Dating Advice & Relationship Tips

Expert insights and practical guidance to help you navigate modern dating, build meaningful connections, and create lasting relationships.

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Top 5 Tips for Dating Over 40
Dating Advice

Top 5 Tips for Dating Over 40

Dating over 40 is not a setback — it's an opportunity. Learn how to approach dating with wisdom, self-awareness, and confidence to build meaningful relationships.

Lisa Galos
6 min read
The History of Matchmaking
Dating Advice

The History of Matchmaking

From ancient traditions to modern love, matchmaking has been a cornerstone of human connection for centuries. Discover how this timeless practice has evolved.

Lisa Galos
7 min read
Balancing a Busy Professional Schedule with Dating
Dating Advice

Balancing a Busy Professional Schedule with Dating

You don't have to choose between success and love. Learn how to balance a thriving career with a fulfilling dating life through intentional planning and effective communication.

Lisa Galos
5 min read
Are Dating Services Worth It?
Dating Advice

Are Dating Services Worth It?

Dating services come in various forms, from traditional matchmaking to modern online platforms. Each offers unique features and benefits, but the goal remains the same: to help you find a meaningful connection.

Lisa Galos
8 min read
Do Dating Services Work?
Dating Advice

Do Dating Services Work?

An in-depth look at the effectiveness of high-end matchmaking. Learn why professional dating services work and how they compare to mainstream dating apps.

Lisa Galos
10 min read
Matchmaking vs. Dating Apps in 2025: Why High-Touch Services Are Surging
Dating Advice

Matchmaking vs. Dating Apps in 2025: Why High-Touch Services Are Surging

Disillusioned with algorithmic swipes, singles—especially discerning professionals—are moving to high-touch, human-led matchmaking. Below we compare approach, outcomes, time cost, privacy, and total investment so you can decide which path fits your goals.

Lisa Galos
7 min read
How Much Does a Professional Matchmaker Cost in 2025?
Dating Advice

How Much Does a Professional Matchmaker Cost in 2025?

If you're vetting services for a serious, long-term relationship, you'll find a wide price spectrum. Below we break down tiers, what's included, and how to evaluate ROI vs. app spending.

Lisa Galos
5 min read
12 Things to Look for in a Matchmaking Company (and 6 Red Flags)
Dating Advice

12 Things to Look for in a Matchmaking Company (and 6 Red Flags)

Not all matchmakers are the same. Use this practical checklist to compare services and avoid costly missteps.

Lisa Galos
6 min read
Is a Matchmaker Worth It?
Dating Advice

Is a Matchmaker Worth It?

An honest look at whether a matchmaker is worth the money — what you're really paying for, who it fits, who should skip it, and how to weigh the cost.

Anna Rigali
7 min read
What Does a Matchmaker Do?
Dating Advice

What Does a Matchmaker Do?

What does a matchmaker actually do? A clear look at the real process — intake, vetting, curated introductions, and feedback — and how it differs from apps.

Anna Rigali
6 min read
Matchmaker vs It's Just Lunch
Dating Advice

Matchmaker vs It's Just Lunch

Comparing a local Chicago matchmaker with It's Just Lunch — how the two models differ on personal attention, vetting, local knowledge, and discretion.

Anna Rigali
6 min read
Jewish Matchmaking in Chicago
Dating Advice

Jewish Matchmaking in Chicago

A Jewish matchmaker, or shadchan, makes discreet, values-aligned introductions for Chicago singles and families who want a partner who shares their faith.

Lisa Galos
7 min read
Dating Over 50 in Chicago
Dating Advice

Dating Over 50 in Chicago

A practical, honest guide to dating over 50 in Chicago — why now is a great time to meet someone, how to skip the app fatigue, and how a matchmaker can help.

Anna Rigali
7 min read
Finding Love After 60
Dating Advice

Finding Love After 60

Finding love after 60 is more possible than you think — a gentle, practical guide to dating in a new chapter, with companionship, confidence, and real help.

Lisa Galos
8 min read
Dating After Divorce in Chicago
Dating Advice

Dating After Divorce in Chicago

A warm, honest guide to dating after divorce in Chicago — when you're ready, what's changed, and how a matchmaker helps you meet someone worth your time.

Anna Rigali
7 min read
Burned Out on Dating Apps?
Dating Advice

Burned Out on Dating Apps?

Dating app burnout is real, and you're not imagining it. Here's what the research shows, why the apps feel like work, and a calmer way to meet someone in Chicago.

Anna Rigali
6 min read
Best Date Spots in Chicago
Dating Advice

Best Date Spots in Chicago

Where to take a date in Chicago and the suburbs — relaxed first-date spots and romantic date nights, from West Loop wine bars to the Naperville Riverwalk.

Anna Rigali
7 min read
A Matchmaker's Success Rate
Dating Advice

A Matchmaker's Success Rate

Wondering about a matchmaker's success rate? An honest, sourced look at what success really means and why there's no single industry number to trust.

Anna Rigali
6 min read
How Matchmakers Vet Clients
Dating Advice

How Matchmakers Vet Clients

Worried about who you'll actually meet? Here's exactly how a professional matchmaker vets and screens clients, from identity checks to real conversations.

Anna Rigali
7 min read
Elite vs. Selective Search
Dating Advice

Elite vs. Selective Search

Comparing Selective Search with a local Chicago matchmaker? An honest, fair look at national scale versus a hands-on mother-daughter team.

Anna Rigali
6 min read