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How to play hard to get

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Although we would never openly admit it, it’s the ones who we can’t have that we often find the most attractive. We CAN have you, of course, but seriously – don’t let us know that. Here are our top tips for winning us over by playing hard to get.

Woman playing hard to get

1Flirt, but not too much

Keep guys on their toes -- are you interested or not? Maybe just a little bit? Maybe it's the beer goggles? Men like the attention, but you don't need to go overboard.

2Be cryptic, but cute

Sending a "What's up?" text doesn't usually mean "Booty call now!" but it will get your guy's attention. Just don't text us "R u there?" like, two seconds after asking what's up -- that's not playing hard to get, it's called nagging. However, if the next text is something mysterious, like "Cause I may be wondering," guys may take the bait.

3Play his game

Making him wonder, "Will she or won't she?" keeps men guessing. From turning the tables on guys with cheesy pickup lines or saying you might give us your number after we buy you a drink can make men up for the chase.

And if these don't work, act interested. That may contradict the whole playing hard to get thing, but honestly? Men don't pick up signals well. Women have a series of subtle hints and suggestions they think scream "I'm interested!" but often, men don't have a clue. Smile, wink, do that sexy crossed-leg thing and then maybe your guy will get it. Chances are -- if you think you're being over the top, you're probably doing things just right.

More relationship advice

How to keep his interest
How to make a great first impression
How to read a guy in 10 minutes flat


5 Celebrity dream girls

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Every guy on earth has his own "Hump Island," meaning if he ever became stranded on an island, he'd know which five women he'd like to be there with him. We all think that these five women are somehow all going to get along and sex you up constantly, but that's beside the point. Here are my top five celebrity dream girls and why we love them.

1Mila Kunis

If you say her name dramatically it sounds like a horrible disease, but I assure you this pint-sized pixie is a top pick. Mila Kunis has played roles in romantic comedies that are reality-driven. Just go see Friends With Benefits where she's awesome, confident, sexy and someone you'd like to spend an afternoon with braiding her hair and telling her stories. Wait, what? And that's why she's my number one pick for a celebrity dream girl.

Photo credit: Adriana M. Barraza/WENN.com

Mila Kunis


2Emma Stone

The word stunning doesn't do Emma Stone justice. Funny, smart and have you seen Easy A? Her dancing and singing Pocket Full of Sunshine tops out on my list of sexy, dorky and, yes, still very sexy moments. Guys want girls who seem approachable and she takes the cake.

Photo credit: WENN.com

Emma Stone


3Blake Lively

While I'm not a massive Gossip Girl fan, I will say I tune in to see what Blake Lively is wearing week to week. She exudes a carefree sexiness that puts her on the dream girl list without a doubt. She's stylish and has an amazing rack — yeah I just said that. I adore her beauty mark under her eye that is reminiscent of a younger Cindy Crawford. She used to date Leonardo Dicaprio and, let's face it, that guy knows how to pick hot trim.

Photo credit: Anthony Dixon/WENN.com

Blake Lively


4Kaley Cuoco

She seems like she'd be a very girl-next-door type in real life. Her role as Penny on Big Bang Theory showcases the classic hot girl with a heart of gold. Kaley Cuoco's sexy, yet she doesn't have to flaunt it. I'd like to see her in some more movie roles, and, to be honest, some Maxim-style shoots, too! She's a classic beauty and a definite top pick.

Photo credit: DJDM / WENN.com

Kaley Cuoco


5Sofia Vergara

One word: Boobage. She's the ultimate Amazon woman — the strong experienced cougar that all men desire. Sofia Vergara's body has curves in all the right places and you can only imagine what she'd look like in a bikini...wait, I just did. Her role on Modern Family lets her be silly and vulnerable, but we all know there's a sassy sex pot behind closed doors.

Photo credit: FayesVision/WENN.com

Sofia Vergara


More on what he knows

What to say when you're losing interest
5 Things he wants you to know about him
How to get him to open up

6 Top traits in the perfect woman

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Girls are guilty of having their lists of what traits make the perfect man, but we have our own list of what makes the perfect woman. In my opinion, here are six traits that make up the perfect woman.

Happy couple laughing outdoors

1She's sexy not slutty

There's a huge misconception that guys think the perfect woman needs to dress slutty. Guys like sexy women, and there's a huge difference between showing some skin and wearing a micro miniskirt to dinner with your boss. The perfect woman knows how to pull off being sexy perfectly with style and confidence. She dresses with the right mix of sassiness without giving away the goods. The perfect woman can flirt with her eyes and not just with her body.

2She's cool

Some of the biggest fights couples have are over watching sports, too much that is. The perfect woman understands that men need to watch sports because it's in our DNA. The perfect woman knows this and is cool with the fact that we don't want to go lamp shopping on a Sunday afternoon in the fall. We'd much rather be parked on the couch watching football.

3She's smart & funny

Guys like when a woman laughs at their jokes, but we also like when they add to the comedy. The perfect woman should be able to keep up and add to the banter. She should have an opinion, be well read or at least watch or read the news. Women say guys like to talk about themselves, but we really want a great partner to have a real conversation with and not a bimbo that laughs at everything we say.

4She's got her life together

Guys want to feel needed but not to have to be the only thing in a woman's life. The perfect woman has a career, her own set of friends and something she's passionate about outside the relationship. There's no bigger turn off than a woman who latches on to your life and invades every aspect of it.

5She's real

No guy wants a Real Housewives crazy drama queen. Relationships aren't always the best of times and when there is a fight, we want a woman who's real and grounded. When there's an argument, we don't want a woman who gets crazy and spits venom because that's a one way ticket to Splitsville. The perfect woman can have a mature conversation about the issue at hand and rationally work through the issue with me.

6She loves

Guys are like puppies — we want to be loved. What does that mean? When we're having a bad day, we need unconditional support. When we look good, tell us. When we really put on a show in the bedroom, let us know we're doing a good job. The perfect woman knows how to unconditionally love her man.

Tell us

What makes you "the perfect woman?"

Share with us in the comments section below!

More relationship tips

How to get him to open up
How to make a great first impression
How to play hard to get

At what age should you let your daughter have a boyfriend?

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You're one step away from committing your teenager for being boy crazy, but does that necessarily mean she's ready for a boyfriend? Teen girls are notorious for crushes, but knowing when to let your daughter officially enter the dating scene can be confusing. From types of teen dating to expert advice on when she's ready, get help tackling the big question: At what age should you let your daughter have a boyfriend?

teen-girl-ready-for-boyfriend

Is my teenager ready to date?

Dating isn't exactly what it used to be when you were in the game, so setting an age when your teenager is allowed to date doesn't necessarily coincide with your own experiences with having a boyfriend. "It seems physically people are maturing younger, but emotionally maturing later," explains Dr. Brenda Schaeffer, psychologist and author of Love or addiction: The power and peril of teen sex and romance. "With adolescence comes raging hormones, peer pressure and media pressure, but teen girls lack the ability to self-parent or to actually problem solve at this age."

Learn how to handle kids' crushes >>

Types of teen dating

Before deciding whether to let your daughter dip a toe in the dating pool, it's important to understand the types of dating options teen girls have.

Group dates. "Group dates to public places like Starbucks or a movie are a very good starter date," advises Mary Waldon, LCSW.

