Global Love Report

Author: Margaret

  • List of 2025 Matchmaking Events Throughout the Globe

    Matchmaking Event

    Global Love Report – December 17th, 2025

    Amid ongoing economic uncertainty, matchmaking events have continued to grow in number as alternative social spaces for people seeking direct, in-person connections beyond digital dating apps. This highlights that the need for face-to-face human interaction remains strong, even as people go out less and consumer spending slows in many regions.

    Rather than focusing on large-scale formats, many dating events in 2025 were designed around specific themes, interests, or environments. Organisers tailored each event to the background of its participants, shaped by cultural norms, community needs, geographic conditions, or social objectives. Below are several interesting matchmaking events that took place across different countries in 2025.

    Ferris Wheel Speed Dating at Winterland Hasselt

    At Winterland Hasselt in Belgium, a speed dating concept was introduced using a Ferris wheel standing 45 metres high. The event launched in early November 2025 and will continue through January 2026, aligning with the Winterland seasonal festival.

    The concept was developed by five communication management students from PXL University of Applied Sciences. Participants were not paired randomly; instead, they completed questionnaires covering personality traits, partner preferences, and whether they were seeking someone similar to or different from themselves.

    The matching process involved collaboration with psychologists and sexologists from the university. During the event, participants were welcomed with a drink and took part in three Ferris wheel rotations, each serving as a short dating session with a different match. For those uncomfortable attending alone, there was an option to participate with a friend, allowing four people to share a single gondola.

    Matchmaking Event for Wealthy Singles in Beijing

    In July 2025, a private matchmaking event was held at a five-star hotel in Beijing, specifically targeting wealthy singles in China. The event was designed as a closed, curated space for financially established individuals seeking partners with comparable social and economic backgrounds.

    The format prioritised direct interaction through informal conversations and structured social activities. Within the Chinese cultural context, partner selection is often influenced by considerations of status alignment and long-term compatibility.

    As such, the event emphasised the idea of compatible growth, the belief that shared values, long-term goals, and aligned life trajectories are more important than lifestyle markers alone.

    Shark Tank–Style LGBTQ+ Dating Event in Kansas City

    In Kansas City, United States, Tiffany Watts and Lo Cowan developed a community-based dating event for LGBTQIA participants through their initiative, Where To Find Us. Unlike conventional speed dating formats, participants were introduced through short presentations delivered by their friends.

    The event began with a casual mingling session, followed by live presentations featuring stories, humour, or even PowerPoint slides highlighting why a friend would make a good partner. To support interaction, attendees wore colour-coded wristbands indicating their dating availability. The event also featured performances by local queer artists. This format placed strong emphasis on community support and transparency in the matchmaking process.

    Dating Event for Farmers in Western Australia

    In Western Australia, a speed dating event was held as part of the Perth Royal Show, aimed at supporting single people in rural communities. The event was hosted by Tiffany Davey, a farmer from Konnongorring, who was inspired by a similar initiative in the town of Katherine.

    Many young farmers face challenges in building relationships due to geographic distance and the demands of rural lifestyles. This event sought to connect participants with others who share similar living conditions and realities, making the process of meeting potential partners more practical and relevant.

    Singles + Moms Matchmaking Event in Pakistan

    In May 2025, global Muslim marriage app Muzz expanded its Singles + Moms Matchmaking Event format across several major cities in Pakistan, including Islamabad, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Karachi. The event targeted individuals seriously seeking marriage and encouraged participation alongside mothers or close family members.

    The format combined group discussions, ice-breaking activities, and open interaction, allowing conversations to develop naturally rather than relying solely on formal introductions. This approach blended traditional family involvement with a more contemporary matchmaking structure.

    Bookshop Speed Dating by Bored Of Dating Apps (BODA)

    In the United Kingdom and the United States, speed dating events held in bookshops have gained popularity among younger audiences seeking in-person romantic encounters. The concept was created by Jessica Evans through her initiative Bored Of Dating Apps (BODA).

    The first event took place in New York and later expanded to cities such as London and Liverpool. Both independent and large bookstores have since hosted similar events, including book-themed matchmaking nights around Valentine’s Day. By using shared literary interests as a conversation starting point, these events re-establish public spaces as meaningful venues for social interaction. 

    Senior Matchmaking in Seoul

    In October 2025, Seoul’s Jongno district hosted the third annual Jongno Good Life Challenge, a matchmaking event for seniors aged 65 and older at Donhwamun Traditional Theater. Thirty-six participants joined activities including a ukulele performance, DIY essential oil crafting, and 20-minute one-on-one conversations.

