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Hugs for Hire

Stuck without that special someone this Valentine’s Day and feeling lonely? Not to worry, there’s likely a cuddler-for-hire near you. Professional cuddling—a platonic, non-sexual, paid-for cuddle service—has taken off in the past year with businesses popping up in Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, and Edmonton in addition to at least 16 U.S. states.
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Hugs for Hire
Cuddling services offer platonic touch to lonely folks seeking comfort in the arms of a stranger. On Feb. 14, 2015, cuddle enthusiasts will mark Valentine’s Day with the first-ever cuddle convention in Portland, Oregon. Hoby Finn/Photodisc/Thinkstock
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Stuck without that special someone this Valentine’s Day and feeling lonely? Not to worry, there’s likely a cuddler-for-hire near you.

Professional cuddling—a platonic, non-sexual, paid-for cuddle service—has taken off in the past year with businesses popping up in Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, and Edmonton in addition to at least 16 U.S. states.

Last year also saw the launch of the Cuddlr app and the CuddleComfort.com website, which help users locate and connect with strangers nearby for a free, platonic cuddle with no strings attached. Tens of thousands have signed up.

It's a dream job.
— Professional cuddler Marylen Rei
Justina Reichel
Justina Reichel
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