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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. FULL ARTICLE @ THE STAR ONLINE

Mark Brooks: 5000 people! That's insane. Cupid has the strongest singles events position with it's acquisition of Predating in 2004. Matchkilled 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.