Elite Personal Search

I had a terrible experience with Elite Personal Search in the Boston office. I see some good testimonials mainly out of CA. Guess, it would have been better to contract out of that office and pay the flight fees. I paid $8,000 for a joke. I had one non-starter. I was not interested in meeting any married or separated men. I made this clear at the first meeting. Not only was this ignored, my last perfect match was not only still married but still living with his wife! He was also portrayed to be running a division of a company - nowhere near the truth. You could do better on match.com for a lot less money. Don't make the same mistake I did. And to think, you could be a "VIP" for $25,000!

Matches: I was matched with a married man with an ill wife, but I was not told. He declined the date. Matches were not what I was looking for. It is about getting your money in a no refund contract. You can do better on the Internet. Avoid this service.

Elite has reviewed this complaint with the information provided. Based on the email and phone number provided we do not have anyone in our database with the contact information provided to Consumer Affairs. However, if this is a client of Elite Personal Search, the company can guarantee that we run background checks on all of our clients and we do not match anyone who is married. Whether or not the client stated that he was married and had an ill wife is information that is out of the control of the company. We cannot guarantee what a client will say and do during a date. But, again, Elite runs background checks on all of our clients and we would never match anyone who is married.

Elite Personal Search on Feb. 28, 2012

It's a total scam. I went to one office and met with a very nice woman named Gilpin. The second meeting was with a young woman who dressed like a prostitute in a small closet in a building across the street from the original office that was then closed. She was very discouraging about my prospects saying I would have to have some trial dates. She told me to get professional photos done and then sent me a photo of an old guy with sunglasses who never contacted me. I was told he went back to his girlfriend a month later. This was a month after paying the first $1,000. I had the bank cancel the payments and had to close my checking account. I wrote letters to both women to tell them the service was totally inappropriate, unprofessional, and unsatisfactory and I would not pay any more.

Ms. Susan French signed up with Elite for matchmaking services for 12 months and agreed to pay a fee of $5,900.00 and placed $1000 down with the promise to pay the balance within the next 6 months. The membership fee is for the the administrative and professional services which include but are not limited to, facilitating introductions, times spent working directly or indirectly on client's files, general advertising and marketing necessary to attract suitable individuals for successful matches, and for the time and effort to maintain the client's file. The client agreed and signed our membership agreement with the fact that profiles are presented every four to six weeks. Elite provided 3 suggestions: Mr. John S. Mr. Ed M. and Mr. Julian F in the first three months even though Ms. French had already DEFAULTED on her promise to make payments within the first month of the membership. We work with an accounts receivable company that collects balance dues and they are NOT a collection agency. If a client fails to pay a balance their membership is placed on HOLD until a resolution is reached. If a client refuses to pay Elite writes-off the balance due and inactivates a file. Elite does not send anyone to collections and in no way uses a client's default status as a way to "damage" a credit score. If Ms. French's credit is damaged it had nothing to do with Elite. Per her own admission she canceled the payments schedule with her bank and closed her checking account within 1 month of a 12 month contractual agreement. If anyone was scammed it was our organization as Ms. French had no intention of fulfilling her end of the terms of the agreement. As for the comment, "the second meeting was with a young woman who dressed like a prostitute," is subjective and also violates the contractual agreement clause about harassment and defamation.

Elite Personal Search on Jan. 10, 2012

Elite Matchmaking who also is Elite Personal Search solicits clients for free and has the real member that you pay for the services which cost thousands of dollars. All in the meantime, collaborating with the free solicited client asking them not to imply or disclose that they are not paying for the service since their clients are under the impression that they are being set up with clients paying for the same service. In other words, you are dating people whose intent is to just go out on dates for free, not a bad deal for the free customers, as this is what is told to them by the matchmaker.

Meanwhile, the paying customer paid thousands of dollars and are under the impression that the dates have the same outlook, perspective, and intentions as you on serious committed relationships. On top of that, I was put on a date with someone who was still legally married.

As you can see, this company is nothing but fraudulent! I gave them a chance to come clean and refund me my money since the services they sold me were nothing but misrepresentation of what they really did and clearly, this company is nothing but deceitful and liars. I had to put one star in order to submit but it's really worth a negative star!

I have had the most POSITIVE and PRODUCTIVE experience with Jennifer Turner at Elite Personal Search. Jennifer is a matchmaking wizard and found Sarah my life partner for me! Jennifer is totally professional and knows how to match adults looking for a partner. She is loyal, sensitive, caring, pro-active and totally dedicated to my happiness! Never have I had such a complete and totally positive customer service experience in my entire adult life! And I should know since I own several service businesses myself. I would hire Jennifer myself but she is way too dedicated and loves her profession!!

John, these words mean so much. Yes, Jennifer eats, sleeps and breaths matchmaking and has a profound love for her craft as well as the people like yourself. Those lives on which she has had such a major impact are too many to count and everyone's life is enhanced with someone like her. To say we love Jen, those words never measure the full extent of how we and our members truly feel. This is all about love and we thank you for beautifully expressing your love, John.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 22, 2011

This review is long overdue, but better late than never! I met with Summer **, my new matchmaker, in the San Francisco office in November 2009. I thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent with her. She made me feel comfortable and asked me a lot of questions about my past and where I see myself in the future. This was a good reflection for me considering that I have been wrapped up in my business for the past 5 years. There was a combination of feelings I was feeling, but mostly excitement as I was about to start a new chapter in my life. This was my first time hiring a matchmaker, so I didn't know what to expect. I thought it may be a good idea to have someone do the pre-screening for me; especially considering my "picker" has been broken for a very long time. Before I met Tom, Summer had matched me with 3 other men. They weren't bad matches, just not for me. I will never forget my first date with Tom. He took me to a nice restaurant in Fisherman's Wharf and I (or should I say "we") knew right from the get-go that there was chemistry between the two of us.

Tom and I have been dating for a little over a year now. It has been one of the best years of my life! I'm so excited to see what the future holds between Tom and I. I wanted to share my positive experience with Elite and Summer. She has made me so happy, and I wanted to thank her for it.

Wow! Thank you so much, Mary. Expect great things when you are so open to it and how happy everyone is that you have shared great things with others through your relationship with Elite. The future is looking bright for you and we couldn't be happier.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 22, 2011

I would highly recommend this company to anyone who is tired of dating people who are disingenuous and misrepresenting of themselves on dating sites, and anyone who wants to have someone there with them every step of the way in the matching process. I joined the Boston office shortly after my divorce. I thought I was ready, and went on a few dates before I realized that I in fact was NOT ready. They let me freeze my contract with no problem whatsoever.

A year later, I called to reactivate it, and met three amazing men in five months! I am currently seeing one regularly and am excited to see where that takes us. If it doesn't work out, then I know that there are many more great guys for me to meet, and if it does, well then I know I can freeze my contract again. Everyone was so nice and so understanding of my situation, they helped me sort through my past and realize some patterns I was having. Although it was an investment, it is money well spent. Great company!

Thank you Laura. It's a true testament to what a positive attitude can bring to any experience. We wish you the best and success in your relationship. Thank you again!

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 22, 2011

When I first came to meet with Jamie ** six months ago, I was very nervous. She made me feel comfortable as soon as we sat down and started talking. We spoke about so many things and I told her things I only discussed with my marriage counselor.

I considered working with a service for a few reasons. I was pretty new to the city (relocation for a job) and did not know anyone besides coworkers. They were all married so no help there. I had never tried a service before so this was new to me and I was not sure if this was the right thing for me to do. I was scared of the investment, if this would work for me and anxious of who I would meet. So I decided to go ahead and try it since I didn't want to do the Internet, I knew hardly anyone and I wasn't getting any younger.

After a few weeks, I met with the photographer and gave my photos to Jamie. We started working together and looking at profiles. She presented a few women and I passed on a couple. After talking about why I passed on them and getting a better understanding, I said yes and went on my first date. She looked great on paper, smart attractive, funny, educated but no spark.

I was a little frustrated and anxious, but Jamie and I spoke about what didn't work. All of the women were educated and attractive but then again I guess it's hard to judge on a picture. Knowing Jamie had met all of these women in person made me feel better because I knew she got to know me for who I am. After a few weeks, she talked to me about someone else she had in mind and I was really excited. We talked about Andrea and what we had in common and I was ready to meet her.

The first date went well and we planned a second date for the weekend. The second date was so great we wanted to meet again in a few days. In the meantime, we were texting and calling (not a big texter, but let her know when I was thinking about her). Things did happen very quickly, but we had a great time every time we see each other. A few months later and here we are, happy and ready to see what our future holds. We couldn't be happier and I couldn't be happier with my experience.

Thank you for all of your hard work and help!

Thanks Mark for sharing your experience with us.

Elite Personal Search on April 28, 2011

Where do I even begin.

Starting from Louie **, the biggest scammer of all who promised they had what I was looking for in the database but was unwilling to share that until I signed up and then he disappeared on the scene and did not take calls.

