In a world dominated by algorithms and swipe-right culture, Hayley Hurst stands out by championing genuine human connections. As the founder of Cohen Gray Connections, a boutique matchmaking firm, she’s on a mission to bring empathy, authenticity, and personal care back into the dating scene. 

We sat down with Hurst to learn more about her journey, her thoughts on the future of matchmaking, and the lessons she’s learned as an entrepreneur in a tech-driven landscape.

“At Cohen Gray Connections, finding a match is more than just pairing; it’s about enriching the journey every step of the way,” says Hayley Hurst, Founder, Certified Matchmaker, Online Takeover Expert.

Q: What inspired you to launch Cohen Gray Connections?

Hurst: I stumbled into matchmaking at the start of the pandemic and was instantly hooked. My passion has always been connecting people and delivering exceptional customer service, so it was a natural fit. After working for another company for a few years, I felt ready to venture out on my own. Entrepreneurship is in my blood—both of my parents were successful business owners, so I grew up watching them build and lead their ventures. Starting Cohen Gray Connections was a way for me to merge my love for fostering meaningful relationships with the skills I’d gained.

The biggest challenge today is the loss of meaningful connection in the digital age. So many services rely purely on algorithms, which often miss the nuances of human relationships. I want to bridge that gap by creating a service that truly understands people on a deeper level. My ultimate goal is to bring more love into the world—one connection at a time. This is not something I take lightly; it’s genuinely at the forefront of everything we do. We take the time to really know our clients—their stories, preferences, and aspirations—and tailor our approach to fit their unique needs. Our clients aren’t just profiles; they’re individuals with rich, complex lives. This emphasis on genuine connection and empathy sets us apart.

Q: Which personal traits have been instrumental to your success as a leader and entrepreneur?

Hurst: Three come to mind: empathy, a strong work ethic, and being a people person. Empathy is critical in this field because every client has a unique story, and many have experienced significant losses. Understanding and supporting them makes a huge difference. My work ethic has also played a big role—this job isn’t a typical 9-to-5. When managing an online takeover, you need to be present on the platforms seven days a week. Lastly, being a people person helps me connect with and coach clients as they navigate the sometimes-challenging world of dating.

Q: Can you share an experience where embracing your unique leadership style made a significant impact?

Hurst: I firmly believe that there’s room for everyone and that strength lies in collaboration. Early in my career, I didn’t always encounter that mindset, which made me even more committed to embodying it in my business. I prioritize teaching and mentoring others, and I’ve seen how this approach fosters a more dynamic and successful team environment.

Q: How do you decide when to persist with a venture versus when to step away?

Hurst: I’ve learned that the insights of trusted mentors and colleagues are invaluable. Early on, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to collaborate with Jessica Fass, a seasoned certified matchmaker. Working with someone of her experience taught me the importance of valuing seasoned perspectives and recognizing when it’s time to pivot. It’s essential to exhaust all possible solutions, but having a trusted voice can provide clarity on when to let go.

Q: Work-life balance can be challenging for entrepreneurs. How do you unplug from work?

Hurst: Unplugging is definitely a work in progress for me. I’m fortunate to have colleagues who encourage me to take weekends off, which serves as a constant reminder to prioritize balance. Although I’m not fully there yet, I consciously try to reduce my work hours on weekends. Ask me in a couple of years, and hopefully, I’ll be able to say that I set aside one full day a week for rest.

Q: What advice do you have for women who want to dream big and build successful businesses?

Hurst: The business landscape is shifting in amazing ways, and there are so many opportunities for women right now. In matchmaking, for example, I’ve seen countless strong, dynamic women leading the charge and making a real impact. It’s inspiring to see so many women as primary breadwinners and pioneers. This truly is our time, and there are so many possibilities ahead. For the next generation of women aiming to capitalize on these opportunities, I’d say embrace this exciting era with open arms. It’s important to seek out mentors who can guide you and to courageously step into new roles that challenge you. Networking is key, so build those connections and support systems that will help you grow. If you’re someone who dreams big, here’s my advice: set ambitious goals, but don’t shy away from setbacks—they’re your stepping stones to success. From my experience, I’ve learned that adapting to change and having resilience are vital. Trust yourself, take bold steps, and keep moving forward, no matter what comes your way. 

Q: What upcoming initiatives are you particularly excited about for Cohen Gray Connections?

Hurst: I’m really excited about merging traditional matchmaking with the online space. AI is transforming the industry, and it’s fascinating to see how we can use it to create more meaningful connections. But what excites me most is the opportunity to harness technology while keeping the personal, human element at the forefront. Over the next few years, I envision expanding our services and continuing to adapt while staying true to our mission. It’s all about balancing innovation with authenticity.

Q: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the future of Cohen Gray Connections?

Hurst: My dream is to continue learning, collaborating, and thriving in a field that I’m deeply passionate about. I want to stay connected to our roots and the transformative significance we have for our clients. The work we do has a profound impact on people’s lives, and that’s something I never take lightly. It’s been a powerful and rewarding journey so far, and I’m excited for what lies ahead.

Hayley Hurst’s journey is a testament to the power of empathy, resilience, and staying true to one’s mission. As she continues to lead Cohen Gray Connections into an exciting future, she remains grounded in the belief that meaningful relationships are at the heart of a fulfilling life.