Most recent testimonials
Date received: 21st November 2023
“I spoke to members of the team before joining & they were pleasant & encouraging. I have also found some of your videos helpful.”
(Julie from Keighley)
Date received: 17th November 2023
“I’ve just read the November issue of your ‘Cloudnine’ members magazine and thought there were very good articles of encouragement about how your thoughts in life are important to your outlook on the future.
I also liked the article about being aware of our feelings and addressing them and seeing what the possible cause is why we react in certain ways. It was good food for thought.”
(Anne from Aberdeen)
Date received: 15th November 2023
“The cloudnine members magazine is filled with important nuggets on dating. I love the practical section on First date ideas and conversation starters.”
(Belinda from Chessington)
Date received: 15th November 2023
“The topics in the Cloud9members magazine are interesting and usually I find that I have to take the time to really digest what I’d being said. A good read and plenty of thought-provoking ideas. Thanks & God Bless.”
(Janet from Larne)
Date received: 10th November 2023
“I was sceptical about joining a dating agency as I thought the members would be stooges and not real people. I have and have found friends1st care about their clients and I took the plunge with friends1st because they seemed and sounded different. I like the personal touch and the videos friends1st send through. I think they are genuinely interested in people’s feelings.
It was very helpful speaking to someone beforehand. Being given information explaining the different levels and when I would expect to receive the profiles.”
(Shan from Sidcup)
Date received: 16thOctober 2023
“I decided to do friends1st since it had been recommended by a friend of mine and it had good videos to help you with dating. I had been on many different dating websites but hadn’t had much success, so I decided to do friends 1st. I didn’t speak to anyone in the office before I decided to join but found all the staff very helpful when writing my enhanced profile and one to one coaching session. Although it’s a lot of money to spend I expect that the folk who want to be on this site are genuine and actively looking. So far, I am corresponding with a gentleman from Ireland, so we’ll see how that goes.”
(Anne from Aberdeen)
Date received: 28th September 2023
“, I would recommend Friends1st because it is quite different compared with other dating agencies. (1) I found the welcome pack useful, (2) I like the fact that Friends1st asks for ID, (3) I also liked going for a photo shoot, as that was a great experience, and it prevents people from uploading fake photos”
(Edna from Chelmsford)
Date received: 25th September 2023
“My coaching call was practical with positive steps mentioned and suggestions for action. I thought it was a really valuable service.”
(Nigel from Warrington)
Date received: 25th September 2023
“I was originally sceptical about joining a dating agency because I tried one 18 months ago and unfortunately the years’ experience was very disappointing. This was mainly because there was little interest by the online manager about my particular interests and concerns. Friends1st, however, is entirely different with lots of interaction, training and advice, etc, between me and the membership management team. I’m glad I took the plunge to join because after a telephone enquiry with one of the management team (Sacha) it was obvious you take a lot of care with the members and so gave me the confidence to join Friends 1st. In my initial interaction with you, I have found you to be very good at helping me with advice and coaching, etc. It is still early days for me and nothing has come from the first batch of profiles to me, but it is obvious the genuine interest in me and care for me is there. In view of my experience outlined above I would certainly recommend Friends 1st, although expensive compared with others, because you are really professional with a genuine pastoral care for the members in helping them to find that special person for them.”
(Nigel from Warrington)
Date received: 19th September 2023
“Thanks Katherine, your service has been very good. I have met some lovely people through Friends1st. “
(Michael from Epsom)
Date received: 12th September 2023
“I have had a good experience overall, I recognise all the hard work, wisdom, enthusiasm and experience you have put over the years into friends1st. I think it is an excellent organisation, with a lot of knowledge of the field within a broad and psychologically healthy Christian perspective. I listened to Katharine’s videos and found these helpful. I appreciated the fact that advice was given regarding following up leads for possible matches outside the ff fields of activity, i.e., being open about searching for a partner and being proactive. As a process it was a worthwhile learning experience for me, so thanks especially to Katharine and Sarah. “
(Deirdre from Ashford)
Date received: 4th September 2023
“I have had a really great experience with friends1st, lots of people have contacted me.”
(Mark from Coventry)
Date received: 25th July 2023
“I recently decided to take a leap of faith and join Friends1st. Admittedly, I had never heard of the agency until I bought a particular magazine, for the first time in a long time and there it was… a discrete advert which caught my attention. It felt as though it was meant to be. I was widowed in 2004 and have tried the dating app game from time to time over the years but without success. Having spoken by telephone with Sacha, I now have the confidence that Friends1st will be a very different experience. It helped so much to be able to chat with someone without feeling pressured to make a commitment. However, deep down I knew that the time felt right to make the decision to join and so, as I take the first steps to getting my profile up and running it is good to know that there is a team willing to give me all the support I need. I know that I will probably feel nervous, unsure and even reluctant at times, but the encouragement and regular contact will probably mean that I’m willing to step out of my comfort zone and ‘go for it’. I don’t know at this early stage if ‘the one’ is currently out there waiting, but I am looking forward to finding out.
Due to my positive experience of Friends1st so far, for those who carry the Christian faith and are willing to make a commitment to it for a while, then I would definitely recommend taking the step. There’s absolutely nothing to lose, only everything to gain.“
(Emma from Leeds)
Date received: 25th July 2023
“I originally tried a Christian dating agency two years ago but had a disappointing experience with them that put me off doing any more about it. However, knowing two married couples at my church having got together through a dating agency I decided to have another try. Having ‘googled’ Christian dating agencies this time and ‘Friends First’ coming up, among others, I took a look at the website. I decided that Friends First seemed to offer the best quality service, although admittedly pricier than most others. Having taken the plunge the first interactions with the company have been good. The advice and resources are excellent to get the best out of the service it offers. Sacha has been the principal person I have dealt with and has been very helpful. I am about to have my photographs taken and await receipt of my drafted profile to peruse and suggest any amendments. I will then certainly use the enhanced profile service to have the best possible impact. I feel a lot more confident of a positive experience this time.”
(Nigel from Warrington)
Date received: 24th July 2023
“Initially on receiving the pack I thought I felt a bit overhwhelmed but I found reading it all very easy, and re-read some of it, that is immediately applicable; I will re-read other parts at the appropriate time. It is certainly a better help compared with other Christian based websites, giving confidence moving forward. “
(Nigel from Warrington)
Date received: 18th July 2023
“As I start my time with Friends First I feel as though the people involved with the running of this organisation genuinely care. “
(Emma from Leeds)
Date received: 16th July 2023
“I write to let you know that ‘M’ and I, who met two years ago through Friends1st, are to be married next month. Can I thank you and your team, from both of us, for your assistance and practical advice. I like to sing, and the worship song “Give thanks to God, for He is good” is in my head, even though it is only 5 am ! Every blessing. Keep up the good work.”
(David from Fife)
Date received: 7th July 2023
“The Communication critique was very quick and it’s giving me the confidence to write some more. The ladies that run friends1st really care about the people they are helping to find true love. “
(Kevin from Wellesbourne)
Date received: 7th June 2023
“I found the coaching call very helpful. I was given some good book recommendations and some comprehensive suggestions of things to think about getting involved in.”
(Sandie from Banbury)
Date received: 22nd May 2023
“Since joining Friends 1st a couple of months ago, I’ve been equipped for a successful experience with many helpful suggestions, practical guidance and a variety of resources. When I’ve needed a chat, the team have always been at hand.
Being open and willing to engage with the support, wealth of resources and guidance, and learning the importance of being proactive in applying specific learning, all undergirded by prayer, has made for a productive experience. It’s been wonderful to be able to transfer the learning to wider aspects of my life and continually see results.
Amongst other things, I’ve particularly valued the ethos of Friends 1st, finding the underlying approach both liberating and empowering. I’m just on my way, but I have experienced so much of God’s goodness already, as I’ve applied the principles I’m learning. My confidence continues to grow and so many opportunities continue to open for me. I am very grateful and humbled to be surrounded by such a wise, experienced and supportive team (Prov.25:11); and truly excited about the future.”
(Faith from Sittingbourne)
Date received: 18th May 2023
“Thank you for your lovely email, bless you Sarah you’ve given me a real boost.”
(Julia from Stourport)
Date received: 12th May 2023
“After the 1:1 coaching call I became more open to contact the profiles sent to me and received my first reply from a lovely woman. It was extremely helpful to overcome my narrow minded vision of dating and finding new strategies to make it successful and enjoyable.”
(Enrique from Southport)
Date received: 26th April 2023
“Information/material that has been shared so far was helpful in preparing for my coaching call. It was nicely tailored; brief but relevant and productive… I came away with something/s I could action and work with. I found it specific and insightful with practical guidance shared – thank you!”
(Faith from Sittingbourne)
Date received: 23rd April 2023
“I’m over the moon! Thanks to all of you at friends1st, I know that your agency is the best.”
(Kevin from Warwickshire)
Date received: 17th April 2023
“I would like to say a big Thank You to you and all the Friends First Team for the encouragement and support over the past 2 years. I have grown in confidence and hopefully wisdom as a result of joining Friends First.”
(Helen from Dublin)
Date received: 13th April 2023
“I found the 1:1 coaching call to be a really valuable experience. She recommended some good books that I may purchase and I found her pleasant, helpful and very encouraging.”
(Heidi from London)
Date received: 11th April 2023
“I listen to your videos, and I have been reading most of your messages. I am always touched by them because you always address fears of the unknown which I do have. I really want to say thank you and that I appreciate you. I am a member and even if I don’t meet someone within the organisation (I believe I will), you have really touched my life, I believe you are a blessing to many generations, God bless you and THANK YOU.”
(Nkiru from Southend)
Date received: 11th January 2023
“Thanks for the all the literature that arrived on Monday afternoon. It looks very impressive and must be the result of your many years working in this field. I’ve read the top tips and found it very good – as you would no doubt expect. My daughter had heard of you, and so I decided to contact you. I had tried to use some of the other dating agencies and found the Safari would not work with the protocol that they were using. Presumably it was not sufficiently secure. Chrome would not work with them either. I’m impressed with everything about your company so far. As you will realise, I have not travelled very far in the journey, but I’m very comfortable with the ride. From what I’ve experienced so far, I would be happy to recommend your company to others because I can see that you have sought to give people a quality service.”
(Ken from Northamptonshire)
Date received: 8th December 2022
“The staff use every opportunity to boost your confidence and happiness. For example, when you submit photos which need more selection – or if you are receiving the wrong kind of attention – or none – they always zone into your phase. They are there for you at every twist and turn.”
(John from Stourbridge)
Date received: 29th November 2022
“My experience with friends1st has been great. Friends1st are patient, caring, encouraging, inspiring, experienced and persevering! What’s not to like?
They want to bring about God’s Kingdom in God’s people. Who can fail listening to Him only? “
(Michael from Aylesbury)
Date received: 29th November 2022
“When I think of Friends 1st. I am reminded of the following quote:
“Friends are like stars You don’t always see them, but they are there”.
I always have a sense that the Members of Friends 1st. like the stars are always there for us, working as a Team.
