I found Options through the LGBT newspaper over 6 years ago. After calling them, I was struck with their personal attention to everything I wanted in a woman. As an African American lesbian, I was apprehensive when they told me that they had a multicultural outreach to choose from at Options. I am so glad that I trusted them and signed up!!! My first 3 matches were very professional and quality people. I knew they were on the right track. There wasn’t enough chemistry though. The 4th match - I knew was ON POINT - she was also a professional lady, but we had chemistry and our first date lasted 6 hours!!! We talked through lunch and dinner. Options had even matched me with someone near my neighborhood. Turns out she was just 10 minutes away all the time. We are still together and just celebrated a 5-year anniversary. I would recommend Options to anyone. It’s easy to do, but what’s great about them is the personal attention you receive from them on your matches (the follow-up calls to see how things are working for you and the quality of people they attract). With Options - I’d say, “Just do it!”
Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value, Methodical, thorough and caring. I first learned of matching-making by being vetted for a client of another service - from Tinder! Once I got the idea of matchmaking, I thought it might be an avenue to try. I’d tried about everything else: NYC is a tough place. I researched every service in the US, particularly how they obtain the candidates for their clients. I came upon Options and dug deeper and was quite surprised: Options is the oldest and most established matching-making service in the US. Also, and this was the clincher for me: no computers, no “algorithms”, and no random person-grabbing off sites. Options matches clients in the time-honored way which has worked for thousands of years: personal vetting, reviewing and matching from Their Own Database. To get into that database, one must apply as a client and have a background done befitting security clearance. Sounds intimidating? At the end you are sent on a date with someone you can be sure is safe, allowing concentration on the date. Options has an onboard psychologist who is the second tier to review a potential match. The match then goes to Options’ own board of directors who have final approval. Are there instantaneous matches? Yes, and other times no - the vagaries of people’s reactions can’t all be accounted for. Options job is to mitigate that negative probability to a bare minimum allowing maximum chances of success. Options studies each match one has and if not successful, will re-tailor the next matches to hone in on the right personality mix. They will call and ask for direct feedback, as opposed to just throwing another match at you. They have very strict guidelines for how to conduct the initial contact: it is based on the staff’s years of experience of what is effective and also eliminates chaos in the process. I personally like working with them, and as a professional, sometimes putting in 80 hour weeks, I don’t have the added full-time job of the dating world. Options has made the madcap world of dating actually fun again, and easy.
I have been a member of Gay Options for a few months now. So far I have been introduced to 2 gentlemen and the quality of Options members is really high. I have enjoyed both introductions very much even though nothing came out of them. The proposed matches were very respectful and appealing. What I also find really helpful is the coaching and support I am getting from Brooke. She is always there for me, when I have a question or when I get nervous before the date. On my end I provide my feedback diligently and share any additional findings from my dating experience. It helps them to fine-tune their matches in the future but also helps me to re-evaluate what I am really looking for. To all potential members: there is no such thing as a perfect match...because none of us is perfect. Just enjoy the experience of being introduced to high quality people and one day you will find the one.
Two years after the death of my partner of three decades, it seemed time to dip my toes back into the dating pool. Although I can generally find something to like in practically everyone, the men I began meeting through online dating sites were far from what one would feel comfortable "bringing home to mother" (so to speak). Most were nice enough guys, but not a single one of them could be considered "husband material." That picture changed completely when I threw caution to the wind and contacted Gay Options. To say that the matchmakers at Gay Options hit this one out of the ballpark for me their first time at bat (no pun intended) is an understatement. The introduction they arranged ticked every box on my wish list for a man of quality, substance and unique character. The fact that he’s good looking too, is a great bonus. One of the aspects of this matchmaking process that I’ve appreciated most is the personal attention paid to me as a client. After a lengthy but appropriate telephone interview, as well as completing a "compatibility analysis," the team at Gay Options went to work and set up my first (the only one needed) introduction. I’m sincerely delighted that I discovered Gay Options; it was the best investment I made last year.
