"You can't always get what you want but sometimes you just might find that you get what you need" Rolling Stones In my particular case a few years ago you can add that I was not always getting what I wasn't but looking in the right places. So through a friend, I made an appointment with Stef who was kind of blunt, direct and to the point and she told me a bunch of things I needed to do and I followed them. Using the info about myself that I gave her I was able to find more ways to navigate the dating jungle especially where I had been going online and what I had been posting myself on online dating sites. Unlike other people she offers consultations in this area like how to post on your dating app in order to meet someone compatible and not just because they look good or whatever metrics I was using that was not working . Since she showed me which pictures I should use online, what apps and dating sites are the ones that would be best for me, I think that was pretty unique and that is why I dated someone for a long time about 2 years ago. I feel that she honestly cared about having you meet someone. read more

She is lousy. She thinks bc it's her job title that she knows everything about everything. I have worked with dating coaches before who acknowledge that every girl is different and focus on making me the best me but her take on it was that every girl is the same and she tried to make me some cookie cutter version that wasn't me. She told me multiple times that she understood what it was like to work with someone that has a mental disability but she treated me like that was who I am. She told me to dress for how I would for a date and all she touched on that was tearing into how she doesn't like my beard. I told her that everyone in my social circles likes it and she yelled at me that if I'm not going to listen to her then this isn't going to work out. For your information I legitimately have random people stop me on the street now and then to tell me it's amazing. No joke! Despite that I told her I'd be open to it and she still wasn't satisfied because I didn't bend to her will immediately. I'm not convinced she knows what she's doing. In addition, my Lyft got there 7 minutes late and then I waited at the reception desk for another 10 minutes and she kept biting my head off for being 20 minutes late, as if it's my fault she doesn't know how to communicate with her own receptionist. She let me stay late to finish the hour but she made sure that I knew it. I don't know how she is as a Matchmaker but if she's anything like she is as a dating coach then she is too stubborn and doesn't know how to pay attention to her clients. As you can see from the reply she left to my review, he listening skills are something to be desired Also while I didn't put an accurate weight, per the suggestions of 3 different friends who said I didn't look that heavy and suggested that same #, I've never said in my life that I was over 5'10. I acknowledge that it was pointless to lie about my weight despite the fact that I've started a strict diet program that is working and I've already lost weight read more

I feel so lucky to have found Stef. I'd been at my wits end with online dating and wasn't getting anywhere. Upon meeting Stef, I immediately felt a sense of relief as I knew I was in the hands of a professional. I signed up for her "dating coach" services and was relieved to hear that everything I was experiencing was not only normal, but totally 'curable'. Instead of feeling that I was doing something wrong, I took the approach to make it my job to take the dating process seriously and not listening to every friend's advice. Some of the things that I took personally before, were just part of the dating process and not worth me stressing over! I consider myself a Type A person, so having a custom plan for my personal goals and past challenges felt like I was getting a really personalized treatment. But that's just how she is! Once I tried her approach, I found myself going on dates by meeting people through online, offline and even her Matchmaking! In addition, I met some great new friends through Stef and the City! For those who aren't looking for honest, constructive criticism, her approach may not be for you. But if you're willing to do the work and have an open mind (and heart), you'll get your money's worth (and then some)! Just like choosing a hairstylist or a personal trainer, it's important to have good chemistry and feel that the investment you are making is with someone who cares! read more

Stef, From the moment I mentioned about security on your site not being up to standards for the transmission of personal information you clearly became agitated and started calling me "Sir" for as many times as I can remember, and your tone was far from being nice or kind. Not for one moment you tried to listen to what I had to say blocking me repeatedly. And now you say I was the one interrupting you. So I guess each of us have our own version of what we call truth. I just know that I personally never want to hire someone or become a customer of any service getting the treatment I got from you, even calling me an aggressive person, which I know in my heart is very far from the truth. I neglected to check previous reviews where there's clearly a pattern of negative attitude towards your customers. I rest my case, I've moved on. Peace. ********************************** As an update Stef responded that she was the person I spoke to "after they transferred from the calling service" which is hard to believe, from the beginning of the call I started to get the "Sir" treatment over an over, so I don't believe her and I do think she's being dishonest just to cover her own mistakes. She also mentions it was hard to understand my English, I wonder how that sounds around these times we live regarding racial profiling awareness. If indeed it was hard to "understand my English" why did she not stop and listen to me more patiently, treated me with respect and integrity. Why? because that's something she clearly lacks of. I wonder how she's still in business. *********************************** I called this service today, the lady on the phone was not kind and it sounded like she was in a hurry for the entire call. I can't even mention how many times she "Sir-ed" me, Sir, this is the way we do business, Sir, Sir, Sir. I was trying to speak to her and she would cut me off, then she would speak over my talking, extremely impolite. She was everything but a good customer service oriented person and not kind. I was trying to explain to her that their site online for submitting personal information is not in a secure format (https://) and that anyone submitting information through this site could have their information hacked or stolen. She didn't understand what I was trying to explain, but more aggravating is, she was not willing to listen, or be patient and try to comprehend what I was trying to say or explain. She also mentioned she was only the answering service, but - does that even matter? Even more so, they should have kind, patient and understanding people answering their phones, what kind of service can they provide if they have this kind of people answering calls. Very disappointed, very frustrated about the interaction with this lady today. So heads up to everyone about this. Also, do not submit any personal information on this unsafe site until they do something to correct their security protocol. read more

