I understand online dating can feel a bit like looking through a catalogue but, like a catalogue, there is a returns policy!

In this quote, Coleen Nolan reflects on the nature of online dating, comparing it to browsing through a catalogue. She acknowledges that online dating can sometimes feel impersonal or superficial, like selecting items from a list, where people are often judged by their appearance or a brief profile. However, Nolan lightens the mood by pointing out that, like a catalogue, there is a returns policy, meaning that if things don’t work out, it’s okay to walk away and try again.

Nolan’s words emphasize the temporary nature of online connections and the freedom that comes with the ability to move on from relationships that aren't fulfilling or compatible. The comparison to a catalogue suggests that online dating can sometimes be seen as transactional, but the "returns policy" gives people the option to keep trying without the pressure of permanence. This reflects the evolving nature of modern dating, where individuals have more control and flexibility in their relationships.

The origin of the quote comes from Coleen Nolan, an English television personality, singer, and presenter, known for her role on Loose Women. Nolan has openly discussed various aspects of relationships, and this quote reflects her lighthearted and pragmatic approach to modern romantic connections, especially in the age of online dating.

Ultimately, Nolan’s statement highlights the impermanence of online dating and the idea that it’s okay to not get things right on the first try. It encourages people to view dating with a more relaxed attitude, recognizing that the process of finding the right match doesn’t have to be rushed or overly serious, and that there is always the opportunity to move on and try again.