Whether you are in a new relationship or a long-term love, navigating Valentine’s Day without veering into corniness can be a daunting process. But there’s a lot to be said for making an effort to show the one you love how much you care.
A former matchmaker at one of London’s leading dating agencies, Charlie founded Bond The Agency, a new Chelsea-based matchmaking service, to provide a highly personalised introduction service to its members.
She has a remarkable track record for successful matches and is responsible for hundreds of happy marriages and relationships. She is passionate about finding lasting love for her clients and has an innate gift for identifying the compatibility traits that result in meaningful matches where sparks fly.
Charlie feels that every day should feel like Valentine’s Day with your special person, so we asked her for her expert advice on how to navigate the day with heartfelt taste.
Do
MAKE A PLAN
Even if it’s a home-cooked meal or a backyard cinema. Effort is sexy, and putting thought into planning something will make your Valentine’s heart skip a beat. Some of our favourite London date spots are in Chelsea. Sir Frank’s Bar at Beaverbrook Town House has a seductive atmosphere and is great for cocktails; Harry’s Dolce Vita is wonderful for old-fashioned Italian and has such a romantic interior; and Granger & Co is a great low-key option (and it’s wonderfully lit).
PUT YOUR BEST FACE FORWARD
Spending time taking special care of your hair and skin, and slipping into something that makes you feel confident and attractive will give you that first-date glow, even if your Valentine is already your forever date. We love the Skinfluencer clinic in Chelsea for its state-of-the-art facial treatments.
MAKE A THOUGHTFUL GESTURE
Give something that comes from the heart and would be well received by your sweetheart. In our book, sentimental trumps spenny every time and will melt hearts. A homemade coupon book where your loved one can redeem special favours always goes down a treat. A photo book of all of your treasured moments is also sure to pull the right heartstrings.
BE PLAYFUL
Laughter feeds the soul and keeps the sparks flying.
Don’t
IGNORE IT
Even if you don’t believe in Valentine’s Day, show up for your person. Love is about giving and receiving, and even a small act of affection won’t go amiss.
BE UNGRATEFUL
Not everyone gets it right the first time, and some feel a lot of pressure on Valentine’s Day. Be grateful for even small gestures of love, because they come from the heart, which should be treated gently and with kindness.
SPLIT THE BILL
Courtesy is timeless. Everyone likes to be treated, and generosity is not a sign of weakness. Not every princess in a tower wants to be rescued – but she may like to be treated to dinner. On the flip side, take your knight out for a night on the town and you will win his favour.
BE NERVOUS
Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to spend some romantic time dedicated to your special someone. Be yourself and the rest will come naturally.
