Leaving love in the hands of the experts

Last year, Channel 9 aired the first season of Married at First Sight – captivating the nation with such a ground-breaking, unconventional way of finding true love. If you watched it, I’m sure you were glued, and well, if you didn’t – Season 2 starts tonight for you!

I spoke to Mel Schilling, Psychologist and dating expert; part of a team on the show who carefully pair 4 new brides and 4 new grooms to marry upon sight. Well, it’s more of a commitment ceremony as it’s illegal to marry someone you don’t know in Australia – but still, what a brave and bold move to make!

So I can hear some of you ask why. … Well, can you believe that the percentage of Australian singles is the highest it’s ever been?!  And the participants on Married at First Sight,  have tried everything to find love. They’ve been through all the motions of dating life in Australia with unfortunately no success. So, they have passed on the task to find love, onto professional psychologists and dating experts.

And whilst yes, this idea may first sound quite ridiculous, it’s based on some strong findings. Mel explained that it’s been proven time and time again that arranged marriages are the most successful. So using the team’s expertise, they’ve matched up each couple based on the their values and family history – aligning them with those who share the same views, or perhaps even balance out some of their qualities – ying and yang!

Throughout the experiment, they are counselled by the team on how to handle and overcome conflicts, assessing their growing connection and attraction along the way. I’m sure those who watched Season 1 remember that Zoe couldn’t look Alex in the eye when she first saw him down the aisle – they however ended up being the most successful match and are still enjoying a wonderful relationship together!

Sure, I know what you might be thinking – but I recommend you tune in tonight regardless! It’s captivating, and puts the method of finding love into a whole new light for some singles who have genuinely tried it all!

And as for any insights on the show from Mel? Well, of course it’s all hush hush right now, but we know that there are smiles on the final episode – who doesn’t love a happy ending!

Click here to find out more and get a quick sneak peak!

To hear my chat with Mel as well as the full episode of Weddings, Parties, Celebrations, click here.

 

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