We’ve had the pleasure of seeing Matchmaker Sofi Papamarko’s spectacular matchmaking skills get put to the test. Founder of Friend of a Friend Matchmaking , Papamarko has been setting up friends recreationally for years, and so it was really just a matter of time before turned her unique matchmaker talent into a profession. Once you’ve had the chance to meet Papamarko, it’s easy to see why she’s so good at what she does. She’s one of the most likable, fun and engaging people to be around, so it’s no wonder she has so many awesome people in her network to connect other awesome people with. We caught up with matchmaker Papamarko to find out more about what she does at Friend of a Friend Matchmaking in Toronto and her best first date tips.
Tell us a bit about yourself. What should people know?
I’m a writer. I live in Toronto. I am the founder of Friend of a Friend Matchmaking.
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What was the inspiration behind Friend of a Friend Matchmaking and how does it work?
I’ve been a hobbyist matchmaker for quite some time because I love connecting people. I’m lucky to have a huge social network and it’s always fun introducing people who I think might get along, either romantically or as friends. I realized that a matchmaking business had real potential when I looked into hiring one for myself — most cost several thousand dollars. I wanted to be an accessible, affordable matchmaker for artists, students, people like me.
What does Friend of a Friend offer its clients that they can’t get from, say, the online dating scene?
Efficiency and the personal touch. Plus, most people who come to a matchmaker are seeking someone for a committed relationship. A great deal of people online tend to seek more casual arrangements.
Have you had any amazing success stories yet?
There are been a couple of couples that have formed because of Friend of a Friend. The very first couple I ever set up (as a hobbyist matchmaker) are expecting their first child in January. I’ve told them they should totally name the kid after me, but I don’t think they’re game.
What’s some of your best first date advice for us singletons?
You have two jobs on a first date. First job: be yourself. Second job: learn about the other person. This means that you are asking questions and listening to what your date is saying instead of merely waiting for your turn to speak. Pretty basic stuff, I know, but people screw this up all the time.
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What are some of your favorite restaurants in Toronto for special dates and why?
Like everyone else in Toronto, I’m basically obsessed with tacos right now. A cheap, unpretentious date might be hanging out on the picnic benches at Tacos El Asador for a cheap feast and then grabbing a coffee or hot chocolate from Sam James Coffee Pocket on your way to hanging out/smooching on the park benches at Christie Pits. But if you’re feeling fancier re: tacos and dating, I actually dream dreams about the In Cod We Trust tacos from La Carnita. The lighting is awfully romantic, as a sexy added bonus.
Let’s get social for a mo’. How can people stay up-to-date with your busy life?
At FriendofaFriendMatching.com. I love social media a lot. I’m taking a bit of a break from Twitter right now, but if you’re interested in learning more about Friend of a Friend, I tend to update our Facebook page on a fairly regular basis. Check it out right here!
