AUGUSTMAN – Having been in the market for 17 years, Lunch Actually – a dating agency – boasts having highly compatible and a quality list of single people waiting to be paired up. And all of which is done with complete privacy.
Q: How did Lunch Actually come about?
A: I started Lunch Actually with my then-boyfriend-now-husband Jamie Lee in 2004. At the time, I noticed many of my colleagues were single and not dating. It was rather puzzling for me as they were attractive and eligible people; I realised that it is because they were working really long hours. When I came across the concept of lunch dating, I was immediately attracted to the idea because lunch was 'short, sweet and simple'. I decided to quit my job and start a new career as a modern-day matchmaker.
Q: Talk us through the process of getting a date via the agency.
A: First, we will invite potential clients to our office to find out more about their profile and preferences. After that, we will offer them a membership package, and do some ID and background check. Based on their profile and preferences as well as our assessment, we will proceed to find their first match. Once the match is approved by both parties, we arrange the date and book the restaurant. After the date, we will contact both parties again to get their feedback. Our dating packages start from RM2,000 upwards ($1800).
Q: What are some of the main criteria individuals look for in a partner?
A: According to our 2020 Annual Dating Survey, for men age (68%), body type (62%) and religion (35%) are the most important things. Meanwhile the top three qualities for women when it comes to men are: income (66%), age (49%) and education (43%).
Q: How does Lunch Actually standout from other dating agencies or apps?
A: Unlike many local matchmakers who are often a one-man or one-woman service, Lunch Actually to-date has a presence in five countries, 80+ full-time associates and 17 years of matchmaking experience – making us the one of the oldest dating services in Asia, with a proven success record.