Online dating. "Teens are turning to online relationships feeling they're safer, but they are just as devastated and depressed and rejected," shares Dr. Schaeffer. Discourage your teenager from dating someone online, which still holds the same heartache but also exposes teen girls to online predators.

Exclusive dating. "I have found that young people want to date one person for the safety and security of not having to go along with the crowd," says Dr. Schaeffer. But is she ready for a boyfriend?

At what age should you let your daughter have a boyfriend?

So, is there a magic age for all teen girls to start dating her dream boy? Unfortunately not. However, at about 14 or 15 years old, teen girls are often ready to explore relationships in a group setting, but allowing your daughter to exclusively have a boyfriend should wait. "One-on-one dates should probably wait until 16 or even 17, depending on the maturity of the girl, and your assessment of the boy in question," suggests Waldon.

Discover tips on getting your teen to talk >>

"The thing is, during adolescence, dating is a dress rehearsal for adult relationships," says Dr. Schaeffer. "It's a time when your daughter needs to learn how to enter, be in respectfully, and let go of a relationship. Dating is a part of learning how to survive all of this." Although you may have the urge to forbid your teen girls from having a boyfriend until they are 30 years old, encourage her to try again, regardless of how tough it is for you to see your teenager grow up!

More on teen dating

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Teen girls and breakups: helping them move on
Your daughter: dating dos and don'ts for parents

How to deal: Teenage romance

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Parents often dread the time when their teens begin to date. Though some teens get interested in dating and romance before others, it's perfectly normal for all teenagers to want to start dating. Whether your teen is experiencing her first crush or has been dating someone special for a couple of years, follow these tips to help deal with teenage romance.

High school romance

Stress the importance of balance

Teens often get too serious too fast, some even becoming obsessive. Talk to your teen about the importance of finding balance. If you feel your teen is getting too involved in their relationship, set limits on telephone calls, internet time or personal contact. Instead, make suggestions for family activities or group events for your teen and his/her friends. It's not healthy for anyone, especially a teen, to be completely consumed by their relationship.

Set some ground rules

Before your teen starts dating, talk about what you feel are appropriate dating rules. At what age can they date alone? Are group dates allowed? Do you want to meet the person several times before your teen goes out on a date? Share your thoughts with your teen or tween about moral values and respect. Once your teen starts dating, stick with your dating rules -- especially concerning things such as curfew times, telephone and text limits, school expectations, dating costs and gift giving limits. Also outline any consequences for breaking rules and boundaries, as well as any ways your teen can earn your trust and get fewer limitations.

Read about the new teen relationships >>

Talk about sex

Talk with your teen about sex on a regular basis. You shouldn't just instill fear about STDs and pregnancy . You should also talk to your kids about the importance of maturity and being emotionally ready to handle sex. Though you can't completely control whether your teen is going to start having sex, having an open dialogue about the topic is important. Emphasize that no subject is too embarrassing to discuss and that you will be open to talking about even the most uncomfortable situations that arise.

Read about how to have the sex talk with your teen >>

Try not to judge

You can't pick who your kids fall in love with -- even if it's only a temporary infatuation. Though you want to avoid your teen being involved with criminals, abusers and drug addicts, beyond that you can't control whether your daughter's date is the most scholastic or from the best family. Respect your son or daughter's feelings and get to know your teen's boyfriend or girlfriend. As long as you have raise your children with respect and values, things should be fine.

Be prepared for the break-up

One of the hardest things for teens when it comes to romance is the first real break-up. Be prepared to help your teen through it. Don't ridicule or make light of the situation. Just be there for your teen in any way you can as he/she picks up the pieces.

Life vs. fiction

Night Road

 


Speaking of teenage romance, check out our must-read book pick, Night Road by Kristin Hannah, a great fiction read that raises questions about teenage drinking, teenage romance, parenthood and the unforgettable story about one family and the pain of loss and power of forgiveness. Head to our new SheKnows Book Lounge now.

More about teenage dating

A mom's guide to teen dating
What's the right age to start dating?
Teens and responsible dating

The L word: How to say it, mean it & embrace it

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Saying "I love you" to someone for the first time signifies a milestone for any relationship. Once it's out there, it's just as important to keep the love going as it is to say how you feel. This year, make it blossom by embracing the motivation behind the word and showing your loved one just how much you care.

saying i love you

Say it to his face

Saying I love you to someone for the first time is often an intimidating undertaking. Ask two friends about the best approach, and you'll almost certainly receive two conflicting answers. Ultimately, you have to trust your instincts, because you understand your guy and relationship better than an outsider ever could. Before you say anything, though, consider these four ILY guidelines:

  • The L-word is not a relationship barometer. Avoid saying it just to get an idea of how much the other person is into the relationship;
  • Don't feel pressured to reciprocate a feeling. It's better to say thank you than to say something you aren't ready to say or don't mean.
  • Avoid saying it as a tactic to win an argument or procure a favor.
  • When you are ready to say it for the first time, then just say it. In person. A text or email won't do your feelings or relationship justice.

Above all, remember that your love is a gift. Don't let the anxiety of when or how to say it overrule the excitement and beauty of the moment.

Show how much you mean it

Showing him that you're sincere is even more important than saying it in the first place. To mean it is to back it up with actions on a consistent basis. If you think about it, when you tell someone that you love him, you're making a commitment to make sure he feels loved and valued. So show that you mean it through gestures like turning your phone off during a meal, making a playlist of his favorite music, taking the initiative in planning an evening out , and by making the first move in the bedroom once in a while — especially if you usually wait for the other person to make an advance.

Speaking of making advances, before you utter love for the first time, consider your typical relationship habits. Getting out of your comfort zone to make your favorite person feel empowered is the ultimate way to really show you mean it. The best way to express your love may be to wait to say how you're feeling, if you are typically the move-maker in the equation.

Don't fight the feeling

Make this year the year that you embrace your feelings and take risks in your relationships. Sharing love that comes from an honest place will always work out to your benefit, even if the outcome is not what you expected. In the long run, it may save you from spending time with someone who may never be able to match your feelings in a balanced, reciprocal relationship. Above all, spend time taking care of yourself, so you look and feel your very best. Being in a good place makes sharing love with others easy.

More love advice

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Long distance love tips

How to recharge your relationship over the weekend

Ditch your dating bad habits

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Continually getting involved with the wrong men isn’t bad luck; it’s a bad choice. Falling into bad dating habits is all too easy, and the first step to break them is to recognize them. Here are a few bad dating habits you should leave behind.

dating

Not letting your guy have his space

Just as you need time with your girlfriends, your guy needs some friend time, too. It doesn't mean he doesn't want to be around you. When he's off with his friends, occupy yourself with something else. Go to the gym, pick up a craft, or head to the salon. Incessant "check up" texts will make him think you don't trust him. Make use of your time apart so your time together is that much sweeter.

Choosing the same guy

You may prefer a certain type of guy, but it may not be what's best for you. Yes, you should be attracted to your partner, but if you're attracted to emotional instability, it's time to reevaluate. Why are you choosing the same type of man over and over again? You deserve better. Take a look at your dating record: If all your exes have negative characteristics in common, the change starts with you. See your own value, and others will, too.

Not being direct

Communication is the cornerstone to any successful relationship. Beating around the bush when you're legitimately upset about something isn't going to solve any issues. While it might cause a bit of conflict initially, laying your cards on the table shows your significant other that you care about the direction of your relationship.

