesting

Everyone’s favourite subject is themselves but make sure you show an interest in her hobbies, lifestyle, career, etc. Ask relevant questions, pay attention and listen, after all you want to know if your date is compatible for you so this is your best opportunity to find out all you can!

5) Be realistic

Decide what you want to achieve out of dating, are you looking for a long-term relationship, or are you looking for a fling? In either case, plan accordingly and seek out others with a similar outlook to your own. Have realistic expectations, do not expect to be married within 6 months of meeting someone and prepare yourself for the inevitable rejection everyone faces at some point in dating, and commit not to give up. Remember to enjoy dating for what it is, meeting new people you wouldn’t normally cross paths with, going to new places and overall, having fun!!