The biweekly emails are very inspiring and always gives food for thought. Whenever I responded to the emails, I received positive feedback, in other words I felt listened to.
The above is just a taste of how much it means to me, being a Member of Friends 1st.
Thank you for your dedication.”
(Helen from Dublin)
Date received: 28th November 2022
“I joined Friends First a year ago, somewhat sceptical but after looking at the reviews, ethics and presentation during my research, I was convinced enough to give it a go!
I have had a very positive experience from the whole set up.
Personal phone calls from the team intermittently to check how things are going and offer assistance and advice. The video emails offering valuable and poignant insight into looking for a partner and how to approach the whole concept. Advice on how to assess and monitor our preconceived ideas and judgemental attitudes, in order to reach out and make contact with other people, when we otherwise would dismiss people.
I have enjoyed a few of the many opportunities to engage with other people via zoom events, and then the highlight for me was a face-to-face meeting with others at an event locally, where I had a thoroughly enjoyable day out, in wonderful surroundings, and laughing with everyone else whilst eating lunch in the sunshine and fresh air.
I would encourage anyone to host an event as it really was an unexpected treat. I will certainly do it again!
Although I haven’t met my ‘perfect other’ I have met some wonderful people, and from the encouragement of the team to get involved in local meet-up groups, I have been out with a walking group, and have been on a singles holiday with a Christian organisation – abroad! Wonderful time. So much so that I have booked another holiday abroad next year with another group.
I have gained confidence in myself, to explore and seize opportunities to meet people and have a great time whilst doing it.
Thank you Friends First for giving me motivation and inspiration to ‘get back out there’. “
(Clair from Kidderminster)
Date received: 21st November 2022
“I joined an online dating app a year ago, so I wasn’t sceptical about the process, although I knew friends1st would be different. Katharine had understood my situation and I could see that I had received a powerful nudge from God followed by a quite extraordinary confirmation.
The people she has trained are good allies for members; I’m feeling excited and well supported.
So far, I have found you to be admirably thorough and knowledgeable about your field of expertise as well as rooted in your own faith; available and kind; deeply concerned; and I expect, as I go forward I will learn a lot from the experience you have accumulated and I look forward to that.”
(Dee from Ashford)
Date received: 8th November 2022
“These people really know what they are talking about. There’s nothing they haven’t come across before”
(Chrissie from Sevenoaks)
Date received: 6th November 2022
“I have enjoyed reading and watching the various articles that have been on YouTube and in emails including “The most effective ways to meet single Christians “ . The path to making new friends is often out of our comfort zone but these wonderful words and guides provide the extra tools required to make more friends. It is easy to choose to be quiet and unnoticed and these valuable words help support and advise you, giving you confidence on this journey. I really feel excited and pleased to be part of this group as you all are efficient and caring, thank you. “
(Chrissie from Sevenoaks)
Date received: 18th October 2022
“I joined friends1st having been separated for 4 years. I hadn’t dated in over 20 years and my self-confidence was low. I was very nervous of dating but friends1st was very supportive and gave me tips and techniques on how to approach dating again. I am now in a relationship just over one year and although I didn’t meet him through friends1st, the information and support that I was given at friends1st was invaluable as it helped me navigate the dating world again. Thank you to Katherine and all the team.“
(Maire, Louth)
Date received: 9th October 2022
“I have really enjoyed being a member of friends first and have learned a lot about how to date affectively as a Christian. I would like to thank you as an organisation for the support you gave me while being a member and the assistance you provided me in regard to helping me around the profile writing and other things linked to my visual impairment. Thank you very much for such a valuable experience and it’s given me the confidence to better communicate with women and work toward achieving my goals. I would like to wish you all the best with the organisation as it’s a great thing you do, and you are all very helpful and supportive. Many blessings and best wishes.”
(Ian from Birmingham)
Date received: 23rd September 2022
“I was not sure what to expect from the coaching call. I had an idea of what I wanted to get from the coach such as tips that could help me make good use of my membership and that would help me achieve my goals. I was pleasantly surprised Sarah was able to cover quite a bit given the short time. I did find the call helpful, and I believe some of the tips Sarah gave will be useful. I really did enjoy my chat with Sarah and I found it very useful. “
(Ifeoma from Kent)
Date received: 21st September 2022
“I was really impressed with the Speed Dating evening last Thursday . Having come back from New York on Thursday morning , I was a bit reluctant to take part . I needn’t have worried I had a fantastic evening ,Sam organised it well with Maria’s help.”
(Kathryn from Chertsey)
Date received: 17th September 2022
“I always felt my conversations with your staff were helpful and encouraging. I enjoyed receiving the ‘Cloudnine’ magazine, getting to talk to staff, receiving profiles and communication from other members. I also enjoyed the online Bible study event. I have been very successful with my friends1st membership.”
(Graham from Reading)
Date received: 24th August 2022
“I was happy to receive any advice and help. To chat through anything I felt I particularly needed help with. I came away with some good advice that I have started to put into practice. It was helpful speaking with the dating expert.”
(Anita from Kendal)
Date received: 20th August 2022
“The communication critiquing service gave me confidence to contact other members and the customer service of your team is excellent, very friendly , helpful and professional.”
(Jamie from Camberley)
Date received: 11th August 2022
“Doing nothing but waiting for a marriage partner to come to your door is a good way to remain single. Meeting others is a risk, but it is for the other person too. I know we all think it’s worth every penny if we find the one, but a waste of money if we don’t. The best way to get that value is by stepping out of our comfort zones into the unknown, and embrace the journey for all it’s worth.
I did that, travelling to another country to meet people I never met before, and one of them came to Ireland to meet me where I lived. Our dates had to be compressed – a month’s worth in a weekend. A year and a half later, there was a proposal in a hot air balloon over Cappadocia. Eleven months of not being able to meet each other during the pandemic didn’t stop us, and three years to the day we met, we were married and are now living happily in Ireland. If I didn’t join the agency, and didn’t step out, it would not have happened.”
(Barry from Cork)
Date received: 4th August 2022
“Thanks for the enhanced profile. I think you have done a really good piece of work.“
(Ron from Redruth)
Date received: 14th July 2022
“Thank you for your call and your words of wisdom, I have been very happy with the service you provided.“
(Marguerite from Dublin)
Date received: 9th July 2022
“Thank you so much for coaching me in the dating world. It was my first time and I have learnt so much.”
(Pamela from London)
Date received: 4th July 2022
“I wanted to let you know through this service I found my husband. We married last year and now have a beautiful baby boy💙”
(Shona from Redhill)
Date received: 4th July 2022
“Thank you for all your wonderful support, encouragement, guidance and prayers over the years, which have been very much appreciated.”
(Cordelia from Wembley)
Date received: 29th June 2022
“I would say that I have re-joined friends1st because I have come to realise that yours is the only agency that I know of which seeks to match people who are genuine Christians. There are other sites which ask members for their religion to include in their profiles most of whom for older people say “Christian” but do not go on to say, “practising Christian.”
I have spoken to Sasha and Sarah about re-joining and have found them helpful & efficient.
I think it is particularly challenging for older people like myself to find that special person but not impossible.
I would recommend friends1st to any genuine Christian who is serious about seeking to only match with another genuine Christian.”
(Ian from Bedford)
Date received: 23rd May 2022
“It was helpful speaking with the dating expert. Sarah was very informative and made this all feel safe and fun. I have already followed up on several aspects of her advice and have recommended your service to a friend on the basis of that conversation. “
(Kate from London)
Date received: 12th May 2022
“I am delighted to let you know that I got married in January to a fine Christian man (formerly widowed) who I met in 2019 following a mutual friend introduction. I am grateful for the coaching and other resources from friends1st which helped in my journey to being ready to date and marry.”
(Victoria from Inverness)
Date received: 12th May 2022
“I am just writing in to say didn’t they do well!! The ‘Wind in the willows’ was a feast of talent. It’s not easy to do theatre online! I was impressed by all, well done guys. May there be more.”
(Jan from Stafford)
Date received: 12th May 2022
“Just watched the play this evening. The acting was amazing, each person took on their role so well. It was a very professional production, one that I will always remember with a light heart. Thank you also to Friends First for hosting the above production of ‘Wind in the Willows’.”
(Helen from Dublin)
Date received: 11th May 2022
“I’ve been so impressed with the care that Friends First take of their members and was grateful for the chat with Katharine when I rang yesterday.”
(Denise from Poole)
Date received: 2nd May 2022
“The books are very informative and all of the info and videos are helpful, l can see a lot of careful thought has gone into supporting people to find their best chances of future friendships and relationships. Customer services are great.”
(Jan from Stafford)
Date received: 26th April 2022
“I do like the idea that it is just for Christians. I had used your agency before and had good memories of it. I would recommend the agency to any single Christians I know.”
(Sheila from Sutton)
Date received: 24th April 2022
“Just to say that I’ve met someone but not from friends1st. However, the advice that you have given me throughout my membership has been invaluable. All the best.”
(Aaliyah from Stafford)
Date received: 22nd April 2022
“You provided constructive criticism of my first attempt at writing my profile, which encouraged me to improve it. You sent me people who I wanted to connect with – indeed, the profile of the person I am now close to was in the very first list you sent me! Huge Thank You to all staff.”
(David from Fife)
Date received: 27th March 2022
“I’m amazingly still dating a guy almost a year later. So far it’s going really well. We click and love similar things and spirituality on the same planet. I never believed I’d meet someone so special. It took, time, commitment and luck 🍀 and maybe some higher power was involved 😇” “
(Christina from Winchester)
Date received: 24th March 2022
“A 5* Review
(Helen from Dublin)
Date received: 18th March 2022
“The friends1st experience helped me through lockdown/the pandemic, as I met/chatted with around half a dozen chaps who contacted me, scattered throughout the country – which was fun!”
(Judi from Banbury)
Date received: 15th March 2022
“First of all, I would like to say a big thank you for all the support and encouragement I received from Heavenly Partners/friends1st. I have now more confidence in myself to continue on my search for a long-term companion.”
(Helen from Dublin)
Date received: 3rd March 2022
“I have just read the messages you sent to me, I really appreciate your support in connecting me with John, we are now in arrangements of getting married after dating for almost a year. Many of my friends are asking me for your address and number and I always dish it to them!
Have a good time Sarah and may many of your clients get the right person the way I found one.”
(Josephine from London)
Date received: 21st February 2022
“Thank you for your assistance and support during my membership. It has been possible and helpful to talk to someone on your team, when needed. I think you are professional, and overall give a good service. “
(Margaret from London)
Date received: 17th February 2022
“Thank you so much for the call and coaching. I found it very helpful. As I have never experienced this before, it made me feel better and that I have taken the right step and there are professionals to guide me.”
(Esther from Surrey)
Date received: 9th February 2022
“It was helpful speaking with the dating expert. I found Sarah to be very confident and reassuring, personable and relevant. She was well prepared.“
(Clair from Kidderminster)
Date received: 27th January 2022
” I am still in contact with some of the people that I have met through friends1st so I feel that being a member has been a positive experience.
