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Members-only agency that is open to all

Article Abstract:

Andreas Hoffman set up Members, a quick growing low cost introduction agency, in December 1992 and since then 1,400 have joined. Advertisements were placed in a very wide range of publications and the resulting membership, different from most agencies, is extremely varied both in lifestyle and age. Membership costs 25 pounds sterling and is questionnaire based, applicants having to give details of their age, height, weight, sexuality, occupation, appearance, personality and interests, and the same for the person they are seeking. The type of relationship is also indicated, from friendship, casual, serious, penfriend and 'as it happens.'

Innovations, Friendship

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Following fearlessly in Mel Gibson's footsteps

Article Abstract:

Film star Mel Gibson met his wife through a dating agency so such organisations should not be considered as being just for the desperate. People responding to singles advertisements list a sense of humour, caringness and attractiveness, in that order, as the three most important qualities in a partner. Men prefer and seek younger women so a woman needs to set her sights on an older man. Women should not wear anything in their hair or on their head and should not wear glasses in photographs. It is thought that as society gets more fragmented, dating agencies will become more accepted.

Social aspects, Public opinion, Marriage brokerage

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Professional way to find a partner

Article Abstract:

Mary Balfour runs the introduction agency for professional people 'Drawing Down the Moon' from Kensington High Street, London, England. More people have spent time building up their careers without time for a social life and may have lost touch with people through working abroad. One year's membership costs 550 pounds sterling plus VAT. The majority of clients work in the media, followed by medical and legal professionals. Members are put 'on hold' when they meet a partner they like. Approximately half the 800 members are usually on hold.

Mate selection, Dating (Social customs), Drawing Down The Moon

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