Looking for Love? Try Doing it in Front of 70 People

Bridget Regan wasn't looking for love.  In fact, she wasn't looking for much of anything.  

"All they have to do is not be boring.  And maybe do something in the arts?" she mused.  

Earlier this month, Regan found herself in the running for two eligible bachelors at    She was a contestant in “Hundredaire Matchmaker,” a dating event designed to set up two Brooklyn bachelors, admittedly low on funds.   

The event, hosted by comedians Liam McEneaney and Myka Fox, was a spoof of the Bravo hit show "Millionaire Matchmaker" in which Patti Stanger, a third-generation matchmaker, sets up rich L.A. bachelors who are hoping to find love.  

"Our intention was to set single people up with each other, and obviously be funny and entertaining, but also give them a chance to meet other people," said McEneaney.

The hosts acted as social lubricators, putting the contestants, bachelors, and audience at ease and encouraging participants to have fun.

"When people say what they're looking for in a match, sense of humor is always in the top three," said Fox.  "And people are funnier when they're around other funny people."

The hosts began by grilling the two bachelors on a small stage in the bar's basement, even asking them twirl, before meeting the contestants vying for a date.  The bachelors and contestants had all submitted pictures and short bios before the show and were picked by the hosts to participate beforehand.

The first bachelor, Eric, described his ideal date for the girls and gave his occupation as an “independent PR consultant”.  McEneaney was quick to the punchline. 

“So you’re unemployed?” he quipped.

After bachelor number two, Jeremy, introduced himself, it was time to meet the contestants.  Eleven women were introduced one by one, describing their occupations, ideal dates, and, in the spirit of frugality, their cheapest acceptable drink.

 “I’ll take water,” joked one contestant.

 After seeing all of the contestants, the men chose two women for onstage 90-second “minidates."  The publicness of the event seemed to catch Jeremy somewhat off guard.  While talking to contestant Gussy, she offered him a sip of his beer and he agreed, then awkwardly asked if she had herpes of the lips.

Still, the dates seemed to go smoothly, considering the short time and the fact that about 70 other people were watching.  Once the dates wrapped up, the bachelors chose to go on a longer date at the bar upstairs, while onlookers and the remaining contestants were free to mingle.  

It’s unclear if any love connections were made on Monday, but the audience definitely enjoyed the show.

 “I’m just here to observe an anthropological experiment,” said Susannah Kemple, one of the patrons.  “But I hope they all find love tonight.”

If they didn't, they may get another chance.  

The second installment of “Hundredaire Matchmaker,” will take place in late February at the Gowanus bar The Bell House.