10 Tips For Finding Romance On Halloween

(Originally appeared in the Huffington Post on October 30, 2013.)

Halloween is a great time of year if you're single and looking for a new romantic interest. Everyone is out and about, in a good mood and ready to have a fun evening. In fact, Halloween might be the best night of the entire year to meet someone and find some lovin', so grab a costume or a mask and get out there. Here are some tips on how to make the most of the evening and meet someone great:

Choose a costume that will
elicit compliments.

1. If you're going to a costume party, you must wear a costume, no matter what; no excuses. If you can't get into the Halloween spirit, chances are that you will not be meeting anyone. (Nobody wants a party pooper!) If you're having a really hard time, think of your costume as a way to get out of your shell and a way to become the person you always wanted to be. Think Clark Kent and Superman. Use your disguise to be daring, bold and flirty.

2. Choose a costume that makes you look and feel great so that you can confidently make the rounds at that party. Choose something that flatters your figure, makes you feel sexy and is fun to wear. Nothing is better than people telling you how great you look, so choose something that will elicit those compliments. Some ideas are a Sexy Fairy, a Foxy Lady or the Queen of the Nile.

3. Don't choose a costume that is over-the-top scary or grotesque. It's one thing to be a vampire or a zombie from The Walking Dead, but it is another thing to have bugs crawling all over you or to be carrying a severed, bloody leg. This is the night to be sexy and interesting, not creepy and awful.

Planning A Romantic Valentine's Day Getaway

(Originally appeared on The Huffington Post, February 13, 2012.)

Valentine's Day is a great time to take a romantic getaway with your special someone. Love is the air and Valentine's Day happens to fall near a long holiday weekend. However, if you are going to plan that special weekend, you need to make sure it is really spot on.

I am a Professional Matchmaker and here are some tips for making your romantic weekend away perfect.

Location, Location, Location

You need to pick a place that is easy to get to without a lot of complications since it is only a weekend getaway. An island is great as long as there is a direct flight to get there or Florida is always a great old standby.

Great Weather

The key to a great trip is going to be the great weather. After all, if you take the time to go away, you want to be able to tke advantage of all the activities that are offered. Some people might say, that rainy day activities like breakfast, lunch and dinner in bed can rise up to true romance, but you can always do that at home.Pick a place like Mexico, Turks and Caicos or St. Barts where you have a higher guarantee of great weather.

Great Sunsets

It's incredible how staring into a sunset can make someone feel all lovey-dovey. Maybe it's the spectrum of rainbow colors or the ability to gaze off yonder and dream about the future. Whatever it is, a sunset really gets you in the mood.

Privacy and Service

If you choose to never leave it and spend the weekend just the two of you, you will be in bliss. Check out the villas at the Banyan Tree Mayakoba -- each one has it's own private swimming pool and outdoor hottub with no one around but you, your honey and some chirping birds. The villas are so secluded that you can swim in the buff and luxuriate in the hottub together. They will even have a dinner cooked for you in your villa or send a masseuse to you, so you don't have to leave at all. Or you can check out a suite at the Seven Stars resort in Turks and Caicos which seems like a full service apartment because it has a kitchen with every modern amenity in case you want to cook for each other or have them send in a chef . There is also a large balcony that feels like it's suspended above the turquoise waters of the sea where you can dine al fresco.

Private Pool villa at the Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Massage

A romantic getaway would never be complete without a couples massage, especially one right on the beach. If you stay at ta beach resort like the Seven Stars you can request your couples massage on the beach or in an outdoor cabana. They will set you up right on the beach or even under the stars and the two of you can get massages at the same time, even hold hands while you do it. Can you imagine anything more romantic?

Concierge

You want to choose a hotel that have someone on staff whose primary job is to take care of you and your every desire, especially when it comes to planning romantic activities for you and your sweetie. Check out the romance specialist at the Banyan Tree Mayakoba who is staff at the hotel and will plan anything you want. If you have a special request, she will grant it, and if you are clueless but you know you want it to be romantic, she will come up with some ideas for you, like a private dinner for two on a boat around their mangroves or a private scuba trip for two with your own guide.

