Allie Houlton, senior director of It's Just Lunch Cincinnati: I thought, what a fun job! Also, I set up two friends in college that ended up getting married.

Cincy Chic: With all of the matchmaking services available, what makes It's Just Lunch stand out from the crowd?

Houlton: Personal attention, for one: We interview each client face-to-face and hand pick their matches, no computers! Also, confidentiality: we never give out last names, phone numbers, e-mail addresses or places of employment. Our clients love our no-pressure approach to dating. They just meet for a lunch or a quick drink after work!

Cincy Chic: As this is for our Perfect Pairings issue, what specific factors do you take into account when trying to achieve that ideal couple?

Houlton: Gut instinct! But we do look at other factors, specifically if two people share the same passion. We get to know our clients better and better after each date, so we’re able to match on personality. The better you know someone’s personality, the easier it is to match them!

Cincy Chic: It's Just Lunch around the world has led more than 17,000 couples on their way to engagement, so tell me a little about some of the more successful romances you've started.

Houlton: One gentleman was about to go on his last date, and he didn’t think he would ever find the right woman. His match was about to go on her first date, and she was extremely nervous. Luckily for them, it was the last first date either would ever have to go on. They were married two months ago!

Another woman came to us not knowing what she was looking for. After her fourth date, she decided she didn’t want to meet anyone else because she had met the man of her dreams, and they’ve been together for over one year!

One couple came here, both divorced and wanting to find that special someone, but neither one was sure it would happen. Six months after they met, they showed up at our door to show us her engagement ring!

Cincy Chic: What do Cincy Chic readers need to remember if they are venturing into the dating world and looking for that perfect match?

Houlton: It is a numbers game, but it only takes one! Stay positive and open-minded because you never know where or when you’ll find that special someone!

Cincy Chic: Outside of matchmaking matters, how do you make some fun for yourself?

Houlton: I love spending time with my husband, family and friends! I enjoy working out, playing tennis and snow skiing. I like going to movies, sporting events, theatre — I’m up for anything!

Cincy Chic: What do you love most about Cincinnati?

Houlton: I grew up here — this is home! I moved away twice but came back. This is where my family and friends are, and it doesn’t hurt that the Bengals are having a winning season!


PHOTO CREDITS

Photo courtesy of Allie Houlton

Linda Palacios
		About the author:
		Linda Palacios, an East-side native, is the editor of Cincy Chic. Send her an e-mail at lpalacios@cincychic.com.
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Last update: 19-10-2009 08:01

Published in : Magazine Items, Social