Then comes Summer **, perhaps the next biggest scammer of all. One match in over two years and then she stops responding to my emails and calls. I requested another person be assigned to my account and got Jennifer **. She made excuses for Summer **, but in the name of professionalism, I looked past that and tried to work with Jennifer. She turned out to be like everyone else--giving good attention in the first month and now for the past six months, not a single date! And now she's also refusing to return any of my calls.

Email me at ** if you'd like to have a stop to this and finally have Elite exposed for the scam that it is. The more emails I get, the easier it will be to build a civil lawsuit case against the company and we can all get the compensation for the company's action, or lack of it, towards all. I look forward to hearing from you.

Elite has reviewed and investigated this complaint and has found no record of this person's contact information in our database. The complaint states that "SheratonElite Adeyato," did not receive a single date in six months, which is not accurate accusation as providing "dates" is not what we do. Elite Personal Search is a matchmaking company, not a dating service, and finding a suitable match is a process that takes time. When members join our company, they are informed about terms and conditions of the agreement as well as the length of time as a key for the success of the program

Elite Personal Search on Oct. 4, 2011

On May 22, 2010 I entered into an agreement with Active Singles/Elite Personal Search through their intermediary Jamie Rose. The contracted amount was $4,900 for five introductions over the course of 12 months with the expiration date of the contract being 4/13. I contracted with an additional photographer through Jamie **** to facilitate the completion of my file. The photographer did not mail my photographs until mid-June. I had both Ingrid ****** and Jamie **** to contact the photographer on June 19, 2010.

On June 22th I was introduced to my first match who passed on meeting. On July 6, 2010, I was introduced to a potential match and contacted Ingrid again on July 20th when I hadn't heard from him. During a subsequent conversation with this introduction, he was unaware of the fact that I had a child. He learned of my son's existence when he wandered in the room during a conversation. This created a very awkward situation. I emailed Jamie on July 20th explaining the sporadic communication with Ingrid and voiced my concerns about men in the database that were open to meeting me, which I had done several times prior. Jamie responded two days later explaining that she would speak with her CEO concerning the issues that I was having.

I was introduced to another Matchmaker in Houston, Regina *******. She and I met and began communication via email beginning on August 16, 2010. She responded only once to an email from September 14, 2010 on September 23rd. I did not hear from her again. I emailed on October 3rd and October 17th (mentioning my intent to contact legal representation). When I did not receive a response, I began calling the main office in California. I placed a call to speak with a manger of matchmakers on October 22, 29; November 5, 8,9,10 and 12th. I was unable to speak with anyone in management on any of the calls and was told that the person I needed to speak with was away from his desk, in the restroom or at lunch. I personally left three voice mails. In all, I have voiced my concern about lack of services in five emails (copies of all communication have been saved). My final communication from Elite was an email forwarded by Jamie **** that appears to have been penned by Regina before she left the company on November 12, 2010.

In May 2010 I became a member to Elite Personal search. My contract was for one year and unlimited matches. I paid over 4K. I wasted my money and my time. For the past month I keep calling them emailing asking to send me matches, they keep ignoring my messages.

Based upon the limited information provided; the name "Kristy," and the email address "uniqueL21@aol.com," Elite has reviewed and investigated this complaint and found no record of this person's contact information in our database.

Elite Personal Search on Oct. 5, 2011

I was really happy that they said they did background searches on all of their members. But they did not listen to my needs at all. I wanted actual matchmaking, not throwing men at me. If I wanted that, I would have just gone to a bar.

They began sending me "matches" that were either not actually interested or ones that had been on their books for years (one for 7). I only went out with three of their suggestions and was sincerely disappointed. One was totally a loser, one acted like I was a call girl, and one called to keep telling me he was going to call. Very, very strange. Elite put me in a very uncomfortable position.

So I asked for my money back. I was even willing to take less since I did use their service for 4 months. They begged me to give them a second chance and I agreed as long as I could get a refund if I was not satisfied. Jen said, "Fine." I gave them the additional two months—no go. So when I asked for my money back again, they tried to put me over to their millionaire matchmaker—seriously, that's what she said she was.

I placed a complaint on the BBB and they tried again to have me speak with their millionaire matchmaker. But they placed a false claim that I had been out with seven of their match, which was a total lie. So I am saying that Elite is not a reputable business and I am filing a small claims case against them today since they did not refund me anything.

This complaint was initially addressed with Ms. Galutia on May 21, 2010 and the matter was resolved. Elite is currently working successfully with Ms. Galutia. We have stressed with Ms. Galutia that different people have different levels of success from client to client. It is a fact, that relationships are never exact and as such, they can be quite frustrating, when in the case of matters that involve the heart. We cannot and do not guarantee an outcome of any relationship between individuals that have minds of their own.

Elite has never guaranteed that anyone will strike chemistry with someone introduced to another. We did agree to guarantee to present men that are suggested as matches. Then the chemistry part is created between the individuals. There is no question she was presented with seven men. It was quite possible that they would meet and form a chemistry. She agreed that five of these men suggested were worth meeting.

To date we have presented a total of 27 different profiles to Ms. Galutia, 12 of those suggested profiles became actual matches; where both parties agreed to meet. We have received both positive and helpful feedback regarding her various matches. To further go above and beyond to make Ms. Galutia successful we have also extended Ms. Galutia's contract an additional six months to her 18 month contract.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 21, 2011

I signed up with Elite on July 3, 2010. I spent over an hour with Jamie, she was very nice. We talked for over an hour about the kind of man that I was looking for, that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with. I was very specific. She assured me that there would be no problem. I choked at the price, but thought if this company could truly find me the man I had been looking for, it would be worth it. She also suggested that I have my pictures done with the person they deal with. I turned that down. I signed the contract and went on my way, very hopeful. A few days later, I got a call from Ingrid while at work, after I had been specific about not being called until after 5pm. Jamie had said that Ingrid was very good and she had a really good track record. I explained to her that I could not talk during work hours and to please call me after 5pm, which she said she would call me later that evening. No call.

Two days went by, no calls. So I called her, only to get her voicemail. This happened a number of times before we finally connected and set up a time for a phone interview, so she get more specifics about what I was looking for. I thought I had been pretty specific with Jamie, but I was willing to talk with her. We spent about 30 minutes on the phone and she encouraged me to get my pictures to her as soon as possible. She sent me an email saying how happy she was to be working with me. That was on Thursday. On Sunday, I sent the pictures to her and asked that she let me know that she had received them. No response. I called her on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, without a response. Finally, the call on Friday, I was pretty upset. I then got a call back from Narcissa. She explained that Ingrid had quit the day after she had talked to me. She said the company was very upset. She also said I would have to wait a while because there was no one for me to work with. Needless to say, I was ticked off (being polite).

After complaining for a few minutes and basically getting no where, she said she would personally see what she could do. She would be out of town for a while, but would look in it when she gets back. I again sent the pictures to her. When I had not heard from her after a week or so, I finally sent an email to Jamie who I had originally met with. Amazingly, I got a match the next day, if you can call it that. Someone 60 miles away, who likes to hunt, fish and camp. I don't do any of those things. I like to scuba dive, travel, garden. I heard nothing for another couple of weeks, then got a call from Regina, the new person who is actually in Houston. She wanted me to come in and meet with her, so I did. I went over the same info with her. She knew I was pissed. By this time, I also discovered Jamie had overcharged me. Regina promised to get that resolved and asked me to give her 2 weeks. She promised I would have a match.

Well, the 2 weeks went by and not a word from her. Finally, I got a response from her. She matched me with someone approximately 75 miles away, who was traveling, but would be back soon. I also asked about the overcharge. She stated that she passed the info along and would again check into it. I never heard another word from her. I have attempted to contact her by phone and email without response. I have asked for my money back. Of course, there has been no response. I have now sent them an email stating that I am giving them a specific amount of time or I will file a lawsuit against them, and I will do it. I have not heard a word back. This company is terrible. I wish I had checked out this site before I signed up with them. Regina even told me that there has only been one unhappy person in Houston. What **. We need to ban together and put this company out of business.

I joined Elite Personal Search in July, 2010. The agency claims that it meets with you one-on-one to find out who you are, and introduce you to the one you have been looking for. I was asked numerous questions about what and who I am looking for. I am a very attractive young woman, who doesn't have time to go to the bars to look for guys.

They assured me that I came to the right place, and they have thousands of candidates for someone like me. I also mentioned that I'd be willing to relocate, which according to them makes it even easier to match me with someone. I was looking forward to this new experience. When I met with the matchmaker, I told her very specifically, what I was looking for in a man. I tried to be as detailed as possible in order for her to understand my personality better, and who I'd be interested in meeting.

At the end of the conversation she made a comment that I have very high standards and it makes my search more difficult, but if I didn't have high standards, would I be joining their "VIP-Premier dating" agency? I was very specific that I am attracted to brunettes, but I'd be open to meeting blondes as well. So far, I received 4 introductions in which 3 out 4 were blondes.

