A 42-year-old woman from the Bay Area, Lisa Catalano, has taken a unique approach to finding love by launching a billboard campaign to attract potential partners. Catalano, who grew tired of the dating scene and endless matches on dating apps, decided to create her own dating website, MarryLisa.com, and promote it through digital billboards along the Highway 101 between Santa Clara and South San Francisco. What started as a joke for Catalano in June has gained significant attention, with around 1,800 responses received by early September.
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In an interview with PEOPLE, Catalano expressed her belief that there is a perfect match out there for her, stating, “I think that there’s a guy out there who’s a perfect fit for me, and I think I’m a perfect fit for him,” emphasising the importance of making that connection. The billboards feature Catalano’s image along with the website address in large yellow font on a black background, targeting both morning and evening commuters. By choosing a simple and eye-catching design, Catalano aims to attract someone who resonates with her values and lifestyle.
Catalano’s application form on the website covers various aspects such as education, occupation, hobbies, and personality traits, with a focus on finding someone interested in a committed, monogamous relationship and potentially starting a family. She also seeks alignment on aspects like religion and politics, preferring applicants within the age range of 35 to 45. While the project has garnered mixed reactions, with some viewing it as brave and inspiring while others criticise the approach, Catalano remains optimistic about finding her perfect match.
The motivation behind Catalano’s unconventional approach to dating stems from personal experience, having previously been engaged in a long-term relationship that sadly ended with her fiancé’s passing in 2023. Navigating the dating world post-engagement proved to be challenging for Catalano, leading her to explore alternative ways of finding a compatible partner. Despite facing criticism and praise in equal measure, Catalano remains determined to find love and build a meaningful connection with someone who shares her values.
Since the launch of the website and billboards in September, Catalano has received an overwhelming response, with approximately 1,800 applications submitted. Amidst the flood of applicants, Catalano remains hopeful that the right match is among them, expressing her gratitude for the support and encouragement she has received. While the unconventional approach to finding love may have its critics, Catalano’s determination and resilience shine through as she navigates this new chapter in her dating journey.
Reflecting on her experience, Catalano acknowledges the challenges of re-entering the dating scene after a significant loss but remains focused on the possibility of finding true compatibility. With her innovative approach capturing attention and sparking conversations, Catalano’s journey serves as a testament to the varied paths individuals take in pursuit of love and companionship. As she sifts through applications and contemplates potential matches, Catalano’s unwavering belief in finding a partner who complements her life underscores the resilience and optimism driving her quest for love.