Finding love can feel like searching for something elusive, with the abundance of dating apps and online platforms often leaving individuals feeling more overwhelmed than fulfilled. Matchmaking is not just about finding someone who checks all the boxes; it’s about uncovering that rare blend of compatibility and chemistry that can form the foundation of a lasting bond. This is where the expertise of dedicated matchmakers like Hayley Hurst transforms the search for love into a guided, personalized journey—an approach that redefines how connections are made in an era of fleeting encounters.
Forging Meaningful Connections
Hayley Hurst, the Founder and Certified Matchmaker of Cohen Gray Connections, reflects on the journey that led her to pursue a career in matchmaking. For years, she felt unfulfilled in her previous jobs, but the turning point came during the pandemic when she discovered the intriguing world of matchmaking. She began working for a company that managed clients’ online dating profiles, immersing herself in the dynamics of online dating and later delving into traditional matchmaking.
Over time, Hayley realized she had outgrown her role within the company. Her passion for the field had expanded beyond what her position could offer. Inspired by her entrepreneurial upbringing—having witnessed both her parents build their own ventures—she decided to take a leap of faith. She pursued certification as a matchmaker through the Global Love Institute and launched Cohen Gray Connections.
The decision to leave behind the security of a steady paycheck was daunting, but Hayley saw it as a “now or never” moment. Driven by her newfound sense of purpose, she embraced the challenge and embarked on a path that has brought her immense fulfillment. Today, Hayley is excited about the future and the opportunity to help others forge meaningful connections through her work.
The Heartfelt Approach of Cohen Gray Connections
Cohen Gray Connections distinguishes itself in the matchmaking industry through an unparalleled level of customer service, personalized attention, and genuine care for its clients. Hayley ensures that the company takes a deeply personal and sincere approach to matchmaking. She emphasizes that her work is never motivated solely by financial gain; instead, she only takes on clients she genuinely believes she can help find love.
While there are no guarantees in the world of matchmaking, Hayley promises her clients one thing: no one will work harder for them than she will. She builds sincere relationships and friendships with her clients, creating a boutique experience marked by care, respect, and dedication. Each client is treated as if they were a close friend or family member, receiving personalized services tailored to their unique needs and desires. This commitment fosters an environment where clients feel valued, supported, and optimistic in their journey to find meaningful connections.
Building a Strong Network for Elite Matches
At Cohen Gray Connections, building a strong network to find elite matches goes beyond simply maintaining a database of potential candidates. While a robust database is a helpful tool, Hayley recognizes its limitations, as people’s lives change over time—through marriage, new relationships, or evolving preferences.
A key differentiator in her approach is the collaborative nature of the matchmaking industry. The matchmaking industry thrives on collaboration, with professionals supporting one another to expand the range of potential matches for their clients. This spirit of cooperation and mutual support is invaluable, enabling Cohen Gray Connections to deliver exceptional results. Recently, Hayley began working under Jessica Fass, the founder of Fass Pass to Love, a company she deeply admires. Jessica once shared a perspective that resonated with Hayley, she expressed that many people save for the wedding of their dreams before even finding the right person. ‘Doesn’t it make more sense to invest in finding the right person first?’ This sentiment speaks to the importance of matchmaking as a meaningful investment in one’s future, and Hayley is honored to be part of a collaborative industry that helps people find genuine, lasting connections
Another vital aspect of Hayley’s strategy is her expertise in the online space. With the digital landscape continuously evolving, she has developed a deep understanding of the nuances of online platforms and advanced technologies. This knowledge allows Cohen Gray Connections to access a wider pool of potential matches that might otherwise remain untapped.
By combining a well-maintained database, strong industry collaborations, and cutting-edge online expertise, Cohen Gray Connections offers clients a comprehensive and effective matchmaking service tailored to their individual needs.
Commitment to Customization and Accessibility
At Cohen Gray Connections, the creation of a customized matchmaking plan begins with a crucial first step: an in-depth strategy call or consultation. This initial conversation, which typically lasts 1.5 to 2.5 hours, is pivotal for founder Hayley Hurst. It allows her to gauge whether she and the prospective client are aligned and whether she can genuinely help them on their journey to find love. Trusting her instincts during this discussion, Hayley ensures that every client relationship begins with mutual confidence and understanding.
Cohen Gray Connections stands out for its highly personalized approach. Hayley avoids cookie-cutter solutions, believing that a one-size-fits-all plan is unsuitable when it comes to matters of the heart. Each client is treated as an individual with unique needs, desires, and preferences. Hayley delves deeply into their relationship history, future aspirations, and personal story to craft a bespoke matchmaking proposal that reflects their individuality.
Additionally, Hayley strives to accommodate clients’ budgets whenever possible, ensuring that her services remain accessible without compromising on the quality and standards of matchmaking excellence. This commitment to customization and accessibility ensures that every client’s journey with Cohen Gray Connections is as unique and meaningful as their path to finding love.
Finding Love Beyond the Checklist
When it comes to pairing two individuals, Hayley Hurst emphasizes that the qualities and traits prioritized are unique to each client. Her approach has evolved through experience and mentorship, including guidance from a seasoned matchmaker who taught her a valuable lesson: while every client has their non-negotiables, it’s essential to remain flexible on about half of their list.
Clients often focus on specific categories, such as age, religion, location, politics, children, height, profession, income, and ethnicity. Hayley’s role is to help clients discern which factors are truly critical to their happiness and which ones they might be willing to compromise on. Encouraging this balance allows her to align each client with the traits that matter most while fostering openness to possibilities they might not have initially considered.
Hayley notes that everyone’s priorities look different, which is natural. However, when a client is unwilling to compromise on anything, it can pose a challenge. She gently encourages flexibility, particularly for attributes like height, highlighting that minor differences—such as whether a partner is 5’6” or 5’8”—are unlikely to determine long-term happiness.
Creating a Secure and Trusted Environment
At Cohen Gray Connections, client safety and comfort are top priorities. Hayley Hurst takes privacy seriously, tailoring her approach to each client’s unique needs. She conducts thorough vetting and background checks for traditional matchmaking, ensuring peace of mind. For online connections, Hayley emphasizes cautious interactions, public meeting spaces, and vigilant research. Her goal is to create a secure and trusted environment where clients can explore meaningful relationships confidently.
Mastering the Art of Connection
Communication is central to successful matchmaking, and Hayley provides coaching to help clients refine their skills. Weekly sessions include feedback on dates, text exchanges, and online conversations, helping clients navigate relationships thoughtfully. By fostering open, honest communication, Hayley empowers clients to build stronger connections and lay the foundation for lasting relationships.
Staying at the Forefront of Matchmaking Game
To stay ahead in the evolving dating industry, Hayley actively engages with podcasts, social media, industry groups, and conferences. She collaborates with colleagues, learning from shared insights to enhance her services. Staying informed ensures Cohen Gray Connections remains relevant and effective.
Advice for the Hesitant
Hayley encourages those hesitant about matchmaking to view it as an investment in their future. She believes finding a life partner is one of life’s most significant decisions, and working with a matchmaker offers tailored support and expert guidance. The value of proactive, curated matchmaking far outweighs the hesitation.
Crafting a Future of Love
Hayley envisions balanced growth for Cohen Gray Connections, aiming to expand while maintaining its boutique, client-focused approach. Through industry collaboration and a commitment to spreading love, she plans to adapt to evolving needs without losing the personal touch that defines the company. Her mission is to bring more meaningful connections into the world.
