Taking the leap in 2016

It is 2016 and this year has a special gift in that it is a Leap Year. Not only does it offer one extra day in February but also this is the day that traditions are turned upside down, and conventionally it is the one day, every four years, that the tables are turned and a lady can propose to her man. With 29th February, just around the corner, it is exciting to remember what a leap year is and why some ladies might be taking the leap and planning a thrilling proposal of their own.

The 29th of February only comes around once every four years, and it takes place because an additional day is added to make the year fit into seasonal changes over a Gregorian calendar year. Accordingly, there are 366 days this year, the luxury of an additional day.

Various traditions and beliefs have arisen over the years about a Leap Year. The most famous of these is without a doubt that on 29 February, woman can take over the traditionally male role of proposing, and ask their partner to marry them. This tradition is attributed to the 5th century when a nun complained to St Patrick that men took too long to propose, and he then said that woman could propose on this one day every four years. There is also a tale that in 1288 Queen Margaret of Scotland decreed it law that women could propose in a Leap Year, and if the gentleman declined he could be fined.  Some cultures believe that it is an unlucky year to get married in, while others believe those born on 29 February are especially gifted and referred to as ‘leaplings’. Whatever the case may be, the excitement and intrigue with Leap Years still remain today, and some surveys shows that up to 150 000 women are planning propose this year.

As we have an international clientele, experience of exclusive matchmaking and are part of the elite dating scene, some of Seventy-Thirty’s lovely lady members have been asking how we feel about the fast approaching 29 February 2016. Firstly, it is important to recognize that it is 2016 and antiquated traditions and definitions of relationships do not necessarily hold true anymore. More and more people are choosing to live together, rather than needing to define their relationship by the label of marriage, and the idea of marriage is also no longer narrowly defined as between a man and woman. From this it can be seen that traditions are changing and already gender role stereotypes and relationship definitions have taken big steps forward to being more inclusive, liberated and progressive.

In terms of high-end matchmaking and the great unfolding love stories, the Seventy – Thirty experts encourages these developments, and in many ways advocate that woman should not need only one day every four years when they can propose, if you love him and know he is your perfect partner, embrace the moment, take the leap, and this should not be defined by a date or time of year. However, we are still quite traditional and believe that a man should always be the ultimate gentleman, and perhaps only take these steps if it is the right time and stage for both of you. Ladies, do you dare?  May this Leap Year be a luxurious celebration of love. 

Valentine's Day: What to buy the person who has everything?

With Valentine's Day fast approaching the Matchmakers here at Seventy Thirty are asked almost daily by our members who have found love through our exclusive matchmaking service for luxurious gift ideas for that special someone. As Ultra high-net-worth individuals it is rare to have a wish list when it comes to the perfect gift but fear not, help is on hand in the form of the Matchmakers at Seventy Thirty with a list of top tips to buy the ultimate in luxury gifts which promise to show that special someone just how much you care.

Haute Horlogerie - A classic timepiece can be the perfect gift for a partner which can be easily personalised by adding a thoughtful inscription to the back, perhaps the date you met or a few thoughtful words which express how much they mean to you. When it comes to high end luxury in the world of watches think Chopard, Maîtres du Temps and Patek Philippe.

Diamonds are forever - For many nothing says love more than diamonds and although Marilyn Monroe once said diamonds are a girls best friend, gentleman certainly appreciate their beauty and sentiment too. For those planning a Valentines engagement the Platinum Queen of my heart ring from Browns is exquisite. Perhaps also consider Tiffany’s as you can’t beat the feeling you get when you see that little blue box.

All you need is love  – When thinking of giving someone the perfect gift, sometimes it is not always about getting something tangible. Living a full and active life often means it is far too easy to become like the proverbial ships that pass in the night with your partner. So if you really want to give them something special for Valentine’s day why not give them the gift of time, your time that is. Set aside some time for just of the two of you to do something simple like supper at home where there are no distractions or a romantic stroll where you can take in your favourite sights. Sometimes all you need to know how much someone loves you is to know they have made time for your relationship and to reconnect.

Wherefore art thou… Juliet – The gift of flowers can sometimes seem somewhat cliché so if you are going to buy that special someone a floral bouquet it is best to ensure the most exclusive of blooms are included.  The Juliet rose sometimes known as the '£3 million rose' for example is an excellent choice.  Consider using a bespoke florist who can include flowers with crystals added to the centre of the blooms for added luxury.

A gift that is made to measure – For the man who has everything a trip to Savile Row can be the perfect place to find that unique gift. In line with ever increasing demand for luxury and exclusivity the renowned Savile Row tailors can create a suit with a fabric made from 22 carat gold and a rare bale of 15.5 micron Australian Merino wool. There is also the option of platinum or 24 carat gold. The most exclusive suits can now be personalised with your partners name, initials or even a special message running through the thread of the suit…a real one off gift.

The most important thing to remember when purchasing a gift for your partner is to use your own unique insight into the kind of person they are. After all no one knows them better than you so trust your instincts and give with love in your heart. 

Make Matchmaking Work for You!

Here at Seventy Thirty, we have years of experience in the field of luxury international matchmaking and have seen amazing results from successful introductions to marriages and new families. However, we also know the pitfalls that can occur on the matchmaking journey.  We have seen potentially great partnerships between elite individuals fall by the wayside for the same old reasons, which are easily preventable. Therefore it is worth considering the following points when you are on your matchmaking journey.

Keep preferences open, and reject the idea of a ‘type’

When considering qualities in a future partner, people often have strict preferences and ‘types’, and adhere quite rigidly to these in the dating game.  These preferences are frequently carried over from fantasy images we absorb as children, media stereotypes, or a past relationship which has either been a painful experience or has been idealised. The trick is to be clear on a few values you hold dear, but be flexible on peripheral characteristics. This strengthens your chances of finding the ultimate meaningful and thrilling relationship.

Don’t reject people on the basis of trivialities

When it comes to considering matches, members can sometimes reject somebody on the basis of comparatively minor details for example a slight difference in height, a different interest or their hair colour.  Whilst we all have our preferences, eliminating people in this way can mean missing out on someone with whom the chemistry is great, and with whom the corresponding values and relationship goals would make for an exciting and fulfilling relationship. It is therefore a good idea to consider potential partners in the way you would like them to consider you.

Consider the idea that you are still learning about yourself

People often learn about themselves during the fascinating journey of matchmaking, and discover that what they thought they wanted is not what transpires to be their best match.  Being too restrictive about preferences reduces the pool of potential partners considerably, and lessens the chance of learning what really makes us tick in a relationship.  Finding a relationship is a journey of self-discovery in which you learn about yourself as well as the other person. This gives you further insight regarding who your dream partner might turn out to be.  

Don’t fall at the first post

A common reason for early mishaps at the introductions stage is miscommunication or differences in styles of communication early on.  People often have pre-conceived ideas about when people should get in touch or the style of text, and make sweeping generalisations about someone’s character based on this tiny piece of information.  People’s expectations about making initial contact can vary widely, so perhaps it’s best to suspend judgements at this early stage and give your potential match a chance.  As exclusive matchmakers, we have often intervened when there has been a misunderstanding at an early stage, and subsequently seen a beautiful relationship blossom.

Give relationships a chance to evolve

Finally, although you can get an initial impression of someone from meeting them or talking to them, most people take time to reveal their personality and qualities.  How often have we ended up adoring someone we initially didn’t take to? Whilst we don’t suggest you take this to the extreme, it is another point worth thinking about since human relationships are complex and intricate, and therefore not always predictable. 

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