Personal matchmaker for busy singles

Busy professionals, people over 35 and anyone who finds dating apps tiring. Niche groups, such as a faith, a community or an age range, can work well.

A joining or search fee, plus a package or membership for a set number of introductions. Some matchmakers charge a smaller fee up front and a bonus when a couple is matched.

• Good listener and reader of people
• Tactful, honest feedback
• Discretion with private details
• Basic marketing and social media

• You will hold sensitive personal data, so check UK GDPR duties and whether you need to pay the ICO data protection fee
• Check consumer contract rules for paid packages, including cancellation rights and clear terms
• Do not promise matches or a relationship, and keep advertising claims honest (check the ASA/CAP rules)
• Consider identity checks and safety advice for first meetings, and public liability and professional indemnity insurance
• It can take time to build a balanced pool of members, so expect an uneven start

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £500 to £3,000, depending on your website, marketing and insurance. Because it can be run from home, you may avoid premises costs.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £800 to £4,000, depending on your package prices, how many clients you take on and the pool of members you build. The estimates assume at least about 10 hours a week.

Check UK GDPR duties and whether you need to pay the ICO data protection fee, as you will hold sensitive data. Check consumer contract rules for paid packages, keep advertising honest under ASA/CAP rules, and consider insurance.