We all have that one datable colleague who seems to be the perfect match to that single, lovelorn friend from college. Playing the matchmaker sounds like harmless fun, but setting them up without knowing what they want in a partner, or whether they have anything in common, might just put them in an awkward situation that you unwittingly helped make.
Without practice and experience, you might end up with more misses than hits that could have terrible consequences on your friendships. It would help to pick up a few tips from the pros, like maître d’ Fred Sirieix and his crew on Blue Ant Entertainment’s British reality show First Dates. Not only do they give romantic hopefuls a chance at love over cocktails and dinner, they also pair people based on their personality and what they’re looking for in a partner.
So don’t let the excitement of romance get ahead of you. Before letting loose Cupid’s proverbial arrows, there are a few basic things to keep in mind that will up your chances of successfully matching singletons in your circles, or at least convince them to go on a date without risking your friendships with them.
Are they interested?
You might think it’s sweet to set single friends up behind their backs. Newsflash: Not all singles are unhappy being single. They may not even be ready to date, so your “sweet gesture” might just turn against you. If you think two of your friends might work out as a couple, best to ask them first if they’re interested in dating.
No two singles are alike
Singlehood won’t automatically match two people. Find out what your single friends are after in a date, like personality, hobbies, or career, so you know who among them are compatible. Be detailed. Don’t just tell them you know someone who looks great and is looking for a relationship. Still, be ready with a few pictures—with consent, of course.
Movie vs. coffee date
You wouldn’t want the first date in the movies where your potential lovebirds will end up glued to the big screen and not talking to each other. Encourage conversation by having them meet in a cozy café or a hip but family-friendly restaurant. Just avoid locations that are too “off the beaten path” so they don’t feel trapped or forced into a romantic situation.
Want more tips on matchmaking? Catch First Dates from Monday to Wednesday at 8:50 p.m. exclusive on Blue Ant Entertainment available on SKYcable channels 53 (SD) and 196 (HD), SKYdirect channel 35, Destiny Cable channel 53, and Cablelink channels 37 (SD) and 313 (HD).