I joined Gay Options about a year after relocating from Seattle to Northern New Jersey. It was very difficult for me to meet people, always driving into New York. I saw an ad for Gay Options in one of the free magazines and decided to check it out. I felt very comfortable with the vetting process and signed up on my visit to the NY office. The process worked well and met all of my expectations. On my 3rd introduction I met my current partner, Tim, and we have been together ever since (11 years now). I highly recommend the service.
First, let me say, there aren’t many matchmaking companies that aid in finding Gay/Lesbian singles love. Gay Options is an amazing company. I have dealt with NUMEROUS other matchmaking companies in this area and I have never been with a company that has truly cared as much and worked as hard as the people at Options. From the initial over-the-phone interview process to the actual matching process I have not felt so involved in the process before. The matchmakers actually listen. In other places, I have called multiple times, sent various emails and left many a voicemail to no avail. Most of the time the person I was finally able to reach wasn’t even my own matchmaker. I felt like another number, just passed around to different extensions of anonymous employees in hopes of wearing me down. But, at Options, my calls are returned—if not answered—promptly. My emails never go unanswered and I am on first name basis with both my matchmakers and member services. Brooke, my matchmaker, has been so amazing. She has made this process so much easier—it’s not always something easy to do, to join a matchmaking service. But she is always there with a kind word and encouragement, plus, she never forgets anything I tell her. To me, that is the most important aspect in a company that you have invested your heart, time and money in—is to be HEARD. I know they hear me loud and clear and I am excited about my future there at Options.
My experience with Gay Options has far exceeded my expectations. The staff has taken great care and energy to learn about who I am and what I am looking for in a life partner. They are able to take that insight and pull from the high quality and professional member group they have established and find someone who is looking for the same core values and interests as I am. I tried Match, Compatible Partners and Our Time with dismal success. That’s when I decided it was worth stepping up my game and working with an organization that specialized in finding me a life partner and truly cares about my happiness. There is such a huge peace of mind having live people who take my information and feedback and fine tune it to search for potential matches for me. The care and compassion of the staff at Gay Options is matched by none and it shows in their level of commitment in providing potential matches. This is more than just a company, but more like an extended family that is there for you in the good times and the bad. Gay Options, you are the best and the only place I tell folks about if they are looking for their soulmate.
Well, I’d have to say that Gay Options Dating Service (Options to those in the know) has been responsible for the best years of my life! It was through Options that I had my first date with the love of my life on May 1, 1999, and we haven’t parted since! Options was probably the best \$1,000 I have ever spent, as I never, ever would have met my partner in the bars or through local organizations (we lived at opposite ends of the Metro area). We had our ceremony in 2000 and were legally married in DC two years ago. No complaints from me! I hope there are many, many more happy couples to come—thank you Options!
After my marriage ended, I wasn’t looking forward to heading back to the dating world, so I decided to try something new and joined Options Matchmaking Service. The idea of having my dates screened and vetted for me by professional matchmakers seemed like a much better idea than the randomness and riskiness of going online. Not to mention all the unsavory stories you hear about online dating. Isn’t there a program called “Web of Lies?!” about this problem?? I must admit that the first few introductions weren’t home runs, but I was assured by the Options staff that it might take several matches to get a better handle on what I was looking for. They sure knew what they were talking about because along came the fourth match, and she not only met all of my requirements, but she even surpassed all of my expectations! She was very attractive, fit, smart, funny and classy. She also had a marriage under her belt and had a child; the two prerequisites that are very important to me. Well, unfortunately, the relationship did not exit the friend zone, but I feel very confident that I am at the right service and look forward to more promising introductions.