Spa

The spa is always key for romance on a weekend getaway. Choose a hotel that offers couples spa services and one of a kind signature services. At a hotel like the Viceroy Miami, there is a one of a kind spa that resembles a whimsical Alice in Wonderland theme-land; it's truly magical. There are multiple co-ed hot and cold soaking tubs, a killer view of the water and the two of you can luxuriate together staring up at the stars. Plus they offer exercise classes like Zumba, Yoga and Pilates that you can do together.

Spa at the Viceroy Miami

Outdoor Dining

When you are on vacation, dining under the stars is always a great way to set the mood. Your lady will be in a sexy cocktail dress, the wind will be blowing in her hair and the stars will reflect off her skin. Better yet if you can find a place for outdoor dining that has live music so you can also dance the night away, that will be the optimal romantic evening. Go ahead and try the Deck at the in Turks and Caicos. They have live music nightly, a great menu where you can try the islands specialities which are conch and local lobster. And then you can dance under the moonlight to one of their live singers. Feels like paradise.

The Deck, outdoor dining at the Seven Stars resort, Turks and Caicos

Have Fun

Sometimes the most important ingredient for a romantic weekend getaway is to connect with each other over silly things, act like playful children and just have some fun. Whether it's snorkeling on the barrier reef in Turks or bicycling around the Playa del Carmen or shopping for gifts for each other in Miami, just make sure you inject some fun into your romantic weekend and then it will be perfect.

For more Huffington Post articles by Samantha Daniels, please click here. 

Samantha's Product Pick-Blast that Blemish!

Peter Thomas Roth Acne Spot and Blemish Treatment

You come home from work and start getting ready for your hot date. You finally find the perfect outfit and head to the mirror to apply your make-up when BAM, there is one blemish staring at you in the face. So, you immediately start stressing and picking away at the blemish, only making it worse. Instead, take a breather and put on Peter Thomas Roth's spot treatment cream. The unique treatment is formulated with the perfect ingredients to act fast and zap away that zit. It is perfect for use as a spot treatment for a single blemish or can be used to treat larger problem areas. Either way, this product should work very quickly, leaving you ready and stress-free for your hot date!

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 Movie Pick-Friends With Benefits

Friends With Benefits

Most of the time, a "friends with benefits" relationship never works out because someone always ends up falling in love. One of the summer's most sizzling flicks follows just this story-line starring sexy duo Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis. The pair give it a go at this type of "no strings attached" relationship. The trailer and even the videos on the Friends With Benefits website will leave you laughing out loud, so check out this movie to see which sexy star falls in love with the other! Whether you are seeing it with a date or your gal pals, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Samantha's holiday picks---4th of July

Summer's biggest holiday celebration is right around the corner. Instead of the typical backyard barbecues and family reunions, why not spend the long weekend away from everything with your significant other? Here are some getaways and activities that are sure to get your mind off of work and right into play mode.

Washington D.C.
The National Mall, the historic monuments and the nation's Capitol Building creates the perfect backdrop to celebrate our country's independence. Celebrating this holiday is an all day event in the nation's capital and is one of the most visited regions in the country on this holiday. DC’s 4th of July Parade starts at 11:45 a.m. and features marching bands, military and specialty units, floats and VIP's. The parade draws a large crowd, so plan to arrive early to stake out a good viewing spot. The National Archives celebrates the 4th of July with special family programming celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Visit the National Archives Building for this special birthday party from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. A 4th of July tradition in the nation's capital includes a live concert by the National Symphony Orchestra and several pop artists performing patriotic music on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building. The concert and show is followed by a spectacular display of fireworks over the Washington Monument. The concert is free and open to the public, so cozy up with your honey and enjoy the show.

The Hamptons
If you're a couple looking to party this 4th of July, the Hamptons is your hot spot. Kick off the holiday weekend with Hamptons Magazine and Hugo Boss at AXE Lounge at Dune on Friday Night. On Saturday, perhaps enjoy a luxurious massage with your beau at Westhampton Day Spa

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

Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux

Ever since her marriage ended with Brad Pitt in 2005, Jennifer Anniston's dating life has been in the spotlight more than any other celebrity's. Her romantic rap sheet includes hotties such as Orlando Bloom, Gerard Butler and bad boy, John Mayer. Jen had everyone buzzing last week when she stepped out with new beau Justin Theroux, an actor, writer and director. They were first seen together in March when Jen was spotted visiting Theroux at the Chateau Marmont in L.A. But more recently, the pair hit the town looking like a couple at the MTV Movie Awards on June 5th. Has Jen finally met someone who will keep her happy? Will she finally be out of the public's eye or with all the attention put strain on the relationship like others in the past? How long do you think this will last? Will Jen's fling finally sizzle or end up in just another fizzle?