Even though I didn't like any of the matches, I decided to give it a shot. The matchmaker gave my number to the guy who, according to her, loved my profile and found me extremely beautiful. He never called me. I think the matchmaker knew in advance, that the guy was not going to call me because she called me, and suggested another great guy, so I would have a date for the weekend.

The guy called and we set up a day to meet. The guy ended up rescheduling with me three times, wasting my weekend. I refused to meet with him at all. My matchmaker could not understand why I am so upset. To her it wasn't a big deal. The next blond was not even in my age category. I called the top manager 4 times to ask him to switch the matchmaker for me. My calls were never returned. They simply don't care.

I paid $3,500 up front. Now, I am trying to figure out a way to get my money back. I'd probably need to file a law suit in a small claim court. It's a waste of my time, money, and energy.

After investigating this complaint Elite has discovered who "Client from Phoenix," is and will acknowledge and honor her desire to remain anonymous. "Client from Phoenix," became a member of Elite Personal Search on July 17, 2010 with a promise of 5 matches in a 12 month period. In consideration of the services set forth "Client from Phoenix," agreed to pay a fee of $3,500 for the administrative and professional services included but not limited to facilitating introductions, time spent working directly or indirectly on "Client from Phoenix's," profile, general advertising and marketing necessary to attract suitable individuals for successful introductions. When "Client from Phoenix," joined our membership she was informed about the terms and conditions of the agreement as well as the length of time as a key for the success. The length of the term exists because matchmaking is not a precise science and the length of time is a crucial factor for success. Elite Personal Search invests a great amount of time and energy with each person to ensure the best results for our members. The criteria is explained within the profile of all the suggestions and it is the client's choice if they want to meet the person presented. "Client from Phoenix," is currently an active member and working directly with our Boston matchmaker. To date we have suggested a total of 11 profiles.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 21, 2011

I signed up with Elite and paid approximately $2500 and was assigned the matchmaker Chrystina D. Chrystina took weeks to provide me with one match which I approved immediately (within hours). Days later, she advised that the match declined to meet me, because I was "looked like his sister." She promised me a new match the next week.

I never heard from her again despite emailing her for updates. I finally demanded my money back, and then I heard from another matchmaker named Narcissa L. who claimed to only handle "VIP" clients and who advised me that Chrystina was no longer my matchmaker and that she had "hand-picked" my file. She promised me a match the next week, and based on her reassurances and promises, I did not press getting my money back. I never heard from her again too despite sending her follow-up emails.

I then again demanded my money back and heard from a woman at Elite claiming to be the supervisor of Chrystina and Narcissa. She offered to "babysit" a matchmaker for me, so I could actually get a match. I declined and insisted on getting my money back. I then heard from a man who claimed to work with the CEO who also offered to "babysit" a matchmaker for me. I again declined and demanded my money back.

The man promised to call me back the next Monday (I spoke to him on a Friday) and let me know about getting my money back. I've never heard from him again despite leaving him voice mail messages. I have sued them in Orange County Superior Court (just filed yesterday 6/29).

Jennifer Stein became a member of Elite Personal Search on February 23, 2010 with the promise of unlimited candidates for introductions within 18 months, the term of the membership agreement, with a suggested profile every four to six weeks. For these services—along with the administrative and professional matchmaking services which include but not limited to facilitating intros, time spent working directly and indirectly on client's profiles, general advertising and marketing necessary to attract suitable individuals for successful matches—Ms. Stein agreed to pay $2000.00, not $2,500.00 as stated in her complaint, for unlimited matches for 18 months. Two weeks into the process she demanded her money back and we reminded her that it is a non-refundable agreement and that she had just started the process. She was only two weeks into her 18 month membership. We recommended that she work with another matchmaker, who works exclusively with VIP clients and who after reviewing her file decided to take Ms. Stein on as a client. She refused the additional service on April 1, 2010 and on April 6, 2010 she asked that we stop calling her and that she was suing us—as she is an attorney—for "fraud" even though, according to the agreement between Elite and Ms. Stein, Elite had just started to honor the agreement, less than one month into an 18 month agreement. Attempts to inquire about her allegations of fraud were never addressed by Ms. Stein or her attorney. The department manager and the client relations manager at the Elite corporate office both called Ms. Stein to try and work with her and assured her that we would never offer to "babysit" any of the matchmakers as they are professionals and have been matchmaking for a combined tenure of over 10 years. Our matchmakers were then informed by Ms. Stein—via their private Facebook accounts—that they were being sued for fraud. The matchmakers felt bullied by her with the lawyer jargon and by contacting them on their personal Facebook accounts. The company decided to grant her a settlement to prevent her from her continuous bullying of the matchmakers.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 21, 2011

Elite Personal Search is a complete scam. They took my money and did nothing. The guidelines that I gave them regarding the type of woman I was interested in were not even considered. I was not introduced to one person for the $3000 I spent for 6 months of dating. The phone numbers were inactive or the person never answered. In 5 months, I never met one person. On top of that, they never really listened to any of the parameters that I had originally given them regarding the type of woman I was looking for. They basically did nothing and stole $3000. I am a large Toyota dealer in Texas and have connections to Texas government. I am going to pursue these losers for as long as I can until they are out of business in Texas. I suggest everybody keep after them. People like this should not only be out of business, but in jail! That is my goal.

This business is a total sham. They sold me a bill of services they never delivered on. They take money from clients, promise to provide a service of 'matchmaking' but don't deliver, and then do not refund the money. You cannot reach the owner/managers. If you call them, they are always unavailable. Receptionists will screen calls to keep you from getting through to them. The one time I was given a match, the match told me he hated the service, he didn't know why they gave him name to me, that he could find a better match by running his grocery cart into someone at the grocery store. The whole operation is a sham. They should be put out of business and required to return everyone's fee. I lost $1500.

Elite was surprised to receive this complaint from this former client. Ms. Diane Sahakian was a member of Elite 5 years ago and signed an agreement for 6 months and five matches. Her accusations of Elite being a "scam," and the we sold her a "bill of services that they not deliver on," are surprising in that we provided the services she paid for: Steve M. was suggested on 6/25/2007, Jim F. was suggested on 7/26/2007, Andrew G. was suggested on 9/5/2007, Earl R. on 9/25/2007 and Rob C. on 10/10/2007. Elite can provide Consumer Affairs.Com with copies of the profiles and emails presented to Ms. Sahakian.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 21, 2011

I am an elite client (8 months) and as such, please do yourself a favor and run away with your $7000 and invest it somewhere else. If you want to give matchmaking services a try, then investigate other companies where they truly hand select matches for you. This company is an expensive version of online dating and if you try to complain, they will tell you they have presented you with X number of profiles when these matches are no longer available, or perhaps they do not exist because these people are no longer clients.

The company doesn't honor any refund requests. You do have the choice to make monthly payments and if so, you have the choice to stop paying them based on "fraudulent" services and keep copies of all your suggested matches emails and take them to small claim court if Jose G. or Louie F. threaten you with ruining your credit history if you stop paying. Matchmaking services are now more common and can be great service if you choose the right company with the right values and right intentions. Look at their BBB rating and trust the BBB when Elite has earned an "F" is because of a reason. Trust your instincts and run the opposite way. Plenty of matchmaking agencies in Los Angeles. $7000 plus all the emotional stress.

Elite has reviewed and investigated this complaint and has found no record of this person's contact information in our database based on the email address, "clientelite@yahoo.com," provided in the complaint. Although there is not enough information provided in the complaint for the company to address accordingly; the company can address the complaint of threats to send people to collections. Elite DOES NOT send anyone to collections. Elite, like most companies, have an accounts receivable department that is no way affiliated with any credit reporting bureaus.

Elite Personal Search on Oct. 5, 2011

I initially contacted Elite Personal Search at the recommendation of someone else in the matchmaking industry. I saw some of the negative reviews, but thought that with "10,000" members they were bound to get a few negatives a year. My first meeting was with Kim ** in Denver. She was bubbly and friendly and told me that I should be easy to match. Her initial quote was a ballpark of 5000 but she was going to get back to me with a more precise figure.

I never did hear back from her, but I was on the fence anyway. An emailed ad for a split fee, 50% up front and 50% after you got married, really got my attention and I called Kim back. Still not hearing from her. While the limited-time offer was running out, I contacted the headquarters. They said Kim was wonderful but just swamped with work and connected me with the CEO, Louie. He was very nice and said that he couldn't quote me a price without talking to Kim; understandable, since I believe they price you based on the ease of matching. Of course, Kim called back within a few hours and said she'd be in touch the next day re pricing and would extend the deal for me.

Well, I didn't hear from her the next day or the next. I called her and still no response. Finally, about a week later she emailed me a contract, not for the split pricing deal, but for a straight 7 matches for 3000. This seemed pretty good compared with what she formerly quoted, but I wanted the split deal. I wrote back asking for the pricing for that.

