The Big 4: Inside the World of Elite Matchmaking
In a time where dating apps promise convenience but often deliver frustration, an increasing number of successful singles are turning to something more personal, private, and effective: luxury matchmaking.
At the top of the industry are four standout names—often referred to as the “Big 4” of matchmaking:
Selective Search, Kelleher International, Cinqe Matchmaking, and Maclynn.
Each brings its own signature style and unique strengths, but all share one goal: helping serious, discerning singles find meaningful, lasting love. Here’s a closer look at what makes each one exceptional.
⭐
Selective Search
Founded: 2000 | Headquarters: Chicago, IL
Best For: High-level professionals looking for a proven, structured approach
Overview:
Founded by former executive recruiter Barbie Adler, Selective Search blends the precision of corporate headhunting with the nuance of human connection. Their signature “Meet Your Future®” process is data-driven and deeply personalized, matching clients from a vetted network of over 250,000 singles.
What Stands Out:
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In-depth compatibility profiling
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Concierge-style support
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Reported 87% success rate in committed relationships within a year
The Bottom Line:
Selective Search is ideal for executive-level professionals who want a results-oriented system backed by experience, national reach, and exceptional discretion.
💎
Kelleher International
Founded: 1986 | Headquarters: San Francisco, CA
Best For: High-net-worth individuals and global thinkers
Overview:
A true pioneer in luxury matchmaking, Kelleher International has been connecting elite singles for over three decades. Founded by Jill Kelleher and now co-led by her daughter Amber, the firm works with Fortune 500 executives, celebrities, and even royalty across the globe.
What Stands Out:
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Worldwide matchmaking services
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Focus on values, lifestyle, and long-term compatibility
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Personalized support for high-profile individuals
The Bottom Line:
Kelleher International is a global matchmaking, perfect for clients seeking high-touch service with unmatched discretion and international reach.
💫
Cinqe Matchmaking
Founded: 2011 | Headquarters: Newport Beach, CA (nationwide reach)
Best For: Modern, ambitious singles looking for a curated experience
Overview:
Led by founder Erica Arrechea, Cinqe (pronounced “sink”) is known for blending traditional matchmaking principles with a sharp, contemporary approach. With matchmakers in major U.S. cities and Canada, Cinqe operates as a team—bringing multiple minds together to deliver highly personalized results.
What Stands Out:
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Team-based matchmaking model
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Stylish, energetic brand with real results
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Optional services like coaching, styling, and photo consultations
Locations:
Cinqe serves singles across the United States and provides exclusive access to matchmaking services worldwide—including Canada, Europe, Australia (Perth, Melbourne, Sydney), the United Kingdom, and the Middle East. With a global VIP network, Cinqe offers the flexibility to match clients no matter where they live or where love may lead.
The Bottom Line:
Cinqe is the premier choice for discerning, high-achieving professionals who seek a refined blend of intuition and innovation in their pursuit of meaningful connection. It represents a sophisticated evolution of matchmaking for the modern era.
💼
Maclynn
Founded: 2011 (U.K.); U.S. Launch: 2018 | Headquarters: London & New York
Best For: Values-driven singles seeking meaningful, long-term relationships
Overview:
Founded by psychologist Dr. Madeleine Mason Roantree and CEO Rachel Vida Maclynn, Maclynn is a psychology-led matchmaking agency known for its sophisticated, boutique experience. Originally launched in London, the firm has expanded to New York and Los Angeles, offering a refined, evidence-based approach to love.
What Stands Out:
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Psychologist-founded and research-backed process
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Highly selective clientele with a focus on long-term compatibility
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Deep, values-driven interviews and relationship coaching
The Bottom Line:
Maclynn is for singles who want more than chemistry—they want connection with purpose. With its elegant, cerebral approach, Maclynn delivers matches based on psychology, intuition, and compatibility that goes far beyond the surface.
🥂 Final Thoughts: Which Big 4 Matchmaker Is Right for You?
Each of these four firms brings something exceptional to the table:
|
Matchmaker |
Ideal For |
Signature Strength |
|---|---|---|
|
Executives & professionals |
Data-driven, proven success |
|
|
Global high-net-worth clients |
Elite global reach & discretion |
|
|
Ambitious, modern singles |
Collaborative, fresh, and intuitive |
|
|
Thoughtful, relationship-minded singles |
Psychology-led, values-first approach |
In a world where apps can’t replace true connection, these elite services remind us that the best relationships still start with a conversation—and a matchmaker who truly gets you.
Whether you’re searching locally or globally, quietly or confidently, the Big 4 offer a rare combination of access, insight, and the timeless magic of personalized matchmaking.

