Shannon & Ian

Ian was very family-oriented. That was the most important thing that I noticed. He just seemed genuine. - Shannon

What was your dating life like before joining?

I hadn’t dated a lot. I actually had dated someone for six months and found out he was engaged, so that is what made me go with the service. My dating life was very cautious.

Had you tried any online dating?

No. I just met people by chance or through other people. I was afraid of it, because of safety; you don’t really know who you’re talking to online.

Did you have an opinion of matchmaking services before you signed up?

Not really. I just figured it might be better as far as the screening process. But I really didn’t have any idea what to expect when I walked through the door.

What inspired you to sign up then?

The guy that was engaged. I decided I was tired of the games and not really knowing if somebody was really who they said they were. At least this way, you know they are who they say they are, as there is a background check. It’s a little bit better feeling of comfort.

What inspired you to choose us in particular?

There were the signs all over town. I live in a very small community outside of a larger urban area and I called the number and checked it out on the website. It was just a chance thing.

What did you particularly enjoy about the sign-up process?

They were very nice. I thought they were thorough as far as the questions and covering different areas of your personality and habits and likes and dislikes. There is a wide range. They covered your feelings about finances, religion, just stuff that a lot of places miss.

How would you describe the interview process itself as a whole?

Pretty quick and painless. I figured it would take a while but they were very organized and seemed to know what they were doing. It went a lot better than I thought it would.

What was your first date with Ian like?

We just sat and drank pop and talked for a couple of hours. He was very family-oriented. That was the most important thing that I noticed. He just seemed genuine.

What do you friends think about the way the two of you met?

They think it’s kind of funny. I have one friend that actually met her husband on eHarmony, so she and I get a kick out of it, the non-conventional ways. My friends knew some of the problems I had with the guys I met on my own, so they were glad to see something work out.

How long have you guys been dating now?

Since last April, almost a year. He was my second match.

How do you like to spend your time together? What do you like to do for fun?

We usually go to the movies or go out to eat and my daughter spends a lot of time with us now and we find stuff to do with her. We’ve taken some trips together, weekend getaways, and back in the summer we would go camping but it’s too cold now.

Do you guys talk about the future?

We have talked about it. We’ve not officially decided or announced anything but we do talk about getting married.

Finally, Shannon, do you have any advice for people who might be considering signing up?

I think they should do it. I guess just from my one worst experience, at least you know who you’re out with is who they say they are.