4 Ways that matchmaking has changed in the last 10 years
Written by Caroline Brealey
Back in 2009 I had a crazy idea to set up a dating agency.
“Who does that”?! My friends laughed when I told them.
Even I knew it sounded a bit bonkers when I came out with the idea on a girl’s night out. By the end of the evening though we had the business planned, and in my head I was already Patti Stanger!
Of course by the morning the alcohol had worn off and with a sore head I figured it may take a little more planning! That was back in 2009 and fast forward to 2022 and honestly, matchmaking has changed my life. I never could have predicted that back in 2009! Over the years I’ve set up so many wonderful dates (and hands up, some unsuccessful ones too!). I’ve seen budding relationships turn to happy marriages, babies being born and seen the excitement a client feels when they know they’ve found someone special.
But has much changed in those years? The core fundamentals are still there but the way we match make has changed….
Client’s mind-sets have shifted
For some of us, the way we work has changed. We can work from home, travel more, have more freedom and flexibility. Along with this our mind-set has shifted and the way we live our life has changed. Many of us now prioritise a more healthy work/life balance, we embrace things more and are ready to say yes and try new things. This is a brilliant mind set to have when searching for a soul mate.
Relationships have become a priority
One of the biggest impacts I have seen on the matchmaking industry is the clients themselves. Since 2020 and having been locked down with no dates or no meeting new people on the horizon, people have had the chance to think about what is important to them both in their match and in a relationship as a whole.
It provided a chance to stop and think, something many of us just didn’t have the time to do before. Relationships and finding a soul mate has become a priority.
Matchmakers are busy helping those who don’t want to wait and who want to meet the right person now.
There are way more matchmakers
There were a handful of dating agencies back when I started, many of which had been going years and catered to an older demographic. Now you can find a matchmaker for every niche and every type of relationship you’re looking to find! I think this is brilliant, as it gives you the chance to find the matchmaker who is the best fit for YOU.
Video calls are an essential
Back in 2009 apps and dating websites were all the rage and one of the key ways matchmakers separated themselves from these was to be a completely offline business. Sure we’d have a website but that was about it.
All meetings would take place in person, the thought of doing an interview with a client over Skype was a big no no. But since Covid times have definitely changed in the matchmaking world.
Let’s be clear nothing can replace being face to face with your matchmaker. But video calls to check in, stay in communication and chat with your matchmaker are a brilliant tool for those times you can’t meet in person.
Matchmaking is a unique and special way to meet the most important person in your life. That will never change and matchmakers will always be here, no matter the trends or the fads I truly believe there will always be a place for matchmakers.get more information on my styling services.
Caroline Brealey was voted UKs Best Matchmaker at the UK Dating Awards and now consults for Matchmaking Agencies and trains new matchmakers in the profession via the Matchmaker Academy. If you’d like to know more about Caroline and how to become a Matchmaker, please click on the button below.