I would like to convey my thanks for the help that I have received from all the team at friends1st. Membership certainly helped me develop my social skills and confidence in dating. During this time, I have learnt a lot, including about myself therefore, membership has helped me greatly.
Once again, I am grateful for all your support and hard work.”
(Marcus from Dudley)
Date received: 23rd January 2022
“The attention to detail is great. It is a well organised and appears to be a smooth-running machine. All the information is well presented with thought and care. friends1st is by far the best and I feel, the safest way to increase my opportunities of finding a future partner, especially one that is genuinely serious and of the same faith.“
(Clair from Kidderminster)
Date received: 20th January 2022
“Dear Sarah, thank you for a chat and thank you for the wisdom.“
(Richard from Birmingham)
Date received: 19th January 2022
“I feel the valued support and connection be it by video, email or letters from Katherine herself, lets you know you are in good hands. Most importantly Heavenly Partners/friends1st has a Christian ethos and please God, I hope to meet someone like minded in this changed world. “
(Anne from Portmarnock)
Date received: 15th January 2022
” I found all the advice very helpful and liked the magazine too“
(Maureen from Co. Mayo)
Date received: 11th January 2022
“Thank you for your help and support over the past 10 months or so. Subscribing to Friends First was certainly a good decision in that I have found a good friend with whom I am developing a wonderful Christian relationship. The experience of Friends First has been positive, encouraging and reassuring, leaving me with the freedom and peace of mind to contact profiles as I felt led, after prayerful consideration. I don’t regret joining nor do I begrudge one penny of the subscription costs as it feels like you all care deeply and value the members, whilst working hard to help us overcome the many barriers that could preven us from finding loving, intimate relationships.
Also, your wonderful gifts and skills of helping people find the Lord, discern what people really want from a new relationship and motivating us to come into contact with each other with the most helpful frame of mind, are being put to good use for the Lord, his Church and, ultimately, his Kingdom so, well done.”
(Christine from Solihull)
Date received: 8th January 2022
“I have taken on board the notion of setting aside a definite time to focus on actively attending to friends1st matters and being more proactive in contacting people. I can be prone to give up too easily on meeting a setback. I have gained from studying some of your videos that seemed relevant. Thanking you for the continued contact and wishing you and your staff a very happy and successful 2022.”
(Catherine from Marlborough)
Date received: 8th January 2022
“I have dipped into a couple of supposedly ‘Christian’ dating sites, only to be very disappointed. Hence, I stayed away. My best friend showed me the advert for friends1st so I sent a query in. The same day, on New Year’s Day I had Sacha phone me and explain what it was all about. There was no pressure at all. After reading through the details, I decided to give it a go. I have had lots of contact from Sacha, Sarah and Katharine via emails and phone. I am very impressed so far and looking forward to what/who God brings my way. I’m excited about meeting new people doing Bible studies and other activities too. Thanks to the team…a new adventure begins. “
(Claire from Kidderminster)
Date received: 23rd December 2021
“I decided to join Friends 1st because I felt that the time was right for me to meet a compatible partner. I have found the team at friends1st to be helpful and supportive, the 1-1 coaching call was particularly helpful and provided useful dating tips. I would definitely recommend friends 1st to others because it feels like being part of a caring family where the possibility of meeting someone special is real.“
(Linda from London)
Date received: 22nd December 2021
“After many years of receiving emails from friends1st, I finally decided to take the plunge and join! I was sceptical because of the cost but realised that if I want a relationship, I need to take it seriously and not just continue with dating sites where I swipe left for dislikes and right for likes! With friends1st I learnt that I would not only get advice and support but that the team would also encourage me to continue making an effort, even though some dates may not lead to anything!
At the end of the day, I realised that I needed help!! I spoke to Sacha and Sarah, who really encouraged me and helped me to feel more positive about meeting someone! Whilst I feel a little apprehensive, I’m also hopeful that 2022 will bring a renewed confidence.”
(Ben from Birmingham)
Date received: 20th December 2021
“I feel blessed and listened to as the staff took time to talk to me and get to know me and my situation. It made me feel welcomed and comforted that they are there to support and help me along the way. It is very personalised and made me feel special as they give me a calls, emails and voicemails to coach me and give me a boost in confidence. They have a caring ethos making me feel positive and happy that I have invested in them. I am grateful. Kudos to your lovely team! Keep up the good work! I am so happy and blessed I have signed up. 5 stars from me!!!”
(Myla from Birmingham)
Date received: 15th December 2021
“I was pleasantly surprised of the amount of support and personalised help given to me when I joined. I have spoken to a lot of staff at friends1st and they are very warm and friendly, very knowledgeable and supportive. They made me a wonderful profile and I am thrilled and excited for when my profile will be first sent out. I received my welcome pack the next day. When I signed up, I was given a phone call and wonderful emails to welcome me and walk me though. It felt very comforting and calming. I felt blessed and more confident in searching for my best friend and lifetime partner who is a devoted Christian I will grow stronger in faith with. I can’t wait for the next chapter in my life through friends1st. I am positive I will have a very happy and blessed new year ahead.”
(Myla from Birmingham)
Date received: 13th December 2021
“The coaching call was very good, highly informative and gave me confidence to move forward in dating. “
(Linda from London)
Date received: 22nd November 2021
“Your new events look fantastic. Can I be an encouragement to others to don’t give up as I am now married. I remember the lunchtime events were great and I enjoyed hosting a couple in Birmingham. Wishing you all the best. “
(Barbara from Birmingham)
Date received: 16th November 2021
“To you all at friends1st, as a result of a profile you sent me earlier in the year I am now in a relationship with a very nice lady. We have just returned from holiday and are planning another. Best wishes to you all.”
(Trevor from Spalding)
Date received: 2nd November 2021
“Big news! Lorna and I are to be married, thank you so much to friends1st. I asked her last week and she said yes. So, we are in the beginning of sorting things out before we can set a date. Exciting times ahead. Thank you again for joining us together. May God bless you all “
(Richard from Kettering and Lorna from Hereford)
Date received: 9th October 2021
“Thank you for your thoughts, I have nothing but good to speak of friends1st and the regular staff. Sarah and Ellie have helped me a lot over the phone. Your updates and the friends1st literature have been very helpful. I have kept some of them, re-read them, and tried to put it into practice.”
(John from Stourbridge)
Date received: 30th September 2021
“Sarah’s approach in my coaching call was practical and a good fit for me. I did not get relational advice from my parents, and this felt like it! I so value the coaching [and Sarah gave me a far bigger serving than I had expected] that I have encouraged another member to send in his form, which he has done. This has been the most beneficial aspect of my friends1st journey thus far.”
(Lydia from York)
Date received: 23rd September 2021
“I had recently had a horrid experience with another, cheaper Christian introduction service when I decided to seriously look into friends1st. I wanted to be sure not to repeat the experience (and the costs were a stretch for me). I took the time to read the website, watch videos, attend a webinar, chat to a member of the team and talk with friends who prayed before I decided. I took the plunge and so far, the journey has been so different to my previous experience! It’s such a relief to be dealing with professional, secure individuals, happy to serve and care. I am more excited than nervous now about meeting others through friends1st which is in large part, thanks to the interactions I have had with the team, the support, and resources I’ve already been given. Thank you, guys!”
(Claire from Reading)
Date received: 23rd September 2021
“Being a security conscious man, recently widowed, I continue to be unhappy with the thought of interacting with any on-line dating agency. An older friend suggested watching some of your free videos on various dating topics through the ‘friends1st’ website. I watched several of these and found them full of common sense and inspirational, particularly the one which answers the question, ‘How many people can you be seeing at the same time?’ Hence, I understand the value of potentially making several friends of the opposite sex at the same time, so comparisons can be made, and quick choice decisions avoided which might be regretted in future. I feel the need to get outside and meet new people. Having watched the ‘Discovery webinar,’ I decided an ‘off-line’ introductory service would be right for me and after some discussion with a member of your team I signed up. Although very early days, I’ve had excellent service so far and am trying to recommend to my older friend that he also joins friends1st. “
(Graham from Reading)
Date received: 22nd September 2021
“Thank you very much for my welcome starter pack, I received it today. I must say well done! It is impressive and makes me feel pleased to be a member of friends1st already. The entire package reflects the level of hard work and commitment that have been put in creating it. Organised and detailed information that makes it easy to understand everything. I had read some of the reviews and felt sceptic about friends1st. It had made me doubt everything and I honestly wanted to quit as it is not yet 14 days since I signed up. I know I had read the positive feedback but obviously, the strong negative reviews had a stronger impact and I started feeling that this was another fake company seeking to scam people’s money, yet they are a Christian organisation. So many other sites call themselves Christian, but they are definitely not. It is because they know that Christians are genuine as they profess to be. Anyway, I had called and spoke to Sarah who reassured me and sounded genuine. I thought that I will simply trust and continue by faith and take all the advice given if I must to be successful. Thank you and God bless you all.”
(Julie from West Bromwich)
Date received: 13th September 2021
“The welcome pack is a very personal approach and having this right from the start proved to me I’d made the right decision.”
(Abigail from Basingstoke)
Date received: 13th September 2021
“I liked that the God factor is maintained throughout the care, which means that spiritually I’m catered for as well as other aspects of my life. This makes my life balanced as there are different aspects of my life which are incorporated together.”
(Audrey from Limerick)
Date received: 16th August 2021
“l have heard of scams and l have been scared before since doing something online however, friends1st was totally different to this. What made me join friends1st was their way of doing things. The fact that they are a Christian organisation, and their way of communicating is awesome. Receiving my welcome pack was a beautiful surprise. The photo shoot was great thankyou and l am sure something great will come out of this because you are a professional. Thank you again it’s worth investing in this.”
(Grace from London)
Date received: 3rd August 2021
“I thought it was worth investing the time and money into friends1st to increase my chances of meeting somebody. I was also sick of online dating! My first interaction with friends1st have been really good. People have been positive, kind and professional.”
(Lizzie from Norfolk)
Date received: 12th July 2021
“I was fearful, I had never joined an introduction agency before, but I must say the more I browsed through it, thought about it and prayed about it, the more I wanted to take the plunge and go for it. The fact that it was a Christian dating site, I trusted my inner self. The bit that influenced me most was everybody got vetted and checked out, and it was not all advertised over social media. I am a private person. I was so excited next morning when I got a missed call and a welcome email from Sarah. I rang her back straight away and I felt so comfortable talking to her, she explained loads of stuff to me about people who join friends1st and are willing to invest money on themselves and their future are quite different from someone who just pops up in a photo on a dating website. I am so happy I made the decision to go ahead, and I didn’t even need any more time to think about it. I have a new spring in my step and a lot of hope in my heart. After all, God does say in his word that he sent his son to die for us so we could have a life and have it to the full… an abundant life it says in John 10 verse 10. An abundant life refers to life in an abounding fullness of joy and strength for soul and body. I would recommend this site to anyone who is serious about meeting a soulmate. “
(Teresa from Dublin)
Date received: 1st July 2021
“I was nervous about joining a dating agency but after doing some very thorough research friends1st was the best choice. The website was very comprehensive and informative which is a credit to your business. Sacha and you have made me feel so welcome and I cannot wait for my journey to begin. Thank you for everything so far and keep up all the continued support from the friends1st family. ”
(Julia from Stourbridge)
Date received: 15th May 2021
“My decision to join friends1st was not a difficult one. Being single in Ireland, I always had it clear after many years of solitude and divorce, that I deserved a second opportunity, which many times is not given because regrettably our churches neglect this aspect of singleness as if it is somewhat taboo. As a Christian I read about friends1st in some newspapers and spoke with Sebastian and Haley who were very helpful in guiding me and answering my questions. The fact of bringing together Christians of all denominations speaks volumes for the good work and foundation from Katharine Gray. Congratulations for reaching out to us all. I have found the interaction with friends1st fantastic, and I would recommend it to any friend. I am looking forward to meeting the right Christian lady.”
