Samantha's Dating Ponder-How Would You Define Dating?

Often times I will hear people say "I used to date him/her, " but what do they mean by this phrase? Did they go on a few dates with that person a long time ago or were they actually  "boyfriend/girlfriend"? How do you define dating? Many people seem to think that if they went on a few dates with someone, they dated them and then if they were more serious and spent more concentrated time, they were boyfriend, girlfriend. However, to me, I think that if you went out a few times with someone then you went "on a few dates with them" and if you dated someone that means you had "something" real with them, they were a special someone to you. I guess it's semantics but I would find it odd if a guy with whom I went on one date told people we dated. Don't you agree? What's your definition of dating??

Samantha's Dating Thought-Add More Fun to Date Night!

Tired of the same old date night at a local restaurant? Well, head to a comedy club instead! Whether you prefer improvisations or stand-up comedy, there is something for all personalities to enjoy. Comedy clubs usually serve dinner and can provide a more intimate setting between you and your beau because you will be sharing many laughs and whispering about how funny the performances are. If you want to plan ahead, do some research and see when your favorite comedians are in town. Most comedy clubs feature large tables so gather your old friends to share a great time had by all! You and your honey will be sure to remember all the laughs you shared which, in turn, will strengthen your relationship and improve your bond with each other.

Samantha's Dating Ponder-For Better or For Worse?

The two of you have been in a relationship for an extended period of time. The love is definitely there. So will getting married after a long term relationship change things for the better or for the worse? It is important for couples who have been together for so long to discuss the way their relationship is and how it may change once they walk down the aisle. Important topics such as money, kids and family should be discussed. And make sure to keep the sex alive once you say "I do!"

One celebrity couple finally decided to take the plunge this week. Six years and six kids later, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have finally decided to tie the knot. Many sources say the two finally decided to start planning a wedding now that the kids are older and keep asking them about marriage. But will it work? What do you think? Will Brad and Angelina's perfect Hollywood family finally be complete?

Samantha's Dating Tips-Meeting Your Boyfriend's Ex

Have you ever wondered how it will be, if and when, you meet your boyfriend's ex? Have you wondered the right things to say, the right things to do and how to act?
I am a Professional Matchmaker and here's what I know...
1. You can be nice. Keep in mind that you have him right now, she doesn't, so there is no reason to be snippy.

2. Sizing her up will get you nowhere. Sometimes there is no rhyme or reason for chemistry. If you are scratching your head in disbelief that he was into her and now he's into you, don't bother, you will never be able to figure it out.

3. Don't do the old contrast and compare because chances are, this will just make you feel insecure. Just feel confident about who you are and the connection that the two of you are having in the present.

4. If you feel a little jealousy about his connection to her or the fact that another woman knows him as well as you do, that's okay. Feeling jealous and/or insecure is natural, but don't let it send you into a funk and just ride out the evening; it will end soon enough.

5.Be prepared for some reminiscing
and some inside jokes. This does not mean that they have a more special bond than the two of you have; it just means that when they were together, they did have some fun times and are bound to talk about them.

6. Don't get thrown if she is a little snide or tries to act like she knows more about him than you do. Keep in mind that if she dated him for a long time or a longer time than you have, she might in fact know more about him than you do. However, this doesn't matter because you are with him now and as you go forward in the relationship, you will have plenty of time to learn all the things she knows about him and then some.

7. If you are seeing her at an event where your guy's friends might be in attendance, don't get upset if they know her and are nice to her at the party. This does not mean they like her better than you, it just means that they know her and are being courteous.

8. Don't get upset if your boyfriend acts a little weird or odd or different in the situation. Keep in mind that it is very awkward for him to be standing with the girl with whom he is currently having sex and the one with whom he used to have sex.

9. Don't dwell on the situation afterwards or pick a fight. There is no reason to let her affect your current situation with him. The evening has already passed; let bygones be bygones.

10. After seeing them together, if you have any real doubts about whether or not it is truly over between them and/or whether or not, something between the two of you is genuine, make sure to have this discussion with him in a calm and more casual manner. You don't want it to blow up in your face just because you are feeling a little insecure or jealous.

Samantha's Product Pick-- Hair Quick Fix

Tresemme Fresh Start Dry Shampoo

Expert stylists say it is not healthy to wash your hair everyday but sometimes, your hair just needs a little something something! Don't you always seem to have the greasiest hair after a long day of work before your hot date? And of course, there is no time to shower and restyle your hair before hitting the town. Your quick fix? Dry Shampoo. I have tried many but Tresemme Fresh Start Dry Shampoo is definitely my favorite. You get the most product for your money and it can be found in almost any drug store for as cheap as $5! Next time you find yourself stressing before a night out, don't fret. Just make sure to pick up the can made specifically for your hair type and your hair will look rejuvenated and voluminous in no time at all!

