On the surface, Elite Connections is a matchmaking agency for elite singles. But behind the carefully vetted introductions, background checks, and curated matches lies something far more powerful: a mother-daughter legacy built on trust, transformation, and genuine connection.
For Tammi Pickle, CEO and second-generation matchmaker, love is both the business and the calling. It’s something she grew up watching unfold across conference rooms and kitchen tables because for Tammi, matchmaking is more than a profession. It’s family.
A Family Affair Rooted in Love
Thirty-one years ago, Sherri Murphy met her husband through a Los Angeles matchmaker. The experience didn’t just change her life — it inspired her to start a company that could help others find that same spark. A few months later, she opened the first Elite Connections office.
Today, under the leadership of Tammi and Sherri, Elite Connections has grown from that one office into a national network with 13 locations and clients around the world. But even as the business has expanded, its core values have stayed the same.
“We’re still a family-owned company, and that keeps us grounded,” Tammi says. “Everything we do is personal. We take the time to really get to know people, because that’s the only way to make meaningful connections.”
Running a matchmaking business with your mom might sound unconventional, but for Tammi, it has been a source of strength and inspiration. “I watched her build this from the ground up. I saw the passion, the late nights, the belief in what she was doing. It gave me a sense of purpose early on.”
Tammi joined the business with a background in psychology and an interest in counseling. She quickly found that matchmaking allowed her to combine both. “I’ve always wanted to help people, and this was the perfect way to do that,” she says. “Helping someone find love — that’s life-changing.”
A Modern Approach to an Age-Old Desire
Matchmaking has existed for centuries, but the methods have changed dramatically — and Elite Connections has evolved right along with them. What once involved mailing out physical profiles now involves a team of professionals, digital systems, and global reach.
But some things haven’t changed. “At the end of the day, what people want is real connection,” Tammi says. “That’s never gone out of style.”
At Elite Connections, every client goes through a detailed, hands-on process. They’re interviewed, background-checked, and guided through every step of their dating journey. The team offers coaching, support, and an attentive ear. No swiping. No guesswork. Just real people helping other people find something lasting.
“Our process is designed to take the pressure off and bring the joy back into dating,” Tammi explains. “We do the legwork so our clients can focus on what matters: being present and open to love.”
Dating in the Age of Apps
With dating apps dominating the landscape, you might assume that traditional matchmaking would become obsolete. But the opposite is happening.
“Apps have made it more normal to seek help in your love life,” Tammi says. “Most people try them, but many get frustrated. They spend months or even years swiping with no real progress.”
That’s where Elite Connections steps in, offering a high-touch alternative to the often impersonal world of online dating.
“People come to us when they’re ready to stop wasting time. They want someone to take their search seriously. That’s what we do.”
Tammi believes that apps have contributed to a culture of disposability in relationships and she’s not alone. “Social media and dating apps have trained people to think they can always find someone better just by scrolling,” she says. “But real relationships don’t work like that. They require investment, patience, and presence.”
The Psychology of Compatibility
With her background in psychology, Tammi approaches matchmaking with a nuanced understanding of human behavior. She knows that successful matches aren’t just about surface-level traits. They’re about values, timing, and emotional readiness.
Of course, not every client shows up with a realistic picture of what they’re looking for. “We see people with long lists of must-haves,” Tammi admits. “But part of our job is helping them open up. Sometimes the person who’s perfect for you doesn’t look exactly like the checklist in your head.”
This is where her gentle coaching comes in. “I always encourage people to keep an open mind. That doesn’t mean settling. It means allowing space for something even better than what you imagined.”
For those feeling disillusioned by modern dating, Tammi offers clear, compassionate advice: “Take a break. Reset. And then come back with fresh eyes. Love tends to show up when you’re not chasing it too hard.”
More Than a Match
Elite Connections has garnered attention from media outlets and television segments for its standout service and longevity in the dating industry. When Tammi speaks publicly about relationships and dating, she doesn’t sugarcoat things rather she always leaves people with hope.
“My goal is to remind people that love is still possible,” she says. “It might not happen overnight, but if you’re willing to do the work and trust the process, it can absolutely happen.”
And her work doesn’t end when a match is made. The team at Elite Connections stays involved, helping clients navigate first dates, relationship jitters, and everything in between.
“We’re here to support people through the entire journey,” Tammi says. “It’s not just about making introductions. It’s about helping love grow.”
A Life Beyond the Business
Outside the office, Tammi is a proud mom of two boys, ages 11 and 14. Her life is full of baseball games, family time, and the day-to-day joys of raising kids.
“They are my greatest joy,” she says. “Being a mom is what keeps me grounded. It’s also made me even more passionate about helping people find strong, healthy relationships. Because I want to raise boys who understand the value of love and connection.”
Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship isn’t always easy, but Tammi says it’s worth it. “My sons get to see what it looks like to work hard, follow your passion, and help people. That means everything to me.”
What’s Next for Elite Connections
After three decades in the business, Tammi and the Elite Connections team are far from slowing down. The future is full of fresh ideas and new offerings — all designed to bring more people into the fold of meaningful relationships.
“We’re expanding with more offices, and we’re launching a podcast, a dating app, and even a relationship advice book,” Tammi reveals. “It’s all about continuing to grow while staying true to what has always made us different: our hands-on, personal touch.”
At its core, the mission remains unchanged: help people find love, with intention and care.
The Legacy of Connection
For Tammi Pickle, matchmaking isn’t about formulas or fast fixes. It’s about people. It’s about the moments that matter. And it’s about carrying forward a legacy of connection that started with her mother and continues to touch lives around the world.
“We’re not just introducing people,” she says. “We’re helping them believe in love again. And that’s a pretty incredible thing to be part of.”
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