(Juan from Dublin)
Date received: 15th May 2021
“The ‘Finding Someone Special’ folder, was very helpful to a widower who is looking to find a partner in his 70s after 45+ years of marriage. The ‘Open to God’ publication was very good too, and the opportunity to have my profile reviewed was also valuable – with a good result.”
(Gordon from Berkshire)
Date received: 8th May 2021
“I always wanted to join particularly friends1st, but I felt maybe I would meet someone a different way and the financial commitment was a big thing as well. Eventually I realised to meet the kind of man I am interested in – a Christian believer, your dating agency is probably the best option, I tried other ways and have not succeeded so far.
I am not getting any younger and feel ready to meet a potential husband. I have to give it a try. So far, I have had positive interaction with the team especially the first week I joined.
Sarah was the first person I spoke to, she made me feel very at ease and was very helpful. She helped me sign up and sent a follow up email to check I am still okay etc. I am feeling hopeful that I will meet my life partner, though nervous about it as well. I am excited about meeting new people if not a husband, then maybe long-term friendships.”
(Grace from Durham)
Date received: 29th April 2021
“It was with great trepidation, that I had a look on the Internet for websites which catered specifically for single Christians wanting to meet one another. As was said in the webinar, some websites purport to offer a gateway to Christians, but it just leads into a huge ‘umbrella’ organisation that has access points for almost everybody! Too risky, and too little likelihood of making contact solely with Christians.
I liked the friends1st website, the description of how it operates, and enjoyed looking through the success stories. The webinar gave me additional confidence that friends1st is geared primarily to providing a real service, by real and experienced people, to real people (many of whom feel apprehensive and rather daunted, wondering ‘How on earth do I start dating again? I haven’t done anything like this since I was a teenager [when it was easier e.g., meeting at the youth club!])’
My contacts with friends1st have been very useful, speaking initially with Sacha and also with Sarah. In both cases, their comments have been clear, friendly, and very supportive.
I now feel much more confident, indeed some excitement, about embarking on this journey, and feel that friends1st will provide secure advice and assistance along the way.”
(David from Fife)
Date received: 12th April 2021
“I was happy to join friends1st as the bible says it is not good for man to be alone and I have been alone too long now. Therefore, I decided it is time to find myself a good Christian woman.
The fact that friends1st is a Christian-based company made my mind up to join. The friends1st team are of top quality, so helpful and resourceful.
I first spoke with Sharron and found her to be of great help as well as being very professional and pleasant. I am excited to see what God has in store for me over the next few months. I would definitely recommend friends1st to any Christian who has been alone too long and who wants to find their ideal partner.”
(Nigel from Birmingham)
Date received: 12th April 2021
“I hesitated many times before joining Heavenly Partners/friends1st. It was more fear of putting myself out there than anything else. Covid times unfortunately have put a stop to meeting members at events but I didn’t feel comfortable joining an online dating agency, Christian or not. Now feels like the right time to sign up. I’ve spoken with Hayley several times and I appreciate how she answered my questions, and I didn’t feel rushed into a decision. I joined a couple of days ago, filled out the profile questionnaire and I’m hopeful that I will meet that special person. It’s early days but I’m happy with the service and how quickly they processed my information to get things moving.”
(Val from Co. Tipperary)
Date received: 1st April 2021
“I have just attended the Pet Event on Zoom and wanted to give some feedback.
It was lovely to meet the other people and share our pet stories and other interests. I enjoyed it very much, both as a whole group, and in the smaller chat rooms.
It was a very positive experience. Thank you for organising this event.”
(Jackie from Middlesborough)
Date received: 31st March 2021
“I have heard stories of relationship ending badly after meeting online, and I find it uncomfortable about my information being out there ‘the unknown’. My first interactions with friends1st have been great. I spoke to Seb last year (2020), he was very friendly, caring, professional and he encouraged me a lot, but I was not ready then. In 2021 I have spoken with Sarah, Sharron, and a couple of others. They have all been very friendly caring and professional.
I would recommend you as you are a Christian dating offline group, and you have a lot to offer to support one to find a partner.”
(Ade from Dublin)
Date received: 25th March 2021
“I have enjoyed the experience so far. I was quite averse to the idea of a dating agency as I imagined it would be another form of online dating, impersonal, time consuming and unproductive.
However, I found your staff, Sharon in particular, very personable, attentive and understanding. Katherine got in touch with me about 3 years ago and the organisation, while remaining encouraging and persistent, have not been pestering in any way. Since I have been way too busy to commit any real effort to dating, I feel I need the impetuous and guidance of a set of professionals who share my faith and values. That’s why I decided to give friends1st a go.”
(Olufunmilola from Ipswich)
Date received: 18th March 2021
“Thank you so much for your hard work and input in bringing myself and Andrew together.
This is a supernatural undertaking I believe. Through the friends1st team it has been possible to make such a connection. Our communication and commitment have been developing since October 2020, we both seem to complement each other, physically, mentally and most importantly spiritually. Our friendship really deepens from the inside out, by putting God in the centre and the Lord of our lives, Jesus. He is our best friend first and foremost…He’s our glue and sticking point. We have been encouraging each other on a regular basis through the weeks and months during lockdown. Importantly having fellowship with each other over the internet, video calls and texting. We are really looking forward to spending our lives with each other and our families are happy for us too. Sometimes it takes a leap of faith with a little help. friends1st, I congratulate you for your intervention in bringing an inner-city girl and country boy together from too different backgrounds.”
(Surjit from the West Midlands)
Date received: 10th March 2021
“I was very sceptical about joining friends1st and had looked at your advertisement for many weeks in the Garden News magazine but the fact that it was a Christian agency and followed my beliefs, swayed it for me to give it a try. My introduction to friends1st has been nothing but excellent even though I did feel very anxious and wondered what on earth had I let myself into. It was handled all so professionally with thought and reassurance. Sacha, the first person I spoke to from your team couldn’t have been more helpful and kind and spent some time just listening to me. I feel I am embarking on a long journey which is just a bit scary. It’s a long, long time since I have done any dating! So far, I would definitely recommend friends1st.”
(Anne from Nottinghamshire)
Date received: 8th March 2021
“I am specifically seeking a Christian partner and my church is small. The church is good at providing opportunities for my spiritual growth but bad at providing contact with people my own age. My faith is important to me so when I heard about friends1st on Radio West Midlands I decided to give it a go. My first interactions with friends1st have been positive, helpful, friendly, and pro-active with plenty of communication. It’s not simply handing over the money and waiting. I believe friends 1st has something trustworthy and valuable to offer Christians.”
(Christine from the West Midlands)
Date received: 25th February 2021
Re. zoom events: “Thank you, thank you, this is like a breath of fresh spring air! I have booked 2 events and am inviting a member to join me on another event. I wish you every success and lots of fun for all who sign up.”
(Susan from Somerset)
Date received: 23rd February 2021
“It’s my 65th birthday tomorrow and I wanted to share the story of me and Dave. We are 2 people who have had the most wonderful 2 years together, the time of our lives. We’re not getting married but a massive thank you to friends1st for doing that, it has made a difference in my life. He’s one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. He’s not my ‘normal’ type but I’ve fallen for what’s inside. We love doing the same things, laugh a lot together and people have commented on how happy we are. One day by the seaside I was walking along the promenade and jumped off the end, a woman came up and said, “my gosh that looks like fun”. I just want to make the most of every day. We sing together in the car, look after people when we see them on the street. I love to have someone beside me to do that. We go to concerts together and cook together. Thank you friends1st from the bottom of my heart, you’ve made a lady very happy and I feel 25 inside, enjoying every single day; everyone at friends1st is absolutely gorgeous! We cooked together the other night, put the radio on and I danced on his feet. Magical! He’s caring, kind, never has a cross word and it’s like having my best friend around.”
(Jenny from East Sussex)
Date received: 10th February 2021
“To be honest I was sceptical to join friends1st, but my daughter kept saying ‘mum I would love to see you with someone, you are a good person you deserve happiness.’ Before I joined, I spoke to one of the team members Jo. She was really nice, and she explained to me how everything works. She sent details of the photographer whom I haven’t contacted since we are still on lockdown, once everything is back to normal, I will definitely contact him. At the moment I can’t tell whether this journey is going to be easy for me or not, but I am excited and at the same time nervous, so God help me and give me the strength to go through with it without any problems 😂
I have referred one on my church friends. I explained to her how professional and genuine everything is on this company. She said she is waiting for me to start the ball rolling and meeting new friends then she will join. Thank you again for welcoming me in your group, stay blessed.”
(Lisa from Manchester)
Date received: 9th February 2021
“I received very professional and thoughtful documents. The personal examples and experience shone through and made the information compelling and relevant. “
(David from North Yorkshire)
Date received: 8th February 2021
“I was hesitant about joining a dating agency because it was a new experience. Yes friends1st is different, it is more discreet being off-line. This helps especially from a Christian or moral viewpoint. Other dating agencies seem to have a lot of ladies who pester you but at the same time do not answer my main question, which is about faith in Christ. Of course, I took the plunge to join because you seemed to run it broadly on a Christian foundation. The first few weeks happily confirm that that is the case. First interactions with your company are good, staff listen to you and are very vocal at giving their views and reasons. It all makes good sense. I spoke with Jo then with Sarah, these staff members are most helpful and thorough. I feel ok about this journey and realise that one must persevere. Contact with you has already taught me a lot about all this ‘dating lark’!”
(John from the West Midlands)
Date received: 30th January 2021
“After being on my own quite a while and waiting for God to bring me a partner along and nothing was happening. A friend of mine asked me if I was on a Christian dating site. She told me you have to put faith in action, which witnessed with me. I cautiously joined a Christian dating site and found Buddhist, spiritualist, etc on it and so I left it immediately.
I did a search on the internet and found friends1st. Hayley from friends1st phoned me and spoke to me telling me all about friends1st and why they ran it like they did. I liked what I heard, but Covid-19 struck, and I said I would wait a couple of months as we couldn’t meet anyone anyway. In the meantime, they kept in regular contact with me.
The new year came, and they were offering a discount and I thought that hopefully soon with spring coming and the vaccines that we would soon be able to meet up with people. Also, it takes a little while communicating with people that maybe it was time to take that step in faith. I have found all the staff I have spoken to very nice and helpful so am now looking forward to hopefully meeting my Mr Right.”
