Samantha Shaw, 33, matchmaker at Drawing Down The Moon, an introduction agency for professionals, is married to Neil, and has a baby boy

'I spotted an ad for a matchmaker while working for a gallery seven years ago, I thought I'd be good at it. My job involves interviewing new applicants and matching them with suitable dates. It's wonderful knowing I've found the perfect partner for someone. I love it when our couples marry or have a baby. Shared values are important. You need to agree on morals, politics and what you really want out of life, including children.'

Dating secrets

Lots of successful women are single because they prioritise their career above finding a relationship: I've always felt it should be the other way round. Also, long wish lists and closed minds make a woman hard to match. Many men tend not to go for high-maintenance types. Most prefer pretty, friendly-looking women. The best daters are positive, and approach it with a spirit of healthy ambivalence. They tend to think “Why the hell not try this and never seem desperate."

Knock 'em dead tip

'Fabulous underwear and gorgeous shoes for confidence. If you feel overwhelmed, practice makes perfect'

Website www drawingdownthemoon.co.uk
or call 020 7937 6263/8880

With thansk to Eve magazine - where this article was published