Martin and Tammy Finer’s relationship with the St. Louis Jewish Light began with their own wedding announcement, published on June 29, 1983.

Just seven weeks later, on Aug. 17, 1983, their first ad appeared for their business: the Jewish Photo Dating Service. From that point forward, the Finers ran ads in every issue of the paper through June 26, 1991 — a remarkable and consistent presence over nearly eight years.

Their business stood out for its early use of personal photos in matchmaking, long before the digital age. In one particularly memorable ad, the Finers conducted a Q&A with themselves, addressing questions like whether they were a real couple (they were) and what set their service apart (an emphasis on Jewish values, real photos and sincerity).

But they didn’t just advertise — they organized. The Finers hosted Jewish singles parties at hotels across St. Louis, offering live music, kosher pizza and a cash bar.

Their final ad in the Jewish Light appeared on June 26, 1991, marking the end of an era for their business and their place in the pages of the paper.