(Sandy from Oxfordshire)
Date received: 25th January 2021
“I feel I landed on my feet running, I also feel I can put my trust in this company, and I think that is a big problem with other companies that do dating site, they try to scam people like myself and run with my money. friends1st people are not like this, I believe you are honest decent people, just trying to make a living out there in this world. I would be happy to let other people know about this company of yours, God bless.”
(Michael from County Louth)
Date received: 23rd January 2021
“So far I am very impressed with your agency and your lovely helpful staff.“
(Anna Maria from Ballina)
Date received: 21st January 2021
“I decided to take the plunge and join friends1st after unsuccessful and disappointing attempts with other dating apps; whereby those who I encountered had different relationship goals/agendas. Most were not practicing Christians and had different standards also.
I stumbled across friends1st on a Facebook ad. Further to my enquiries and lengthy discussions with Hayley Thompson I felt friends1st was right for me to join in addition to the guidance/support offered with finding a serious relationship. I also like the matchmaking service and that the members are vetted prior to joining, whereas with dating apps, some were fake and its unmonitored. friends1st feels safe.
I am looking forwards with great expectation that with friends1st guidance and prayers; this will indeed be my year to find love.”
(Michelle from Birmingham)
Date received: 18th January 2021
“friends1st is very proactive in getting in touch with me. I find the staff approachable to talk to about any subject that needs be sorting. The advice that you give is very useful and helpful.”
(Mervyn from Kirkcaldy)
Date received: 10th January 2021
“I have been putting this off for a year and it was honestly due to the cost. Sometimes you just have to step out of faith and get out of your comfort zone. Now that I have finally taken the plunge, I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders and I truly believe it is all in God’s hands. I decided to join especially with lockdown as it is challenging to meet any single Christian gentlemen. I have found the staff so caring and I am so looking forward to meeting my Christian husband!”
(Janet from Bristol)
Date received: 18th December 2020
“Sarah explained early in the coaching call conversation, that we would assess together, then at the end would establish clear goals. So I knew which direction the conversation was heading. Her suggestions for enlarging one’s mental dating database (if I may put it that way) were very varied and useful. At least half of those ideas are helpful for me. Sarah has a great way of inspiring you, which encourages one after bereavement. It is surprising that you do not have a male on your team, at least not for counsel. But again, male nature may mean that this would not really work – many men wouldn’t want to discuss this with another man – they would prefer to just do.”
(John from Stourbridge)
Date received: 17th December 2020
“Thank you very much as I have met a lovely person and we are very happy. We have so much in common; we click, and she is lovely. It has been wonderful to meet her, and it feels really good, I am really grateful.”
(Michael from Marlborough)
Date received: 17th December 2020
“I decided to join friends1st after having been a member of a typical Christian online dating agency. I met a man on there who turned out to be a scammer and a fraud, just having acted all the way through with only one outcome in mind – defrauding me of money. Also, I noted with others getting in touch with me, that some had the banner ‘banned’ across their profile pictures. There were so many I was surprised. I decided I couldn’t trust those typical online websites again. So, I decided to join friends1st, after having had positive and helpful emails from Katharine the director. Katharine really shows an interest in you, not as a marketing thing but with genuine interest.
Having read some testimonials and having had such positive and encouraging emails from Katharine, I joined a zoom meet where potential friends1st members could meet. I have zero reservations and truly believe friends1st is the way forward.
There are so many dodgy people around, including on dating websites. This seems to be the safest way forward as well as the best.”
(Nina from Hope Valley)
Date received: 17th December 2020
“I would not say I was sceptical about joining a dating agency. It was more fear and anxiety. The concept of ‘dating’ is alien to me. I think I went on a ‘date’ when I was a sixth former. I am now 60! About this time of year, a year ago, I looked at friends1st. I was lonely and liked the concept of looking for friends rather than dates. I got an application pack, and that was too much! Fast forward one year and after redundancy, Covid, and the rest, I accepted I was lonely and should do something about it. I looked at your web page – and freaked out again! Last week I had an anxiety (panic) attack. I don’t get those, so it was a shock. The next day, a friend took me out for a coffee, and we talked about how I was feeling. As I left, I got a phone call from Jo from friends1st. She was following up from a year ago. She was so friendly and had a happy voice which was gentle and encouraging. I said I’d think about it, but that tipped it for me, and the next week signed up. I am just about to go for my photo shoot. That is scary! The whole process is still scary, but I’m still there doing it. Goodness knows what it will be like when I start receiving profiles, but everyone I’ve talked to has been positive and encouraging.”
(Mark from Chichester)
Date received: 16th December 2020
“In my coaching call Sarah left me feeling positive and encouraged in many avenues that I had not thought of exploring. 10 out of 10 from my perspective.”
(John from Clitheroe)
Date received: 14th December 2020
“Thank you, the survey has given me a lot of confidence in the system and what friends1st can do for me”
(Raymond from Northern Ireland)
Date received: 9th December 2020
“I was in touch with quite a few people but especially one lady. I met her last weekend and I am meeting her this weekend too. It is wonderful. I am super glad that I joined as everyone is so genuine and the welcome pack said that it would change my life and to be fair it has.”
(James from West Midlands)
Date received: 8th December 2020
“When I first decided to join a relationship site, I was looking for something with genuine people who were looking for genuine friends and relationships. Your company sounded lovely and although I was at first worried about joining, your personal contact, literature and helpful friendly emails and instructions has made me very comfortable with my decision. I’m now looking forward to hearing from likeminded members.”
(Ellen from Co. Mayo)
Date received: 3rd December 2020
“Thanks again for your email and kind thoughts. It’s reassuring to be made aware that good hearted people still exist.”
(Dermot from Bristol)
Date received: 3rd December 2020
“Authenticity was a big concern and did not really think that the real deal existed. The more contact I had with you the more I was convinced. I joined because there seemed to be a chance of meeting someone new and it would not be just down to one choice to make my life work relationship wise. The cost was not too high, I realise there is value attached as there is scientific research in psychology about dating meeting others the right way.”
(Peter from Nottingham)
Date received: 1st December 2020
“I had a bad experience all round online dating, not a nice place to be. Years ago, I could not understand what everyone seemed so excited about and I explored all the small print also finding out who was running which sites and how many. It is astounding. It should be made a crime not to stop them; even the Christian ones are run in the same way which is an abomination against God and the Trinity. However, you appear to have restored my faith in human nature, which is why I was treading cautiously. Thank you for your honesty and transparency and for running the business as it should be, to your staff and friends also. I am glad there are still honest people about running honest businesses.”
(Peter from Nottingham)
Date received: 25th November 2020
“My initial conversation was very friendly and reassuring; also, the fact that the team are actually involved in supporting members is good. Having photo shoot was a fun bonus I didn’t know about so makes it seem a more serious approach. I spoke to Jo who was very bright and positive; she answered all my queries and doubts”
(Helen from London)
Date received: 20th November 2020
“Chatting with Sarah definitely made me feel more ‘on board’ with this process.”
(Judi from Oxon)
Date received: 18th November 2020
“My close Christian friends, a lovely couple, they recommended ‘friends1st’ as they had heard lots of positive feedback. They worry of me being single/widowed – my husband passed away 7 years ago. Just before the 1st lock down, I immediately started volunteering and thought now is the time maybe, to meet a good friend, soul mate. I felt comfortable from the very first moment when opened your website then lovely messages arrived, your nice videos – many thanks for greetings – then Jo rang me bless her. It was a great telecon, I felt very happy, Jo visited me which was absolutely wonderful. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Jo for that meeting, she made me feel not scared. Now feel confident I did right thing to meet more true friends who can brighten my life and I hope, vice a versa. I am looking forward to it very much. Also, I would like to thank Sarah who I had telecon with – she updated me with me and gave me a clear understanding where we are by now. I would like to thank all of your staff Katharine, for huge support and understanding. I appreciate it very much. I do feel comfortable with the decision I made.”
(Rai from Worcestershire)
Date received: 5th November 2020
“This seems a more grown-up and decidedly less dodgy way of approaching the possibility of partnership. With support and there being a serious financial cost involved I would hope that people are far more genuine about their search and their faith. I cannot remember the names of the people I have spoken to as they have been more “check ins” than conversations but they have always left me feeling more comfortable about this being the right decision when the time was right. The last person I spoke to was Katharine herself. I think maybe when they saw how long I had been on their books and not signed up it was time for the big guns.”
(Helen from West Sussex)
Date received: 5th November 2020
“I felt very prepared to speak with the dating expert, it was very useful, and I felt that I needed the advice. I found the 1:1 coaching call to be a really valuable experience and the person that has helped me this whole way through has been fantastic. Thank you for the great service and advice.”
(Dustin from Caterham)
Date received: 5th November 2020
“friends1st are truly doing something amazing! There’s so much support and lots of resources to help you on your journey to find that special someone. It’s definitely worth joining!”
(Theresa from London)
Date received: 3rd November 2020
“I decided to go ahead with friends1st because it’s a genuine Christian centred organisation. I read through other people’s testimonials and watched the webinars which were very encouraging. The moment I realised I was willing to pay for my membership that’s when I felt really committed to the process. So far everyone I’ve spoken to has been very friendly and patient. Seb was great and very supportive! I’m excited to receive my first profiles and get in touch with other members. I would recommend the service to anyone who is looking for a serious and committed Christian relationship and anyone who is looking to make long lasting friendships. friends1st isn’t just a Christian dating agency, it’s a community. I’m looking forward to the day I’ll get in touch with you to tell you that I’ve found that special someone. Stay blessed!”
(Theresa from London)
Date received: 29th October 2020
“First, I would love to thank you once again for what you do. I was sceptical about joining the site, but again something told me ‘This is a Christian dating agency so it must be good’ and that led me to pick up my phone and get more information.
The first interaction is very, very impressive, I have been in contact through email and you reply within a day. I spoke to Seb who made me feel more confident in joining. He was very encouraging, and I asked many questions which he answered, then to be honest Katharine, as they say nothing comes for free, Seb told me about the fee and contract, and I thought this is what I need. This is because it’s a commitment I am making for a year giving me a chance to get to know someone with no rush.
My journey seems to be going on the right path and trusting God will lead me to the right decision of meeting the right friend, partner for life. I have already recommended this to my few friends, and they are keen. May you be blessed.”
(Jane from Edinburgh)
Date received: 21st October 2020
“I had looked at online dating agencies but didn’t like them and thought God would send that special someone. When lockdown happened, it made me think again. How could I meet anyone with no churches open, no conferences on? A friend told me she knew people who had met using an agency and checked with them and they said friends1st. I called and spoke with Jo. I took a few weeks to get to call and actually make that step. My question was ‘did I really want to meet someone or not after 12 years single with no dating?’ The truth was that I was ready, but apprehensive. When I made that step to sign up, I felt relieved and excited. Jo told me I was a lovely lady and was sure I would do well. When the office called me and checked my details etc., they were so encouraging and I felt ready with no more apprehension, at least I know the people I connect with will be serious too and there is help all the way.”
