A general view of online dating and in particular Irish dating online.

I've put together the MaybeFriends.com top 10 tips on dating as a single parent here they are:
1) Date other single parents - you may find that it suits you better to date other single parents as both of you have a better understanding of each-others time constraints and commitments
2) Wait a few months - before introducing younger children to a new partner, you don't want them getting attached to someone you're not sure about.
3) Try to be as enthusiastic about hearing about your date's children as you are about talking about your own.
4) Keep your opinions to yourself - Remember your date doesn't need advice about child rearing - keep your opinions on how they bring up their children to yourself.
5) Don't be a child bore - if you are dating someone who doesn't have children try not to bore them too much about your perfect off spring.
6) Make the time to date - if the other parent is not involved with your children then get a reliable babysitter - you don't want to be standing up a date because the sitter didn't show.
7) Avoid socialising in the same places as your children - If your children are older then try to make sure you give each-other a wide berth, you don't want them knowing your every move!
8) Don't drag the past into new relationships - If you have been hurt in the past you may be more cautious about dating people - but give people a chance the majority of them are very nice and worth putting in an effort with.
9) Date for yourself - Remember a relationship is for you, it is not to find a suitable parent for your children or to annoy your previous partner so enter the dating game to benefit yourself only.
10) Go Slowly - If it is the right person they will understand that it will take time to get involved in your family life. Don't let them rush you.

Labels: Dating., Single Parent

The first date can be really exciting yet scary for both of you. You are thrilled by the thought of it, but you're also concerned about what to wear. Most people rummage through their wardrobe and go on a shopping spree for a new outfit! After all, someone's first impression can make or break a date! Don't panic - with a little help from maybefriends.com we can help you set the tone for a successful date!

Before you start getting anxious, find out what your date has in mind for the special occasion and dress appropriately for your date. Dress casual if going for a coffee on first date and dress up elegant if going out for dinner in a lovely restaurant. Girls, when wearing make-up, don't overdo it, as less is always more when comes to make-up. Don't go to extremes.

There is no need to be wearing designer labels or going on a mad shopping spree! Do not wear just to impress, wear something that suits you and your personality and which is comfortable as you would not want to be fidgeting every few minutes! Being uncomfortable would be rather embarrassing for you and might make your date feel apprehensive! It is always better to decide on what to wear for your first date a day or two before the date. If you leave it to the last minute, you'll be all stressed out and that's the last thing you want on a first date.

Another thing to think about is wearing something that is appropriate to your age. If you are a 40 years old, don’t wear something from an 18 year’s old wardrobe! A good fit and a colour that brings out your eyes as you will be spending a lot of time staring deeply in each others eyes. It is very important that you wear right footwear too. Boys, if going out for dinner, do not wear runners; wear a nice pair of black or brown shoes. Girls, try to avoid big thick platforms or really high heels, wear a pair of nice shoes with decent slim heels. It is also important to smell good but do not spray the entire bottle on yourself as you don't want to give your date a headache!

Remember it's all about confidence, if you feel comfortable and great then you'll come across really well. The majority of people would much prefer to date someone who is fairly average looking but dresses really well then to date someone who is a stunner but can't get it right in the clothes department.

To wrap up, just try to be yourself. Let your simple, stylish clothing make a statement; let your clothes state that you have a great sense of style and excellent taste. Remember, comfort brings confidence and style brings class!

Enjoy your date - I look forward to reading your comments and ideas.

Labels: clothes, confidence, Dating., First Date, Maybefriends.com