Although swiping left or right seems to dictate the romantic fate of millions in this day and age, there’s a subtle art that seems to be making a comeback: matchmaking.
Contrary to the popular belief that matchmakers have become obsolete, insiders argue that matchmaking is not only alive but thriving amidst the sea of dating apps. And Maree Duddle’s story is a testament to this.
After a young marriage followed by divorce and years of single parenthood, 57-year-old Ms Duddle found herself alone when her daughter married.
“I’m a university professor and I filled up my life with work. When my daughter was suddenly gone, I decided I still had a bit of life left and wanted to try online dating,” she told Insight.
However, the digital quest for love left her disenchanted.
Ms Duddle’s experience with dating apps was fraught with disappointment. She encountered dishonest profiles and found little in common with her matches, not to mention the significant time investment required. In a decisive move to streamline her search for companionship, she turned to a professional matchmaker in Sydney. This decision marked a turning point in her life.
The matchmaker experience was a stark contrast to the impersonal and often superficial interactions of online dating. After crafting an honest, in-depth profile and having professional photos taken, she was introduced to professional, successful, and well-travelled men.
Ms Duddle described matchmaking as like having a knowledgeable friend in her corner, someone who understood her desires and could guide her towards compatible partners. And when she was introduced to a man called Edwin, everything clicked into place.
“I met this beautiful man, and towards the end of last year he proposed on a bridge in Paris. Now we’re planning our wedding,” she said.
Normalising matchmaking in a digital world
Maree’s story is not unique. Sheikh Alaa Elzohm, an Imam at the Heidelberg Mosque in Melbourne, also found love through a matchmaker after moving to Australia from Egypt in 2013. Now married with two children, Sheikh Alaa and his wife Rheme assist others in their community to find love.
He emphasises the importance of shared values and a soul connection that can only be nurtured through face-to-face interaction, something often overlooked in the fast-paced world of dating apps.
The sheikh’s observations about the superficial nature of dating apps resonate with many. He believes there are limited opportunities in Australia today for young people to meet others in their community. Now, he advocates for community gatherings and facilitates meetings to provide young people with alternative avenues to find a partner, normalising matchmaking as a viable and respectable option.
Matchmaking services may come with a price tag, but for many like Ms Duddle, the investment is worthwhile. It’s a service that caters to those who are serious about finding love and are willing to entrust their romantic journey to experts.
Things to keep in mind
If you’re considering a matchmaker, here are some tips:
1. Do your research to find a reputable matchmaker with a track record of success.
2. Be honest and open in your profile to ensure the best possible matches.
3. Keep an open mind; sometimes the best matches are not immediately obvious.
4. Be prepared for the financial investment but remember that the potential return is a meaningful and lasting relationship.
5. Embrace the process as a journey of self-discovery and an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals.
Why use a matchmaker?
- Tailored matches: matchmakers take the time to get to know their clients on a personal level, considering factors beyond surface-level interests. This leads to more meaningful and compatible matches, based on shared values and life experiences.
- Guidance and support: dating can be daunting at any age, but it can be especially challenging for older individuals re-entering the scene. Matchmakers provide guidance and support throughout the process, offering valuable insights and encouragement.
- Privacy and discretion: while dating apps may expose users to a broad audience, matchmaking services prioritise privacy and discretion. Older adults often appreciate the confidential and personalised nature of matchmaking, allowing them to explore connections without the fear of unwanted exposure.
Have you ever considered using a matchmaker, or do you have a success story to share? We’d love to hear about your experiences and thoughts on this traditional approach to finding love in the modern world. Share your stories in the comments section below.
Also read: ‘The frank advice I received on a visit to a sex shop’