I have still not heard back and it's been a week and a half. I reread the reviews and found one in the Better Business Bureau giving Elite an F for exactly the same complaints that are mentioned here. I decided that my experience exactly matched what I read here, and if I had to twist their arms to get them to even send me a contract, I was sure as heck not going to hear from them after I paid them the entire fee up front. Based on the comments here, it seems that they would not put too much effort into matching me accurately after they have the money in their pockets. So, I will not be working with Elite.

Elite has reviewed and investigated this complaint and has found no record of this person's contact information in our database based on the email address city, state and zip code provided in the complaint. Based on the information in the complaint "Melissa" is not a member of Elite Personal Search. Based on her expectations it is very possible that we decided not to pursue her as a client. We do turn away roughly 30 % of the people that we meet with, which may attribute to our unwillingness to pursue her as a client. Her complaint that "my experience exactly matched what I read here," is inaccurate as it is based on what she read as opposed to an actual experience with the membership. Clearly, "Melissa" understood the nature of the industry as she admits that a company of our size will inevitably have negative feedback, however she contradicted her statement by complaining about what she read instead of any potential experience.

Elite Personal Search on Oct. 5, 2011

I had the same terrible experience everyone else did. If you are smart enough (and lucky) to read these reviews beforehand - they are all true. Do not deal with this company under any circumstance. I dealt with Susie ** at the Boston office. I also tried to cancel my payment within the 3 days and was ignored and re-routed. This was months ago. My money has still not been returned. I am not comfortable with their practices. I never went on a date, never had my pictures taken - I have just been trying to get my money back. I lost $6,000 and hours and hours of my time and dignity.

For three years, I went to different services and tried many different matchmakers to hopefully one day, find my true life partner. I paid thousands of dollars and went to tons of meetings and interviews and still had no luck. Frustration eventually took over so much, that I began to give up. I stopped banging my head against the wall and just accepted the fact that I'm just not meant to be a married man. Everyone has their main mission in life and I guess my mission didn't involve a wife. My friends and family didn't like this new attitude of mine and were not going to give up on me as quickly as I did.

A few weeks went by when I was told about this company from my brother. He told me about their huge success rate and how he knew two different cases personally of how they helped two of his friends find their soul mates. I thought, yeah right! I haven't found a wife in three years of desperate searching and I'm not going to find her now. It took two weeks of him bothering me about joining, that I finally did, just to shut him up and prove him wrong.

Once again, I went through another interview and paid a price, which in actuality was extremely lower than what I expected. All the riff raff was the same as all the other companies I dealt with previously and I kind of had deja vu the whole time. After all that stuff, I still wasn't so confident in my chances. I was wrong.

Almost a week later, I received a phone call from my matchmaker. She told me all about the three different girls she had lined up for me. To my surprise, they sounded great. I obviously gave her the green light to set up the first date. After all, what did I sign up for? To make a long story short, the first girl wasn't what I was looking for, but the second girl was the kind of girl that I never even dreamed of finding. Picture every kind feature you want in a girl put into one. Every external feature, every internal feature, every little detail that you usually look past because all the others balance it out in one four-limbed person. The chances of finding that kind of girl, is about zero to none. I don't know what made God give me something like that, but he did. I ended up marrying this girl and totally being proven wrong by my brother.

I'm embarrassed to say that for three years, I had absolutely no faith. I gave up and became very depressed, which is not healthy at all. I am so grateful for my brother and even more so for this company. Anyone who tells you that this service is a scam or doesn't work, has no idea what they are talking about.

This review is a good example of how the matchmaking process changes peoples lives.

Elite Personal Search on Oct. 5, 2011

I wish I'd seen this site before I gave this woman almost $5K to lie to me! Lesa ** spent much more than the initially scheduled hour, asking me detailed questions about the kind of man I want to be with. She is charming and beautiful and we seemed to have a lot in common, like girlfriends. I was specific about many things, including a man who was at least 6'2", under 55 years old, no children under 16, not balding or blond. And other criteria - if you're new in town and paying $5K to meet the right person, you may as well be honest about what you really want!

Before I signed the contract, Lesa told me she had "five guys" who were looking for someone just like me. I signed happily. She scratched out the part about "1 match per month" and wrote in "first match within 1 week", because I was allegedly such a hot commodity. After 10 days of nothing, she said she hadn't gotten my criminal background check back from the LA headquarters yet. So I called them - they'd sent it in 2 days. Then she said she was having personal problems, then business problems. I waited. Finally, I began pursuing her by phone. She rarely called back, and often would breathlessly say, "I'll call you back in an hour/tomorrow/tonight", and never do it.

Finally, I got her on the line long enough to insist she found the 5 guys who had disappeared. She had her assistant, who I've never met, send me "3 choices". Guess what? One was 61 "but acts young", the blond one had 2 or 3 small kids and the other was short. I called her, very angry but polite. No response to several phone messages. No response to emails. Nothing at all. Weeks passed. I called the LA office and told them I either want my money back or help finding the right man. A kind and gracious woman named Chrystina promised to take over my case. I feel happier, not trustful, but happier.

Chrystina said Lesa would call to explain. I waited and a few days later, Chrystina sent me a ruddy-faced blond man who is looking in the camera like it's his police mugshot. I began asking, demanding, in writing, email and by phone my money back. No harm, no foul. I sent a certified letter asking for a refund by X date. Not even a call. I've owned my own company for 20+ years. An angry customer is lethal! I handle the inevitable occasional complaints ASAP. Not so at Elite. I filed for arbitration today.

I'm going to have my junior staff post my tragic story of deception in a minimum of 200 websites (OK, 199 after I do this one myself). I'm going to call all the consumer advocacy groups and TV studios I know. I'm going to get some press for them - not the good kind. I hope you are reading this not to commiserate because you've already been burned by these scammers, but because you were thinking about putting your money down with them in the hope of finding true love.

Honestly, do not use these people! I am out $4900. I am willingly spending money and time on arbitration, advertising, planting my true story on every internet site we can can find, getting my existing media contacts to understand what a dishonest company this is and cover the story, on and on and on. What they are doing is wrong and should be stopped.

This complaint was addressed and settled with the Ms. Keller in May of 2010.

Elite Personal Search on Jan. 10, 2012

I love this company. Ever since I joined about three months ago, I have had some pretty amazing dating experiences. This company isn't some random low class dating service. They don't talk big game and not follow through. They are the exact opposite. They have kept every promise they made to me in the past three months. Whenever I was told that I would receive a phone call or e-mail to discuss the upcoming date, they did. Every girl they set me up with fit my requirements very well. The thing that I am most impressed with is the speed at which they work. Within a week of me being a member, I was already set up with someone. At this rate, I'll be married in no time. Keep up the good work guys.

Shawn, it pleases us that you're so happy with the service. The staff at Elite is here for you and we will continue to provide you with the quality of service that has exceeded your expectations. Thank you! P.S. Would you like the position as our spokesperson?

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 22, 2011

I joined Elite Personal Search in January 2008. My friend Janice was actually successfully matched through Elite and is married to a wonderful man, so I decided to move forward with having the Elite matchmakers get to work for me.

I will be honest when I say that my initial experience with Elite was a little shaky. It took 2 weeks to schedule my initial matchmaking meeting and my first match was not presented to me until about 4 weeks after my start date. They did tell me this in my initial meeting with then, but looking back, I guess it just seemed like a long drawn out process. Then again, I was really ready to meet someone right away, that's why I went to them so it was probably just me being very impatient through the starting process.

It took Elite 6 months and 5 actual matches to introduce me to Brian. Brian is amazing. This is really incredible because I spent a ton of money with Elite and I was so skeptical that it would work and it did! We are still so in love and plan to marry on June 17th, the date of our first date. He is definitely everything I was looking for and then some! He treats me like a princess and he is my prince. I am not going to lie and say that it was a fabulous process from start to finish, there were some definite bumps in the road and some bad matches, but then again, it far exceeded my dating experience meeting men on my own or through the dating sites (Never again-Yes!).

I think I forgot how horrible it was trying to meet men on my own, that I figured because I paid for a service, it should just happen immediately and every person I met would be close to the love of my life and that was not the case. Be patient through the process and understand that your prince or princess will come over time. It worked for my friend, it eventually worked for me and I know that it will work for you too. Even though my experience with Elite was shaky at first, I am so very happy and I owe them everything for introducing me to Brian. Thank you to my fabulous matchmaking team Verenia, Ingrid, Jen and Melissa!

Fantastic, Karon! Great team work, effort and mindset get great results! Congratulations! Thank you for allowing the pleasure of being a part of something so truly special!

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 22, 2011

Elite Personnel Search is an online scam. Elite is supposed to b a professional matchmaker. I have paid nearly $4000 for absolutely no results and no real attempt on their part. I found Elite online and I didn't even finish the online form but a Kim ** called me anyway to come in, so I thought I would try. I paid $3000 upfront plus $400 for professional pictures that they required of me and then three more months of $325.00.