Sticking around too long

In your heart and head, you know when a relationship is over. Saying goodbye is difficult for both parties, but if you're no longer feeling the relationship, it's time to move on. There's no sense in sticking around for an unfulfilling relationship, even if it is a healthy one.

Leaving too soon

Just when things were getting good, you screwed it up by leaving. The fear of being hurt is pretty common. Everyone wants to be loved, but nobody wants to be hurt. If you fall for someone, you risk a few tears down the line. Still, you have to do some cost-benefit analysis: Would you rather be alone, or maybe risk a breakup in the future? If it's the former, maybe dating isn't for you at the moment.

More about your new year

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How to give back in 2012

Signs he's ready to settle down

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You may be ready to put a ring on it — but is he? Relationship experts weigh in on how to know if commitment is on his mind.

Man proposing to girlfriend

Figuring out whether your man is ready to settle down is no easy feat. After all, his age, income and previous relationships really aren't predictors of whether a man is ready to call off his search for the one. How's a girl to know whether the relationship has a future? We tapped the minds of two expert dating coaches for a little "he said/she said" perspective on signs that he's ready to settle down.

She says

April Beyer, a Los Angeles-based dating expert of Beyer & Company, a personal matchmaking and relationship coaching firm, says that all six of these clues give insight as to whether your man is ready to settle down -- and that you're the one he's ready to settle with.

  1. He enjoys talking to you about the future -- next week, next year and beyond.
  2. He feels like he's dated enough women -- and feels confident he has played the field long enough to know what he wants and needs.
  3. He feels great about his career and position in life. Beyer explains that the modern man tends to put off marriage until he feels he can give you emotional and financial security.
  4. He's over the ex-girlfriend/wife. How you can tell? There are no more tears, conversations or anger about how she wronged him. His feelings towards his past relationships are very neutral.
  5. He asks to see you as much as possible. Beyer says that men who are ready to settle down want to do more than just go out on a Saturday night. They want to be with you for daily activities, and they will carve out the time to meet you mid-week for a movie, coffee or dinner.
  6. The games are over. Stop telling yourself the games are a sign of a passionate relationship. "Marriage minded men ask to see you again while they are out with you. They don't wait weeks to get back in touch," says Beyer.

Expert tip

Just because a man has a great education and a wonderful career does not mean he is marriage minded. Men must be emotionally mature, along with the sense they have accomplished their career goals. From: April Beyer, a Los Angeles-based dating expert of Beyer & Company, a personal matchmaking and relationship coaching firm.

He says

Adam LoDolce, America's Dating Coach on Social Freedom and author of Being Alone Sucks!, gives three manly perspectives on signs he's ready to settle down:

  1. He'd rather stay in on a Friday night than go party with his buddies. He's ready to settle down if his idea of fun becomes more about you, and less about guzzling beers or watching the game. That's not to say he should give up his boy time completely -- but when you're the most appealing prospect, more often than not, you've got a man who is ready to settle down.
  2. He introduces you to his extended family. "It's one thing if you meet the parents, but meeting extended family communicates a whole new level of commitment," explains LoDolce.
  3. He wants to get a pet. Not only do pets require the two of you start to share responsibility, related expenses and nurturing moments, they're as close to a test-drive toward family life as the dating world can offer.

More relationship tips

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5 Signs he's not the marrying kind

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So you’ve been dating this guy for a while, and despite your every effort to the contrary, your mind has wandered to images of what your future children will look like and what kind of home you’ll have together. But each birthday, Christmas and Valentine’s Day rolls around without so much as a hint of a ring. Is he just waiting for exactly the right moment, or is he just not the marrying kind? Here are a few undeniable signs that your guy may never want to marry.

Man texting while on a date

He comes right out and says so

If he says he never wants to get married, he probably means it. But time and again, women get involved with men who develop a rash at the mention of marriage. Look at George Clooney. He makes no apologies about not wanting to be married. One beautiful woman after another parades through his life, probably thinking she'll be taking up residency in George's Italian villa as Mrs. Clooney. But George isn't sharing his Italian villa, or anything else a divorce attorney might fight for later. We could all speculate about George ending up old and alone with one of his domesticated pigs, and that it might serve him right, but the fact remains: He has declared himself a lifetime bachelor, and he hasn't budged on that.

He's all about the bromance

Guys want to play beer-pong, go bowling and sit around a TV yelling at athletes, coaches and refs who can't hear them, in addition to a whole host of other activities that confuse women. And they want to do it together. The desire to hang with the boys is normal for most men. However, that is ALL some men want to do. If you are constantly being pushed aside for "Boy's Night Out," or if his posse is present every time you are together, then he may have a Peter Pan complex. This means he lacks the maturity to step away from the video games long enough to spend time with his significant other. This type of guy is pretty self-indulgent, so not only are you probably not headed to the altar, you should accept that on his list of top 10 priorities, you probably come in somewhere around 37. Save yourself a lot of grief and move on from this oaf as soon as possible.

He's a work-a-holic or hobby-a-holic

For some reason, certain men place work and/or hobbies above mates. These men are called jerks. Okay, that's a bit harsh. Life does, however, sometimes pass these guys by. One morning they wake up shocked to realize their hair is gone, the kids they never had don't call or write and their evenings are spent curled up with a mangy cat watching Murder She Wrote re-runs. You can fritter your life away hoping this guy will get his priorities straight, or you can realize early on that you're never going to be on a tropical honeymoon with this guy.

He's been married before

How much fun is it to be left holding the bag for the she-devil who came before you? She worked your guy like a cheap blender in an old folks' home and now you've got to make up for it! This can be exhausting. If you're a rabid rescuer, you'll work yourself silly trying to make up for someone else's mistakes. Don't be shocked if Mr.-Kicked-in-the-Chops is in no real hurry to get remarried, no matter how awesome you treat him.

His parents are divorced

Since about 75 percent of men come from broken homes, this can be an alarming suggestion, but don't panic just yet. Some guys' intelligence surpasses that of their parents at a very young age and he may be determined to have a more successful marriage than his parents. Others, however, will be scarred for life. They may be thinking, "Wow, as much fun as my childhood was, I'm not in a big hurry to live that out again!" Here's how you can tell the difference. If he bolts as if he's about to be trapped in a house fire when you bring it up, he's not ready to marry. If he can talk about it without stuttering or staring off into space, you might have half a chance of being called "wife" someday.

Tell us

Has a guy told you he doesn't want to get married and then asked you to marry him?

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10 Unexpected places to meet men

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Tired of bars and online dating sites? It can be tough to meet men, especially if you limit yourself to looking for them in the tired old standbys. Hit up these 10 unexpected places -- with a smile and an open mind, you never know who you might meet.

Couple flirting at coffee shop

Hospital cafeteria

You have to eat. Cute, single doctors have to eat. Why not do it in the same place?

Grocery store

Everyone has to go to the grocery store, even single guys. To make this spot work, shop during guy-friendly hours , and cruise the man-magnet aisles .

Bookstore café

Take your laptop to your nearest bookstore to browse for men. Sidling up to share an outlet is a great conversation starter. Hint: Go during normal business hours if you're looking for a self-employed or flex-schedule man.

Dog park

Hit up your local dog park with your pup before work. Popular parks are filled with guys and their dogs burning off some energy before a long day. A mutual love for all things dog will help the conversation flow.

