From Ebony.com:
Black relationship strategist Natalie Clarice, star of the Oxygen network show Find Me My Man, had been matchmaking for almost a decade when Oxygen chose her to star in her own dating reality TV show. Blunt, bold and to the point, she helps women understand the real reason they’re still single and helps them find true love. Clarice took some time out of her busy schedule to share some of the secret advice she gives her clients behind closed doors. From the most important things to avoid on a first date, to her own five stages of dating, it’s about time we’ve got some dating advice from a happily married Black woman!
On Making ‘Love’ a Job
As the premier matchmaker on Oxygen’s Find Me My Man, Natalie deals with a lot of different personalities. She details her strategy in pairing two people to create a well-balanced relationship. “It’s a matter of finding personalities that will compliment your client. Sometimes that’s not as easy as people think it is,” she says. “Some women who have a strong demeanor can’t be paired with a guy who also has a strong personality. Successful relationships are always about balance.”
On the Biggest Misconception About Her Job
Natalie says that one of the biggest misconceptions people make about being a matchmaker is underestimating the high levels of stress involved with the job. “My process is that I thoroughly interview the guys. I verify their employment; all of their information,” she says. “It’s a one-on-one process, and it’s very contact. You’re definitely in close communication with these people. Just because you submit your picture doesn’t mean you’re my client. Some people I honestly can’t take on for different reasons. I’m not a miracle worker.”
On What to Avoid During the First Date
It’s a simple piece of advice, but Natalie stresses the importance of not altering your personality or mannerisms based on what you think the other person wants to see. “I know sometimes we may have ways about ourselves that may not be so attractive, and we want to adjust that. But people need to know exactly who you are, and what they’re getting,” Clarice says.
Natalie also strongly advises against showing too much skin on the first date. “Doing so could distract your date or give him the wrong idea about your intentions. Sometimes women dress too provocative when they go out on a date, and the man’s mind tends to swirl in a whole other direction,” she warns. “I tell my ladies all the time, ‘You want him to hear you for what you’re saying and pay attention to you, and not have his mind go all out of control’.”
Read the rest of this story on Ebony.com.