Revolutionary Dating App Blends Matchmaking and Technology with a Human Touch
When We First is a unique, first-of-its-kind full concierge matchmaking service and dating app with innovative features and a human touch, blending the two worlds of matchmaking and technology in a way that’s never been done before. This modern dating solution provides a personalized experience, allowing clients to work one-on-one with matchmakers in-person for guaranteed dates or use the enhanced online dating app--or a mix of both.
When We First is the only dating app to create a seamless value ladder, allowing users to easily upgrade from app-based matches to personalized concierge services. Through the ‘Human Button,’ customers can request real-time support, guidance, and encouragement—going beyond AI chats to connect with real experts behind the scenes. From the very first interaction—whether setting up and reviewing a profile or planning a second date—users receive personalized advice and pep talks. Upon approval after an interview, clients can purchase a membership with guaranteed dates, working closely with their expert matchmakers.
Bringing together experts in dating, tech, health, and wellness, the When We First team looks beyond the profile, algorithms, and the dopamine rush of collecting likes—focusing instead on the whole person. By truly understanding each individual, this intuitive, personal, and deeply human approach ensures the best matches to guide clients on their dating journey. Their matchmakers can interview customers in-app who are open to real-life set-ups with paid clients, streamlining traditional recruiting eff orts and saving valuable time.
Co-founded by industry-leading matchmaker Sandra Hatton and wellness entrepreneur Mariel Filippone, When We First was born with the vision to create a better dating experience by incorporating human matchmaking into the digital landscape. With 15 years of dating expertise, this proudly female-owned and largely women-funded company is revolutionizing the quest for romantic connections everywhere.
“As a professional matchmaker, I've spent over a decade witnessing the frustrations people face with dating apps, particularly with how impersonal they've gotten. We built When We First to be an entirely new online dating experience designed from a true dating expert's perspective, merging the best of online dating technology with the human touch of traditional matchmaking for a more modern, eff ective and intentional approach to dating," Sandra Hatton, Co-Founder & CEO.
Helping customers to discover their most confident, authentic selves to attract the matches they truly desire, When We First has leveraged its network to curate an exceptional marketplace of specialists--from photographers for headshots and top-rated date spots to image consultants, beauty experts, fitness trainers, and even astrologers for dating forecasts.
Offering five levels of subscriptions, plus à-la-carte options for coaching and matchmaking, singles can choose online dating, offline matchmaking, or a combination of both for a hybrid approach that fits their lifestyle and budget. Options include a free version, an app subscription starting at $59, dating expert reviews and coaching sessions starting at $150, and guaranteed dates with authentic matchmakers starting at $4,000.
When We First was available for download nationwide across all U.S. cities on February 14, 2025. Matchmaking services, also available on that date, will launch in New York, New Jersey, Dallas, Ft. Worth, Austin, Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, and South Florida.
St. Louis is coming on the horizon.
New users who download the app will receive complimentary access to all premium features for the first month.
ABOUT WHEN WE FIRST
Female-founded and backed by 15 years of matchmaking expertise, When We First is the first hybrid platform offering in-person matchmaking, online dating, or a combination of both, for a truly personalized experience.
A human-led matchmaking service within an app, this concierge-style solution connects people with professional dating coaches and expert matchmakers, offering guidance and support throughout their dating journey. By blending insightful technology with a human touch, their team of experts look beyond the profile and algorithms to focus on the whole person, redefining the dating experience.