Burned out on apps, some Charlotte singles are dropping $10K for a matchmaker
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Dating in Charlotte is rough. So rough, some younger daters are paying nearly $10K to skip the apps.
Why it matters: One local matchmaker hopes her services will help younger singles survive a burnout-heavy dating scene and challenge the idea that matchmakers are only for older, seasoned daters."
Meet 35-year-old Rachael Ogilvie — she's the founder of Charlotte-based matchmaking service, Better Matchmaking.
Catch up quick: Originally from Toronto, Ogilvie moved to Charlotte and launched her own firm last summer, after two years at a major matchmaking company.
What they're saying: "I want to pave the way for the younger generation to be comfortable in this setting," she says, referring to intentional dating and choosing a matchmaker as a proactive step rather than a last resort.
Why modern dating apps aren't cutting it, according to Ogilvie:
- We've become isolated (thanks, Covid). People don't talk in person like they used to.
- Swiping is shallow. Decisions based on photos alone "make dating gamified and disingenuous."
- Overchoice culture. Apps give endless options, making it hard to commit.
Yes, but: This level of intention comes at a price. Her three-introduction packages start around $10,000.
- Most clients begin at that tier, she says, though the overall investment can shift based on how involved she is in the search and how tailored the criteria are.
- She also runs a free singles pool that anyone can join, which she uses to find potential matches for her clients.
How it works: Matches are set up electronically or in person, depending on preference.
- Clients get a personalized plan that sets how often they'll meet matches and at what pace based on their dating goals.
Zoom in: She says her clients are mostly 30s–40s working professionals across the East Coast who have been dating for a while and are ready for results.
We also asked Ogilvie for her hot takes on navigating modern dating:
- Curiosity > Chemistry. Fireworks feel exciting, but they're often just novelty or anxiety. Curiosity keeps you leaning in, asking better questions, and really getting to know someone.
- Share the air. This one is especially for the fellas, she says. If you've been talking for more than two minutes straight, pass the ball and ask a question.
- Dates start at prep, not arrival. Play your hype music, use that special perfume, call your hype friend — your mindset sets the tone before you even get there, she says.
The bottom line: "If you want a positive experience, start by creating it yourself," she says.