(Marie from Lincoln)
Date received: 19th October 2020
“I have found friends1st as an excellent Christian dating organisation. The staff are friendly and efficient, always readily available to provide information as and when required. I’m very pleased to have found this dating organisation. I will recommend them to anyone looking for friendship and relationship“
(Ms Adeleke – Trustpilot & Google)
Date received: 19th October 2020
“I’ll say this about friends1st, I see you as Gods Cupid, matching likeminded Christians together in order to ignite a mutual spark of love which could be the foundation of something very special!!! A very unique and much needed service for Christians, of any denomination. Some of us are quite shy and lack confidence in making a first move! Thank you so much friends1st!!!“
(Daniel from Birmingham)
Date received: 16th October 2020
“I felt very prepared for my coaching call. I had spent a lot of time and thought completing the form. This process in itself made me think deeply about my life, my mistakes and my hopes for the future. I had also spoken to Sarah before so I felt I could trust her and be open with her. It was clear to me that Sarah had thoroughly prepared for the call and had done so research beforehand. She was able to provide advice, links and pointers to a number of areas of concern that I had expressed. The whole process was very valuable for me in ways that have yet to be realised. I would just like to say how much I value the support that friends1st have given to me so far in my dating journey.“
(David from Hereford)
Date received: 14th October 2020
“I think this is a much-needed service that all Christians should pursue. friends1st link likeminded Christians together which cuts out all the headache of going down dead ends. “
(Calvin from Blackburn)
Date received: 13th October 2020
“Thank you so much, you have been brilliant, thank you again“
(Dustin from Caterham)
Date received: 20th September 2020
“Interactions I have had with friends1st so far have been extremely positive and the organisation are doing everything possible to assist me to get the most independent experience possible. They have sent me things such as my profile to read through, so I was able to make a judgement of it independently. They have also been excellent at answering any questions I have. “
(Ian from Birmingham)
Date received: 20th September 2020
“I am really excited as it’s going to give me the chance to meet and interact with new people and hopefully find the person I am meant to have as my life partner. I am also excited as I am stepping outside my comfort zone to do this as it’s not an avenue I’ve thought of before. The fact that this agency is only for Christians also had a massive influence on my making the choice to join as I want my partner to be a Christian so knowing that everyone who joins is makes it more of an attractive proposition. “
(Ian from Birmingham)
Date received: 16th September 2020
“I want to thank you, and your staff for your support to us and for your continued commitment to your cause.”
(Jennifer from Manchester)
Date received: 14th September 2020
“I have noticed the dramatic difference between you and other dating sites”
(David from Cambridge)
Date received: 13th September 2020
“Just like to say I’m finding friends1st really helpful. They are helping me build up my confidence and also giving me talks and videos in order to help me find a long-term relationship.”
(Jordan from London)
Date received: 9th September 2020
“I found the 1:1 coaching call to be a really valuable experience. It was so much more than what I originally thought it would be and any initial apprehension wasn’t even there once I picked up the phone. I didn’t expect to receive so many tips for how to make the most of my time and the situation I am in right now, but all were great ideas and most importantly, ones I could easily factor into my routine. ‘Coaching Call’ can sometimes draw connotations of being a little interrogating and perhaps being told things you are unwilling to hear; however, it was quite the opposite. There were so many valuable suggestions and to think someone worked through these and put them together for me personally was lovely. We ran over time, and I even mentioned at the end how my hand was running at 100 miles an hour trying to get everything down! For someone like me who needs that little nudge and guidance, it was great, thank you.”
(Roxanne from London)
Date received: 5th September 2020
“Firstly, I thank God for helping me to find your organisation while I was searching for Christian dating organisation on google. Secondly, a big thank you your staff for their professional service in explaining how the whole process works, especially when Sharon contacted me again about few weeks ago. She really did explain the whole process to me in such a way that I really understood it. The video clip of the award that you won did inspire me as well to join. Thanks to each member of staff that I have been communicating with who have been excellent. I will recommend your service to others in search for friendship and relationship.”
(Nike from Kent)
Date received: 25th August 2020
“I joined friends1st, as I have been on my own for at least 20yrs or so. Yes, I spoke to Seb before I joined, he was very helpful. I have not been on it very long but found it very interesting and friendly. I have been on other sites but found them no good at all, they are just after your money, and you cannot contact them if need be. The people on friends1st are genuine and friendly; I know that there is someone out there for everybody. I thank you for your support and supportive service you provided, thank you. I have also had a text from a lady in Inverness which is not too distant to drive up. She invited me to phone her back and we had a good talk, I met her this weekend. We are going to make plans to for me go up again next month. There was another lady over in Northern Ireland, we had a very good texting chat to each other, then I pushed the wrong button (to my advantage) and I phoned her, we have a good verbal communication now. Thank you. It is good to hear and speak to good Christian ladies. “
(Mervyn from Kirkcaldy)
Date received: 18th August 2020
“The book in the welcome pack, ‘How to be the One’, was a very useful tool to give insights and help self-reflection. My coaching call was tailored to what I had mentioned on my form, and the coach had looked up specific resources suitable to me and my goals. Thank you. The call was also helpful as it gave a variety of ideas that extended into my day-to-day life, beyond just the friends first profiles, which was refreshing.”
(Sophie from London)
Date received: 12th August 2020
“I was very pleased with the 15-minute coaching call I received last week. I was sitting with a friend, and she was amazed that I was receiving help from friends1st as she was thinking of joining too!
Sarah was very friendly and encouraging. One of the most touching things Sarah said was that I should write an email and send it to friends first so that it can be read and structured properly before I send it to a profile that I liked. It was so encouraging. Thank you so much and God bless all of you. You are all doing a great job.”
(Bassey from Slough)
Date received: Google review August 2020
“I found them really helpful and professional. If you want to find your soulmate then they are a really good choice. I was sent lists of profiles at the rate promised and I contacted a few I thought would be good matches. I found my husband within a few months of joining and we have been happily married for almost 11 years and have a beautiful daughter as a lovely bonus. Give them a go. “
(Tracy from Norwich)
Date received: 7th August 2020
“My coaching call was significantly better than OK – it was genuinely useful. The call was especially useful in providing one idea I had not thought about (let trusted friends know you’re seeking a new partner), and also in providing general background information about the process. There were some other ideas which I have noted, thank you. “
(Michael from Wiltshire)
Date received: 4th August 2020
“I was very apprehensive and feeling unsure whether I had made the right decision to apply for membership. On reading the welcome pack I was assured that the organisation had the best interests of their members at heart and an understanding of their hopes and fears. The fact that it is run by Christians for Christians certainly puts me at ease. “
(Maggie from Essex)
Date received: 3rd August 2020
“I had tried dating agencies before with no luck meeting anyone suitable. I decided to try a different type and yours being Christian, I felt it would be a better choice for me and how I feel. The fact you were not online and that you were a Christian agency. You have been very welcoming and informative. I spoke with Seb on my first initial contact, he was very understanding. I feel confident in meeting people and do hope to make some new friends if possible – your very professional and I’m sure I will recommend your services. “
(Pauline from Bexhill)
Date received: 27th July 2020
“First impressions are good, very good! Above all, you seem to ‘get on with it’ – that’s what I like. I’ve just arranged my photoshoot and am really pleased with the photographer – from her website/video and conversation on the ‘phone – very confident this will work well. And she was expecting my call – it all makes me feel confident in your organisation.
I joined you within a day of a very close friend of mine telling me that he knew a couple who had got together through friends 1st and had been very happy with what happened. I didn’t spend a lot of time thinking about it. I had come to the conclusion that it would be extremely unlikely that I would meet someone suitable in the normal course of my life.”
(Michael from Wiltshire)
Date received: 23rd July 2020
“I was very sceptical about joining a dating agency and a Christian one somehow added to my reservations. I first enquired back in 2018 when I was new to Christ and right at the very start of my journey, and I believed I just wasn’t ready or good enough for other Christians. But after a few failed relationships in a couple of years I became ready to seek someone who shares my faith. I would also like to meet someone I can get to know slightly slower than what the everyday norm seems to be, and friends1st just seemed the logical choice that would tick all the boxes. I have learnt that prayer is number 1 in my life but something else I’ve learnt, is that I must put feet on my prayers, basically action is also required, so I felt it was time to commit this to God and take action in joining you guys and see where it leads me. My first interactions with the team have been great and everyone has been really kind and helpful, not to mention fast. I signed up one day and 2 days later I was having my photos taken and the day after that I received a mock-up of my profile. I’ve been really impressed so far, and I’m really excited to see what happens next.”
(Matt from Worthing)
Date received: 23rd July 2020
“I found myself very apprehensive but decided to give it a try. I am not meeting people and feel the need to make new friends, with the possibility of a relationship. I spoke to Jo Marriot and found her very helpful and honest. Thanks for your support. “
Paul from Sheffield)
Date received: 20th July 2020
” In joining friends1st I felt quietly optimistic as I considered, if nothing else, it was another avenue for me to meet new friends or that special person. I have only been on one other Christian dating website. It turned out not to be the experience I imagined it would be when I first joined. A close and trusted friend told me about friends1st. I went home and researched on the internet and that was the beginning of my journey. I think it was the personal touch, the being able to speak to people who work for friends1st, that swung it for me. First interactions have been encouraging. I’ve spoken to two people, the first of which was Seb Lewis. I found that the joining process was explained really clearly. Everything that was explained to me would happen, did. At no point did I feel pressurised. So far it has all felt efficient yet very friendly and welcoming …… and staff have normalised the whole process for me! 🙂
Now that I have started the process, I have a sense of quietly excited anticipation! I’ve no idea what the future holds for me, but I trust God and am thankful I get to journey with you! I’ve told numbers of family and friends, who are prayerful ………and way more excited than me! They are aware of my journey and who knows to whom my story will be recounted in the days to come.”
(Liz from Bedford)
Date received: 13th July 2020
“I have never joined a dating agency in the past and so I was naturally very apprehensive. There are a lot of charlatans who are only too happy to take your money and not so good at delivering results. I am also very out of practice with dating. It should be said that I was never proficient in the first place, being very shy as a teenager.
I felt more comfortable about friends1st because it is based on Christian principles, so I thought there was a strong chance the organisation was honest. I spoke to the people running the organisation, Katharine, Jo and Sarah, and watched some videos, which had been carefully prepared by Katharine and to which I could relate.
I believe that friendship comes before romance and therefore fully subscribe to the ethos of the company. Since joining I have been supported through each step of the journey so far.”
(David from Hereford)
Date received: 2nd July 2020
“I just really wanted to thank friends1st for being so encouraging and supportive in an often, misleading website dating area. I am so happy they provide such personal support, a pack of material to get you going, professional photos and personal profile to get you noticed in the right way. I know this will help my options of meeting someone nice and hopefully for life, in the Christian relationship I am looking for.”