Samantha's Dating Thought- Amuse Each Other!

The best dates are ones that last for hours and hours, where both of you never stop laughing. For a full day filled with summer sun and tons of fun, visit an amusement park to enjoy the thrilling rides, exciting games and entertaining parades. My favorite amusement park to visit for a day is Six Flags Great Adventure. The park gets busy fast, so make sure you leave early to beat the lines. They also always offer coupons for a free entry during the week or half-price tickets on the weekend. With a date at an amusement park, you and your honey will never get bored! Challenge each other to go on the scariest rides together. See who can make the funniest face in the photos snapped during the rides. This type of date is guaranteed to leave you smiling all day long and will turn into an adventure you will never forget!

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

Blake Lively and Leo DiCaprio

New couple alert! Sexy stars Blake Lively and Leonardo DiCaprio were first spotted in late May hugging on a yacht during the Cannes Film Festival. A week later, they were spotted snuggling again in Portofino, Italy. After a European adventure, the pair returned to the states for a fun-filled journey to Disneyland. But did the couple pose just so Blake could avoid her latest nude picture scandal? What does Leo think of the pics? Will this couple sizzle or will the scandal lead to a fizzle? What do you think?

Samantha's Product Pick- Sexy Summer Polish

Essie Summer Collection 2011


Now that it is officially sandal season, it is important to keep your look tamed with the summer's most scorching nail polish colors. My top nail polish pick is Essie and whether you head to the salon or do-it-yourself in your living room, summer is all about vibrant and fun lacquers! This season, ditch your usual hues and go for a hot orange with a touch of shimmer, called Braziliant. Try it to see how much it will bring out your sun-kissed skin and how sexy it will make you feel! Many studies have shown that men love when women wear red nail polish. To catch you summer fling's eye on your next date, try Too Too Hot, a steamy, rich red with a slight hint of coral.

Samantha's Dating Thought-Romance at the Zoo

In an age when dinner and movie dates are the norm, it is hard to come up with fun date ideas to keep your relationship exciting. One of the best summer date ideas is spending a day at the zoo. You get to enjoy the warm, summer sun together while admiring and learning about all of the exotic animals you may have never seen. While the Bronx Zoo has a larger variety of animals to admire, the Central Park Zoo offers adult programs where you can eat breakfast with the birds and take photography and painting classes, all while spending time with your honey. Learning about new things with your date is a really great bonding experience so, plan ahead and enjoy all the activities the zoo has to offer!

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

Pippa Middleton and George Percy


Pippa Middleton stepped into the spotlight when she became Maid of Honor to sister Kate Middleton during the royal wedding this past April. With an impeccable sense of style and underrated sexiness, Pippa has been dubbed "Her Royal Hotness." Pippa brought long time beau and at the time, finance, Alex Loudon, as her date to the wedding. Loudon, a corporate finance and development analyst for beer brewing company SABMiller, and Pippa reportedly split after the wedding because of Pippa's new high-profile lifestyle. However, she has been spotted with ex-college-boyfriend, George Percy, son of the Duke of Northumberland. Pippa and George were spotted in Madrid after the wedding and just this past week, she was seen leaving his apartment early one morning after a night out to dinner. So, is Pippa single or already back with a friendly ex? Could there be another (Dutch) royal wedding in the Middleton family's near future? What do you think? Will this relationship sizzle like it once did or fizzle out yet again?

Samantha's Dating Thought-Go "Outside" To Dinner

When it comes to cooking in the summer, it is all about the BBQ. What better way to spend time with your date than staying at home and having a BBQ of your own! Not only will you share plenty of laughs, you won't dig a hole in either of your pockets. Set up a table in your backyard and enjoy the beautiful summer night. Here is an easy and delicious balsamic barbecue steak or chicken recipe from one of my favorites, Giada De Laurentis. Afterward, snuggle up to watch the sunset while feeding each other a sexy and refreshing summer dessert like chocolate covered strawberries and bananas.

