Mixing the bitter and the sweet while dating

matzosandwichAs we gather at our Seder tables this weekend to celebrate Passover, we take part in a tradition that has bound us together as a people for thousands of years. One of our favorite parts of the Seder is the Hillel Sandwich. That’s where you take some charoset and some horseradish, and mix them together between two small pieces of matzah.

When we take a bite of that sandwich, we immediately taste the bitter (thanks to the horseradish) and the sweet (the charoset.) The sandwich symbolizes our freedom from slavery, reminding us that while slavery was bitter, our redemption was so much sweeter.

The Hillel Sandwich reminds us that life always combines the bitter and the sweet. So does dating. As matchmakers, we often hear dating stories from singles who don’t want to give their dates another chance after the first disagreement. But, as any couple will tell you, relationships are about communicating together and working out your differences. Even in the best relationships, couples must do this a lot.

When we work with singles, we do everything we can to give them a satisfying dating experience. We match them with people who share their interests and values. But even though we have plenty of sophisticated singles in our data base, nobody is perfect. Neither is any relationship. That’s why we coach our clients to be realistic about the sweet and the bitter of relationships.

When you think about it, dating is just like Hillel Sandwiches. It’s a lot more satisfying if you know just how to handle the bitter and the sweet.

Wishing you a happy and joyous Passover from Elegant Introductions.

Chag Sameach!

If you’re looking for that special soulmate, we’re here to help.   To learn more about Elegant Introductions, call Barbara and Nancy today at 305-615-1900 or contact us for more information.

 

Handy tips for Jewish singles during Passover

Passover2Passover is right around the corner, and if you’re like us, you’re finalizing your Seder plans—if you haven’t done that already.

It’s a time of joy and gratefulness, as we gather with family and friends to celebrate the Jewish people’s victory over slavery and oppression. But it can also be an emotionally tricky time if you’re single and hoping to find a significant other. You might be slightly dreading the sight of lots of devoted couples at your Seder. Not to mention the questions:

So? Are you seeing anyone?

Or even worse:

Why AREN’T you seeing anyone?

We know. We’ve been there. We hear about this all the time from Jewish singles who use our dating services. So, gathered from our own experiences and expertise, here are some tips for navigating this potential minefield.

1. Start with the most important thing: self-confidence

Repeat this over and over: you are fine the way you are. This is the truth, no matter what others think. When you believe this, you can take those nosy questions with a grain of salt (or in Passover terms, a shmear of charoset.) Ironically, this is vital in your quest for a soulmate. We ask all our Jewish singles what they’re looking for in a partner. Self-confidence tops almost every list. If you come off as insecure, needy, or desperate, your chances of getting beyond that first date go WAY down.

2. Be a little nosy yourself

That said, there are some clever ways to continue looking for that special someone during Passover. If you’re going to a Seder, it doesn’t hurt to ask ahead of time if other singles are going to be there. You could even ask for an introduction if you’re feeling bold. If you’re hosting a Seder, think about some Jewish single you’re attracted to, and invite him or her to your Seder. You’re not asking for a date here, so the pressure’s off. You’re showing your concern and your big Jewish heart. You don’t want this very attractive Jewish single person to be alone on Passover! Even if they decline, you’ll win major empathy points that can make this desirable person take notice.

3. Find Passover events in your community and go!

Passover3We all know that Passover is much more than family Seders. There are community Seders, synagogue Seders, pre-Passover classes, you name it. Whether you’re in Miami or Boston, there’s so much going on! Find something that interests you, and reserve your spot. (Seriously, you should do this now, as many Passover events sell out quickly.) Chances are, there will be singles for you to meet. You just have to be open to that possibility. We’ve been involved in the Jewish community for many years, and we’ve lost count of couples who first met at Jewish programs and events. Think about it. You already have one important thing in common: Jewish community involvement!

We hope these tips help. Just remember: our people once wandered the desert for 40 years. They made the best of their situation, transforming a desolate wilderness and turning it into a community. They always searched for something better, and they never gave up. If they can do it, so can you!

Chag Sameach!

If you’re looking for that special Jewish soulmate, we’re here to help.   To learn more about Elegant Introductions, call Barbara and Nancy today at 305-615-1900 or contact us for more information.