As we approach the shortest day and the nights get colder, you might think that people would be keener to date. But new research from eHarmony.co.uk found just the opposite - a quarter of Brits admit to going on fewer dates in December compared with other months of the year.
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If you're willing to brave the cold and take a moment away from frantic Christmas preparation, there's plenty of opportunity to meet someone sweet to help warm your heart this December. Here are some top tips from eHarmony.co.uk dating expert Jemima Wade.
Get out of the cold
In true Brit style, the weather is involved in our outlook on dating. Our recent study shows that the biggest worry people have about December dating is that it's just too cold. Aside from wearing scarves, gloves and coats, there's plenty of dating venues that offer a welcome break from the elements. From cosying up at the cinema to watch a Christmas movie together, or adding a bit more culture to that mix - maybe live comedy or a play is up your street, or if you're looking for less planning, how about a traditional pub lunch by a warm fire? eHarmony's Great Date Guide has plenty of winter inspiration if you're stuck: http://www.eharmony.co.uk/dating-advice/the-great-date-guide
Make the most of 'plus one season'
While the sheer number of parties in the diary for December can make finding time for dating tough, it can also be something of a blessing - if you're open minded. You can have it both ways if you don't mind being someone's plus one, or inviting them to your do. It's a good idea to go for a coffee beforehand to get more of a sense of each other and make sure you feel comfortable meeting their mates, be it friends or work related. If you're willing to be brave, it might well be more fun than going solo.
Take time out
It might seem as though you haven't got a moment to spare in the run up to Christmas, but it's just as important as ever to take time for yourself and not neglect your own needs. If you'd like to date but are too busy, make a window to do it. It can be a case of juggling - but why not catch up for a coffee or a quick drink and nibble as opposed to the traditional dinner date, that way you get to meet and get a feel for each other, and you can still go out afterwards to meet your mates. Have you (Christmas) cake and eat it!
Choose inexpensive dates
In the run-up to Christmas money can be tighter than usual with nights out, Christmas lunches, secret Santas and travel thrown in, and the list goes on. But fear not - it's not too difficult to find top date locations that won't break the bank. If you're feeling cultural, why not hit up a museum? Many will have free entry and give you some good talking points. Or if you're the more outdoorsy type and don't mind facing some 'bracing' weather together you could go ice skating or even take some blankets and dress up for a winter picnic.
Dress for the weather
Your usual dating outfits might not apply as the weather turns colder. Icy weather doesn't always lend itself well to heels and no layers. Guys will be likely to notice if you're uncomfortable or half frozen, particularly if it gets in the way of what you have planned and how much you're enjoying yourself, so keep in mind what's best for you and relax, enjoy and most of all have fun!
Turn to the internet
You might be willing and ready to date, but it could be that everyone else just seems too busy for love. Never fear, as this is why online dating is great, particularly considering that there are probably plenty of people out there thinking along similar lines as you. Plus, you can avoid the cold altogether, get a hot chocolate, put on something warm - a onesie is optional - and find a date from the comfort of your own home.
If things go well, be open and honest on gifts
So things have gone well, you've been on a series of magical December dates and more seem to be in the pipeline. Then it hits you - what on earth do you do about exchanging presents. Are you at that stage yet? What will they want? How much do you spend? It can seem daunting but the key is to be honest - make a joke out of it if you need to but open up a conversation on whether you'll swap presents and maybe try to limit it to token items seeing as it's early days. There shouldn't be any need to break the bank.