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

Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries

Kim sure has a thing for athletes! On May 18th, Kardashian's boyfriend of just a few months, New Jersey Nets forward Kris Humphries, got down on one knee and popped the big question. We all had already watched as Kim's on-again-off-again ex, running back Reggie Bush, finally ended their relationship for good on screen in Keeping Up with the Kardashians and all the heart ache she had suffered. Since then, we have watched Kim's quick flings with another football star, Dallas Cowboy wide receiver Miles Austin and also with security guard, Shengo Deane. Is Humphries finally the one? Has Kim FINALLY found love and gotten over her heart break from Reggie? What do you think? Will Kim's engagement finally sizzle or end with just another fizzle?

Samantha's Book Pick-Steamy Beach Read

Gone With a Handsomer Man

In Michael Lee West's latest novel, Gone With a Handsomer Man, she combines love, lust, mystery and heartache to create the perfect recipe for a summer read. Set in the south, the story begins when Teeny Templeton comes home to find her finance playing naked badminton with two other women. A few days later, all fingers point to Teeny when her ex-finance is found dead. Teeny teams up with an ex-boyfriend turned lawyer who once broke her heart to clear her name all while protecting her feelings. Once you pick up this book, you definitely will not be able to put it down!

Samantha's Style Pick-Rent Your Perfect Look

Rent The Runway

Ever wandered into the Bloomingdale's dress section and said "wow, I wish I could afford this? " Well, now you can! With a few easy clicks, you can register for "Rent The Runway," a website created for women by women with the biggest designer fashion names where women can rent their favorite styles from as low as $50! Even better, you get a second size to try for free! From names like Nicole Miller to Lily Pulitzer, there is something for everyone. Whether you have a black tie affair to attend or simply just a date night, Rent The Runway has all the style answers you will need. You can search by occasion or designer and can complete the look with the perfect accessories. So check it out and rent your perfect look; you will look and feel really special!

Matchmaker in the Know: A Romantic Getaway in Santa Barbara

Have you been thinking about visiting Santa Barbara with your new beau or significant other for a romantic weekend away from home?

Here's what I know...

1. Santa Barbara is a highly accessible weekend destination. You can fly into Los Angeles, pick up a convertible and less than 90 minutes later you will arrive in splendid Santa Barbara.

2. If you are looking for a place to stay that is beach front and beautiful, choose the Four Seasons Biltmore. The property was fully renovated 5 years ago and they did an excellent job of maintaining the historic landmark while adding in a plenitude of modern amenities. They have a top-notch spa and gym and they give you access to one of the most exclusive beach clubs 

Samantha's Romantic Pick- Romance in the Great Outdoors

A cozy camping trip a deux is the perfect way to find rustic romance while nurturing both your animal instincts and your love of nature. You can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a weekend in the wilderness by renting a kayak, swimming in a hot spring, and eating a meal by the water. And the best part about this romantic pick is the cost. You can’t beat a night with your beau sleeping under the stars whether it’s in the Poconos, in Cape Cod or just in your very own backyard.

Samantha's Celebrity Scoop- Celeb Coupling

Summer is officially here and let’s not let Mel Gibson’s mess ruin it for all of us. Between the sparks flying between Jessica Simpson and ex-NFLer Eric Johnson and all the celebrity I-do’s between couples like Megan Fox and Brian Austin Green, Jana Kramer and Johnathon Schaech as well as Jenna Fischer and Lee Kirk, love is definitely in the air. Even former first daughter Chelsea Clinton is tying the knot later this month!

Samantha's Dating Tip- When your guy is in a bad mood

When your guy is in a bad mood, the best thing you can do is give him space to work through it himself.

We, as women have a natural tendency to try to help and fix and suggest and coddle. However, when a guy is going through something, he just doesn't want any of that; he really just wants to be left alone.

 If you really care about him, you will give him what he wants so that his mood will pass and things can get back to normal. If you try to get involved, it will only makes things worse.