Movie rental store

If your city is lucky enough to still have a rental store -- or even a Redbox -- flip off your movie channels and give your rental card a workout! You're far less likely to meet a guy while watching cable at home than hitting up a rental store.

Airport

I worked with a girl who met her now-husband when an airline lost their bags. They hit it off while filling out lost-luggage forms, and the rest is history! The airport is filled with people milling around, bored and grouchy. Make the airport work for you by putting a smile on your face and striking up a conversation with the nearest ring-free man.

The gym

Skip fancy spa/gym combos. Join a bare-bones gym, and you'll encounter more guys than you would at a posh workout center. Bonus: The monthly membership fees at these man-friendly gyms are usually much lower than at full-service gyms.

Volunteering

Sign up to do something you love: a Habitat for Humanity build, dog walking at an animal shelter, collecting signatures for a petition. Not only will you get out and among a new crowd, you'll be mingling with like-minded men.

Networking events

Yes, most people who attend these things are focused on work. But these events draw a crowd, a crowd that usually includes a handful of unattached men. Go ahead -- mix business with pleasure!

Standing in line. Anywhere.

The post office, the auto shop -- even the dentist. Wherever people have to wait in line, you're bound to encounter men. And because you're both getting stamps/oil changes/teeth cleaned, you have something in common already.

Watch: How NOT to flirt

Dating and body language expert Katia Loisel-Furey, co-author of How to Get the Man You Want, reveals the top flirting mistakes that women make.

How NOT to flirt

Dating and body language expert Katia Loisel-Furey, co-author of How to Get the Man You Want reveals the top flirting mistakes that women make.

More relationship tips

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5 Dating horror stories

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Ever feel like your date just turned into some weirdo from a horror movie? Maybe you found out he’s two-faced like Jekyll and Hyde or just an old fashioned creep. Allow me to present you with a quick roundup of true dating horror stories. It’s enough for you to say, “I’ll beeeeee riiiiiggghhhht baaaaacckkk!!!”
Appalled woman on date

Scary, but true!

Ever feel like your date just turned into some weirdo from a horror movie? Maybe you found out he's two-faced like Jekyll and Hyde or just an old fashioned creep. Allow me to present you with a quick roundup of true dating horror stories. It's enough for you to say, "I'll beeeeee riiiiiggghhhht baaaaacckkk!!!"

 

Peeping Tom

Sure, we want to date a guy who is interested in our day to day life. It's nice when he's curious to know what we like to do with our free time. However, it sounds like this gal found herself under surveillance!

"When I first moved to NYC, I dated a guy whose apartment overlooked Broadway Dance Center and he'd say these things about how he'd watch me take dance class from his bedroom window. He thought he was being all sexy and smooth, but it made me CRINGE!" - Marissa Z.

The element of surprise

Think: The Shining. Jack seems to have it all together at first: a provider, a likeable, responsible guy. Next thing you know, he's bonkers to say the least. Some things just aren't what they seem.

"I hooked up with a guy at a bar one night and thought it was going to be just that -- a make out session with a hot dude. As it turns out, he asked me out on a date and I was psyched to learn more about him after all! So, we're at a lovely French restaurant and he spends two hours telling me all about his favorite pastime: jousting. He can't stop talking about his medieval costumes and competitions and I'm bored out of my mind! I try to change topics but I can't even get a word in. After all that, he then proceeds to tell me that he's baked a pie for dessert and it's back at his place. I tell him I'm allergic to gluten and he says he also made pudding. PUDDING! Then, I told him that pudding wasn't happening and I got out of there." - Claire D.

Dr. Evil

Movies teach us: Beware of a man who slowly pets his hairless cat. He could be plotting unscrupulous world domination or maybe he's just plain skeevy.

"I was dating a guy for a few weeks and it was at that turning point where things were getting hot and heavy. We're in bed and about to get down to it; then it got weird when he started talking. Moans and groans can be hot, don't get me wrong, but this dude started quietly whispering, 'You're a nice girl' and petting me like his rabbit! It was so gross, I had to stop him right there. I asked him to leave and I never returned his calls." - Maria E.

Nocturna

Like the song says, the freaks come out at night. And, this freak also had a terribly upsetting sense of humor.

"I went out with a DJ who had a crazy schedule. He was practically nocturnal and had to start work late at night whenever his set at a club started, so he always had to rush off after we hung out. One night, we fooled around and had oral sex. Afterwards, he rushed to get ready for his shift and started putting his clothes back on. Then, he looked at me with a smirk and said, 'Look, I really hate to eat and run, but I gotta get to a gig.' I was speechless! Was I supposed to think that was funny? I just stared blankly at him and never talked to him again." - Candice M.

Copycat

Compatibility and shared interests are one thing, but if a guy tells you that he's into everything you're into, you might want to fact check his backstory.

"I went on my very first online date and knew to expect the worst. First of all, he looked about 10 years older than his picture and he showed up looking pretty shabby for a first date. He obviously hadn't showered that day and absolutely reeked of cigarette smoke! We met at the coffee shop where he worked and lied about it . But, that wasn't even the worst part. Throughout our 30 minute coffee talk, he just said that he liked everything I liked. I'd say I was into yoga, and he'd say 'Me too!' I would tell him about singing in a band, and he'd day, 'Me too!' For fun, I threw one in there to see what he'd say, so I told him I wrote poetry in my journal every day. And, of course, he said, 'Me, too!' He even claimed to know people I knew, which was impossible. What a liar." -  Kylie M.

Freakishly weird dates aside, if something feels truly off or dangerous about your date, I recommend going with your gut and making your escape!

More about dating

4 Places not to go on a date
Top 5 no-fail icebreakers for meeting men
10 Unexpected places to meet men

Should you start a dating blog?

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Your love life is entertaining, perhaps for all the wrong reasons. You know others would relate to the situations you find yourself in. Your friends encourage you to find an outlet for all the amusing antics that result from your dating experiences, so you're considering starting a dating blog. But just because you can, does that mean you should? Read this before you get started.

Woman starting dating blog

Can you write?

If you're going to start a blog and build an audience, you need to be able to compose content that will keep people coming back. It doesn't necessarily have to be grammatically polished -- many blogs are written just for fun. But you also can't blog like you write in text messages or on Twitter. Your content needs to be readable and, if you want people to come back, unique and relatable.

What's your goal?

You don't just need to keep an intrigued audience coming back. If you want to stay motivated, you need to determine why you want to start a dating blog. Do you want to share pearls of dating wisdom? Do you want to entertain? Do you want to inform? Determining an objective before you start will motivate you to keep up on your blog.

Is your blog a plot for revenge?

You've had enough of men and you think you might be ready to air your grievances in a public manner to get back at them. As juicy as this sounds, proceed with great caution. Remember that everything you put on the internet is up for public consumption. This means a future boss may find your hate-laced entries, or worse, a future companion. Running home and Googling someone after the first date is common practice. What if you meet a great guy, have a fantastic date and he runs home to check you out, only to learn that if he does you wrong all the intimate details of your time with him will become public fodder? That will turn most guys off in a hurry.

Keep it classy

For the reason stated above, speak in generalities. Stick to advice like "What to wear on a first date" or "Formulate an exit strategy before you arrive." It is perfectly acceptable to punctuate this type of content with real life experiences and anecdotes, but again steer away from names and direct references. Exaggerate a scenario so that even the people reading it may not recognize themselves in it.

