HEADHUNTER FOR THE HEART

By Shanna Hogan

Bonnie Wills is no cupid. But for a fee, she can be his agent, facilitating love for those with the means. As a Valley matchmaker, its Wills’ job to help her clients find their perfect mates.

“For people searching for love, I’m the one who unlocks the door,” she says.

When a single man or woman comes to see her, Wills begins by doing a background check. After a consultation to determine exactly what a client is looking for, Wills arranges a date and hopes the sparks fly. But it’s not always easy. Often her job involves keeping her clients’ expectations reasonable.

“Everyone wants to custom order. And that’s what you deal with when you are a matchmaker,” she says. “I like to work with people who have their feet on the ground.”

While it is certainly an odd job, with the proliferation of Internet dating websites, matchmaking has become a bit of a trendy occupation. An increasing number of matchmakers are popping up around the country, many targeting their personalized services to eligible businessmen.

“I think matchmakers are coming into respectability,” Wills says. “The Internet is another avenue, but matchmakers provide a more personal and professional experience. It’s just like, do you want to drive a Rolls Royce or a Yugo? Both will get you to your destination.