In a world that more and more automates, speeds up, and screens our relationships, few professionals are as dedicated to authenticity, compassion, and development as Hayley Hurst. As a highly sought-after matchmaker and the creator of a successful relationship consultancy, Hayley has made a name for herself—not only as one who brings together potential partners, but as a catalyst for emotional change.
Her journey to matchmaking was not traditional. She fell into the profession during the pandemic and soon realized how easily skills translated from her former position leading retail at Aritzia. There, she became a master at discerning people’s individual tastes, assisting customers to convey their self-expression through fashion. Today, she brings the same level of dedication to a far more profound kind of styling: creating meaningful relationships.
“I found myself in matchmaking almost by chance,” Hayley shares. “But helping people discover what truly resonates with them—whether it’s in an outfit or a partner—has always been my strength.”
Building Trust, One Conversation at a Time
At the core of Hayley’s work is her unmatched ability to listen. Her interview process is both warm and strategic, designed to uncover not only what her clients want—but what they truly need.
She starts with creating a welcoming environment, be it a peaceful café or a warm Zoom session. Clients are invited to arrive as they are—tea in hand, guard down. “I always tell them, the first match you make is with your matchmaker,” she smiles. That feeling of safety makes people open up to having real discussions about values, priorities, and vulnerabilities.
Instead of viewing matchmaking as a transactional service, Hayley views it as a journey that is shared. “The journey should be as rewarding as the destination,” she says. This is why she incorporates coaching into her service. She’s not hesitant to ask difficult questions or push against assumptions about compatibility that have been ingrained for a long time. One of the techniques she often employs is helping clients sort out which of their preferences are actually non-negotiable and which are flexible. This clarity frequently results in more substantial—and more successful—matches.
Reimagining What it Means to be “Ready”
Hayley’s dream clients aren’t those who have a perfect dating past or a slick checklist—they’re clients who demonstrate self-awareness and a desire to learn.
“Some individuals enter thinking they’ve got it all together,” she says. “But the major breakthroughs come when an individual says, ‘I know that I may be part of the issue, and I’m willing to learn.’ That’s where the magic begins.”
She is cautious in selecting her clients, spotting red flags like perfectionism, defensiveness against criticism, or an inability to self-reflect. For Hayley, matchmaking is a two-way deal—and success is dependent upon mutual willingness. If a potential client is not forthcoming or ready for change, she politely steps away.
That instinct has become the basis of her company. “I’ve learned to trust my intuition,” she replies. “If something doesn’t feel right, I pay attention to it. And nine times out of ten, the process uncovers the truth anyway.”
More Than Matches—Moments of Growth
What makes Hayley stand out isn’t the connections she forms, but the confidence she instills. Clients are heard, respected, and guided every step of the process. Her open-door policy and weekly meetings provide consistency and compassion, making what may otherwise be a daunting experience one that feels supportive.
“My role is to empower people on their quest for love,” she says. “That involves making them feel they’re seen—and pushing them, in a kind of way, when it’s necessary.”
Her reputation as a maker of real change has made her a highly respected figure in the industry. Colleagues approach her often for advice, and she trusts in teamwork over competition. “I’m on weekly calls with other matchmakers where we exchange notes and look out for one another,” she says. “We become better versions of ourselves.”
Advice from the Heart
For anyone looking to better facilitate others’ ability to connect—either as matchmakers or in whatever field they choose—Hayley has easy, powerful advice: just be yourself.
“People are connecting with people, not personas,” she states. “There is room in this business for all, but only way to shine is to be real.
Follow Hayley Hurst at LinkedIn
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