New | Episode | Lifestyle

Expert Dating Tips from Matchmaker Michelle Frankel

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Meet Michelle Frankel, chief matchmaker at New Jersey Matchmaker, with a New York location as well. After starting her career as a lawyer, Michelle discovered her natural talent for connecting people and made the bold leap into matchmaking. Now, she helps singles navigate both digital and real-world dating with expert insights on building genuine connections and presenting their best selves.

Tune in as Michelle shares her journey from law to love, along with top dating tips for 2025! 💕 Ready to find love? Listen now and connect with New Jersey Matchmaker!

Michelle Frankel’s Top Dating Tips 💕

🚀 Be Present – Stay in the moment, not in interview mode.
💬 Ask Engaging Questions – Skip “What do you do?” and spark real conversations.
🎯 Choose the Right Setting – Casual activities > long, formal dinners.
🔍 Try Mock Dates – Get feedback to improve your dating game.
💡 Prioritize Values Over Criteria – Shared values > surface-level traits.
🎭 Be Authentic – Show up as your true self.
📸 Use Great Photos – High-quality solo shots work best.
💖 Date with Intention – Know what you want and commit to it.
⏳ Take It Slow – Build trust before intimacy.
🎁 Keep It Simple – Thoughtful > over-the-top gestures.

Podcast Episode Summary

Introduction

Hosts: Rachel and Janette
Valentine’s episode featuring matchmaker Michelle Frankel.
Discussion about personal matchmaking experiences.

Rachel’s Matchmaking Story

Met her husband, Bill, in college in an elevator.
Reconnected years later in Thailand through a mutual friend.
Relationship blossomed after running into each other multiple times.

Janette’s Matchmaking Story

Placed an ad in the Austin Chronicle as “Pretty Persian.”
Went on several dates, mostly disappointing.
Met Roger at work; they bonded over shared Iranian heritage.
Later learned he saw the “Pretty Persian” ad and was almost called.
Together for 30 years, highlighting the importance of shared values.

Introduction of Michelle Frankel

Michelle is a professional matchmaker with over 15 years of experience.
Transitioned from practicing law to matchmaking after successfully pairing a colleague with their partner.
Describes her job as “making love for a living.”

Matchmaking Process

Michelle discusses the importance of dating with intention.
Many clients are busy professionals looking for serious relationships.
Emphasizes the emotional exhaustion from online dating.

Online Dating Insights

Michelle is a proponent of online dating if done correctly.
Many clients come to her feeling drained by the online dating experience.
Issues with online dating include inaccurate profiles and lack of respect.

Common Client Misconceptions

Clients often have unrealistic expectations about what they want.
Michelle uses her legal background to ask probing questions to clarify clients’ true desires.
Importance of identifying core values over superficial criteria.

Mock Dates and Coaching

Michelle conducts mock dates to provide feedback on clients’ dating skills.
Focus on how clients present themselves and engage in conversation.
Encourages authenticity while also being open to constructive feedback.

Common Dating Mistakes

First dates should not feel like job interviews; focus on being present and enjoying the moment.
Suggests asking engaging questions to foster deeper connections.

Ideal Date Suggestions

Recommends activities over long dinners to create a relaxed atmosphere.
Examples include walks in the park or engaging in fun activities like pickleball.

Importance of Presentation

Great photos are essential for online dating profiles.
Michelle advises against using outdated or unclear images.
Offers partnerships with stylists and photographers for clients.

Success Rates

Many clients find success within four to five introductions.
Feedback from dates helps refine future matches.

Challenges in Dating

Discusses the emotional dynamics when one person feels a connection while the other does not.
Highlights the importance of understanding different perspectives.

Modern Dating Etiquette

Encourages thoughtful gestures on holidays like Valentine’s Day without overwhelming new partners.
Suggests small, personal gifts rather than grand gestures.

Final Thoughts

Michelle emphasizes the importance of being open to dating across geographical boundaries.
Recommends exploring various activities in New Jersey for couples.
Encourages listeners to be mindful of their dating approach and to enjoy the process.