A professional matchmaker has encouraged people to form real life connections and stay off dating apps this Valentine's Day.
Hugh Redmond is the founder of 2connect.ie, a matchmaking service based in Dublin for all age groups. His business has been running for over a decade, with a 75 per cent success rate for those who attend his matchmaking events.
The week leading up to Valentine's Day is the busiest time of the year for Hugh. While people may be tempted to download Hinge or Tinder ahead of the big day, Hugh says these apps spell disaster for singles.
READ MORE: Things to do in Dublin this Valentine's Day
He told Dublin Live: "I recently heard that one in 4,000 people on apps get a meaningful connection through them. Technology is responsible for doing an awful lot of damage to the dating world, these apps are ultimately wasting people's time and wrecking their heads."
Instead, Hugh prioritises real life connections and hosts speed dating events for people to meet like-minded singles. The matchmaker says that a successful attendee can walk away from one of his events with 12-15 dates lined up.
The demographics for 2connect.ie have shifted enormously over the past decade. Hugh is now seeing a surge in under 30s accessing his services, which he says is due to younger people becoming fed up with online dating post Covid.
He added: "This age group is smashing my door down because they've become fed up of people not being honest on their profiles. Many are also looking for assistance after ending long term relationships."
Hugh states online that he is only interested in working with people who are serious about making connections. In his 15 years working in the matchmaking industry, he's been fortunate to work with genuine and committed singles- with the exception of three individuals who had to be thrown out.
In an ideal world, Hugh would love to hire out a dating bus to impart his wisdom to those looking for love across Ireland. He says that objective advice is needed due to the seismic change in Ireland's attitudes towards dating - he has even had a recent request to host a polyamorous event in Ireland.
The matchmaking expert acknowledges that the world of dating can be scary, especially for those with little experience. Hugh also offers three day coaching packages, which cover confidence, body language, expectations and even the art of flirting.
He said: "I’m getting busier with my coaching services and am seeing a lot of people struggle with their confidence. These sessions give people a really good understanding of what's going on in the dating scene and helps massively with mental preparation."
The love guru has also urged those wanting to find a partner to stick to the real world and invest in some coaching if they feel nervous or underprepared. Confidence is an issue facing many men and women as dating patterns shift over time.
"My events are a fun way to connect with people," added Hugh. "Matchmaking services are competitively priced and are a great option for people. Be smart, go to our events-you will typically have a wonderful experience."
READ MORE
- Dublin Zoo offering special offer for couples this Valentines Day
- Mattress Mick the Musical is on the hunt for a star to play title role
- Rory O'Neill wows audience with brave performance on Dancing with the Stars
- U2 confirm one band member won't take part in Las Vegas residency
- Dublin restaurant chain is giving away free crepes for Pancake Tuesday
Sign up to the Dublin Live Newsletter to get all the latest Dublin news straight to your inbox.