Elite Personnel Search has been a total waste of money. After 6 months and thousands of dollars, they have not come up with a single match. In this 6 months, they have only called twice with possible matches that were so off the mark that it was offensive. Then to add insult to injury, their accounting department called wanting more money and wondered why my CC rejected their charge. They have threatened me with creditors and trying to ruin my credit because I refuse to pay for them more money. Their resources of dates are apparently slim and none.

It would be one thing if they had shown me at least 1 candidate per month, but they couldn't even come up with more than two in 6 months. They may try to claim that I'm too picky but they haven't even come up with candidates for me to reject. I just recently logged into Match just to look around and saw the same two guys with the same bad photos. They weren't even a 70% match. It looks like I'll have to sue to get my money back and to keep them from ruining my credit.

Ms. Shannon Foster joined Elite Personal Search on January 27, 2009. The agreement signed states that Elite Personal Search will present Ms. Foster with 8 candidates for introduction purposes, every four to six weeks, within a 12 month period. Ms. Foster signed our agreement with the understanding and acknowledgment that matchmaking is not a precise science with various factors playing a role in the process and that consequently, Elite Personal Search does not guarantee that each candidate it presents will possess all or even most of the objective and subjective criteria desired in a companion. Below you will find the names, dates and profile information of the clients presented to Ms. Foster. We have presented suggested profiles per the contract but Ms. Foster has been unhappy with the matches because we could not provide profiles of men who rode Harleys. The first profile Christopher H. was presented on March 19, 2010. Christopher's profile is as follows: Christopher lives in Denver and is 43 years old. He is 5'11", and has brown eyes and brown hair. Please find his picture attached. He is divorced and does have a 6-year old son, part-time. Christopher works as an Airline Technician. He enjoys skiing, cycling, travel, scuba-diving, motorcycling, dining out...He is looking for a fun, happy woman who loves life like he does! Ms. Foster agreed to presented profile and then changed her mind with the following comment: "I hate to tell you but just from his bike I can tell you we're probably not a match." Management went over Ms. Foster's notes where she talked about the type of match she was looking for and though she did specify she was looking for someone "outdoorsy," and "rode motorcycles" the very crucial fact that she wanted someone who rode a Harley and was part of the "Harley" culture was something that she did not specify until AFTER she became a member. Ms. Foster filled out her matchmaking profile and provided us with the following bit of information regarding qualities preferred in a mate regarding motorcycles: "On the must-have' list and would like to have' list. On the would like to have' side, he needs to be intelligent, probably have a college degree. He is well spoken and is self-confident without being arrogant. He owns at least one motorcycle (probably a Harley) and loves to ride..." The management team reminded Ms. Foster that we as a company use reasonable, good faith efforts to work with all of our clients and that her specifics for the Harley culture is something that was never agreed upon. The second profile, Sam C., was suggested on 4/24/09. Sam lives in Denver He is 6'3 and in good shape. Sam is looking for a kind, loving , intelligent woman. The third profile suggested, Tim M., is another client with the shared interest in motorcycles yet she dismissed him as "the one who rode a speed racing bike." Tim Morris lives in Denver and is 52 years old. He is 6"2', blue eyes and dark brown hair. He is divorced...no children. The fourth suggested profile, Joe L., as made on 5/28/09. Joe lives in Lakewood and is 50 years old. He is 6'3", blue eyes and brown hair, in great shape. He enjoys exercise, sports, travel & life, coaches softball team, tennis, motorcycles, has tickets to Rockies and Nuggets, skiing, music, museums. Mr. Joe L., was again dismissed because of her Harley-Only policy. The fifth suggested profile, Mr. Michael L., was suggested on 6/8/2009. Michael lives in Littleton and is 48 years old. He is 6'2", and has brown eyes and brown hair. Her email reply was no, with the following remark: "The weekend comes and I'm on my bike. A beautiful day comes and I'm on my bike. I take vacation.... You guessed it ...on my bike. What is he suppose to do?? I'm going to Sturgis (look it up) for a week with my friends - more than half are guys, if he doesn't ride, how does he fit in?? Non-riding men just wind up getting jealous and left behind." The matchmakers emphasized the other important qualities that Michael possessed but since he did not ride the Harley she did not agree to move forward. We continued to use reasonable, good faith efforts to work with Ms. Foster even though we, as an organization never promised or agreed to Ms. Foster's request where she specified this very subjective request of men who ride Harley's prior to her signing the agreement. We continued to work with Ms. Foster according to the original match requirements that she stated in her original signed paperwork with the full understanding that the matchmakers at Elite will keep a keen eye out for men who ride Harley Davidson motorcycles and we wrote-off her balance of $2000.00. A sixth profile Bob G., was suggested on 7/8/2009. Bob is 50, 5'11, with blue eyes and brown hair. Bob is good hearted, funny, masculine, compassionate, romantic and hard working. Mr. Bob G., owns many motorcycles including one Harley. He is one of our VIP clients and is considered one of the top bachelors in the greater Metro area.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 21, 2011

They claim to be a match-making service with in-depth interviews and questionnaires, not a "dating service". They charge $7,000 and insist you get a head shot from a photographer. I had to have my lawyer ask for my money back. They paired me, a left wing foodie with a raw foodist and a right wing conservative, among other gaffs.

Client "Lorraine," became a member of Elite on October 8, 2008. She signed an agreement to receive 7 matches in 12 months. Client "Loraine," received all the services she paid for including 2 additional profiles all within the length of her membership. Elite can provide detailed information regarding emails, feedback etc on the profiles presented to client "Loraine." The profiles were: Sean H on 10/23/2008, Glen S. on 11/14/2008, Fred G. on 12/14/2008, David F. on 1/14/2009, Ken D. on 2/13/2009. Bob W. on 3/3/2009, Roger N. on 4/8/2009, Paritosh D on 4/13/2009, Norman G. on 5/8/2009, Fred S. on 7/7/2009 and Marshal K on 8/9/2009.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 21, 2011

I read a couple of bad reviews and was skeptical at initial stages. I had gotten into such a mess with previous matchmaking companies that my faith was shaken. They promised me one thing and what I got was something else. No match at all. I was out there in the dating world looking for a long term partner and I think I just arrived at the right place after meeting the staff. I already had in my mind the image of the girl I was looking for. Good it helped the matchmaker prepare the compatibility report. From the first intro, I knew that my requirements are looked into. It took a year of dating before I found something solid. I must have went through 8 women before I met Katie. It was during this time that I realized where these negative reviews were coming from. It was from people that were not willing to wait it out. From people that just were not willing to work with the company matchmakers. Well I did and I thank them for their help.

This is really appreciated, Randy. Yes, people have had some poor experiences and then apply that to their future. This is so important and thank you for emphasizing that key element to happy life and you have been a great example to us and given so much happiness to those around you. Thank you for the credit, but we definitely share this with you. Take care, Randy.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 22, 2011

I signed up and paid $5,000 to meet men within 50 miles of San Jose California, between the ages of 50 and 60. The contract promises to introduce me in person to 10 eligible men in accordance with my specifications over the 12 month period starting October, 2008. To date, I have not met a single man in person. The possible matches sent my way were not within my age, or geographical range. The one who seemed at all possible lived in Tiburon (125 miles at least from San Jose) and he didn't bother to show up for our dinner date. The contact looks solid, but this is a real scam.

I can't afford to lose $5,000 and get NOTHING in return. I would like at least half of my money back. They take no calls at Elite.

Ms. Erkanat has been presented with 16 profiles since she signed on as a member of Elite on November 8, 2008. Ms. Erkanat is currently pursuing a relationship and is still an active member of Elite under the "hold" status, taking advantage of the "freeze time," offered to our clients upon becoming a member. One of the benefits of signing up with Elite is that you will never lose time while pursuing a relationship with a match or if pursuing a relationship with someone a client meets on their own.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 21, 2011

I would like to share this court experience about suing Elite Personal Search. I signed contract with Active Single LLC / DBA Elite Personal Search about two years ago. They claimed they were local in San Jose, the sales rep. named Louis promised me they would have local office and local people (esp. him) would work with closely me to find my life time partner. He spent 2 hours explaining how wonderful their services are.

Well, hoping someone could do what they are paid for, I paid them $7900 for a 18-month service, which Elite claimed to be the lowest rate they had. Elites San Jose office was closed one month after the interview and Louis never contacted me after taking my money. During the past 2 years, they never set up any date for me yes, 0 date for two years. I complained but their management never cared to respond.

I decided to take it to Santa Clara small claim court to look for justice. Elite flew somebody to the bay area from LA to attend the court. Before we stood in front of judge, a mediator talked to both of us, Elite agreed to offer $1500 plus another two-year extension of the contract. The mediator used to be a contract attorney, he said the contract would make me look really bad, because there is a non-refundable? term, so I may leave the court without getting anything. I wanted to know what the court would do, so decided not to take that offer. The mediator was right, the court ruled that Elite did not owe me any money.

I want to say to all who have not signed Elite Personal Searchs contract, peoples complaints on this website are true. More importantly, if you sign this contract with Elite, you are throwing your money away and without getting any protection, not even from court!!! Why? Because Elite spent their money on the attorney fee to draft a contract which will NOT be reversible UNDER ANY CONDITION. Although I lost the case, I am glad I did it. if more people go to court and have our voices heard, it will cause Courts attention.

