In the Waters with Sofi Papamarko ...

We sat down with matchmaker, dating expert and confessed reluctant social butterfly Sofi Papamarko and asked her a few questions ...

Tell us about your work? What do you love most about it?
I'm a matchmaker, so my work involves asking people really personal questions about their (love) lives and then setting them up on dates with likeminded singles. Basically, my job rules. I love every aspect of it, but there is no more rewarding feeling than when I get an email from a client saying they had an amazing first date or that they've been exclusively dating the person I set them up with. So far, I have one wedding, two engagements, a baby and several co-habitations under my yenta belt. I've been doing Friend of a Friend for about a year and a half now and every month, there's been a new success story.

What is the biggest misconception perpetuated by dating experts?

That you're doing something wrong or that there's something wrong with you if you're single. 

What have you learned from your clients?

I'm probably going to get a little Oprah-cheesy here, but...well...the human spirit is indomitable? I have had the privilege of meeting hundreds people, and more than a few times, there have been many, many tears. The things people go through in their lives and they live to come through the other side! It's astonishing. I've talked to survivors of bullying and abuse, survivors of cancer, people who have lost family members and spouses...heartbreaking stories. A lot of people have been through some very, very tough times and then they come to me, open and ready for love. It's inspirational, really.

What is the relationship between wellness and romance?

Folk wisdom suggests you can't love someone unless you love yourself. It's important to take care of yourself mentally, physically and emotionally before you can give your best self to another person. Unfortunately, a lot of women neglect themselves due to work and life pressures. We need to fix that and spread the message that self-care is not selfish. It's integral.

Tell us about your first experience with body blitz?

It was pretty wonderful. I'd heard about body blitz for years and numerous friends had asked me to join them, but I'd never taken the plunge, so to speak. I really loved the water circuit, but the main event for me was the sweet ginger and milk body glow. It was crazy luxurious. It made me feel like Cleopatra and I left all soft and smooth and smelling like a creamsicle.

If you could, what advice would you give yourself 5 years ago? 10 years ago? 20 years ago?

Just keep doing what you're doing, kid. But maybe eat more spinach? Oh, and also, that boy who doesn't like you back is stupid and you definitely shouldn't waste your time thinking about him for even another second.

What book is on your nightstand?

"Consider the Lobster," David Foster Wallace. 

Proudest accomplishment?

Starting my own small business, despite knowing absolutely nothing about business.