As the new year approaches, it means only one thing-New Years resolutions. If you’re single and dating, one resolution might be at the top of your list-you want to make 2013 the year you find love. A great way to jump-start your dating life in 2013 is with online dating.

Despite it being more popular than ever, some people are still hesitant to sign up for an online dating site. Maybe it seems like too much work or they just aren’t sure where to start. But if you’re tired of the bar and club scene, and frustrated with your friends futile attempts at “matchmaking”, maybe it’s time to take the leap to online dating, We Love Dates is the perfect place to start.

When selecting an online dating site, choose one that fits your needs and what you’re looking for in a date and a relationship. There are online dating sites that cater to specific ethic backgrounds, professions, locations or interests. Search for vegetarian dating, BBW dating and even brunette dating-the sky really is the limit.

Now that you’ve signed up for online dating, make sure you’re doing everything you can to get the most out of it! Read dating advice blogs for online dating tips and tricks. Some people upload a blurry photo and a one word sentence and then complain that nobody emailed them and declare that online dating doesn’t work. Don’t be afraid to show off your personality. The more you share, the more chances you give someone reading your profile to connect with you. Not every first online date is going to be a love connection, but don’t let a few bad dates deter you from your goal of finding the one.

Lastly, maintain an open mind. Instead of going in with a pre-defined list of qualities a date absolutely must have, lose the list and follow your heart. It’s crucial to have high standards when it comes to the people you date, but it’s equally important to make sure you aren’t limiting yourself in your search for love. Take charge of your New Years resolutions and make this the year you find the love of your life, or at least have a blast trying!

The other day on twitter someone asked if, with all the billions of people in the world we thought it was possible to find a soul mate. I answered “yes”, quickly… without hesitation then wondered if I was too corny or too much of a romantic.

A few days later, I got this video from Lovestruck.com and was reminded that being a corny, romantic isn’t the worst thing in the world

LoveStruck on Facebook

In recent years there has been plenty of buzz about the popular trend of online dating. While it’s proven to be successful for thousands of happy couples around the country, if you’ve never used it before online dating can seem just as daunting as sitting alone at a bar. The good news is that dating sites are proving to be as easy to use as they are successful. Here is a look at 5 things to keep in mind when first entering the world of online dating.

Finding the right site for you There are plenty of different dating sites available to accommodate people’s varied interests, whether you’re looking for friendship, passion or anything in between. However the most in demand style of dating site are those that offer the opportunity to find loving and meaningful relationships.

If this is the sort of experience you’re searching for, dating site eHarmony and eHarmony Canada specialize in matching compatible singles who share similarities that would make a potentially fulfilling and serious relationship. It’s important to consider what sort of dating experience you’re looking for online in order to always feel within your comfort zone and find people with similar interests.

Logging on When you’ve decided on the right style of dating site for you, then it’s time to get online. Many sites will charge a fee, but there are plenty of quality sites like eHarmony that offer a range of free stages. The next stage is to create your dating profile. Be sure to use a clear and current photo of yourself and avoid using pictures with sunglasses or a hat, as they give the impression you have something to hide.

Many dating website ask that members complete a detailed personality questionnaire that’s used to formulate your online dating profile. Nearly all online dating success stories start with creating a fun and natural dating profile, and that allows you to simply be yourself. At the end of the day, an authentic picture of your personality and character is what people ought to find attractive.

Meeting people online Once you’re happy with your dating profile the next phase is to start meeting people. Different sites take different approaches to this stage of the online experience. Some companies prefer to match people based simply on their location, while other focus on the similar interests that people share. The best option is to opt for a site that combines both of these functions.

Communicating Once you have found matches, the next step is to get in touch and see if you share any chemistry. The best dating sites help you to get to know people without any stress or hassle. Icebreaker tools allow you to get in touch and start chatting, so be sure to make the most of them.

Meeting in person You’ve broken the ice, you’ve chatted online and you’ve decided there might be something more there. The next step is to meet in person. When arranging a first date location, opt for a laid back and fun destination, like your favourite local café or a picnic at a nearby park.

