Do you need a matchmaker? If you have this idea in your head about some old fashioned process of meeting people, think again. Today's matchmakers are attune to the needs of single people, helping daters not only meet new people but providing tips on how to make their relationships work.
I asked a top matchmaker about her business and how she came to her profession. Her answers will help you understand how to hire a matchmaker and work with them successfully.
April Beyer From Beyer & Company
April Beyer is the founder of Beyer & Company, a boutique style matchmaking agency. Beyer became a matchmaker in her 20s. After running an upscale L.A. firm, she fell in love with the clients she met and the entire matchmaking process.
Beyer describes her approach to matchmaking as "holistic and personalized." She spends a great deal of time getting to know her clients, which includes visits to their homes, offices, and even their friends and family, to get a sense of their lifestyle.
Who Hires a Matchmaker?
Beyer's client base, who come to her through advertising, marketing, and referrals, range generally between 35-55. She offers coaching as well as matchmaking services. In fact, Dr. Phil has called her the "best of the best." Beyer interviews women constantly in order to find the right match for her clients.
She is selective with who she works with, a group of educated, successful, marriage minded men. She invites woman to submit their confidential profiles to her and invites those deemed a perfect fit for one of her clients to come in for a meeting. Her goal is to introduce her clients to the right woman rather than just setting them up randomly on date after date.
To be clear, matchmaking isn't online or speed dating. Matchmakers like Beyer offer personalized service, which includes understanding their client's personality and offering advice on how to find a connection with someone new. That might include advice on how to converse more comfortably on a date to, as Beyer says, "avoid the common traps of superficial dating" and "understand traditional roles" in order to find a meaningful relationship.
How to Find the Right Matchmaker for You
While Beyer is a professional known for her successful approach, not all matchmakers are the same. If you are interested in hiring one, do your research to ensure you've got someone with a good reputation in the business along with proven experience.
Beyer suggests finding a matchmaker who understands you completely. "Your matchmaker must be the kind of person who shares your values and vision. Otherwise, you'll be disappointed in the quality and caliber of your introductions."
Are You Ready to Work With a Matchmaker?
Finding love, no matter which method you choose, takes time. Beyer advises you to try "at least 5 dates with any matchmaker before you decide if it's working for you or not."
Of course, finding the right matchmaker is only part of the solution when it comes to connecting with the right person. You have to be ready emotionally as well. Beyer says, "I love it when a client comes to me with a clear head, an open heart and the willingness to allow me time and creativity to do my job well."
Find out more about Beyer & Company and April Beyer.
Related:
- Do You Need to Take a Break From Dating?
- Dating Again: Conversation Tips for a First Date
- Online Dating: Best Advice and Practices