We were unhappy to learn that Ms. Wang had taken the matter all the way to court systems. The courts ruled in our favor because we provided the service that Ms. Wang paid for. We work with all of our client's demands, concerns and requests and as such we did offer a settlement which she refused. She became a member of Elite on May 9, 2009 with an18 month contractual agreement for the administrative and professional services included but not limited to facilitating introductions every four to six weeks, time spent working directly or indirectly on Ms. Wang's profile, general advertising and marketing necessary to attract suitable individuals for successful introductions. The profiles were Bryan M. on 5/18/2007, Bill A. on 5/31/2007, John 7/5/2007, Arik M. on 8/14/2007, Ryan M. on 9/20/2007, Adam C. on 11/14/2007, Enrico T. on 12/14/2007, Tony M. on 2/9/2008, Chris Q. on 3/27/2008, Christopher C. on 5/19/2008, Ed J. on 7/17/2008 and Steve J. on 9/17/2008.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 21, 2011

I am a successful, educated, beautiful woman who has difficulty meeting great men because I am a single mother who spends my time mothering. I thought that Elite would be able to help me meet men of equal caliber who met my preferences and religious requirements. My matchmaker Summer was able to set me up on a date with a very nice gentleman for my first date who I got along very well with, but later found did not meet my explicit requirements that were outlined in my matchmaking profile.

Elite continued to send proposed matches of men who did not remotely meet my requests, so I questioned them again as to whether they had the men that I was looking for. Their blatant disregard of my parameters caused me to question whether there was any intention whatsoever to match me up with someone who met my criteria. I asked for a refund and they refused, and when I talked to their Director she assured me that they had many men who met my criteria. I have not received any contact from them in 5 months, and believe that Elite is just a scam to collect large service fees from individuals with the intent of haphazardly throwing matches at them hoping something will stick.

I am a single mother who made an investment to help facilitate a dating life that would offer safety through background checks, and efficiency through effective matchmaking. What I received was a monthly payment that I have continued to pay, and the absence of any service whatsoever. I have seen several other clients mentioning working with attorneys but believe that the most effective way to battle a corporate entity with no integrity is via a combined effort class action. I just believe that if they are unwilling to offer their services, the LEAST they could do is refund money for services unrendered.

Elite has reviewed and investigated this complaint an has found no record of this person's contact information in our database.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 21, 2011

I am a very attractive women, I am also an attorney. I have no problem dating but I was looking for a pool of successful, educated men so someone can sift through and filter dates for me. I gave a thousdand dollars to elite and practically never heard from them again. I am a civil litigation attorney and would file a lawsuit in small claims court but I find this to be somewhat of a personal matter, the fact that I joined a dating service is personal.

$1,000

Ms. Atighechi became a member of Elite on March 8, 2008 and was provided a total 18 profiles during her 12 month agreement. Her complaints that we never called, or emailed and that we are a scam are unfounded. We can provide full documentation to consumeraffairs.com of all the profiles, emails, client feedback etc.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 21, 2011

Dating after divorce is hard enough without companies taking advantage of consumers. I employed the services of Elite Personal Search in February 2008.

Suzie interviewed me for 2 hours and decided I was a good candidate for her service. Suzie represented to me that Elite Personal Search has at least 200 eligible men in the system at any given time all of whom are white-collar professionals. She further represented that the men I would be matched to are thoroughly checked out and I will meet exactly who they say I will meet. I signed on with Elite Personal Search for a twelve month contract in the amount of $6,000 for the privilege of being introduced to 6 men.

As part of the contract, I was required to have my photograph taken by a professional photographer employed by Elite for an additional $350. During the six months that followed I did not receive one viable introduction! I was sent the photographs and bios of six different men. I agreed to meet with them, but somehow, they were unwilling or unable to meet me. First there was Ernie. Ernie didnt want to go out with me because he didnt like my picture?. Then there was Mark. Mark initially said he would meet me, but then took himself out of the system citing personal reasons. Next came Paul. According to my matchmaker, Paul wanted to meet me, but he was a little busy looking at colleges with his children. Paul must still be looking really hard because it has been 5 months and he hasnt called. John was next on the list and he was an entrepreneur from Boston. He wanted to see me, but was on vacation in Florida. Two weeks later, I was told John wanted to date the woman hey introduced him to a few days before me. Then Robert, who said no because I have children. Then there was Steve who said yes, apparently took my phone number, and then changed his mind?.

MMMM. Makes me wonder...Did Elite really have any inventory? for me or is it all smoke and mirrors?

I finally requested Elite refund my money and we end the contractual relationship citing the fact that I had been ready, willing, able and cooperative with the process, however, they were unable or unwilling to produce on their end. I was simply told they would review it?. Elite then stopped returning my calls. They stopped e-mailing. Everytime I called they were out to lunch?, in a meeting?, or just unavailable for me. I tried to negotiate with Shannon who was very insulting and uncooperative. Shannon returned a call to me one day announcing herself to the receptionist at my office as "Shannon from Elite Personal Search a dating agency Terri employed". WOW, what a violation of confidentiality.

I engaged the services of an attorney who wrote them a 93A letter demanding my money back. 30-days passed with no response. I am now entitled to triple damages. I contacted Kristina - in charge of "customer service" to negotiate. In light of the fact that I can file a complaint in Mass for $18K plus attorneys fees and costs; I offered to settle for what I had paid and Kristina still refuses to return my money and insists they have performed under the contract. Kristina will not let me speak with the owner of the company, the company's attorney or her supervisor. She even went so far as to say that I am well spoken and professional and perhaps I make a good living and don't really NEED to have the $6K back.

This complaint is from 2008. After researching the name, phone number and email address provided, Elite could not find any information regarding this complaint.

Elite Personal Search on Jan. 10, 2012

I have seen some complaints about them, and felt that I needed to add my 2 cents worth. When I started, they fixed me up with 3 men, all good guys I guess, but not right for me. I talked to my matchmaker (Jenn) and she listened to me, and we went in a different direction. THe fourth man I met I dated for a few months, but ultimately I realized I wasn't right for him. The fifth man is someone I have now dated for 8 months and we've been talking about our future alot lately. I think he's amazing, and he's exactly the kind of man I was hoping to be introdued to.

When I read complaints from other people I read between the lines and they don't seem like they are happy people to begin with. Isn't it important to be a good person, and happy with yourself to attract a good person who is also happy with themselves?

Elite has reviewed and investigated this complaint and has found no record of this person's contact information in our database.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 21, 2011

I was actually a little disappointed with the service when I first began the matchmaking process at Elite Personal Search. I believe that so many people that sign up for Elite Personal Search don't give it a chance. I was one of those people until Elite found the love of my life! The matchmakers at Elite never gave up on me, even when I was complaining. I have to admit it was hard at first, but when I accepted that it was not going to happen overnight, Elite came through for me. Just start going out with who Elite tells you to go out with...what's the worst thing that can happen to you? I found the love of my life because I did not give up!

Congratulations! Well, we have all felt the saying good things come to those who wait, but most importantly you share that there is a true magic to believing. Thank you, Jose! May the magic just keep coming yours and Elite's way.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 22, 2011

I joined Elite in March of 2006. By August I had been given 3 matches. I was made a lot of promises about all the great men I would meet and must say, they were absolutly right. I am getting married this July to Ronald, whom I met through Elite. He is the man I have been looking for all my life and at 43, thought I could never meet. This is my first marriage although he is divorced. We are both professionals with good incomes and I have never been happier. I am so grateful to Elite for being there. Yes, my membership was about $8900, but worth every penny. I never would have met Ronald if not for Elite. We were in different parts of the county and our paths never crossed. I am so grateful. Thank you, Thank you!

There was no damage resulted from my interaction. My heart if full and have to say, that although I did spend a lot of money, it was worth every penny. The results of that money spent are a shared life with the man of my dreams, a much larger house that we have purchased together, a lot of laughter, a lot of fun and a future that has never been brighter!!!

Thank you for adding your "own experience." It has been a privilege to be a part of something so tremendous. Ronald saw an uncertain future with Elite until you came along. We love what we do and sometimes it's very hard work, but always more than a job. Listening to you and Ronald, there is no mistaking the deep and pure love that exists between you two. Thank you again to you Cindy for sharing this with the world.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 22, 2011

Here is what I wrote to Federal Trade Commission in February of 2008:

I would like to file a complaint about a company called Elite Personal Search. I know that FTC does not address personal complaints. I also know that if amount of complaints from different individuals meets certain level, FTC does investigate a company. Elite Personal Search provides matchmaking services. The company claims it provides exceptional service. Because of that I signed a contract with them. I agreed to pay them $2,950.00, they agreed to provide ?the administrative and professional matchmaking services?.