(Gary via Google Review)
Date received: 2nd July 2020
“LOVE… true love, what does it mean to you? It means different things to different people, but it is the one thing that most of us strive for in our lifetime. If you are anything like me, you find the dating game a minefield, not meeting many people in everyday situations and simply put off by online dating and the uncomfortable idea that some people might not be quite who they say they are. That is where Friends 1st steps in. Unlike online dating, you can be 100% sure whomever you come into contact with is genuine, and this is because their exceptional service operates mainly offline. No pretence, no reservations – these are members who have been verified, had thorough conversations with the team, had their own photo shoot and heck, did not even write their own profile! If ever you want a true representation of a person, this is it. Most importantly, if meeting a Christian is absolute for you, it is clear many Christians naturally gravitate towards this service.
I cannot express how taken aback I have been since my very first enquiry, everyone on the team is simply wonderful, with a true humanitarian touch. The type of people who you can trust and who you know will support you. I was never once pressurised into joining, but simply advised and allowed to take my time to think about things. There isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ approach, instead they get to know you, putting you and your desires at the core and treating you as a unique individual. The team are professionals for sure, but more than that, they feel like caring friends. I was particularly pleased to receive personal communication directly from Katharine, the Founder, and if that isn’t a sign of a company that is hands-on, then I don’t know what is!
This is the dating agency I have been wishing for but never knew existed up until now, and in an age where almost everything has gone digital, it is suitably refreshing and rather superior. Friends 1st – thank you! You have restored my faith in dating and relationships. It may or may not bring the soulmate I am looking for, but at least I know I am one step closer and whatever happens will be God’s will. Thank you for everything so far. I am sure I will have many more positive things to say in the future!In the meantime, I’ll certainly being mentioning by word of mouth to those I feel may benefit from the service.”
(Miss Ra – Google Review)
Date received: 1st July 2020
“I’m really enjoying the journey and you are fantastic.”
(Ipiash from Bradford)
Date received: 30th June 2020
“I really do appreciate the Christian side of your material – I didn’t expect you would provide a real inclusion of God within so much of your material. It has really made me realise how much we do need Him to be a part of the whole process and how wonderful that your company knows this and puts it down in black and white. You really do deserve to succeed, and I’m pleased to have found you. I feel I’m on the right path. “
(Rachel from Bexhill on Sea)
Date received: 24th June 2020
“I ‘took the plunge’ because I very much like your approach for friends1st. I think it lifts expectations, which can be unrealistic. I particularly like the Christian aspect of your company. My faith is very important to me, so to meet someone of a similar background is reassuring. You don’t have to explain yourself. I spoke to and have met Jo Marriott first. She was very professional, charming, and encouraging. I’m feeling a bit nervous about things, but I’m putting the matter very much ‘in God’s hands’. I would indeed recommend you to others, probably female friends who are also Christian and who are perhaps lonely but not doing anything to help the situation.”
(Rachel from Bexhill on Sea)
Date received: 21st June 2020
“Friends First does help you really get to grips with proper dating and communicating and connecting in the right natural way, I seem to be seeing so far. I dearly wish in fact there were far more like Friends 1st. I am very pleased to say while it took me about 3-4 weeks to join your staff have always been very patient, kind and supportive, and listened to my conversation, while I just got my head around my own things going on in my life and how Friends 1st works. Having to commit to the fees for a year makes you think sensibly about what your about to embark on and that’s good as men or women committing to that means they are very much more likely to commit to a positive and eventually more serious hopefully lifetime relationship down the line and are involved with this organisation with a good track record for the best very right reasons.”
(Gary from Huntingdon)
Date received: 17th June 2020
“Katharine & Sarah on the hotline have been helping a great deal ***** FIVE STAR.”
(Colin from Bexhill on Sea)
Date received: 12th June 2020
“I am extremely grateful to Friends First for providing such an excellent and friendly service that has introduced me to the most amazing man.
Whilst it is still early days, I am very excited about a future with him and therefore would be grateful if you could remove my profile from your database.
Thank you for all your guidance and friendly help along each step of the way – especially for the advice to be open minded !
I will warmly recommend you to any of my Christian friends who are seeking a special friend”
(Tessa from Gloucestershire)
Date received: June 2020
“A Christian organisation – excellent! And it operates off-line! The headlines get better and better! I joined Friends1st a little over a week ago, and have already seen so much activity on my account: draft profile, lots of reading/coaching material delivered to my door, and very swift responses to all my enquiries (including telephone follow-up to my questions logged during a webinar delivered by Katherine prior to my joining). I especially like the fact that Friends1st is only for those with a Christian faith, which is so important in personal relationships. I have every confidence that things will continue to go well as I seek a new relationship after my wife died some years ago.”
(Gordon via Google Review)
Date received: June 2020
“I came across friends1st through looking at the internet, and after thinking about it and reading more, I decided to join and what attracted me even more is the fact that it is off-line and God is very much part of it. There are some very useful tips and advice and the videos that Katharine Gray has made are very uplifting and helpful too. I have been reading alot of members stories and they have been very encouraging and I do know that I have joined the best service. And last of all I would certainly recommend them!”
(Susan via Google Review)
Date received: 10th June 2020
“I was sceptical about joining a dating agency because I thought I wouldn’t be able to afford the fees, however the monthly payements make it possible and their prices are nowhere near as steep as some agencies
I had a face to face with Jo who made me feel really comfortable,it was’ like chatting to an old friend’ it helped me decide that this was the company for me. It has a personal touch about it and it comes across that they genuinly care about their clients. I’m excited about what the future holds!”
(Amanda from Birmingham)
Date received: June 2020
“When I phoned the agency I spoke to Seb, who was very friendly, helpful, courteous. Had lots of patience. I’ve since had lots of input, and there were emails with lots of information in. I took the plunge because I get very lonely, knowing that there was lots of support. I chose it because it’s a Christian agency and I would like to meet another Christian. They are a very thorough agency, checking my details, so you know you are going to meet someone genuine. I am quite excited about meeting someone who could be Mr Right.
I could recommend this agency.”
(Jackie via Google Review)
“I was quite looking forward to my 1:1 coaching call. Sarah gave me a positive critique of my profile and offered me lots of sound advice which I intend to follow up with. Many thanks.”
“The reason I chose Friends First was because it’s a Christian agency…. the only hesitation I had was the cost. But when I looked into it, I saw they were very thorough, and you were going to get someone genuine. I had a lot of input before I joined and spoke to Seb who was extremely helpful. I also knew that I could phone and talk to him about any queries I had. He was very patient and helpful. I am quite excited at the thought that I am a step forward to meeting Mr Right.”
“Thus far, all my dealings with Friends First have been courteous, friendly, non-pushy, understanding of my own personal journey from marriage to singleness, while always encouraging me towards getting involved when I felt that time was right for me.
Although I have known about Friends First for a while, I didn’t want to enrol until I was absolutely sure I could handle this life on my own and, to my delight, I find that I can. I absolutely do miss having someone special to share my adventures with but, it was important for me to want someone in my life out of a desire to share, than out of a perceived “need” not to be alone.
In recent weeks, I had been mulling over something God imparted to me years ago; he showed me that a boat tied to it’s moorings in the safety of a harbour is fine but he was calling me to partner with him, to untie the ropes and set sail for the open sea and I should trust him to guide me. A boat that remains tied to its moorings is going nowhere, likewise God cannot guide my life if I do not take the initiative to move myself into those unchartered waters.
So it is with some excitement and anticipation of what might occur next, that I have launched myself, in this way, to find new friends. If nothing happens I will be absolutely fine but if I do make new friends or indeed meet that very special someone …. what’s not to like about that?
I’m really looking forward to the next twelve months”
“I have to say, I am really impressed with the contents of the Welcome pack folder. I have spent a good couple of hours going through it and I certainly feel this has been a good investment. The contents are very well laid out and is full of interesting and helpful information.”
“I have been a member of Friends 1st for just over a year and found the ladies I have been in contact with were of a good standard. Being a member of friends means that those you meet follow Christian principles of love and caring for others. Sadly since the lockdown I have not been able to meet anyone in the flesh but hopefully things will gradually improve.”
“I decided to join based on a trusted friend’s referral. What influenced my decision to join is because my trusted friend had a success; proof of her own friend who found a soul mate through her membership with friend first. My observation of my first interactions with your team is that they are very assertive and great listeners.”
“You asked about if I was sceptical about joining an agency. The answer is Yes but not yours. When I searched for a Christian Agency and I saw yours, it was because of the in-depth assurance that I got from watching the you speak about what is offered, the work that has put in place to keep people safe, ensuring that people will be vetted and that peace of feeling safe was what I need and that for me reflects integrity and caring company. Also, I felt transparency and that settles my fears and anxiety. Your Christ like approach, love and want to help people is what influenced me to join. My first interaction was great, I never made to feel pressured but was talked through the process and left to decide by myself. I would recommend the service to Godly people who are looking for that help to meet Gods desire for them. Why, because I feel settled in my spirit that this company is a company that acts with integrity.”
“A Christian organisation – excellent! And it operates off-line! The headlines get better and better! I joined Friends1st a little over a week ago, and have already seen so much activity on my account: draft profile, lots of reading/coaching material delivered to my door, and very swift responses to all my enquiries (including telephone follow-up to my questions logged during a webinar delivered by Katherine prior to my joining). I especially like the fact that Friends1st is only for those with a Christian faith, which is so important in personal relationships. I have every confidence that things will continue to go well as I seek a new relationship after my wife died some years ago.”
“I feel I am being looked after in a Christian manner and with God’s help I am now in a good place and more content in my life and no stress associated to this new book /chapter which I am now looking forward too very much.”
“I just know this is the right Christian dating site for me and I am very serious about being introduced to a male member however long it will take. I will certainly recommend your dating site to my friends. We all need a special person in our lives and friends whom we can enjoy life with but I love the way you go about this “Offline” it was great to know, in fact it made me say “yes”.”
(Sue from Oxfordshire)
“I joined Friends1st some years ago but did not commit to it. Katherine kept in touch with me, encouraging me and saying, “give it a try” So here I am again giving it a go! I’m enjoying it and I know that I will gain a lot from coming back to friends1st. You are such caring and loving team. God bless.”
(Bassey from Slough)
“I received the friends1st folders yesterday, thank you very much. I also love my enhanced profile, great work.”
“I just wanted to thank you for this very clear guide to using Zoom. It’s incredibly useful. I have participated in Zoom a fair amount since lockdown started, but wasn’t sure how to host/invite someone to a meeting – now I know!
I’d just like to take this opportunity to thank you for all the regular emails you’ve been sending me since I first began to think about joining. They have helped to convince me that this is a truly Christian organisation that really cares about its members. I have now joined, as I feel the time is right – I’m looking forward to the adventure!”
“I am very happy with the support and help so far. The people I have spoken on the phone have been very kind and helpful”
Hope you have a great day today dearest Sarah.”
they don’t have to be on the doorstep. Also, God knows how I feel about moving so I’ll leave that in His capable hands.
“The reason I chose Friends First was because it’s a Christian agency…. the only hesitation I had was the cost. But when I looked into it, I saw they were very thorough, and you were going to get someone genuine. I had a lot of input before I joined and spoke to Seb who was extremely helpful. I also knew that I could phone and talk to him about any queries I had. He was very patient and helpful. I am quite excited at the thought that I am a step forward to meeting Mr Right.”
