5,000 Singles Search for Partners at Biggest Dating Party Ever

-- Oct 25 -- Turnout at the eagerly awaited, largest matchmaking party in China on Saturday evening did not disappoint.  About 5,000 single men and women converged on Zhongshan Park in search of their soulmates at the event billed as "meet and mate."  The criteria for entry was strict: Only white-collar workers with at least a college education and aged between 20 and 45.  The four-hour party, which started at 4pm, was spiced up with various games featuring couples and an eight-minute speed dating session.  To add to the romantic atmosphere, each participant was given a rose upon entry, to be given to the "right" person. 

The full article was originally published at The Star Online, but is no longer available.

Mark Brooks: 5000 people!  That's insane.  Cupid has the strongest singles events position with it's acquisition of Predating in 2004.  Match killed it's event service, Matchlive, last year.  Word on the street is that larger players are still very interested in events, but have bigger fish to fry right now.  Events are tough, risky, and don't earn enough money to be worthwhile.  But, they do spur great word of mouth, if done right...and terrible, crucifying word-of mouth if done poorly...they're a double edged sword, for sure.  They are also a nice differentiator.  I guided and recommended Cupid's acquisition of Predating.  Cupid 'owns' radio.  They market exclusively via radio, and radio loves events.  They've grappled with the Predating acquisition but they have by far the strongest position of any online dating site when it comes to events, which will enhance their attractiveness as an acquisition target in the future.