Samantha's Dating Ponder-How Sexy is Too Sexy?

How sexy is too sexy? Women often think that men think women are most attractive when they are wearing skimpy and revealing clothing. However, this is not the case. Sometimes men will turn the other cheek if women are wearing something too sexy. "Too sexy" means a low cut and cleavage revealing shirt paired with an extremely tight and tiny mini skirt at the same time.  You will give off the vibe that you are too easy even if you are far from it. Men like to play games, especially guessing ones. So, wear a tight fitting dress but maybe one that isn't so low cut so they can guess what is underneath. Or match a flowy top with a pair of tight pants. Men are more likely to undress you with their eyes when you are revealing just one part of your body, like your legs or your back. Keep in mind that trying to make every part of you look sexy will just have the effect of looking sleazy. So, save the red leather mini skirt for a Halloween costume and leave something for the imagination! And when you get dressed for a night on the town, spend some time really thinking about how sexy is too sexy and alter your outfit before you leave the house.

Samantha's Dating Thought-How Mixed Signals Can Ruin a Budding Romance

New romances can be tough for many reasons. For one, you may feel a little shy in the beginning  and may not communicate your thoughts and feelings quite as well as you would like. Your new beau may think you're content when you're not or think that you are not interested when you are. Communication is key. There is nothing wrong with letting someone know how you feel because if you don't you could unintentionally send mixed signals and that could ruin  your relationship. You don't want your partner to think that your interest level is at a zero when it's at a 100, do you? Additionally, if you are not ready to get intimate yet with your new flame, steer clear of any sayings or flirty texts that might make it seem like you are, so that your beau doesn't think you are ready to get it on when you are not.  You don't want someone you like to get discouraged for the wrong reasons.  It is  important  to express how you really feel and tell your partner and it's okay to tell him or her that you want to take things slowly, so that things will last. Your honey will appreciate your honesty and in turn fall for you all the more!

Samantha's Dating Thought-Keep the Love Alive

The honeymoon phase in a relationship is always the best time; you and your new flame really open up and get to know each other, enjoy spending all of your time together and rarely get into any altercations. However, it unfortunately doesn't always last. Once couples start dating for the long haul, they can sometimes hit a rough patch. Here are a few tricks to avoid that and keep your marriage or long-term relationship alive:

1.  Romance your honey like you just started dating. Romancing your partner gives you the chance to show him/her how special they are to you. Do something subtle like leave a post-it note in the morning before work simply saying "I love you" or cook their favorite meal. They will be sure to feel appreciated and loved.

2. Make time. Whether you have been together for two years or 20 years, it can be hard to take time out of your busy schedule. However, this is a crucial part of keeping the love alive. Schedule weekly date nights; even if you can't make date night a night out, stay in together and do some of your favorite activities together. Most importantly, always make time to be intimate!

3. Take on new activities. Learning new things together is always a great way to bond with someone special. Take a ballroom dancing class, enroll in a cooking class or photography class. Whatever it is, make sure the two of you agree so you can really enjoy the experience.

4. Pretend that you
just met each other. If you and your beau act like you are still in the honeymoon phase, you will always be excited when you go out on dates. If you ask each other new questions, keep the conversations flowing and continue to open up to each other, you will never get bored.

5. Compliment each other. Compliments always make someone feel extra special, especially in public. Tell the cashier how he/she is the best chef you ever met or introduce your honey as the funniest person in the world. It will really boost their confidence and their love for you, making them feel extra sexy and wanting to get intimate with you when you're not in public anymore.

Samantha's Dating Ponder-Do Different Hobbies Make or Break a Relationship?

It is very rare that you will find someone who has the same exact hobbies that you do. Women love to watch sports just as much as men love to shop. However, different hobbies don't have to ruin your relationship! Being in a relationship is all about compromising and sometimes doing things with your partner even though you may not want to. So, take turns! One weekend you can go to your guy's favorite sporting event and the next weekend you can hit the mall together to pick up that new outfit you've had your eye on. It is important to acknowledge your honey's hobbies and if it is something you really do not want to be apart of, reassure your beau how much you care about them but that it's fune for him to go to the batting cage with the guys or to the newest chick flick with the girls. Sometimes alone time or time with friends will make your together time all the more special. And, as you spend more time with someone, you will find yourself even enjoying some of their hobbies that you might never have enjoyed before!