I have tried endless matchmakers as you can see from my reviews, but Stef was great! She is polished, classy, and honest! If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen! She will tell you how it is and that is good for a matchmaker because you need to have realistic expectations. The price is VERY reasonable and definitely worth it!! Our meeting went well and she had someone for me already. He turned out to be good looking and exactly what was mentioned. The date was awesome and we hung out all weekend! Unfortunately, he wasn't looking for something serious and I am. Hopefully she will have more guys soon! I am hopeful for the future and you should try her as well! read more

Stef is a great listener and prides herself in finding you someone that fits your interests, of course also using her expertise to find you a good match that you yourself may not even know. I would recommend her service as it is a great way to meet a quality person that IS as advertised. -WH read more

I enjoyed working with Stef last summer and I am still using the tools she taught me. I not only use the tools for dating, but for an effective social life. I learned about places and things in the city I never knew existed. Her sessions were the social "therapy" I needed. She tells the truth, you may not want to hear. Facing the truth about myself has made me more confident. Using the techniques has resulted in more dates and has made me a master dater and a true social butterfly. Nothing happens overnight, but she taught me how to have the time of my life in the process. read more

Stef understands how the dating game is played! In today's day and age I am tired of having to play games and not understand why I am not getting call backs. Stef is great at getting not only attractive, non-crazy, reliable, educated people in her service, but she also can get you feedback that is invaluable. She does care and does not want to take on people that have unrealistic demands, nor people that are not going to be seriously looking for a relationship. Comparing her to some of the other services out there, she is reasonably priced and doesn't promise what she can't provide. I'd recommend you contact her because you have nothing to lose and everything to gain! read more

I contacted Stef regarding matchmaking service and we emailed back and forth a few times. In the beginning she seemed pleasant enough, was transparent with her fees (contrary to a few other reviews on here) so I was interested in meeting with her. She then had me fill out a second questionnaire that was incredibly personal before she'd meet with me (the first online version is pretty basic but I believe it would be enough information for just a consultation. The second questionnaire she requires takes at least an hour to complete and asks intimate details, even asking for photos of your exes). I was still interested in receiving help so I did fill out the form in it's entirety as it says if you don't, you won't be called back. Mind you, you are filling this out just to get an appointment with her. You're not being matched yet. I am incredibly disappointed to say after of all my time, and personal data, I've never heard a single thing back from Stef or her team. Where did all of my personal information go, Stef? Very disappointed, very unprofessional, very rude. If you're considering Stef, I wouldn't. Protect your personal information and don't waste your time. read more

Stef's service provides an opportunity for women of any age to feel like they are heard. She gets that the dating rules: 1.Men CALL you for a first date and continue to call you and not rely on texting 2.Women don't get picked up but do get to pick a spot by them 3. Men aren't required to take you out to dinner, but her dates are NOT just coffee 4. Men pay for a first date 5. Both sides get to hear feedback in a respectful way and not feel like people can just "disappear". These are things that help the dating process and make me comfortable so that I know when I am paying to meet someone, I am getting quality men and not men who don't take the process seriously. I am sure that Stef will continue to attract quality people to her service since she insists that anyone who wants to join goes through a serious questionnaire and process that weeds out the people who are flaky. read more

