However, we did ask both men and women a simple question that seems to come up time and time again. Does height really matter? The results aren’t surprising. Typically, two out of three men want to date women who are shorter than they are, and they believe
women want the same thing. Ladies, you overwhelmingly responded that you’d like to date guys who are taller, and believe men are on the same page. So what’s the takeaway if we all already knew this? Guys, do not fib about your height before going on a date. Adding an inch or two (no pun intended) really won’t help your cause, from a statistical standpoint.

However, when it comes to sheer attractiveness, women may not have guys figured out
after all. We separately asked men and women if guys prefer looks to brains. Most women believe they do. However the guys told a different story: a majority of men would date someone who is smart over someone who just brings a pretty face to bring to the table. Ladies, use the power of wit and confidence to overwhelm your guy on a date. Trust us, he’ll appreciate it.

Check out this article on “How To Handle A Breakup on Facebook“. Our favorite tip?

“Do not post “Single” too soon after a breakup. Wait about one month. If you are trying to get the attention of one specific friend, just send a private message to alert him or her that you are back on the market.”

“She was very pretty and professional. We have plans for this weekend and I  can’t wait to see her again. Great match, she’s exactly what I’m looking for,  probably the best first date I’ve ever had.”-Rich, 50

“The date went good! I think he’s good looking, he’s professional and very  intelligent. A really nice guy! We’re going out again on Saturday, I’ll keep you  posted!”-Sarah, 46

When the specialty dating service asked over 750 singles, “Who’s supposed to plan Valentine’s Day?”, 56% of women thought it should be the couple together, but the number one answer for men was “the guy,” with 48%.  “The couple together” was a close second for men, with 47%, but only 42% of women picked “the guy.”

But women clearly don’t want to plan February 14^th on their own: About half a percent thought that “the girl” should make Valentine’s Day plans, which may come as a surprise to the 5% of men who chose that answer.

“Most people aren’t mind-readers,” says Irene LaCota, spokesperson for It’s Just Lunch. “Talk about the holiday before you decide who plans the date.”

There were also significant gaps between the sexes when it comes to “the best Valentine’s gift.” The top answer for women, chosen by 38%, was a “gift certificate for an activity we can do together.” Only 21% of men selected that answer.   Men’s top gift ideas were flowers, chosen by 43% of men, but only 31% of women.

“Togetherness seems to be the key for most women, both in planning the holiday and with regard to the gift they receive,” says LaCota. “Men just need to be smart enough to choose something their dates enjoy as much or even more than they do.”

Over 83% of respondents said they would accept a first date request if it falls on Valentine’s Day, and over 70% said they would be open to being set up on a blind date. Even though many respondents feel that date-planning responsibility still lies with men, a majority (54%) believes that a couple should plan the date together.

Even though answers from both men and women generally aligned with each other, there
were some notable differences. Men believed that flowers remain a Valentine’s Day staple, with 43% of male respondents saying a bouquet is the best gift. However, women answered quite differently— almost 38% said that the best gift is a certificate for an activity that a couple can enjoy together. In fact, only 30% of women thought flowers were the best Valentine’s Day gift. “Women want to be able to share an experience with a potential partner,” said Irene LaCota, a spokesperson for It’s Just Lunch. “Flowers are always a thoughtful gift, but an experience two people can share together helps build a foundation
for future dates”.

What’s out in 2012? Men, pay attention: chocolate and lingerie are low on a woman’s Valentine’s Day wish list, with only 5.2% and 1.6%, respectively, rating them as excellent gift ideas.

“Your love life is a direct reflection of your self-worth. If you’re down in the dumps, you’re not going to meet anybody. But if you’re feeling amazing, your energy will show to everybody, and people will be lined up to meet you.”

It’s true! A positive attitude and strong self-confidence can completely turn your dating life around. Stay tuned to our blog and follow us on Twitter @ItsJustLunchCO for more dating advice and tips to improve your self-confidence!

“Really good! He’s fun and outgoing. Deep conversation, attractive and  interesting. Best date I’ve been on, ever! Genuine and honest. We’re getting together this weekend, I’m excited!”-Elizabeth, 31

Be realistic. Perfection and romance like in the movies doesn’t exist in real life. Keep realistic goals in what you want in a partner and that perfect person will come into your life.

Commit to a new healthy you. Stick to your New Year’s resolution you made in January and keep leading an active lifestyle! When you’re healthy and active, you’ll become more confident and that newfound confidence will help you shine with dating!

Expand your interests. Well-rounded people make for interesting dates because they have great stories to share and their interests can lead to many different conversations. Consider trying something new, sign up for a class or volunteer…you never know who you’ll meet!

Forget about the past. Leave the past relationships and judgments of people at the door and walk into dating in 2012 refreshed! Remember, you have nothing to lose. Don’t let disappointments and heartbreaks stop you from getting back out there! This leads us too…

Get back out there! Unfortunately, Mr. or Mrs. Right isn’t going to knock on your door while you’re cooped up inside watching TV. It’s up to you to make the first step and get back out there! Inform your friends, co-workers, family, etc. that you’re ready to meet someone. Go out with friends, join a class or hire a first date specialist at It’s Just Lunch!
Putting yourself in the hands of a professional takes all the stress out of dating so you can just concentrate on the fun part…actually going out on dates!

“I had a great time with Tim. He’s a really nice guy. I really liked his personality; he’s very sincere and supportive. He also made me laugh a lot! I’m thinking we’ll see each other again, I hope so!”-Cheryl, 48

Are you recently single? Have you nursed a broken heart and ready to get back out there? At It’s Just Lunch, we would love to help you get over your ex…and introduce you to someone great! After all, what better way to move on than to let a First Date Specialist do the work for you and match you on quality, comfortable and fun dates?