When you think of renting something out for money, you probably picture your car, home, or even your wardrobe, but what about your personality? A growing number of people are cashing in on something less tangible: their time, charm, and companionship. From being a fake date to a hired bridesmaid or even a professional mourner, these unconventional side hustles prove that connection, real or staged, can be surprisingly profitable.
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What Is “Renting Yourself Out”?
Renting yourself out doesn’t mean compromising who you are. It’s about offering your presence and social skills for specific events or situations. Some people need a plus-one for a wedding, others want to appear less lonely on social media, and a few even hire someone to help them save face at a family gathering.
This booming “rent-a-friend” and “rent-a-date” market thrives in major cities and online platforms. Websites like RentAFriend.com, FakeABoyfriendApp, and BridesmaidForHire.com connect clients with companions for short-term appearances. No romance or long-term commitment required.
Popular Roles in the Fake-Friend Industry
Fake Date
Some people feel pressure to show up to events with a partner, and that’s where fake dates come in. You might be hired to attend a wedding, work function, or holiday dinner.
- Average Pay: $50 to $200+ per event
- Bonus: Free food, drinks, and travel reimbursement are common.
- Tip: Dress appropriately, act natural, and know the backstory the client provides.
Professional Bridesmaid
Not everyone has a tight-knit friend group, and weddings can be stressful. Professional bridesmaids help with planning, emotional support, and day-of duties—all without the drama.
- Average Pay: $300 to $2,000 per wedding, depending on responsibilities.
- Where to Find Work: BridesmaidForHire.com and social media.
- Pro Tip: Experience in event planning or customer service is a big plus.
Professional Mourner
In some cultures, and now even in Western countries, families hire people to attend funerals to ensure a large turnout or set the right emotional tone.
- Average Pay: $30 to $120 per hour
- Where It’s Common: The U.K., China, and now increasingly in the U.S.
- Note: This job requires genuine empathy and emotional restraint.
Paid Companion or Friend-for-Hire
Platforms like RentAFriend.com let people pay to hang out, attend a concert, or go sightseeing together. It’s non-romantic and meant to reduce loneliness or provide social practice.
- Average Pay: $20 to $50 per hour
- Flexibility: You choose which requests to accept and can meet virtually or in person.
Who Hires Fake Friends or Dates?
It’s not always who you’d think. Clients include:
- Busy professionals new to a city
- People with social anxiety or loneliness
- Those avoiding awkward questions at family events
- Event planners wanting to fill a table or balance guest lists
In short, this industry exists because companionship is valuable, and not everyone has it readily available when they need it.
What It Takes to Succeed
If you’re outgoing, reliable, and emotionally intelligent, you can turn this into a legitimate income stream. Here’s what helps:
- Strong communication skills – You need to adapt to each client’s needs.
- Discretion – What happens on the job should stay private.
- Professionalism – Treat it like any freelance gig.
- Clear boundaries – Always keep it platonic and pre-agree on expectations.
The Fine Line: Ethics and Safety
While most gigs are innocent, there are boundaries you shouldn’t cross. Avoid jobs that make you uncomfortable or violate personal ethics. Always:
- Meet in public first
- Tell someone where you’ll be
- Use secure payment methods through official platforms
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.
Why This Industry Exists
The rise of digital isolation and the gig economy has fueled this market. In an era where people can rent out cars, homes, and even pets, it’s no surprise that companionship has joined the list.
The emotional payoff can be rewarding, too. Many “hired friends” report helping people gain confidence, overcome grief, or feel less alone. It’s proof that, even in a staged interaction, human connection still matters.
Bottom Line
Being a fake date, hired bridesmaid, or professional friend isn’t just a quirky side hustle. It’s part of a growing industry where emotional labor meets entrepreneurship. If you’ve got the right mix of empathy, confidence, and professionalism, you could turn your personality into profit.