I have about five contacts in my phone under the name “DO NOT ANSWER!”. These are five guys who I dated in the past and even though our relationship is finished, they won’t take a hint. I refuse to change my phone number, even though I wish they couldn’t contact me directly anymore.

In today’s world, giving someone your cell phone number offers them access to you in ways that you might regret later. Is every guy you meet crazy? No. But sometimes its nice to have a contact buffer between you and the men approaching you until you’re 100% comfortable with them. If you want to maintain privacy, while looking for love, MyAKA might be the answer to your problems. MyAKA is a service that provides a second phone number in your area code that links directly to your current mobile phone.

MyAKA offers some pretty awesome features:

• Real number protection on incoming and outgoing calls unlike forwarding services.
• The assigned number is not linked to user information in any way.
• Full voice and text message support in the United States and Canada.
• Easy number blocking and unblocking.
• Do Not Disturb feature which sends calls to voicemail and stores text messages when enabled.
• No apps, downloads or internet required. All features are controlled via text message.

MyAKA makes it easy and TBGB readers can to sign up a 7 Day FREE Trial. What’s the catch? None. With this special offer for my readers you can enjoy seven worry-free days of flirting with MyAKA, without even entering your credit card. When you decide to keep the service, you can upgrade your number in two easy steps at the MyAKA site. I’m a huge fan of dating, but I’m a bigger fan of dating safely. Signup today for a fun second mobile number with no-strings-attached.

In a recent interview, David Karp, CEO of Tumblr stated that he believed that this creativity was New York’s best asset and the number of tech start-ups in the city certainly gives credence to this statement. Karp added that about 50 of Tumblr’s staff have specifically moved to ‘The Big Apple’ due to the opportunities that the city offers.

New York can offer the young entrepreneur a whole range of networking associations and opportunities. The NY Entrepreneurs Business Network (NYEBN) is a rapidly expanding network that operates throughout the tri-state area. The association currently has 12,000 members and that membership is constantly growing, these types of organizations give like-minded individuals the opportunity to network and socialize and the November NY Business Expo is just one example of the numerous B2B opportunities that are available to young entrepreneurs to both showcase their products and learn from successful mentors. The Expo’s organizers state that 70% of those attending will be from New York itself. This type of show doesn’t just focus on the IT sector; media, retail and even not-for profit startups will all be attending the Armory Exhibition.

Many of those who are gifted in the fields of creativity and IT aren’t necessarily linked into the financial community. New York offers opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect with venture capitalists, bankers and fund managers. Figures published by Reuters in Spring 2012 show that funds raised for business by venture capital funds reached $4.9 billion for this period. Those businesses that want to concentrate on their product development and networking opportunities will also find that using the services of an umbrella company can take away the drudgery of form filling and accounts and allow them to get on and develop their companies.

For a city that specializes in superlatives, New York can add another title to its impressive list, the city can be called ‘the heart of the creative world’.

Need a pick me up confidence booster? Indulge in these full-proof beauty treatments for a feeling of instant glam. From a pedicure or new hair style to laser treatment or a massage, a little pampering goes a long way.

Manicure and pedicure
We can all attest to the logic behind Elle Woods in Legally Blond banging a quick U-turn for an emergency nail appointment after having a really awful day. What is it about a trip to the nail salon that is so relaxing? Is it the friendly gossip exchanged with the nail technician? The pleasure in seeing the fresh coat applied? Whatever the reason, a manicure and pedicure are an easy way to perk up your day (or week) and will leave you feeling confident as you showcase your perfectly sculpted fingernails and lacquered toes. You won’t be able to resist clicking your fingernails on the table or strutting around in open-toed shoes.

New haircut, color and/or style
Add a little bounce to your step with a new do. Even a small difference, such as straightening your hair for a change or using curling gel for the first time, will make you feel bolder. Heck, even a new hair accessory can make you feel like a vixen. Want something with a little more pizazz than just a new style? Try something really drastic for a head turning effect. If you’ve been rocking shoulder-length hair, go for a sleek bob. Or have your stylist add in highlights or do an all-over color if you’re really feeling brave. Just be sure to always match your new look with a confident smile!