Invite friends to participate

Keeping up a blog can be a lot of pressure when you're really busy. Inviting friends to share their dating insight and experiences will not only take the pressure off you, it will add interest to your blog. Many people share their blog posts through social networking channels, so when your friends share their blog entries, your audience will grow.

More dating tips

Conquering the fear of online dating
Tips for creating an online dating profile
How Skype and Facebook changed the long-distance relationship

Top dating sites for pet lovers

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If you’re looking for love in all the wrong places, it’s time for Fido to help you find Mr. Right . Let your animal attraction shine through with the latest online dating sites built specifically with pet owners in mind. If falling for a non-pet lover has gotten in the way of finding a life partner, the latest dating sites can help you skip the issue altogether. Niche online dating sites provide a one-of-a-kind experience for like-minded pet owners. These top five dating sites for pet lovers offer pet-loving singles a new leash on love -- no more excuses about pet allergies or phobias.
Woman on dating website with dog

If you're looking for love in all the wrong places, it's time for Fido to help you find Mr. Right . Let your animal attraction shine through with the latest online dating sites built specifically with pet owners in mind.

Must love pets

If falling for a non-pet lover has gotten in the way of finding a life partner, the latest dating sites can help you skip the issue altogether. Niche online dating sites provide a one-of-a-kind experience for like-minded pet owners. These top five dating sites for pet lovers offer pet-loving singles a new leash on love -- no more excuses about pet allergies or phobias.

Date My Pet

www.DateMyPet.com

When you and your pet are a complete package, it's not always easy to find someone who understands that special bond. Date My Pet is filled with pet owners who share the same views on pet parenting and bonding as you do. This sites' motto, "Date me. Date my pet," tells potential prospects that you mean business when it comes to your pet. Date My Pet also offers fun links to pet-related stories in addition to advice on pets and dating.

The Right Breed

www.TheRightBreed.com

From cats and dogs to horses and iguanas, the Right Breed is built for pet lovers of all kinds. This website helps pet owners narrow down the search not only by general interests but also by animal of choice. Whether you're looking for a friend, date or lifetime partner, you're guaranteed to find others with compatible perspectives based on common breed interests.

Wagger

www.wagger.com

Wagger gives dog owners something to bark about. Here, you'll find other dog park enthusiasts without having to deal with all the clicks and politics. Taking puppy love to new heights, this canine-focused site connects you with suitable bachelors of the two- and four-legged kind. At the very least, you'll find plenty of companions for your furry friend.

Pet People Meet

www.PetPeopleMeet.com

Pet People Meet is an ideal dating site for busy pet parents. You can browse through profiles of other pet-loving singles, upload and watch video profiles, listen to live audio and text-chat. If you're still wary of communicating with strangers, this site allows you to communicate with prospects anonymously.

Love Me, Love My Pets

www.LoveMeLoveMyPets.com

Let's get right to the point: Looking for that idyllic version of Prince Charming just isn't working out. Love Me, Love My Pets is a site dedicated to what women really want -- a partner who loves pets. Here, you might still find the tall, dark and handsome love of your life, four paws included.

Tell us

Would you date someone who doesn't like pets? Share in the comments below!

More tips for dog owners

Top 5 Healthy treats for pets
How to become a foster pet parent
Top 5 Books for pet lovers

Is she a honey or a hussy?

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It's finally happened. Your teenage son is in love! You can't wait to meet this girl and when you do... you don't like her. She's nothing like what you thought she‘d be, and maybe she’s even rude. What’s a mom to do?

It's finally happened. Your teenage son is in love! You can't wait to meet this girl and when you do... you don't like her. She’s nothing like what you thought she'd be, and maybe she's even rude. What's a mom to do?

When you don't like your son's girlfriend

Before you go banning your sweet innocent baby boy from dating this corrupting hussy, take a big deep breath and try to see a bigger picture. You are still the most powerful woman in his life, but you need to use that influence carefully.

First relationships

First loves are momentous. Think back to your own first love and the power of that relationship in your world. Though it may feel embarrassing now, it was real and meaningful in the moment. It can be hard enough for a parent to watch a teen go through the ups and downs of first romantic relationships when everyone likes each other -- but it can be even harder when that's not the case.

It's unlikely that your teen's first love will be his only love -- although some teen relationships do last, most don't. Regardless, you need to tread carefully. Showing too much of your own distaste for this girl may close communication with your son and nudge the two of them closer. Unless there are specific issues endangering your son's health and safety and necessitate your deep involvement, step back.

Is it her? Or you?

Figure out why you don't like this girl. Is it her? Is it her manners, her clothes or the way she talks? Is it her family, her religion? Have you made the effort to get to know her at all? Has she done something specific? Could it be you are an intimidating presence to her and she's just scared of you? And no, that's not the goal.

Or it is you? Do your feelings stem from protectiveness of your son or from annoyance that this relationship has altered family and relationship dynamics? Are you jealous your son is spending more time with her than with you? Does she look like the girl who stole your first boyfriend way back in high school?

His own way

There's someone else in this picture who needs consideration: your son. As close as your are to him, his dating life is part of his appropriate and necessary development into an adult -- and moving away from you emotionally. That's a hard reality, but it's true!

His girlfriend is his choice, not yours and you "liking" her is almost irrelevant. Almost.

What you can do is keep lines of communication open. You can be available and open to talking about relationships and the paths they make take. You are still an influence in your son's life, but more subtly.

You don't necessarily have to like your son's girlfriend, but you do need to love and respect him, and learn new ways to be a part of his changing life. That girl might not be so awful: after all, she had great taste in choosing your amazing son.

More on teens and dating

The teens and dating debate: What's the right age?
How to deal: Teen romance
A mom’s guide to teen dating

Use Pinterest to get over a breakup

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So you kicked him to the curb! Or maybe you're the one who got booted. Either way, congratulations on your breakup! Your life is opening up all around you — and here's how to embrace it: Visualize your new life without your ex on a big ol' canvas: a "wish board." Read on for how to do this 21st century style, using Pinterest.

Woman using Pinterest to get over a break up

In The Frisky 30-Day Breakup Guide, psychologist Trina Dolenz, Ph.D., better known as the doc who whipped broken couples into shape on Tool Academy, offers up advice on making a "mental map" after a bad breakup: a big collage of all of the stuff that you've always wanted to do... but you didn't have time, or your ex wasn't into it or you kinda forgot about your own needs while you were in the relationship.

Great news: Now that Pinterest exists, it's way easier to play cut-and-paste and turn it into a "wish board." First, create a Pinterest board for each of these categories... and you'll be up and running.

Pinterest vacation ideas"Beach, Here I Come!": Places I want to visit

Ah, freedom! That means you can go on vacation wherever you'd like — whether you're traveling solo, road tripping with a group of friends or going on a girlfriend getaway.

The beauty of Pinterest virtual vacays is that the sky's the limit! Toss up gorgeous vistas of any and every place you've wanted to go: a cross-country RV journey? The view from a pristine beach? And guess what: Now the only vacation opinion you have to take into consideration is your own.