I feel that I’ve reached a good landmark in my marriage to leave a review for Options Matchmaking Service. When I contacted Options in 2006, I had basically given up on online dating. I was getting increasingly discouraged with all of the misrepresentations (and I say that mildly!) with the women that I was meeting. I don’t consider myself a very superficial guy, but don’t mislead me with a photo that is clearly not current! A “little overweight” in my book is maybe 15–20 lbs. NOT 50 lbs. +! A recent photo for me is within the last few years NOT over 10 years ago! A professional head shot is fine, as long as you resemble that person and I can recognize you when we meet! When Options claimed to guarantee introductions and all the data they provide, I was skeptical, but I knew I had nothing to lose. The membership fees were a bit pricey (especially compared to online dating), but I had already wasted so much money on bad dates from other sites. The last straw for me was sending a woman that I had met online, a roundtrip ticket from NY to CA, and wishing that I could send her right back home on the next flight. I could barely recognize her from the beautiful pictures that she had posted. Options advised me to consider it as an investment in meeting a woman that had also invested in me. So, between the guarantees and the appeal of someone “investing” thousands of dollars to meet me, I gave it a shot. Now, ten years (my landmark) later, I am happy to report that I am with the woman of my dreams. Elizabeth is not only beautiful, but has all of the inner qualities that I searched for my entire life (i.e. smart, family oriented, hysterically funny, etc. I could really go on and on). It still feels like the honeymoon never really ended and I wake up every day thanking my lucky stars that I ended up with such a wonderful gift. Even my dog Astro fell in love at first sight! I have even offered to be a spokesperson for Options and am eternally grateful that my tedious search is over. A HUGE thank you to Options and their wonderful staff of matchmakers!!!
As a single man, I am always open to new opportunities for meeting attractive, interesting and dynamic women. One evening while I was out enjoying myself at one of my favorite stomping grounds, Normandie Farm, I was approached by a lovely woman named Naiomi, who asked if I was single. As we spoke, I learned that Naiomi is a professional matchmaker who was out scouting for new clients for her matchmaking service, Options. Initially, I was flattered that she would approach me, and now I’m eternally grateful that she did. Since meeting Naiomi, she has matched me with the highest caliber of women that I have encountered in some time. Most women that I meet are either not interested in a serious long-term relationship, into playing way too many games, flakey, or tend to be major gold diggers. The women that I have met through Options have been the complete opposite. They are attractive women who have their own finances; they don’t have an agenda and are simply looking to meet someone that they can share some quality time with in hopes of something more long-term. How refreshing!!! I have been matched five times so far, and I seriously thought the last match that I dated showed a lot of promise, but alas, it was just not meant to be. I am now anxiously looking forward to my next match, could she be “the one”? I certainly hope so. Very satisfied and optimistic member in Washington DC,
Having joined maybe some 12 years ago at the suggestion of a friend, I found the interview to be professionally conducted. I signed for a package of several interviews, met several nice people, meeting over dinner. Some have remained friends. I did meet a guy where everything seemed to click, and we have been together now for 12 years. I found the service to be responsive and attentive to individual likes, hopes, etc., and would certainly recommend them to a friend.
Similar tastes, good sense of humor, great looking. Bill is a great guy. We met, had a good time at dinner and I found us to be VERY similar in many aspects of our lives. I hope to see Bill again to see where this goes. This is my first referral with Options, and I must say I’m impressed!
Both value honesty, want long-term, like to go slow—friends first. Very interesting and similar values. You did a great job! This is my first referral, and you sent me a really interesting, similar and attractive woman. I’m glad to try to get to know her better. Please put my membership on hold, I don’t want/need any other referrals at this time.
B I N G O!
Great sense of humor, similar tastes in music, open, honest, fun-loving. Good match! She is easy to get along with and got along great at our first meeting—very open and easy to talk with. Even her cats and I got along! Have similar tastes in sports—both like playing volleyball and softball! Had a good time with her—expect to be seeing more of her real soon.
Friendly, honest, sincere, kind and pretty! Hope to see her again. Not sure if we have a whole lot in common but well done you guys! Kathy was really nice, and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting her. Hope we will continue to get to know each other. Thanks!
Positive: Professionalism, Responsiveness. The staff at Options is professional and kind and they are willing to work with you on what you want and need in a life partner. Be upfront and honest about what exactly you are looking for and provide specific feedback about your matches.
My husband and I met through Options about 15 years ago and we’re still going strong! The reason I’m posting now is because every year we toast our anniversary and thank Options. August 14th reminded me that this was long overdue. Thank you Options for changing our lives and bringing us together!