I contacted Stef and the City about 5 years ago. I was excited to talk to her and use her service, I filled out a form and on the form it says they will contact you I think 2-5 business days. I didn't receive any call or email to schedule an interview so I contacted Stef. She said she had given birth and had some private family matters she needed to address. I totally understood it, so she said she would schedule me for a meeting with her assistant and the charge was 50 or 60 dollars. I paid it and I attended the meeting/interview. After a few weeks Stef contacted me that her clients are only located in Chicago, mind you I live in Chicago suburbs. I think she just wanted to blow me off. Just be careful. I feel that I have to share my experience so that others can judge for themselves if this matchmaking service is what they want. Updated 08/11/19 Stef, I hope this finds you well. I am well aware that you have a professional matchmaking business NOT match.com. it has been long so I couldn't keep track of the rules and regulations, but I am also a professional and I follow rules and regulations to a fault. So yes I did follow your rules, called and followed up appropriately. If you felt that you didn't have any future dates at all, why then did you have Camila interview me? most matchmaking process is that they keep individuals in their Rolodex. After the interview I followed up after 2-3 weeks, so for you to email me back and explain to me that since I lived in the Suburbs of Chicago (30 mins from downtown)I was not a potential match, made me feel like you were blowing me off. Also, when Camilla asked whether I would commute to the downtown area for a date I indicated that I would. I can respectfully disagree with you, but I think you are misrepresenting what happened. You completely changed your previous review to write this. I understand you have a business and need the reviews but this is my experience with your company, if you are helping other individuals find love awesome. If need a reminder of email interaction I would be more than happen to post so there are transparency and for viewers to make up their minds who is giving accurate inform P.S no way did I force to have an interview with you. I felt for you, your Ordeal and struggles dealing with a child in the NICU. Stef Response 5 years ago Unfortunately, we currently do not have any matches for you. I would recommend you consider trying our social calendar or attending an event with one of our event partners. One of the issues I come in contact with professionals at your age is that they want people who live in the city and as well as your travel schedule can concern people. I would highly recommend you look into looking into adding additional types of options to meet people into your schedule, as again, we can not guarantee what types of people come into our service. There are many great options for you to meet singles that we can help provide since you have not had a lot of experience in terms of spending time with events with young professionals. Please consider putting effort in additional ways as dating is something requires time and effort and we highly recommend it as we want our clients to succeed. By the way, I never said I was not moving from my parents home, it was only temporary. I guess you were too busy judging and can not keep the truth straight if it killed you. read more

Stef is great at getting to know her clients. She takes a lot of time and asks a lot of questions to get to the root of what you are looking for. She helps manage expectations and uses a realistic approach to dating. The rules she places on the dating process takes the stress out of wondering when you might hear from someone. Talking on the phone, though considered "old school" helps you get to know someone better than texting. I also appreciate that Stef keeps your identity and information private from potential matches. I find Stef very professional and easy to talk to. She is very understanding and sympathetic of each person's position and feelings. She can also take a "tough love" approach if needed. I highly recommend Stef as a professional matchmaker. read more

I wouldn't even give one star to this awful business, but yelp requires at least one to post. I met with Stef and she charged me to meet me, which I have to say was off-putting from the start. For the love of G-D, I have gone to real professionals like Doctors, Beauticians, Grad Schools, for a consultation meeting to see if I wanted to use their service or skill set and I have never been charged! Anyway, I would not even have minded that if she actually did what she offered in that first meeting. We spent what seemed like a lifetime (time I will never get back) going over everything about me and what I am looking for. That was great and I left feeling like I would get a great set of "matches" out of this because it was so detailed and because she said she had a few great guys that she could set me up with. In that initial meeting she told me that she had some men in my range that she would like to set me up with, but she had one in mind immediately. She told me that he would be a great fit, that she had coached him and he followed all of her "rules" and we were off. I paid again (an actual date is more expensive) and was set up with a person who was nothing that would fit the lengthy "get to know me" meeting that I paid for. Instead I found a man who followed none of her "rules", talked about himself and other women endlessly and was just a mismatch for me. Following her "rules" (see the theme here?) I sent my review of this date and waited. And waited. And waited. I heard nothing from Stef. And still nothing. I finally called her and she actually said "Oh, I thought I contacted you already." What??!! She had no feedback from the guy, which did not surprise me. I guess he really wasn't interested in her "rules". I then asked about the other men she had told me about during our initial meeting. "Well, I will have to look into that, one of them is just divorced and I'm not sure if he is ready to meet anyone (Then why did you talk about him in the initial meeting, may I ask?) and then she made excuses as the other possibilities evaporated.. Long story short, she didn't have anyone else. So how about this idea: Don't charge people when you have NOTHING to offer them. My advice to Stef would be to follow some "rules" herself: Follow up when you say you are going to do so. Don't tell people things that you aren't sure of until you can verify your facts. Give the service that you are asking people to pay for. Earned media is great, but if your product sucks then the people/customers who really use them will post reviews and those reviews can make or break a business. I would say based on what I am reading on yelp, you are on your way to the break. read more

