How to make it work!

Choose your partner wisely. We're attracted to people for all kinds of reasons. Evaluate a potential partner as you would a friend: look at their character, personality, values, generosity of spirit, the relationship between their words and actions and their relationship with others people and how they treat them. 

Know your needs and speak up for them. A good relationship isn't a guessing game. Many people are afraid to state their needs and as a result they camouflage them. The result of not being honest is disappointment at not getting what you want and anger towards your partner for not having met your needs. Closeness can't occur without honesty.

Respect. Mutual respect is essential, inside and outside a good relationship. 

Know how to manage differences. Learn how to handle negative feelings that are the unavoidable byproduct of the differences between two people. Stonewalling or avoiding conflict isn't managing them. Arguments can be a healthy part of a relationship as long as you and your partner understand how to communicate and work out issues in a calm manner. 

Communicate. If you don't understand or like something your partner is doing, ask about it and why they're doing it. Talk and discuss, don't just assume. 

Solve problems as they arise. Don't let resentments simmer. Most of what goes wrong in a relationship can be traced to hurt feelings, leading partners to become defensive against one another and to become strangers, or even enemies. 

Learn to negotiate and cooperate. People's needs are fluid and change over time. Life's demands change too, so good relationships are negotiated and renegotiated all the time. Sharing responsibilities is important too; relationships only work when they are a two way street with equal give and take. 

Listen. Truly listen to your partner's concerns and complaints without making judgement. Much of the time having someone to listen is all we need to solve problems; it opens doors to confiding worries or fears, which is the root of real trust. 

Be empathetic. Empathy is crucial for a solid long-lasting relationship. It's important to look at things from your partner's perspective as well as your own. 

Apologise. Anyone can make a mistake. Being able to say sorry is crucial. Attempts to apologise can be clumsy or funny, even sarcastic, but the willingness to make up after an argument is central to every relationship. 

Forgiveness. The flip side of an apology is forgiveness, so if your partner apologises, don't reject it. Accept it and put the fight behind you and don't bring it up in future disagreements. 

Maintain some independence. Depending on your partner for all of your needs is an invitation to unhappiness for both partners. 

Keep things new. Enrich your relationship by bringing new interests into it from outside. The more passions in life that you have and share, the richer your relationship will be.

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. 

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