Huge thank you to the wonderful team at Options for introducing me to Carol, my partner of 8 years now. The staff was always friendly yet professional and I always felt they had my best interests at heart throughout the entire process. Thank you!!!
The hands-on communication by telephone is so refreshing and makes a huge difference in the quality of service provided and matches too!
As a young professional in the New York metro area, I’ve spent years on dating apps—swiping, hearting, and, most significantly, finding that it wasn’t yielding the results I had hoped for. I finally decided to start a membership with Options and use that freed up time and energy to focus on myself. This was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my adult life. After hundreds of first dates, I wanted to deploy a more targeted approach, and Options does exactly that. Their team of matchmakers is holistically thorough in considering my qualities, characteristics, and what I want in a partner before starting the matching process. Every introduction thus far has been on-point. Their team is responsive, courteous, and understands that dating shouldn’t just be how people appear on paper or in photos, but a comprehensive, all-encompassing experience that takes time, patience, and compromise. Enlisting the Options team to offload the tremendous effort of dating in today’s app-driven world has given me so much peace of mind as I eagerly look forward to starting a life with the right person... in due time. Thank you Options team...for everything that you do!
After a lifetime of ‘mishaps’ I sought the expertise of ‘Options.’ Intrigued by the idea of a professional matchmaking service geared towards the gay market. Options listened to my list of particular requirements, and I am so happy and delighted by the unique service they provided. It is due to Options that I have found my ‘match’. I know that I would never have met my person without them. Thank you to all the staff that worked diligently. My heart is full of gratitude.
Adam is the most considerate person I have ever met! Over the past few years, I had become a bit cynical but since meeting Adam, I have felt my heart melt—and even flutter. He is intelligent and down-to-earth. He has wonderful goals and convictions. His enthusiasm is contagious, and he communicates well. He is the romantic heart I have been searching for. Handsome with a warmth that makes me feel secure. Well balanced and deep, not overly serious about himself. Right now, I can see why I have worked a year and a half with Options and maybe why I waited 41 years. Thanks.
Same values, similar interests, similar sense of humor. Definitely meeting again. She’s a keeper!!! Corinthia is a sensitive, thoughtful and smart woman. We’ve had similar life experiences. I like how well she’s grounded and seems to know where she’s going and what she wants out of life. We’re so similar that she could be a family member. She’s also beautiful and sexy. You’ve done well on this match! Thanks!!!
I liked Frank’s voice and was immediately excited about meeting him. We met for dinner near his house and talked for a long time, both feeling there was more and more we wanted to share. I had concert tickets, and he went with me to Brooklyn, and we enjoyed hearing the music and sharing its emotional impact on us as we were absorbing our first encounter with each other. I like the way he has lived his life. I like his involvement in the world. I like his energy moving and speaking. I like the feeling that he is very present in his body as well as in his head, negotiating and sharing. I like his eye contact. I like the way he looks, his openness about his feelings and what he is experiencing while we are together. We both have chosen to embrace emotional aliveness and awareness despite coming from emotionally closed families. I like his way of thinking about being ready for intimacy and his way of speaking about his former relationships including major career changes and choices about balance of his personal and professional life. I can’t wait for our next date!
Good personality, attractive, fun to be with. Yes, meeting again from my point of view. Les is a cute and fun guy, things have gone well so far. I think I’ll stop right here for a while and see what develops. Please put new matches on hold.
The news might not come as a surprise to you, but we wanted to let you know Jim and I have decided to take the plunge and move in together. We are extremely in love, happy, and excited as you can imagine. I can only get better from here, but we promise to keep you updated anyway. Thank you again for the incredible job that you do.
Sensitive, humorous, spiritual & damn good looks. We’re both very happy with the match. Not to mention the fact that I met someone so compatible. All I can say is WOW! Above all, I appreciate being contacted by phone due to the holiday mail crunch.
Everything was good—excellent match. Only hitch is that his employment may require him to move out of the area, and I was just denied tenure (but I was promoted, so you figure it out). So, in spite of job security issues on both sides, we’re going to run with things for a while.