People are always telling Bonnie Goldberg, “Bonnie, you know everybody!” And that’s true. She grew up in Elizabeth, New Jersey, went to Orthodox schools, an Orthodox college and summer camps, and lived on the Upper West Side. She now resides in New Milford. Knowing so many people, she has frequently introduced singles to each other, resulting in several shidduchim. So, she decided to turn that much-needed skill set into a double win: Do a mitzvah and start a business. “I’m a people person and it makes me sad when I hear everyone complaining about the shidduch crisis,” she said. “So, I decided to do something about it.”
Matches by Bonnie focuses on Modern Orthodox Men and Women ages 35+. This is the demographic she knows best. Her success isn’t due to a hidden algorithm or any kind of formula. Her secret? She listens. Really listens to what her clients are looking for. “I take the time to actually get to know my clients,” said Bonnie. “I want each person I work with to feel I am suggesting proper matches. I am not just throwing matches at the wall and hoping some will stick. It is so hurtful, especially when you are older, when someone suggests a match because you’re a girl and he’s a guy.” Bonnie believes everyone deserves the opportunity to find the right person, regardless of your age.
Bonnie also feels that the tried-and-true method of introductions by a third party is the best way to meet. While there are plenty of shadchanim in the more Yeshivish circles, there are almost none for the Modern Orthodox. People who turn to online dating apps find them overwhelming. There are too many choices for both the men and the women. The apps have allowed people to search by age, religion, demographic, height, body type, etc. and sometimes the person doesn’t really have those qualities except in their imagination. You can get so consumed with checking the right boxes that no one gets to the first date.
Matches By Bonnie is like the friend you wished you had who knows what you’re looking for and can really figure out who she knows that would fit the bill. You trust her because she gets to know you. And she looks out for you like dating was done in the old days, when the moms handled these things. If your mother got a call with a suggestion, and if she thought it was a good one, you said, “Yes.” Just that simple.
When we met, Bonnie told me about a guy and a girl (both in their late 30s) who had a similar look, came from similar backgrounds and had the same views on life. They had already declined each other on a popular dating website. But Bonnie had this gut feeling they were a match. She called the guy and insisted he come to a party; she introduced them in person. And today they are married with two children.
Bonnie has several stories like this. Her clients know she places tremendous care and thought into each match and,therefore, they are happy when she calls with suggestions. “Even if the dates don’t make it past date two or three, I have often been told, ‘It was very close, you did great. If you think of anyone else, please call again,’” she said.
Before committing to her service, she has a consultation phone call. During this call, you review pricing and everything that is included in the contract. Mention this article and get an additional month at no cost. To date, she has matched every client to at least one person.
Bonnie has some sage advice for singles everywhere: “Happiness comes from within.”
If you are interested in connecting with Bonnie, please email her at: [email protected].