    Inspired by the reality show I’m Solo, attendees introduced themselves with playful nicknames and connected over shared interests. By the end, 10 pairs, both romantic and platonic, had formed, many planning to meet again over coffee or meals. The event highlights how social interaction combats loneliness among older adults and fosters lasting community ties.

    These are some of the matchmaking events that took place in different parts of the world throughout 2025. What kinds of new themes or concepts do you think we’ll see in matchmaking events next year? 

  • French Matchmaking Agency’s Regional Offices to Host Singles’ Evening on Valentine’s Day 2026

    Great Gatsby Event Theme

    Global Love Report – Dec 3rd, 2025
    English summary by Margaret 

    Elphie and David Bellée, matchmakers who run the Unicis agencies in Nantes, Rennes, and Angers, will host a special evening for singles at Château du Bois Rignoux in Vigneux-de-Bretagne on Valentine’s Day 2026.

    The evening will feature a gourmet dinner with aperitifs, an open bar, a DJ set, and fireworks, all with a Great Gatsby-inspired theme. 

    The event is open to anyone, not just Unicis members, with a limit of 200 attendees, who are typically between 30 and 70 years old. While some couples may form during the evening, the main focus is on providing a memorable experience for all attendees.

    Elphie and David Bellée oversee around 700 members across Unicis offices in Nantes, Rennes, and Angers, with roughly 60% women and 40% men. Even amid the current economic climate, people are still turning to matchmaking agencies to find a partner.

    Looking ahead, the couple even has plans to add additional events in 2027, including a pool party at a hotel in La Chapelle-sur-Erdre near Nantes.

    Originally published by: actu.fr

  • Keez: France’s Matchmaking App Taking a 3.0 Approach to Matches

    Keez French matchmaking app

    Global Love Report – Nov 20th, 2025
    English summary by Margaret 

    Keez is a French modern matchmaking platform founded by Théodore de Lachaux and Dylan Garineaud. The idea for the platform emerged from their own experiences with dating services, where they found that existing systems often failed to support genuine interaction or meaningful connections.

    Keez uses a “3.0 matchmaking” approach, emphasizing real compatibility and authenticity. Instead of presenting numerous profiles, the platform offers just one or two highly compatible profiles per day, or occasionally one every two days. When a match occurs, the two users can communicate exclusively while the conversation is active. This system is designed to encourage real-life meetings, reduce ghosting, and prioritize the quality of interactions over quantity.

    During registration, users complete over 500 questions covering personality, values, life experiences, and perspectives. These questions were developed over a period of more than a year in collaboration with psychologists and sexologists. Users can also record voice anecdotes to add to their profiles. Keez’s artificial intelligence analyzes this information to assess short-term compatibility, such as shared interests, hobbies, and location. It also looks at long-term compatibility by checking things like values, life vision, and emotional and psychological compatibility.

    Since its launch in Île‑de‑France, Keez has attracted over 15,000 users, with around 1,500 active monthly users and more than 20,000 downloads. The founders note that the platform’s design reduces the number of interactions required to reach a meeting compared with other services. Keez plans to expand across France and eventually into Europe.

    The platform provides a structured approach to matchmaking, focusing on detailed profiles and algorithmic compatibility assessments. The founders anticipate that some of these connections may lead to marriages starting in 2026, reflecting their interest in supporting long-term relationships through digital matchmaking.

    Originally published by: mesinfos.fr

  • The Biggest Japanese Matchmaking Company Debuts App for Middle-Segment Singles

    IBJ Online

    Global Love Report – Nov 12th, 2025
    English summary by Margaret 

    IBJ Co., Ltd., the largest matchmaking company in Japan, has launched IBJ Online, a matchmaking app that offers a new way to find a partner. The app is for singles who want more than a regular dating app but something simpler than traditional matchmaking services. IBJ Online combines the seriousness of professional matchmaking with the convenience of a dating app.

    The app connects users with members from different affiliated matchmaking services, giving more chances to meet potential partners. All members must provide ID and confirm that they are single, making interactions safer and focused on people who are seriously looking for marriage. From searching for potential partners to arranging a first date, it can all be done within the app. 

    Originally published by: PR TIMES

  • Caravan Speed Dating in Ghent for a Social Cause

    Caravan Speed Dating

    Global Love Report – Nov 5th, 2025
    English summary by Margaret 

    A special speed dating event was recently held in Ghent, Belgium. This event was organized as an initiative to raise funds for charity. The event was held in a local hostel, with all proceeds going to Children and Youth First (CYF), an organization supporting education for young people in Nepal.