Samantha's Dating Thought-Soak Up the Sun

Sadly, the summer is almost over and the beautiful and sunny weather will be gone before you know it. That's why you should make the most of the time that is left and go on some outdoor dates with a long-time beau or a new flame. Summer is a great time for dating because you look healthy and feel great. Outdoor dates are a ton of fun because they are exciting. Some of the most fun outdoor dates during the summer are in the water. You can have a casual day and rent a boat and share a nice picnic with your favorite foods. If you decide to get a little adventurous, learn a new water sport together! Rent some waterskis or jetskis and you and your date will both have a great time. Teaching each other how to jetski or waterski will leave you smiling all day because you are both guaranteed to have some clumsy moments. So get out there, soak up some sun and enjoy the rest of summer with someone you really care about!

Samantha's Summer Couple Pick- Will they sizzle or fizzle?

The dreams of women everywhere were crushed recently when sources confirmed that America's most eligible bachelor might be headed off the market again. After splitting with actress Elisabetta Canalis in late June, George Clooney seems to have fallen for another beauty, ex WWE wrestler and Dancing With The Stars contestant Stacy Kiebler. A source confirms the couple has known each other for a while but recently reached out to each other through a mutual friend. Of course, they are trying to keep their relationship under wraps and have been spending time together in London and at Clooney's getaway home in Lake Como. This is definitely one scorching couple but will their relationship sizzle just as much as they do? Or is it just a fling? What do you think? Is it too soon for Clooney to move on? Do you think they make a cute couple?

Samantha's Summer Couple Pick-Celebrity Check-in

Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake

After their split in March, this sexy couple remained on good terms and kept in constant contact. In July, the pair decided that they didn't want to be single and quietly started seeing each other again. However, now that Justin is on tour with sexy co-star, Mila Kunis, promoting their latest film Friends With Benefits, it seems as if Justin and Jessica are back off again and Justin and Mila may be very much on. Justin and his new flame were spotted in London sharing a meal with friends but sat very close to each other and seemed like they thoroughly enjoyed each other's company even though they arrived at the restaurant separately. Where has Jessica been while her ex is touring the world with a hot new flame? She has been in the Hamptons relaxing with some close friends. So what is the truth? Are Justin and Mila a new thing? Or is a just a fling? Looks like we will have to keep an eye on this interesting trio!

Samantha's Dating Ponder-Can You Live With Your Ex?

Now that our guilty pleasure of the summer-The Bachelorette-is over, there is a new show just like it. Season 2 of Bachelor Pad started earlier this week and after just one episode, it sure looks like it is going to be a juicy season. For starters, Vienna and Jake reunite after a not so amicable yet very public break up after she was the winner of season 14 of The Bachelor. Except this time, Vienna is very much involved with Kasey Kahl, a contestant on season 5 of The Bachelorette. With so many hotties under one roof, there is bound to be some juicy scandals and budding romances. However, what will happen with Jake and Vienna? Can you live under the same roof as an ex? If so, for how long? Living with someone you once used to love can only stir up old emotions and create new turmoils and jealous feelings. So, it will definitely be interesting to see how things pan out with these lovers turned enemies living in the same house. What do you think? Have you ever had to live with an ex? How did it turn out?

Samantha's Summer Couple Pick- Celebrity Check-in

Jennifer Anniston and Justin Theroux

We all watched as this couple slowly took their romance public in June and wondered whether Jen had finally found love after having her heart broken many times, especially after her very public divorce from Brad Pitt after 5 years of marriage. However, it seems like this couple is really sizzling and after just four months together, have been seriously talking about marriage and even starting a family! A close insider said that both Jen and Justin want to start a family sooner rather than later. The couple is moving very fast, but they do seem to have genuine and real feelings for each other? What do you think?

Samantha's Movie Pick-One Day

One Day


Adapted from David Nicholls' international best-selling novel, One Day is a must see movie. Starring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess, One Day tells the story of two people who begin a friendship together one day, July 15, 1988, the day of their college graduation. Emma (Hathaway) is a working-class girl filled with ambition while Dexter (Sturgess) is a wealthy flirt who hopes to make the world his playground. For the next 20 years, every July 15 is filled with experiences for both Emma and Dexter that lead to their hardships, heartaches and happiness. As the meaning behind that fateful date is revealed, they learn the truth about life and love. Whether you go see this movie with your best friends or a long-time beau, you will be truly moved. So, be sure to check it out in theatres everywhere this Friday!