Save yourself the time. I met with Stef on a recommendation from my friend, who hasn't had any luck with her either but still continues the service. I found her to be rude, pushy, and flat out insulting. She kept pushing on the having me meet with men who I know I wouldn't be attracted to due to height. It maybe silly but I know this about myself. That's not that bad but what was down right out of this world rude was how she kept, at least I felt she did, harping on my body image. First she asked how I would describe my body type, a legit question. I told her and she gave me a blank look and then asked again. I said it again and she said well you know this will be important to the guy and ask AGAIN. So then when she was almost done she said and "remember if you look different like you lost 20 lbs you should let me know"..NOT if you go blonde but if I lost 20 lbs. This service isn't worth your time and money. The only good thing about her was Holly. She was attentive and helpful also very sweet. The only positive thing she has going. And I did let Holly know that I had a less then stellar experience with Stef and I have YET to hear from her to as least apologize. Going to Stef is just as equal to meeting a douche bag at some bar. You want to feel bad about yourself just set up a meeting with her and waste $40 bucks! Based on Stefanie's feedback below I'd like to point out that she had my feedback for over a week before I posted my review on Yelp. And she only reached out via the post only. A personal email before posting would have been a better idea. This shows a lot about her services and the follow up. Good luck to who ever works with her. read more

This company is very new and as a consequence does not have many clients to match one up with - resulting in over-promised sales pitches. No matter how large she makes her company sound - it does not stack up after she takes your money. Buyer beware. Save yourself the money. read more

Stef is FANTASTIC. She knows her stuff and knows how to match you with quality - not quantity. As a single guy that's the most helpful part... Stef knows how valuable time is and that the game is evolving. She's always quick to call back and answer questions and work with her clients. If you're in the Chicago area (city or suburbs) then this is the only person to go for the right match. read more

I use Stef as a matchmaker. She has set me up with three quality and beautiful ladies. She has also coached me on how to handle those awkward first dates. Her process starts with about a one hour face-to-face interview. Then, she does the work and the fee she charges is very reasonable. My other experience is with Match.com. While I met some nice people on Match, and even had a few relationships come out of that site, Stef's process is way more efficient. No more logging onto Match for me. I don't have the time for it. My last date was so pleasant and she was so pretty that I wrote Stef a thank you note. I also plan to use her as a consultant for business networking. I trust her. She gets five stars from me. read more

Stefanie, set me up with a wonderful man I am happily seeing seriously. She is detail oriented, savvy, and has a great feel for making matches. I highly recommend her as a matchmaker, and social networking guru. Don't make the mistake of missing the opportunity to get to know Stef!! read more

Stef understands the dating merry go round -- its ups, downs and, once you're on it, how it can be hard to get your equilibrium back. She and her staff carefully screen and coach (if wanted or needed) each person they work with. It's a structured process that takes the click-click-next-next element out of dating. Wouldn't you rather meet a few qualified, hand-picked dates than go on a bunch of random dates with people who may or may not be looking for the same thing you are? I'm enjoying the personalization Stef provides and recommend her! read more

If you are serious about finding love, then Stef is your girl! I tried a number of different websites and went on a tons of dates, but wasn't meeting quality guys, until I went to Stef in the City. She was able to match me with guys who were on my level. Her business is more than just matchmaking, it's also about personal growth. Stef is warm natured and genuinely cares about each one of her clients. I would hands down recommend her! read more

I was previously an intern for Stef and couldn't of been happier with my experience. Stef is a very passionate person and cares about her staff and clients very much. Stef knows how to network like no one I've ever seen before and I would definitely recommend her to anyone who is looking to start dating, continue dating, or to try something new. Personally, she taught me many things about what it takes to run a business and how to network. She not only focused my internship on what I could do for her but also what she could do to help me grow professionally. read more

I was skeptical about the process, and even more so that Stef could get the job done given my high expectations. Well, I was proved wrong and could not be happier. From one of the most intense guys out there with very high expectations, if she can make a believer and fan out of me, definitely worth the shot. What do you have to lose? Meeting someone incredible. Do it. read more