    The event was organized by Belgian volunteers Veerle Blondeel and Christa Grijp, who have been involved with CYF since 2008. They have previously organized various fundraising activities, including chocolate sales and quizzes, and chose speed dating as a different format for this initiative.

    During the event, participants spent seven minutes talking to each partner before moving to a caravan inside the hostel. Each caravan provided a small, comfortable space for conversation. To facilitate interaction, the organizers prepared simple activities for pairs, while also allowing casual conversation.

    The event took place over two Mondays, divided by age group: the first evening, on 3 November, was for participants aged 30 to 40, and the second, on 10 November, for those aged 40 to 50. The participation fee was €30 (around US$32), which included drinks and light snacks. 

    Originally published by: HLN

  • Spanish Matchmaking Agency Reports Strong Success With Psychological Support

    Psychologist Counselor (Valerii Honcharuk)

    Global Love Report – Oct 29th, 2025
    English summary by Margaret 

    Lazos, a matchmaking agency in Spain, demonstrates how psychological expertise can be integrated into the matchmaking process. Their approach begins with extensive interviews to understand lifestyle, core values, and emotional expectations, acknowledging that compatibility is influenced by more than physical attraction or online profiles.

    Psychologists and coaches remain involved throughout the journey. After each introduction, clients reflect on what worked well and where adjustments may be needed, helping them build social awareness and manage emotional setbacks as connections progress.

    Confidentiality and personalized guidance are central to this model. Selectivity is also key, with only those who can genuinely benefit from the process being accepted. According to the agency, 75-80% of couples formed after less than one year of dating have long-lasting relationships, suggesting that emotional readiness and structured support can help contribute to lasting connections. 

    Originally published by: Cope

  • 4 Software for Matchmakers and Dating Coaches to Create Social Media Content

    Social media content software

    Global Love Report – October 15th, 2025

    In the matchmaking industry, as in any other, social media is a crucial tool for building credibility and reaching new audiences. It’s also a useful space to share dating insights, introduce services, or feature client feedback through visual content such as image carousels or short videos. As digital marketing continues to evolve, creating and managing this kind of content has become much easier than before.

    Here are four software options that can help you plan, design, and organize your social media content efficiently.

    Writing Copy for Content and Captions with Copy.ai

    Once you have an idea or topic for your post, Copy.ai can help turn it into ready-to-use writing for your social media content. It’s designed to make the process of creating copy for content and captions more efficient, offering templates for different tones of voice, such as friendly and professional. You can easily adjust the wording to fit your audience and platform while maintaining a natural flow. Once your copy is ready, you can start working on visuals that match the message.

    Designing Visuals and Editing Videos with Canva

    Canva is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly software for creating both photo and video content. Its drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to design carousels, Reels, or YouTube Shorts using pre-made templates. Beyond static designs, Canva also allows users to edit short or long videos directly in the platform, complete with text, transitions, and background music. You can post the finished content straight to your social media accounts. The free version already covers most basic needs, while the Pro plan offers access to a wider range of templates and premium design elements. Once your visuals are done, the next step is finding complementary imagery to support your content.

    Finding Supporting Visuals with Unsplash

    Unsplash provides a large collection of photo stock that can help complete your designs or strengthen your storytelling. You can find images across various themes, such as lifestyle, emotions, and daily moments, useful for educational or promotional posts. The site also integrates seamlessly with Canva, allowing you to import visuals directly into your design workspace. Once you’ve prepared your content, the final step is organizing your posting schedule.

    Scheduling and Managing Content with Buffer

    Buffer simplifies the process of planning and publishing content across multiple social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X (Twitter). It lets you schedule posts in advance and view them through a visual calendar, helping maintain a consistent posting rhythm. You can also review basic analytics to understand what kind of content performs best, and if you work with a team, Buffer provides collaborative tools for managing multiple accounts. It offers a free plan for basic scheduling and paid plans for additional features.

    These software options work best when used together, from generating ideas and writing copy to designing, editing, and scheduling posts. With a simple workflow and supportive tools, you can focus more on meaningful communication with your audience while keeping your social media presence active and well-organized. 

  • This is the Best Place for European Singles

    Lisbon

    Global Love Report – Oct 15th, 2025
    English summary by Margaret 

    Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is increasingly attracting singles across Europe who are seeking new meaning in life and relationships. With its relaxed lifestyle, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and openness to different cultures, the city is seen as an ideal place for those wishing to find love.

    According to the matchmaking agency ELC International, Portugal, particularly Lisbon, has become a new center for singles looking for meaningful relationships. The agency describes Lisbon as a hotspot for singles wishing to build lasting relationships.