Samantha's Dating Tip-Summer Flings can help you get into a real relationship

Whether you want to face the reality of it or not, the summer is almost over. However, that doesn't mean you can't still engage in a fun summer fling that will get you back out into the dating scene! With long nights, steamy days and sun-kissed people everywhere, summer is the best time to have a little fun .Take advantage of these last few weeks and get out there, look sexy and flirt. Sometimes you need a little fun to get your groove back and remember how desired and eligible you really are. Here are a few tips for how to make the most of a summer fling if you decide to have one:

1. Don't take things too seriously. The whole point of a summer fling is to have a fun, laid-back relationship. Remember to think of it as just a fling, fun with no strings attached.  Of course it could turn into something more in the long run but it is extremely important to take things one day at a time.

2. Don't have great expectations. You will stress yourself out if you start forming post-summer expectations surrounding your fling especially in the beginning when you don't even know if you will ever see the person again. If things start to change and both of you start to  feel like you are getting more serious, then definitely talk about it, but in the meantime, avoid putting pressure and a label on your steamy situation.

3. Enjoy yourself. This is the most important rule. The summer fling is about being carefree, not having to worry about the regular rules of dating; when or if he will call, what he's doing or where he is; instead a fling is for you and you alone, for you to have fun and to get your flirty personality again so you can meet "the One" when you are ready. The main goal is for both of you to enjoy yourselves, let loose and try something new. When you least expect it, you might be surprised that your fling could really spring into something else!

Samantha's Style Pick-Who Wears Short Shorts?

The summer is a great time to meet new people and have a fun summer romance that might lead into a real relationship. One of the best ways to get to know someone and spend time with a new special someone is enjoying outdoor activities together in the summer sun. Whether you are taking a stroll in the streets of your neighborhood or hitting the beach, short shorts are essential to summer dating. They allow you to move freely if you are partaking in outdoor activities with a new beau and look sexy without really trying. Having trouble finding the perfect pair? Try Blank NYC jeans. They have shorts in all colors; blue jean denim, khaki and colored denim to really brighten your outfit. Visit your closest Bloomingdales or Lord and Taylor to pick a stylish and sexy new pair today!

Samantha's Summer Couple Pick-Will They Sizzle or Fizzle?

Eva Longoria and Eduardo Cruz

After seven years together and three years of marriage, Eva Longoria divorced her ex-husband Tony Parker this past January after he had been caught having a "texting affair" with a teammate's wife. Since then, Eva has been moving on with her life and trying to find happiness. Evan has been spotted with Penelope Cruz's brother, Eduardo, and after enjoying an intimate dinner with friends at Chateau Marmont, this couple is nothing but sizzling. They stroked each other's faces and fed each other bites of food. Onlookers said the couple seems truly happy and enjoy each other's company. So far, this couple is hot! Will Eva get her heart broken again or has she finally found someone who truly appreciates her? How long will it last? What do you think? Will this sexy couple continue to sizzle or fizzle out?

Samantha's Beauty Pick-Sexy Summer Hairstyles

When it comes to hair, most women think that men find it the most attractive when women wear their hair down with lots of body and volume. However, in reality, men think one of the sexiest styles is when women tie their hair back in a ponytail. They find it extremely sexy that they can see your neck and collar bones, which are the sexiest bones on your body. In the new film Friends With Benefits, Mila Kunis rocks this sexy and powerful look throughout the entire movie. To get the perfect ponytail like Mila's shown here, first blow out your hair making sure there is extra volume at the crown of your head. Next, decide whether you want to part your hair or wear it straight back, either look is extremely hot. Gather your hair right in the middle of your head; make sure not to secure the ponytail too low otherwise you will lose the volume that makes it so sexy. Finally, add a little bit of hairspray to keep the look in place all night long. Not only will this style keep you cool, your date will think you look hot! To really accentuate your neck and collar bones, pair this sexy summer style with a fun halter-top dress!

Samantha's Celebrity Check-in-The Big Day

Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries

After only six months together, Kris Humphries got down on one knee and proposed to Kim Kardashian. With Kim's extensive dating history, everyone was eager to see how this couple's relationship would play out. Finally, a date has been set for the couple's much anticipated wedding. Guests recently received their crystal embellished invitations created by Lehr & Black confirming the summer wedding. Kim and Kris plan to celebrate their nuptials with a lavish black tie affair on August 20. Looks like things are going great for this sexy pair and Kim has finally found true love!