Travel pinners to follow: Budget Travel, Frommer's Travel

Pinterest hot guys"I'll Take Him to Go!": Hot guys

The best part about not having a guy by your side? The freedom to objectify male stars whenever you see fit! Who's your fave? Drool away now that you're unattached! Think of Pinterest as your personal teenage girl bedroom's ceiling. May we suggest pinning a few of our featured Man Candy Monday boy toys?

Hottie-pinners to follow: Cosmopolitan , Esquire Magazine UK

Pinterest craft ideas"Teach Me!": Interests you want to investigate

Maybe you've always wanted to learn how to make French pastries or learn Photoshop. Now's the time! Pin stuff you'd love to master — like a pic of an intricately knitted scarf or a super-chic side table made from salvaged wood.

Special-interest pinners to follow: Fine Gardening, MashableVogue Knitting

Pinterest gift ideas"I Want!": Special fantasy gifts for me

A breakup is a perfect excuse for a teensy bit of retail therapy. Don't plunge yourself into credit card debt, but there's nothing wrong with buying yourself a little something, like perfume just for you or a hot pair of heels you can wear around the house if you feel like it. The cool thing about Pinterest is you can savor all of your choices before you decide which token to buy yourself... just as you'd research a present for a loved one.

Indulgence/fashion pinners to follow: Christine Martinez, Matchbook Magazine, Bauble Bar, Eat.Sleep.Wear.

Photo credits: Marta Szczesniak/WENN.com , News Pictures/WENN.com

Pinterest inspirational woman"Inspirational Women": Ladies who move you

Eleanor Roosevelt. Amelia Earhart. Virginia Woolf. Hillary Clinton. Whatever strong woman inspires you, give her some Pinterest real estate by choosing a sophisticated photo of her and clicking on it whenever you need some encouragement. If they can divide and conquer, you can too!

Feminist pinners to follow: Claudia Chan, Nish Weiseth

Trust us, after doing this, you will feel better! Maybe you won't feel like you're in tip-top shape, but while you heal via a boatload of pretty pins, take comfort in the fact that you're not "that" wedding-pinning gal on Pinterest anymore . You're gonna be just fine.

More on Pinterest

Pinterest wedding boards: Make your ideas a reality
Pinterest: What it is, how to use it and why you'll be addicted
Using Pinterest to create an inspiration board


10 Things single people say

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There are several cliches associated with being a single person: the lovelorn-but-witty Bridget Jones character; the indiscriminate swingin' single person with wanton sexual appetites; the old maid/crazy cat lady convention; and the wine-drinking, reality-TV-show-watching trope that we'd defend ourselves against, but drinking wine and watching reality TV while sitting on your couch is pretty awesome. In that spirit, here are 10 cliched things single people have been known to say... sometimes for good reason.

Annoyed single woman

1

"Great, another Facebook photo of a sonogram."

Songram

Hey, sonogram-posting parents: We're real happy for you and all, and we're gonna let you finish, but keeping sonogram photographs to yourself was the classiest move of all time. OF ALL TIME!

Here's an easy way to passive-aggressively retaliate: For every sonogram photo you see on Facebook, post one of yourself doing something awesome, like hiking or clutching a fancy martini, neither of which those new parents will be able to do for a really, really long time.

2

"I'm never going on
another date again."

When your date shows up reeking of Febreze and clove cigarettes and you spend roughly seven-eighths of the evening talking about the weather and how Friends really was darn fine 1990s primetime programming, it's normal to come home, crack open your emergency mini airplane bottle of Crown Royal and vow never again to emerge from your bedroom.

But here's the thing: You will. We feel you, friend, but eventually a guy will ring your doorbell who has not only ironed his shirt but has also bathed and will totally understand your obsession with Tumblr and Battlestar Galactica. We promise.

3

"All guys are jerks"/"
All girls are crazy."

No, not all men are numbskulls, and not all women are insane, despite the fact that your ex hacked into your email account and tried to use the information contained within to get you fired. Well, you win some, you lose some — some guys are idiots, and some aren't, and in this craaaaazy game we call dating, it's up to us to try and discern the difference. If he shows his true colors of unrivaled arrogance and sociopathy later rather than sooner, don't beat yourself up. He'll have to live with himself for the rest of his life, whereas you only had to for a few weeks.

4

"What am I doing tonight? Oh, just going to check out this trendy new bar/band/art show."

Woman partying

Sounds righteous! Hmm, funny: Your shut-in coupled friends can't come with you because they're boring and tied down. Too bad for them!

5

"Online dating is the worst."

Annoyed woman computer

Well, shark and/or bear attacks and/or historical atrocities are the worst, but, yes, online dating can be unpleasant at times. One trick is to gauge your own "gameness" for the hunt: Are you burned out both at work and emotionally? It might not be the best week to schedule five coffee dates with five different dudes. Are you short on time? Make a date come to your neighborhood for a glass of wine rather than hauling your frazzled carcass all the way downtown. Tailor the pursuit to what you're up for. And if that means taking a break from the site for a few days , that's more than fine.

6

"Why are all the good men/women taken?"

It sure seems that way sometimes. But even if everyone around you seems coupled, it's only a matter of time before a new cowboy saunters into town and rocks your world, just like in a really juicy Danielle Steel novel, but hopefully with better dialogue. Every day, people break up with their significant others, move to a new town, get divorced or finally decide to start dating again. You'll catch a vibe like that from a great person when you're ready.

7

"Should I call/sleep with/get back together with my ex?"

Ah, the lure of the familiar. Most of the time, the answer to this question is no. If you broke up with him because he was a manchild, it's highly unlikely that he'll be all grown up now in the space of a month. Instead, try making eyes at the cute hipster guy at the end of the bar during your next girls' night, even if his thick, black-framed glasses are kinda over-the-top. Hey, conversation starter!

8

"I'm going to focus on

me right now."

Woman watching tv

Good! Being totally selfish is the one best perk of being single. Enjoy it! Buy one of those giant 5-pound Hershey bars just for you, rent every Ryan Gosling movie ever made and put your feet up on a circular cushiony ottoman. In other words, treat yo'self.

9

"What's wrong with me?"

Sad woman eating ice cream

Nothing. Next!

10

"When am I going to find 'The One'"?

Are all children under seven out of the room? Good. Pssst... Much like Santa Claus, "The One" doesn't exist. The person we end up with are a direct product of our personal choices and how hard we want to work at a partnership.

In the past, maybe you sabotaged things, or he did, or maybe you just weren't at a place in your lives where you wanted to go for the long haul. Whatever you do now, remember that you can get the kind of relationship you want — you just might have to work hard at it. You know, by compromising, putting others first, that kind of thing. Oh, and choosing a person whose life goals mirror your own. Mr. Right isn't going to fall from the sky and into your lap, but if you meet a guy who's willing to take on everyday challenges side by side with you, well, then you've found yourself a winner.

More tips for single ladies

Mastering the art of rejection
Dating advice from mom: How to take her tough love
How to deal when you're waiting by the phone

5 Stupidest things to fight over

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Sure, it's tempting to engage your significant other in a shouting match any time you or your personal space feel threatened. I mean, the least he can do is wipe the toothpaste off the sink, right? But is sweating the small stuff smart? Here are five idiotic things that couples have been known to fight over but really aren't worth rowing about in the long run. Take note so you can recognize when you need to take a deep breath... instead of blowing a gasket.
Couple arguing about stupid things

Sure, it's tempting to engage your significant other in a shouting match any time you or your personal space feel threatened. I mean, the least he can do is wipe the toothpaste off the sink, right? But is sweating the small stuff smart?

