Special date? He’s your guy
THE ability to set up a picturesque scene that looks like something out of a movie has made Zain Moosa, 36, every hopeless romantic’s dream come true.
The Durban man, who calls himself “the professional wingman”, has started an unusual event planning service offering the perfect wedding proposal, date or anniversary celebration for those too busy to do it themselves.
His business, which is gaining popularity on social media, is called “I’m The Guy”.
It all started in February when Moosa was asked to help a friend plan a Valentine’s Day date.
The date turned out to be so extraordinary that it occurred to Moosa his “attention to detail” could be turned into a profitable business.
Now he often finds himself on Durban’s beachfront, setting up the ideal date for clients. With the help of sand sculptors, he creates an original set-up by getting them to sculpt a table on the beach.
He organises everything from the concept, venue and decor to the meals as well as photography and videography. He even incorporates elements such as live entertainment to complement the perfect date or proposal.
The beach is just one option. Clients can choose any location and even opt for overnight stays. Whatever their requirement, he says he can make it work.
To understand his clients, he gets the partner to fill out a questionnaire.
“Romance is a very important part of a relationship, but life is so demanding that it is hard to find the time to come up with date ideas and how to be romantic.
“When you have been together for a while, it can also be difficult to come up with new ideas. Even if you have a good idea, it’s almost impossible to plan and execute it alone. That’s why I am here – the perfect gesture needs the perfect wingman,” said Moosa.
Moosa, who has no tertiary education, married young and moved to Joburg where he worked as a sales executive for years.
After his divorce, he moved back to Durban.
“I had nothing when I came back. I was at point zero in my life. I didn’t have a car or my own place to stay. I had to build myself up all over again,” said Moosa.
He began working at a little family store, then decided it was time to be his own boss.
“My ideas and creative abilities set me apart. A friend and I started a branding company called MDigital,” said Moosa.
A few months later, it occurred to him he could be doing more with his creativity. And after the Valentine’s Day date turned out to be a hit, I’m The Guy was born.
“I’m The Guy and MDigtal work well together. I was able to use my brand and marketing skills from one business to grow the other. I’m The Guy has become popular online and has more than 6 000 likes on Facebook already,” said Moosa.
“Just by posting pictures of my set-ups on Facebook, my business now has international appeal. I often get compliments from people overseas who send me messages to say they’re thrilled by the work I’m doing,” said Moosa.
Moosa recently extended his planning service to Joburg.
“I’ve started offering I’m The Guy services in Joburg and will soon do the same in Cape Town. My dream is to see this business grow nationally and then hopefully into an international business,” said Moosa.
He also wants to start offering a honeymoon planning service where he will plan the perfect honeymoon, including accommodation, meals and visits to tourist attractions.
He thinks this would appeal to international guests who come to South Africa or even local couples who want to enjoy a special experience.
Planning a date with I’m The Guy costs R5 000 upwards, depending on a client’s specific requirements.
He also wants to extend his offering to planning children’s parties, family reunions or any other special occasion.
Asked if he was afraid someone would scoop his business idea, he said: “They can steal my creation, but never my creativity. Every set-up and experience is unique, from the colour scheme to the decor, no two dates will ever look the same. That’s what makes my concept stand out,” he said.
To learn more about Moosa’s business, like his Facebook page: I’m The Guy.
nabeelah.shaikh@inl.co.za