There was nothing professional in their service. In fact the service was exceptionally poor. Therefore the company breached the contract. The contract was signed on August 15th of 2007 for the term of 18 months.A ladys qualities I requested were not something extraordinary. However in my requests I mentioned that I would like to meet a woman who runs a small business. That was very important to me. In the paperwork that I sent to the company I underlined the small business request. In my phone conversations with the company representatives, in the e-mail I sent to Elite I stresses again and again that I would like to meet a woman who runs a small business. My request was never addressed.

During initial interviews with the Elite representatives I was asked if I would be willing to meet a woman from a different state. My answer was Yes. Please note, Elite claims it has dozens of thousands of clients and they arrange over 60000 successful introductions every year?. According to their web site, Elite operates in several states including several metropolitan areas like LA, San Francisco, Phoenix, Boston, and Denver. In their database must be hundreds if not thousands of single women who run small businesses.

In January they e-mailed me a survey and a letter signed by the president of the company Cheryl DiPane. Her letter stated that in order to provide clients with exceptional service? her company needed clients input and feedback. In the survey I stated that I was not pleased at all? with the service. I also stated that I would not recommend the company to friends/family. The company did not respond. They do not bother to find out what is wrong with their service despite the fact that I am still their client. Ones again the company demonstrated that their service was exceptionally poor.

I expect from the company to get full refund. That would demonstrate that the money is not the only thing the company cares about. That would also demonstrate that they care about their clients and the companys reputation.

This complaint is from 2008. After researching the name and email provided in the complaint to Consumer Affairs, Elite could not find any record for this client.

Elite Personal Search on Jan. 10, 2012

I too had the same experiences with Elite. They obviously did not choose matches that met the criteria I asked for and they obviously did not use any of the information the collected in my interview and my personal matchmaker did not take the time to make a personal match.

Summary: I had Nothing in common with any of the matches... the fact that we both like movies and hiking does not constitute common interests or a match. There are probably a million guys in Arizona that like movies and hiking. One guy took me to a BIKER BAR, one guy never made it past a phone conversation when I found out that he had 3 young children (something I said I did NOT want)in addition to the fact that he was fired as a judge in AZ ... because you ask? ... he believed that drugs should be legalized and it caused conflict when he heard drug arrest cases.

OH and I can't forget the guy they told me was DIVORCED not only verbally but in a phone conversation... upon talking to him on the phone I find out he is still MARRIED and has been going through a nasty divorce for over 2yrs... note I told them I did not want to go out with anyone divorced less than a year... ARE YOU KIDDING ME? They would actually set a client up with a guy that is MARRIED and going through a drama filled nasty divorce? REALLY? Oh I forgot that the reason the divorce was being dragged out was because HE was dragging it out for money... not her getting HIS money but because HE wanted HER money.

I had my attorney promptly send a letter demanding a refund... which has yet to be responded to.

BUT out of the blue today (4/3/08) I get an email from them wanting to know if I am ready for a match - I have not heard from them since 11/14/07 mind you.

I have been wanting to complaint about Elite Personal Search service but didn't know how until I bumped into this website. I am not the only victim of this personal matchmaking scam. On 8/24/97, I met with Fredly Antosh at the Costa Mesa, CA office. After an hour of interview with her, she showed me all the profiles from the men that looking for my type of woman(now I know those were untrue). She convinced me that for the man my type, she has plenty in the data base. She said the man would be screen for background throughly and they would fit the caliber of men I am looking for. At first, she wanted $8500.00. I was hesitant to join so she reduced to $5,000.00. I then rescinded the contract when I got home but she called to convince again that I can find a good partner with their service. She then reduced the fee to $2500.00. Since August of 2007, Elite Personal Search has not introduced to me any man of my criteria. I asked for specific age catagory and they always got it wrong.

This complaint is unfair and completely untrue. We were thoroughly surprised as we went above and beyond our contractual promises with Ms. Pham to make her a happy and satisfied client. Ms. Pham became a member of Elite on 8/24/2007 and signed an agreement for 12 months. We provided a total of 25 profiles in the agreed upon contractual time. That is a total of 13 additional profiles beyond the promised amount. Elite can provide consumeraffairs.com with all the documented correspondence with Ms. Pham including profiles, emails, feedback from the men, feedback from Ms. Pham etc.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 22, 2011

I have read several complaints about Elite Personal Search and my story reads nearly identical to them. Bottom line: I was mis-led during the interview process about the quality of potential matches, I was pressured into signing when I received a "discount" from the sales person (who no longer works there) and it has been nothing short of horrifying in terms of customer service ever since. In December 2007 I requested a refund of my fee ($3950) after being offered matches that were not even close to matching a few key criteria I had included in my profile. After reading several of the other online complaints, I worry if I will ever see my money again.

The customer service from this company is non-existent. They don't listen to their clients, they don't respond to their clients concerns, they don't answer phone calls, emails and more importantly they are blatantly arrogant about maintaining that I, as a client "must remain patient" and that "finding the right person takes time." Nearly all of the matches that matchmaker brought to me missed one of the most critical criteria I explained over and over again. It was apparent after the first few match proposals that I needed to reach out to my matchmaker's manager, Natalie. However, I quickly realized that I would get nowhere with Natalie because she refused to return my phone calls until finally I was successful in tracking her down (a small miracle). I will be watching to see if there is any class action lawsuit against this firm.

Based upon the limited information provided; the name "Margaret," and the email address provided Elite has reviewed and investigated this complaint from 2008 and found no record of this person's contact information in our database.

Elite Personal Search on Jan. 10, 2012

In September 2007, Elite Personal Search (EPS) fraudulently induced me into paying $3,000 for purported matchmaking services to be provided pursuant to a Membership Agreement between me and EPS. Unfortunately, it has become clear that EPS's matchmaking services are nothing more than a scam. In particular, EPS made a number of false representations to me in order mislead me into paying the $3,000 fee.

Among the fraudulent statements made by EPS were that: (1) it had an extensive database of potential candidates; (2) it would screen candidates through personal interviews to determine if they were potentially compatible with me; and (3) it would match me with candidates who met my personal specifications. In fact, these statements were patently false. The candidates presented by EPS to me did not possess any of the specifications identified by me. There can be little doubt that EPS did no screening whatsoever of these candidates, much less the personal interviews it promised to undertake. Finally, in light of the caliber of candidates presented by EPS to me, EPSs purportedly extensive database appears to be non-existent. EPSs conduct outlined above was illegal and subjects EPS to substantial liability to me for, among other things, fraud, unfair business practices in violation of California Business and Professions Code Section 17200, et seq. and violations of the Consumer Legal Remedies Act (the CLRA), California Civil Code Section 1750, et seq. I am handling the matter through a lawyer.

This is a duplicate complaint from the same email address that was used on the complaint on Nov. 7, 2007, 2:22 a.m. Elite has reviewed and investigated this complaint and has found no record of this person's contact information in our database based on the email address, city and state provided in the complaint, to be able to address accordingly. However, the company would like to point out that Elite Personal Search does not "induce," anyone into paying for our services. Our membership agreement clearly states what the company provides and it is up to the client to determine whether or not they wish to become a member.

Elite Personal Search on Oct. 5, 2011

I joined their Boston branch in April of 2007. I was promised a meeting with members for a fee of approximately $4,000.00. I wanted to think about it, but the girl who was selling the product insisted that I don't have to pay right away, that they would give me MONTHLY INSTALLMENTS without any finance charge. She took my credit card and charged me $500 initiation fee. I asked her if it was possible to change my mind, I was told that's not a problem, that they could hold my membership on hold. AndI still had 3 days to change my mind and get my money back. Next dayI decided not to pursue it, I called numerous times and tried to get my deposit back. I was bounced between NUMEROUS people who had put me on hour long holds and ignored or hung up on me. Finally I spoke to a manager that convinced me thatI should come back to their Boston branch office for an interview and thatI made the RIGHT decision. I went, had an interview with one of the girls that spent about 45 minutes asking me questions about whatI am looking for. I told her that I would like to cancel my subscription . She said that it would not be a problem to put membership on hold untilI am ready.

I started getting monthly bills from April on from a company named Conrad Acceptance Corporation, they threatened to send me to a collection agency ifI don't pay. I paid close to $3,000 and never heard from Elite Search again, Not a single call was returned. I was not in their system. I will pursue this with a lawsuit.

$2800.00 paid and not a single day of service provided. Threatened with collections, wasted time on calls that never got answered, emotional stress.

Based on the information provide in the complaint: email addresses, the names "Natalie," and "Natasha," the city and state. Elite has reviewed and investigated this complaint and has found no record of this person's contact information in our database in order to address accordingly. The company would like to point out that Elite does not have any initiation fees, has no affiliation with a company by the name of Conrad Acceptance Corporation and we do not threaten or send any member to any collection agency or credit bureaus.