Don't even bother

Here are five idiotic things that couples have been known to fight over but really aren't worth rowing about in the long run. Take note so you can recognize when you need to take a deep breath... instead of blowing a gasket.

1

Socks

Wow, is he really leaving his boxers/PJs/jeans on the floor again? Don't fume. Kick his dirty socks under the bed , and try to forget about it — he likely didn't mean any disrespect. In a relationship, one person is always going to be the Oscar to the other person's Felix, so you might as well laugh about it.

Here's how to deal: Get one of those cool hampers with partitions that divide clothes by colors , and show him how it works. Then cross your fingers.

2

Maps

map

Trying to navigate a route together can seem harrowing at the time, but resist the urge to lash out. You'll eventually get there, wherever "there" is, as long as you obey the traffic laws.

Here's how to deal: Roll down the windows for some air and try being silent. Not crying, not hyperventilating... just breathing. Your calm countenance will inevitably influence his mood.

3

Exes

photos of ex

Unless his or your old flames are actively trying to contact you or woo one of you back, obsessing over beaus/girlfriends past isn't worth your breath. Avoid bringing them up, and you'll avoid pointless fights. After all, there's nothing he can do about his past — and neither can you.

Here's how to deal: Repeat this to yourself: He chose you. And thank the good Lord you aren't still with one of your exes — bullet dodged, yes?

4

Paint colors

Like Kevin Spacey said in American Beauty, things like couch cushions and wallpaper samples seem important, but "This isn't life! This is just stuff!" If your hubby is hell-bent on recovering the pool table in bright red felt or keeping his beloved moose head in your den, let him. At the end of the day, you can decorate around the offending item — an "urban woodsman" theme might actually be cool — or ignore it, but picking your battles means you'll both end up happy in one way or another.

Here's how to deal: For every object he picks, you get to choose something of a similar size — an armchair for a writing desk or a wall of paint for a carpet. You'll be making the decisions together, but you'll each get to put your own touches on the place.

5

Your television set

Fighting with your guy over the remote control is an old cliché, sure, but there are only so many episodes of Full Metal Jousting you can take. Take a time out and focus on how it feels to spend time together rather than focusing on the screen. That'll bring you back to what's truly important.

Here's how to deal: Invest in a DVR, and grin and bear it. If you're not an action movie fan, for example, try focusing on the hot young actors. Then introduce him to critically acclaimed TV shows that have a little something for everyone, like Mad Men, Breaking Bad, The Wire or Game of Thrones — all great for hunkering down and having a snuggle-tastic DVD marathon.

More relationship tips

5 Love tips inspired by 1950s housewives
Learn how to translate his love language
Lost that loving feeling? How to get it back!

Can I get a Christian Grey up in here? Patti Stanger’s tips for finding a millionaire BF

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When it comes to love, do you have champagne wishes and caviar dreams? Millionaire Matchmaker Patti Stanger shares a few tips on how to wrangle your very own Christian Grey. But remember, no S&M before monogamy…
Patti Stanger
Patti Stanger

Your I.P.O. is making me
juicy-goosy!

When it comes to love, do you have champagne wishes and caviar dreams? Millionaire Matchmaker Patti Stanger shares a few tips on how to wrangle your very own Christian Grey. But remember, no S&M before monogamy… 

Patti is the expert when it comes to finding millionaires and here are the top four places she recommends looking. The good news is you may not need to look farther than your own laptop!

Tip #1: Let the internet be your matchmaker

With all the dating websites out there, why not take full advantage of dating in the time of cyberspace? By carefully reading through the profiles of single men, you can target those who work in the financial industry, tech, real estate and medicine. Patti recommends joining three different internet-dating sites, one that’s well-advertised, one based around your religious faith, and a third focused on any hobbies or interests you might have. My former boss who was a Southern lady used to say, "It’s just as easy to marry a rich man as it is a poor one." And now it’s even easier.

Word of warning -- all men hate "gold-diggers" and are wary of any woman who asks too many questions about his bank statement. While Patti recommends not discussing money at all, questions such as, "What stocks are you currently investing in?" are obviously a lot better than "What’s your net worth?" Play it cool while you’re dating.

skisTip #2:  Go skiing!

Yes, Patti recommends searching for love on the slopes because skiing is an expensive sport. Those who are good at it must have the income to ski frequently. And if he’s skiing a lot, he’s probably in excellent physical shape.

Patti highly recommends Vail, Colorado, if you’re into divorced dads -- apparently they take their kids skiing there on the weekends. Whistler, Patti says, is also great because you get a mix of Canadians and Europeans, and Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is where oil billionaires all go to ski .

Bad knees? Don’t worry. Patti says, "You don't have to actually learn how to ski, but you gotta sit at the hottie pa-tottie bar and get your little hottie totties."

wineTip #3: Go to wine festivals and tastings

Patti insists, "Men love wine. The richer they get, the more they want to have a wine cellar." And a lovely lady to share a bottle with, of course.

Spend some time learning about wine so you can be confident in what you like and then she recommends going to the Food and Wine Classic in Aspen or the South Beach Wine and Food Festival in Florida. But be sure to follow Patti’s advice -- keep it classy by drinking no more than two glasses on a date.

Tip #4: Lastly, and this is my personal favorite, attend the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas!

Who isn’t up for a nerdgasm? Techie guys, like software developers, app designers and hardware engineers have great financial portfolios, may have their own IPO and even know how to fix your laptop. But a word of warning -- Patti says that millionaires can be a little ADD. Throw in a handful of computer gadgets and he could get lost in cyberspace. You may need to be the warm body that pulls him out of the digital universe and back into the material world.

Patti Stanger's Birthday Bash

More on Patti Stanger

Millionaire Matchmaker: Patti Stanger’s funniest "Patti-isms"
The advice Patti Stanger whispered to Stacy Keibler
Patti Stanger has some dating advice for you

Photo credit: WENN.com

5 Crazy dating apps

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Dating in "the future" is getting weirder and weirder, largely thanks to technology. Some gizmos we see advertised have made dating more convenient , but some, like the apps below, have almost taken the human component out of dating altogether. Is that a good thing or a bad thing? You be the judge!
iPhone apps
dating apps

Cell phones are the new wingmen

Dating in "the future" is getting weirder and weirder, largely thanks to technology. Some gizmos we see advertised have made dating more convenient , but some, like the apps below, have taken the human component out of dating altogether. Is that a good thing or a bad thing? You be the judge!

Did you see the short film Sight, made by a team of visual arts students, that examined what dating would be like if it were an eyeball-implanted app? The apps below don't go that far, exactly, but we might be closer than we think to a future in which dating resembles Minority Report more closely than When Harry Met Sally. Not to freak you out or anything.

Bad Date Rescue App by eHarmony

Bad Date Rescue App by eHarmony

If you've already sensed that you might be going on a bad date, you might have had the foresight to ask a friend to call you in the middle of dinner and provide a previously agreed upon excuse to get you out of there, pronto. If you didn't, well, you're on your own, lady.