Laser treatment
Smooth skin is sexy skin. Stubble can kill confidence. There is nothing worse than realizing you’ve experienced a body hair removal failure with a 5 o’clock shadow spurting from your underarms when you are wearing a sleeveless top. That’s why laser hair removal is such a nice option. How does laser hair removal work to make you feel sexier? By getting rid of that unwanted hair once and for all. Think about it – an entire summer in shorts, swim suits and sundresses and never thinking once about body hair removal . It’s possible with laser treatment.

Massage
Soft music, low lighting, aromatic scents and a warm comfortable bed? Sold. Oh wait, there’s a massage included too? What a nice bonus! If you’ve never had a massage before you are missing out. With a variety of techniques – hot stone, full-body, deep tissue and more – you can find the perfect balance between pressure and relaxation. We guarantee you’ll walk out of the massage parlor with less tension than when you entered. Shedding the stress will help you gain a better outlook and radiate confidence.

Bring on the pampering
Next time you feel your confidence start to lag it’s time to shake things up with one of these special treatments that are sure to put you in a better mood. Whether you are escaping to the salon for a facial massage or ordering a laser treatment system to use a home, take the time to reward yourself with a little “me time” every once and a while. You deserve it.

Sponsored content was created and provided by Tria Beauty.

Have you seen the commercials for Match.com’s Stir events?

When I first saw the commercials, I thought to myself that the idea of taking online dating offline was pretty much “going out”. But when Match.com invited me to a private event to explain their new concept, I was impressed with what they’re trying to do. Its like the perfect hybrid of online dating and going out to bars/clubs to meet people because the events are catered to your desired demographic (age/race/gender/interests). So its like walking into a party full of people who are “your type”.

This is something you might want to look into if you’re not in NYC because Match is doing events nationwide (this month they’ve got 189 singles events in more than 62 cities happening).

Stir events range from large scale happy hours at local bars and venues, to more intimate, interest-based events such as cooking classes, wine and tequila tastings, dance lessons, rock climbing, etc.

The Happy Hour events are free and open to both registered and subscribed Match.com members!

Match.com members can learn about and sign up for these events via Match.com under the “Events” header on the site.

They invited me to come and check out one of their events, so I’ll go, see what its like and report back to you… I’ll keep you posted!

I really need to write about the experience of modeling in the BlogHer fashion show, but I’m not quite ready. I think I’m in shock. I do have a few highlights though: Follow my new Plus Size Princess tumblr to see what I wore. Follow “PlusSizePrincess” on Instagram to see my amazing makeup, backstage scenes and… check out my feature on the ELLE magazine website to hear more details on how my look came together.

Okay now, lets do a giveaway!

I’m often so focused on getting cute dresses that I forget to invest in clothes I can just “veg” in. Giant Pants is a new brand of pajamas that are designed to give women of all sizes comfy PJs!

Giant Pants was a life saver to me during BlogHer. After running around all day, meeting people, taking classes and dragging my stuff around. I would come home, light candles, take a long shower and then slip into my comfy cozy pants. The fabric is light enough that I wasn’t too hot and soft enough that I fell right asleep.

Back in the day, I can remember buying the biggest size flannel pants I could find, but they were never baggy like I wanted them to be. Tight pajama pants are just silly, but when you’re already plus size, finding a loose fit is hard too. Giant Pants are cut so that they fit perfectly in the waist and crotch, while being perfectly loose in the leg.

I’ve got five pair of Giant Pants to give away, the rules to enter are below:

1.) Follow @thebiggirlblog on twitter
2.) follow @GiantPants on twitter
3.) tweet: @thebiggirlblog & @giantpants are giving away 5 sets of LUXE Pajamas! http://su.pr/89TTGS (Follow them & RT to win!) all sizes can enter