    ELC International has opened a branch in Lisbon to expand opportunities for singles and people from different countries to meet. The agency offers services that go beyond traditional matchmaking, organizing exclusive private events in prestigious venues that allow clients to connect in an elegant environment.

    Their motto, “Authenticity,” reflects the importance of being genuine and natural in building meaningful relationships, an approach that aligns with current dating values emphasizing sincerity over appearances. 

    Originally published by: Psychologies

  • New Matchmaking Agency in France Connecting Singles Across Backgrounds

    Agence Jade Matchmaking Agency

    Global Love Report – Oct 1st, 2025
    English summary by Margaret 

    A new matchmaking agency called Agence Jade has opened in France. It is based in the Pays de la Loire region, with its first office in La Baule, and plans to expand to Nantes.

    Founded by Marianne, the agency began operating on September 1, 2025, to connect individuals from various backgrounds who are seeking serious, long-term relationships.

    The idea for the agency came from Marianne’s personal experience. As a child, she witnessed her mother go through a period of loneliness after a divorce, until she eventually met a new partner through a matchmaking service. That experience left a lasting impression and shaped her belief that one meaningful meeting can change a person’s life. Agence Jade was built on that foundation, using a human-centered approach focused on shared values.

    Agence Jade is open to everyone, regardless of age or sexual orientation, as long as they are seeking a respectful and meaningful relationship.

    The matchmaking process is personal and direct. It begins with an initial consultation to understand the client’s expectations. This is followed by an in-depth interview to create a personal profile, without a photo, focusing on emotional compatibility, life values, and relationship goals. Matches are carefully arranged, and meetings are only scheduled with mutual consent.

    Once a match is confirmed, the agency organizes an in-person meeting, including choosing and booking a suitable venue. After the meeting, a follow-up conversation is held with each person to review impressions and discuss next steps. Throughout the process, clients receive guidance tailored to their needs, including support for those who may be shy or unfamiliar with formal introductions.

    Agence Jade offers two service durations: a 6-month and a 12-month package. Prices start at €500 (US$530). All services are provided with full confidentiality and professionalism, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and structured experience. With its inclusive and personal approach, Agence Jade provides an alternative for those seeking a stable, healthy relationship founded on shared values. 

    Originally published by: actu.fr

  • Differences in Post-Match Meeting Preferences Between Men and Women in Japan

    Post-Match Meeting Preferences

    Global Love Report – Sep 24th, 2025
    English summary by Margaret 

    IBJ Inc., a matchmaking company based in Tokyo, conducted a survey through its IBJ Matching App Research Lab involving 1,889 users of its marriage-focused dating app, Bridal Net. The goal was to understand when users consider it ideal to meet in person after matching online. Of the total respondents, 1,404 were men and 485 were women.

    Men: Preference for Early Meetings and the Importance of Smooth Communication

    Most male respondents preferred to meet soon after matching. Over 80% said they would like to meet either immediately or within two to three weeks of starting communication. This indicates a strong interest among men in progressing to in-person meetings relatively quickly.

    Despite this, some men chose to delay meeting due to communication issues. The most common reason was that conversations didn’t flow well. Some also felt dissatisfied when their match didn’t take the initiative in starting or maintaining dialogue. Several respondents mentioned that they often had to lead the conversation themselves and tended to be more interested in matches who could actively contribute to the exchange.

    When asked what made them want to meet someone, most men pointed to clear and polite communication. The ability to listen attentively and having shared topics or interests were also important factors. These responses suggest that for men, comfortable and respectful communication is key before agreeing to meet in person.

    Women: A More Cautious and Varied Approach

    Female respondents showed a more cautious and diverse range of preferences regarding when to meet. About 14% said they preferred to meet after exchanging messages for more than a month, a noticeably higher percentage than among men. This suggests that many women prefer to build trust and familiarity before moving forward.

    Age differences were also reflected in the results. Women in their 30s were the most likely to meet early, with around 80% saying they preferred to meet immediately or within two to three weeks. Meanwhile, women in their 20s showed a different pattern: 22.2% said they preferred to have a phone or video call before meeting in person, the highest rate across all age groups. This trend reflects communication habits common among younger, digitally native users.

    In terms of what made them hesitant to meet, women also cited poor conversation flow. In addition, many expressed concern when matches suggested meeting too soon. Some said they felt uncertain about the other person’s intentions, especially when the suggestion to meet came early in the interaction.

    Another common concern was the difference between online profiles and real-life appearances. Many women said they worried their match might look different from their photos or profile, and some were equally concerned about how they themselves would be perceived. These responses highlight a strong focus on honesty, comfort, and trust during the early stages of communication.

    Originally published by: PR TIMES