Elite Personal Search on Oct. 5, 2011

I have been researching the activities of Elite Personal Search. Not only did I have a similar experience with them, but I also found a lot of similar complaints online. I don't think any case relates to the looks or compatibility of clients. It is obvious that Elite follows a pattern of non-service no matter who the client may be. They are very smart in using peoples hopes as a basis to have them sign contracts which simply allow Elite to get a high fee for doing nothing and getting away with it. They will continue that pattern as longs as clients do not combine their efforts to stop them. Each client alone will not be able to do anything. But a group of very different clients experiencing the very same is proof for a fraudulent behavior. Anyone out there with a similar experience may contact me at livelife15@sbcglobal.net. I am collecting evidence to prepare not only a law suit against them (have a very good lawyer and will pay all legal fees!) , but I am also preparing a television News piece against Elite (I'm a producer) and I am determined to either change their way of doing business or to put them out of business.

Elite has reviewed and investigated this complaint and has found no record of this person's contact information in our database.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 22, 2011

I am reading the complaints on Elite Personal Search and realize that I have been a victim of the very same scam. First, I was told about success stories of two of the matchmakers working at Elite and how they met they husband through the same service. Then I was told by Jen Turner in a 2 hour interview that Elite would find my potential husband in no time. I am very easy to match as I am an attractive brunette, with a career and simply no time to go out to meet people in bars. My expectation was to meet man with a similar income than mine (min 500K) and a similar education (graduate degree) between the age of 40 and 55.

I paid $3000 for 10 introductions. Not one intyroduction was acceptable and met my indications, eventhough I was told that Elite would have 'many suitors' meeting my requirement. They had the nerve to suggest construction workers and flaky candidates who didn't even show up. When I called Amex to decline the charge due to non-service I was informed that they could not do that.

I contacted Elite to reimburse the charge as it was obvious they simply lied about the their caliber of men they have amongst their clients, but Elite never even responded to my email.

Elite has reviewed and investigated this complaint and has found no record of this person's contact information in our database based on the email address, city and state provided in the complaint, to be able to address accordingly. However, the company would like to point out that Elite Personal Search does not "induce," anyone into paying for our services. Our membership agreement clearly states what the company provides and it is up to the client to determine whether or not they wish to become a member.

Elite Personal Search on Oct. 5, 2011

In July 2006, I went into the offices of Elite Personal Search and had a 3 hour 'interview' with Devan. At that time, I wasn't sure if the service was right for me. I explained to Devan that I felt it would difficult to find a match for me among the members of Elite Personal Search/Debra Winkler.

Although I am a professional career woman, Devan assured me that I would 'easy to match', even though I have tattoos and dreadlocks (I work in a creative field, and wanted to meet someone who was a professional, but also 'eclectic') . She explained, 'we have all kinds of people as members. We have artists and musicians, even performers from Cirque De Soleil.'

I was hesitant about joining, when she assured me that if they did not have someone appropriate for me, that Elite Personal Search/Debra Winkler will go outside of its membership and 'troll the community' for a good match. She explained that she had met HER husband through Elite, and that once she started working there, she was able to fix up 2 of her girlfriends with men who were NOT members, but that she had met outside of work and thought they would be good matches. She told me that one of them was now married to the man Devan had fixed her up with.

I do not feel that I would have been comfortable paying the extraordinary amount of money membership cost if I had not been reassured that they would go outside of the membership to find a match for me.

Devan and I discussed the type of man who would be a good match for me. We set up a long list of parameters, which she assured me DID exist in many of their members. (the main thing we agreed I needed was someone who was 'hip' and up on modern technology, as I am a bit of a computer geek). When she told me that my $5000 fee would get me 8 matches in the next year, I was wary. I told her that I didn't feel like 8 was very many matches. At that point she said, 'But we will be doing all the research for you. By the time you meet a match, they will have all of the qualifications you are looking for. The only thing missing will be chemistry, and you WILL have chemistry with at least one of 8 men who exactly the type of match you are looking for.'

She noted that Elite also checks criminal records and paycheck stubs to make sure that members DO in fact make the amount of money they claim (although they never asked for any of that from me). Additionally, Devan assured me that she would work closely with the matchmaker and that the matchmaker would also work very closely with me by calling me frequently to discuss various matches. All of the above made me feel safe and comfortable and confident that Elite could help me find a match.

I was unable to join in July, so I had to put it off until December 2006. I did join in December of 2006. At that time, Elite set up a second interview with Jen Turner. Jen also said that she thought I would be easy to match and that the qualities, and other parameters I was looking for would not be difficult to find. She also assured me that Elite would go outside of their membership to find a match for me.

Since that time, I have had NO matches that 'have all the qualifications I am looking for'. Additionally, I have not met any men from outside of the membership. In fact, most of the matches I have been sent, were not at all the type of men that I would be interested in. Many of the matches have been misrepresented by Elite.

For example, I was sent a potential match who 'had his own business building zen gardens', he was actually a gardener for the public park systems!

I was sent a potential match who worked as a 'holistic therapist', he turned out to be a massage therapist!

I was VERY specific about the type of person I wanted to meet, as well as what type of job they should have (professional, like me!), how far I'd be willing to travel (I live within 10 miles of literally millions of people, yet they sent me matches that lived 50 miles away?!), and the fact that he should work at a standard job where he would normally have nights and weekends free (the massage therapist worked BOTH nights AND weekends!).

Neither Jen or Devan or anyone from the Elite office have ever 'worked closely' with me to find a match. In fact, I often don't hear anything for weeks and weeks, unless I email THEM.

I now feel that I was misled. It has been over 9 months since I joined and not ONE good match has been introduced to me. I sent a certified letter to Elite with all of the above information and demanded my fee be returned. I filed a complaint with the BBB (they have over 20 complaints and have earned an 'F' rating), but Elite did not respond to either me or the BBB. I feel that it is appropriate for Elite Personal Search/Debra Winkler to return my $5000 fee.

I have heard NOTHING! they have not responded to the BBB or to my certified letters. At this point, I am spending a lot of time adding to any internet sites I can find to get my experience out there! AND I would love to get my money back. I told Devin when I signed up that I was going to publish any results on the internet and she said, oh, I know you're going to have a good experience... we won't get any bad publicity from you... HA!

Ms. Offutt became a member on 9/07/06 with an expiration date of 9/7/2009. Her last suggested match was presented and approved by Ms. Offutt on 4/23/09. She has been personally approved 6 actual matches of her contractual 7 matches and we have presented a total of 14 suggested matches. She was definitely been a bit of a challenge to match due to the fact that she is overly selective and has a specific match criteria.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 22, 2011

On June 22, I signed a dating services contract in Las Vegas Nevada with Elite Personal Search, a company headquatered in Los Angeles. The cost was $7,900 but then I got a discount of $500 the same day, so the cost is $7,4000. It was charged to my American Express.

The very next day, June 23, I cancelled the contract in writing by fax and by email with a scanned, hand-written signature. My cancellation was acknowledged on June 25. I was told the refund would be given within the next 10 business days.

On June 25, I called American Express asking what my options would be in the worst case scenario if the company stalled or refused to refund the money. I did not at that time ask for a refund. Unfortunately, customer service representative must not have understood me correctly and hastily filed a dispute.

When I found out about this, it was July 2nd, I cancelled the dispute, because I had not originally authorized it (in fact at the time I specifically said do not do anything! The company has 10 days to refund the money?)

The person who is in charge of customer money and refund issues is Louie. He promised a full refund in writing on June 25 and 26. On June 26, he wrote that my cancellation was finalized yesterday,? that would be June 25.

The next person I spoke to was David in Accounting, I spoke to him on Friday, June 29. He said that the refund was processed on Wednesday? June 27, and I would see it on my American Express on Monday or Tuesday (that is July 2nd or 3rd ).

On July 2nd, I called and emailed David in Accounting, once again. He returned my call at about 11:00 am the same date stating, We were going to give you a refund? but you filed this whole case against us with American Express? David said this was making the company look like the bad guy; that if I wanted fast refund I would have to cancel the case, but if I did not cancel the case, the refund would take 6 to 8 weeks.

I called American Express and spoke to Constantine and cancelled the case because the company was still legally entitled to additional time to give a refund. I even sent David in Accounting 2 (two) emails stating that I had never filed for a refund or chargeback with American Express, because it was too early to do so at that time, and that the dispute was filed contrary to my, at the time, expressed wish not to file.

I immediately called David and explained that a language barrier was likely the reason why American Expressed had prematurely filed a dispute. As soon as I notified him that the dispute was cancelled, David said most of our senior management is out for the week? because of the 4th of July holiday, but on Monday there will be a regular refund for sure,? and I will send you a confirmation. ...

I asked for a full refund. Since I initially paid $7,900 and then received discount of $500 on the same day, the balance I am asking for is $7,400.

We do not have a file that this person was ever a client of Elite, however, we do show proof that he was refunded in full per his request. He was refunded on 8-13-2007 to his Amex for $7,400.00. We do not know why the previous owners did not refund him in a timely manner according to CA state law. New ownership abides to CA state law according to the terms of our contract and refunds 3-day cancellations immediately.

Elite Personal Search on Sept. 22, 2011