But wait! Now you can download eHarmony's Bad Date Rescue App. Choose a scenario — your mom calling to say your sister is having a baby, your super telling you the apartment has sprung a leak, or, our personal favorite, "Your boss, who just found out everything in the office isn't working and needs your help NOW!" — and the app will call you at a pre-scheduled time. The phone call looks almost exactly how a regular call on your smartphone would, and there's a real voice at the other end, so only you know it's a ruse — depending on how gracefully you exit, of course.

If your acting skills aren't perfectly polished, you can choose the "Repeat After Me" script and simply say what the voice tells you to.

Should you use it?: Hey, why not? Suddenly receiving an emergency phone call in the middle of a bad date sounds fake already, so getting it from a robot won't be that much of a stretch.

Price: Free

Friendthem

Friendthem

So you've met someone amazing at a party, but they left before you could exchange info. Aw, we hate it when that happens. With the Friendthem app, however, you can check out the Facebook users around you and find that person, without having to search for them. Boom — friend request sent. Catch is, they have to be using the app too.

Should you use it?: Only if you're fairly sure that the person receiving the phantom friend request won't be freaked out. Hint: Some people might be, but if they've downloaded this app, they'll probably just be psyched someone else is using it.

Price: Free

MusicBunk

MusicBunk

What type of music a person listens to can tell you a lot about what your relationship might be like. Case in point: If you decide to date a rabid Phish fan, prepare yourself for what could be a lifetime of road trips, tours, jam sessions and patchouli. It's good to know what you're getting into from the outset, which is where MusicBunk comes in: Invite your crush to be your "bunkmate" via the app, and after he or she accepts, you can browse, comment on and listen to 30-second clips of all of the music that has been synced to their smartphone. The app makes it easy to see which songs you have in common and what their playlists are titled.

Should you use it?: Definitely! As long as you're prepared to be roundly mocked for your extensive collection of the Britney Spears canon circa 1999.

Price: Free

MoonIt

MoonIt

You're digging a certain guy, but is a relationship in the stars? Find out with MoonIt, which delivers horoscope-based "relationship compatibility results" for two people. If you're lucky, you'll get a message like this: “You’re 98% Compatible, We Hear Wedding Bells! You may have just been out to play, but it looks like you've stumbled upon your soul mate...”

For MoonIt to work, the object of your affection has to use the app too, so if you're trying to flirt with a dude in real life, you can jokingly suggest that he download it so you can see if the stars think he should buy you another drink or if you should part ways. MoonIt is essentially a location-based dating app, so you can also meet guys in your vicinity who love horoscopes as much as you do.

Should you use it?: Make it clear to a guy you meet in real life that you're just doing it for fun, and if he's game for downloading the app and checking out your compatibility, it could be an amusing conversation-starter. If he refuses to play ball, you'll either know he's not interested or that he's a stick in the mud. In that case, next!

Price: Free

iPickupLines

iPickupLines

None of these lines is going to win anyone a roll in the hay , but despite the spelling errors, grammatical mistakes and general cheesiness, iPickupLines is decent for a good laugh — or for getting a few ideas when you start a conversation with a guy you're interested in. Think: "So what's the cheesiest pickup line you've ever heard? I think my favorite is 'I was blinded by your beauty, so I'm gonna need your name and number for insurance reasons.'"

And there are loads more where that came from, ladies.

Should you use it?: Don't employ it earnestly, but it's fun to page through with your friends for a laugh.

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A flirting expert reveals: It's more than twirling your hair

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Flirting expert Rachel Dealto promises that "if you feel like your dating life is akin to climbing Mount Everest in your four inch Manolos, you're not alone. So, we had her clear up some flirty dos and don't for even the most shy of us.
Single girl's guide
Flirting it more than twirling your hair

Flirting dos and don'ts

Flirting expert Rachel Dealto promises that "if you feel like your dating life is akin to climbing Mount Everest in your four-inch Manolos, you're not alone."

So, we had her clear up some flirty dos and don'ts for even the most shy of us. Here are Rachel's tips to get an A+ on your next encounter with the hottie at the grocery store.

SheKnows: What’s the easiest way to give a guy the “it's OK to approach me” sign?

The Flirt Expert: Eye contact and a smile are all it takes! Three to four seconds of eye contact, plus a smile and you are golden. Most guys like to hedge their bets of being shot down, and those nonverbal cues let him know the odds are in his favor. If he is interested, he will approach!

SheKnows: Once he approaches, if you like him, how do you keep his interest? If you’re not feeling it, how do you break off the convo without being rude?

The Flirt Expert:

a) Once the guy has approached, ask him questions about himself, laugh at his jokes, smile and continue making eye contact. Flirting is all about making someone else feel good with attention, genuine compliments and just the right amount of touch.

Guys like and need to know you're interested.

b) If you aren't feeling it, break away by telling him "It's been nice chatting with you, but I need to get back to my friends" or "It was great meeting you, but I have to run!" Never feel like you have to give out your number.

SheKnows: What are some flirting no-nos?

The Flirt Expert: Overflirting! Flirting is a bit of a cat and mouse game. Give a little, and see what comes back at you before you give any more. Guys like to know you are interested, but they also love the chase.

SheKnows: What are some common mistakes girls make when it comes striking up a conversation?

First conversation questions you should always avoid:

  • Are you looking for a relationship?
  • Why are you single?
  • Do you want kids?
  • What kind of car do you drive?
  • How much do you make?

The Flirt Expert: The most common mistake I see? Not striking up a conversation at all! The fact of the matter is it can be completely nerve-wracking to start up a conversation or even let someone know you are interested. It feels vulnerable!

The biggest mistake women make during conversation is scaring the guy off by getting too personal too fast. A first conversation needs to be light.

Talk about the environment, a trip you went on, a concert you went to. Ask him about his favorite restaurant in the area, where he grew up, what his favorite sports team is. Anything but "How are you single? What's wrong with you?"

SheKnows: Are there different flirting tactics for different settings?

The Flirting Expert: Yes and no. There are certain tactics that are universal - smile, eye contact, conversation, body language and touch. The approach and level of flirtation is completely different depending on the setting.

In bars, it is typically easier to start conversations and flirt, because 1) alcohol is a social lubricant and 2) people are normally at bars because they are looking to socialize. Museums, grocery stores and coffee shops are a different animal. There is a different purpose for people to be there, and it means that your flirting needs to be slightly more covert.

SheKnows: For the shy girls, any tips for overcoming their fear of making the first flirt move?

When it comes down to it, flirting is a mindset.

The Flirt Expert: Grab a wing woman! The best asset for any shy girl is a partner in crime. Take along your flirtiest single friend to help you start conversations.

Also, fake it! Relax your nerves with a cocktail, just one or two. Pretend that you have all the confidence in the world, and go out there and practice making eye contact with a smile. Eventually your "fake" confidence will lead to real confidence.

SheKnows: Can flirting really be as simple as twirling your hair, touching his arm and talking in your sweet voice? Or is it much more complicated than we all like the think?

The Flirt Expert: When it comes down to it, flirting is a mindset. It is saying to yourself, "I like them! I want to make them feel good by being nice, complimenting and letting them know that I like them." You can twirl your hair, but if you are not projecting warmth or even looking at them in the eye, it doesn't count.

SheKnows: Is playing hard to get really effective? Or should we ward that off our list for good?

The Flirt Expert: Playing hard to get works in moderation. Never be so available to a guy that he takes you for granted. Flirting and dating is all about the give and take. Make him work for it and realize you are worth the effort, but reward him when he does.

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