I was hesitant to use a matchmaking service, but after my first two introductions, I have been impressed with the women that Steph has introduced me to. The women have been very successful, intelligent and attractive. So far, Steph has exceeded my expectations with the high quality of women that she has introduced me to. Instead of dreading the "first date", I am now excited for the first dates that I get through Steph. Steph makes the first date experience easy and very low stress. It has been a great experience for me and I would highly recommend using Steph! read more

Although the thought of enlisting a matchmaker was a bit uncomfortable for me, I had a very productive and thorough first meeting with Stef back in January. I found her to be honest and upfront, which she has continued to be throughout all our conversations. She is frank and direct but always professional and polite. Through her, I recently met a charming gentleman, someone with whom I connected on so many different levels. I feel quite certain we wouldn't have met were it not for Stef. Stef clearly loves what she does and her passion for her work is obvious. She does all the legwork which, in turn, takes all the guesswork out it for you so, when you have that first meeting with your match, you're relaxed, comfortable and able to be yourself. read more

I ve worked with Stef twice now and I have to say that it's been a disappointment. She has a great sales pitch and is very good at getting you in the door. Once in, she is horrible at getting back to you and her idea of a match is hair color and height and possibly weight (even using those 3 criteria alone, she is still pretty far off the mark). If you are looking for anything below the exterior surface then you are out of luck. I wouldn't recommend her or her service to friends. read more

Stef runs a highly effective and professional service. She is an amazing networker and knows just how to use her wonderful skills to get the job done. I have been recommending her to all my single friends. read more

I met Stef at a networking event a few months ago. From that first meeting, I've found her to be incredible pleasant and easy to talk to. Because of that first impression, I started working with Stefanie. She is a superb matchmaker who is very client focused. She has a keen eye for the intangible characteristics that makes a great match. I have recommended Stefanie to several of my friends and will do it again. read more

I filled out Stef's online form and received a questionnaire by email to fill out, and I returned it. She called me back the following morning, and really took me aback. She was quite talkative and hyper, and her sentences ran into each other, so it was hard to know whether or not to respond to her, because she thought I was either interrupting her or not responding to her. Other reviews calling her "brash" certainly describe her to a T. She claims to be a "relationship expert" but doesn't offer any credentials. I would never call myself an "expert" when talking to a client, although I've had experience in computer programming and have done automated phone applications for years, I would never brag about being an "expert," as that would come across as arrogant. I would just make people aware of my specific experience in a field. She would not be up front about her prices for her services, and would not go beyond asking ME what I expect to pay, even though I am the one making the inquiry to her. Also, she ended up telling me that if I don't know why I'm not getting girls to settle down long enough to get to know me, I need a therapist to clue me in. I would NEVER tell someone that after only talking to them for a few minutes, as that is a very cold and unprofessional thing to say to someone. Stef, what ya been smokin'? I know you may be a young entrepreneur, but you really need to learn FAST how to talk professionally to people to make them want to give you money. I'm not an "expert" in customer service, and I would never claim to be an "expert" like you do, but I can honestly say that I've been doing it for years and I know a thing or two. read more

In theory, Stef and the City is a great concept. In a big city, the idea of meeting someone chivalrous who is pre-screened is appealing in the world of app-based dating. Unfortunately, these people exude no professionalism and do not understand that this industry is client-driven. They are happy to take your money and make you sign an extensive, rule-based contract, but they have no desire to follow up with you unless it is for their own benefit. I should have listened to others who had the same experience and stayed away. read more

Stef is the real deal - an honest, straightforward go-getter who seems to have great honor and respect for her role in bringing people together. She understands the individual values of her clients, which is essential to successful matches. Not to mention she's funny and easy to talk to, and someone I felt an instant friendship with. read more

I did not have a positive experience with Stef and the City. I found some of Steph's questions patronizing and her approach simplistic and based on conventional notions about dating/gender. She also wasn't timely about responses and never followed-up on a number of tasks she said she would complete. Certainly not a good investment. read more

Went on a date last night that Stef set up. Stef hit a home run: Wonderful woman, great looks, and great interests in common.

If you are not a Caucasian woman, good luck! Their casting calls are terrible marketing to women or men for that matter, that are of color. Reading their "ads" leave you feeling less than good about yourself. It was pretty disappointing. A friend told me about this site and I was excited to check it out! I went to the site and as a single woman of color in her late thirties, there wasn't one casting call I could respond to. Big two thumbs down for Stef and the City. Huge let down. This is a diverse city and the site does not reflect this. read more