INC - June 1 - Ten years ago, Patti Stanger
started Millionaire's Club, a matchmaking service for millionaires.
Today her business idea is a reality television hit series called
Millionaire Matchmaker on Bravo. Here is an interview with Patti.
Q: How did you decide to focus your personal matchmaking service exclusively to millionaires?
A: There are 110M single people in the United States. Then you've got the top 1-2% who are really single -- these high-wealth individuals who are always exchanging wives -- and they really need some help.
Q: How did you appeal to that niche market?
A: You have to find things that nobody has and that they need.
Q: What has been your biggest challenge?
A: My first year in business, I made a million dollars out of my house. The more success you have, the more business gets thrown at you. You really have to learn how to say no.
Q: How did you decide to focus your personal matchmaking service exclusively to millionaires?
A: There are 110M single people in the United States. Then you've got the top 1-2% who are really single -- these high-wealth individuals who are always exchanging wives -- and they really need some help.
Q: How did you appeal to that niche market?
A: You have to find things that nobody has and that they need.
Q: What has been your biggest challenge?
A: My first year in business, I made a million dollars out of my house. The more success you have, the more business gets thrown at you. You really have to learn how to say no.
Q: Did you ever want to quit?
A: It is hard work, and it'll suck the life out of you, because you're dealing with people's feelings and problems. Sometimes, you cry yourself to sleep, asking, "Do I really want to do this tomorrow?" Other days, you get a call saying, "You're invited to my wedding". I don't think there can be any greater joy or any greater high.
Q: How'd you get your own TV show?
A: Once I started the Millionaire's Club and Marie Claire magazine did a feature on me, then everybody came to me. But at the same time, I did my homework. I got involved with a lot of producers. I pitched my story.
Q: Who are your worst clients?
A: I get millionaires who call me and want me to work for them for free. There's nothing worse than a cheap millionaire.
FULL ARTICLE @ INC
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