(Jackie from Somerset)
“I have to say, I am really impressed with the contents of the Welcome pack folder. I have spent a good couple of hours going through it and I certainly feel this has been a good investment. The contents are very well laid out and is full of interesting and helpful information.”
(Anne from Limerick)
“I have been a member of Friends 1st for just over a year and found the ladies I have been in contact with were of a good standard. Being a member of friends means that those you meet follow Christian principles of love and caring for others. Sadly since the lockdown I have not been able to meet anyone in the flesh but hopefully things will gradually improve.”
(Peter from West Yorkshire)
“I decided to join based on a trusted friend’s referral. What influenced my decision to join is because my trusted friend had a success; proof of her own friend who found a soul mate through her membership with friend first. My observation of my first interactions with your team is that they are very assertive and great listeners.”
(Ruth from Essex)
“You asked about if I was sceptical about joining an agency. The answer is Yes but not yours. When I searched for a Christian Agency and I saw yours, it was because of the in-depth assurance that I got from watching the you speak about what is offered, the work that has put in place to keep people safe, ensuring that people will be vetted and that peace of feeling safe was what I need and that for me reflects integrity and caring company. Also, I felt transparency and that settles my fears and anxiety. Your Christ like approach, love and want to help people is what influenced me to join. My first interaction was great, I never made to feel pressured but was talked through the process and left to decide by myself. I would recommend the service to Godly people who are looking for that help to meet Gods desire for them. Why, because I feel settled in my spirit that this company is a company that acts with integrity.”
(Carrol from Nottingham)
“A Christian organisation – excellent! And it operates off-line! The headlines get better and better! I joined Friends1st a little over a week ago, and have already seen so much activity on my account: draft profile, lots of reading/coaching material delivered to my door, and very swift responses to all my enquiries (including telephone follow-up to my questions logged during a webinar delivered by Katherine prior to my joining). I especially like the fact that Friends1st is only for those with a Christian faith, which is so important in personal relationships. I have every confidence that things will continue to go well as I seek a new relationship after my wife died some years ago.”
(Gordon from Reading)
“I feel I am being looked after in a Christian manner and with God’s help I am now in a good place and more content in my life and no stress associated to this new book /chapter which I am now looking forward too very much.”
(Jen from Londonderry)
“I just know this is the right Christian dating site for me and I am very serious about being introduced to a male member however long it will take. I will certainly recommend your dating site to my friends. We all need a special person in our lives and friends whom we can enjoy life with but I love the way you go about this “Offline” it was great to know, in fact it made me say “yes”.”
(Sue from Oxfordshire)
“I joined Friends1st some years ago but did not commit to it. Katherine kept in touch with me, encouraging me and saying, “give it a try” So here I am again giving it a go! I’m enjoying it and I know that I will gain a lot from coming back to friends1st. You are such caring and loving team. God bless.”
(Bassey from Slough)
“I received the friends1st folders yesterday, thank you very much. I also love my enhanced profile, great work.”
“I am very happy with the support and help so far. The people I have spoken on the phone have been very kind and helpful”
Hope you have a great day today dearest Sarah.”
they don’t have to be on the doorstep. Also, God knows how I feel about moving so I’ll leave that in His capable hands.
“My first interactions with your company have been impressive to me. Jo rang me following a message I left on the internet and as I’m sure you know, it is like talking to your best friend who you’ve known for years, talking to Jo. She is the epitome of cheerfulness. Sarah also has been very helpful. I feel quite confident about the journey I’ve started. I know that this is a reputable, professional organisation with people who know their job. I’m looking forward to making contacts and I won’t let the grass grow under my feet.”
“I just wanted to say how helpful I found the 15 minute coaching call.
I wasn’t expecting it to be such fun and so informative.
I am really looking forward to receiving my first set of profiles – can’t wait!”
“My goodness, I had no idea you had so much to offer! Thank you. This shows me care, safety and also helped my confidence. It gave me great confidence in friendsfirst as an organisation”
“I have worked alongside other Friends First members in groups facilitated by Katharine.
This has been a powerful experience, as Katharine guides the conversations with pertinent questions to keep us on track. The group were encouraged and empowered to build one another up with positive comments, and to jump on the lies we believe about ourselves and relationships.
Katharine’s support, coaching and advice around dating has helped me make new friends, and increased my confidence to tackle obstacles to successful dating. I have felt encouraged to set dating goals and plan ahead to meet ladies, to inject appropriate urgency into my search for a spouse.”
“Thank you for the wonderful work you are doing, giving opportunities to numerous Christians that would otherwise be lost, lonely and miserable. I wish you and your ministry more grace and favour in the will of The Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!.”
“When I joined I felt a great joy inside me as through you I will find that girl with which to base my family thank you.”
“So far so good, friends first are very professional keeping me up-to-date at every step. I’m hoping for the best.😊”
“I enjoyed every aspect of my coaching call and it was an eye opener of the experience you and your team have on how to find and make friends. I am grateful for all that information. My late Dad used to tell us that, ‘someone informed is enlightened’. Thank you once again.”
“I did feel cared for in receiving my welcome pack as there is a lot of good, honest information in it. Very well thought through, friendly and came across as very committed to help find a friend …very good.”
“From Kathleen in Powys. My decision to join Friends1st was made in a sudden burst of new understanding that seemed to come out of nowhere.My mood wasn’t one of desperate longing or dreams of transformation but a really happy desire to share something with friends.So, that whiich I suddenly understood, or saw in a different light, was the very name “Friends1st”. Far from suggesting caution or less speed whilst searching for a marriage partner, in order to calm our trepidation and visions of huge mistakes, Friends1st now said, quite simply, concentrate on friends… first of all. Dream-boat ? Soul-mate ? Perfect partner > Dont even go there. (yet) Each individual on the books of FF is a potential friend, one who is on the very same adventure as I am on. All in the same boat ! Furthermore, we are all sailing along under the expert navigation of our Heavenly Father. His choice of crew is pretty good too….. always available with calm, encouraging, wise advice. We have plenty of reasons to be the best of friends. Thanks be to Go and thank you FF team.
From “Glorious Things of Thee are Spoken by John Newton…..
See the streams of living waters
springing from Eternal Love
Well supply thy sons and daughters
and all fear of want remove.”
“Thank you for being so informative – I have really enjoyed finding out about your service and I will be in touch very shortly”
Date received: 15th February 2020
“My experience with the staff has been excellent, they were there to listen and guide every step of the way”
(Bola from London)
Date received: February 2020
“First impressions very good. Placed faith in this organisation to find me a soulmate and I think they will!”
(Howard via google review)
Date received: 12th February 2020
“Thank you so much. In fact, I can’t thank you and the Friends1st team enough for all your help, advice and support. I’ve got a new lease of life.”
(Lanie from Worcestershire)
Date received: 6th February 2020
“Katharine’s support, coaching and advice around dating has helped me make new friends, and increased my confidence to tackle obstacles to successful dating. I have felt encouraged to set dating goals and plan ahead to meet ladies, to inject appropriate urgency into my search for a spouse.”
(Tom from Surrey)
Date received: 3rd February 2020
“Joining a dating agency is not something I would normally do. Going on line and everyone knowing my business was not for me. I was attracted to Friends first when I realised it wasn’t on-line and was a very personal service. Plus knowing it was Christians who were running the service gave me the assurance I needed to take the plunge.”
(Pam from Yorkshire)
Date received: 29th January 2020
“It was a great delight to speak with you late last night on such an important journey in my life. I have never been so excited like this before, the investment is huge and the returns I believe will be very rewarding. Looking forward to a successful and destiny fulfilling journey towards my marriage as ordained in scripture, as you have already enabled so many others on this platform of friends1st. “
(Vallerie from Reading)
Date received: 21st January 2020
“At 70 yrs of age, I seem to have become a stronger -minded person than ever I was before. Deciding to join Friends1st was sudden and decisive. I woke up one morning thinking, I wish I had a good friend with whom I could share good times and happy experiences and in that moment I knew I would ring Friendsfirst.”
(Kathy from Wales)
Date received: 18th January 2020
“Let me thank you for accepting me to be a member of your agency. Previously I opened a dating website and I felt sick. I just thought I can’t do this; it is not for me. However when I opened your web- site the feeling was different and I felt like I was at home. When read how you started your agency I strongly felt it was a calling, a ministry God has given you. My first interactions were welcoming friendly and promising. I am feeling positive and encouraged and I can say that you and your team are the first friends even before going further. Thank you once again, and many blessings.”
(Jennifer from Manchester)
Date received: 15th January 2020
“friends1st is very proactive in getting in touch with me; the staff have been very approachable & I value your advice a lot.”
(Paula from London)
Date received: 12th Janury 2020
“I thought a lot about why I chose Friends First before joining and one of the reasons was for the support; the call has given me confidence. Sarah answered my questions and did not rush me, I appreciated this as I felt nervous.”
(Anna from Yorkshire)
“Friends1st is wonderful, life-transforming and excellent service, where I have really felt supported and encouraged. I have been equipped with amazing tools, resources, coaching and skills to quickly step out of my comfort zone to achieve the success and the results I was always looking for in my personal journey in a short space of time – with massive thanks to Katherine and the Friends1st team. “
(Cordelia via Google review)
“Thank you very much for the role you played in our introduction. We have now wed and have started a new chapter in our lives. We are very grateful to you and your team for a job well done. “
(Evelyn from Bracknell)
“friends first is different and will work for me to achieve my dream of getting married. I need to move on in life and your service was ideal. The thing that influenced me to join was the personalised service and the fact that I am a Christian and that it is fitting I meet like minded people. I am feeling overjoyed at the journey I have now started with friends1st. I would recommend my service to my friends.”
(Howard from Bolton)
“I have found a partner through friends1st and have obviously been very successful with my membership. I really enjoyed talking to the staff there.”
(Nina from Crowborough)
“Just Wow.
This Christian organisation is indeed one of a kind. The welcome package is more like a training portfolio for anyone(clueless or clued(just to say)); a lot of resourceful materials and guides.
Moreso, for real Christian singles, you will be really motivated to take action and ownership of your future.”
(Paula via Google review)
“I found the 1:1 coaching call to be a really valuable experience, it was helpful speaking with the dating expert. It was good to speak to someone who could give me encouragement.”
(Estelle from Manchester)
“I am really glad that I joined friends first and bought the Finding Someone Special toolkit, it had the answers to all my questions and gave me a lot of peace about things. I had been wondering what books to buy or whether to pay a guru for advice and the toolkit took away all the wondering and mystery.”
(Pamela from London)
“I met Michael in February and we have been together ever since. Whilst I didn’t meet him through friends first if I had not joined I would not have been in the right frame of mind to go for it – so I have FriendsFirst to thank!”
(Julia from Yorkshire)
“Friends1st is wonderful, life-transforming and excellent service, where I have really felt supported and encouraged. I have been equipped with amazing tools, resources, coaching and skills to quickly step out of my comfort zone to achieve the success and the results I was always looking for in my personal journey in a short space of time – with massive thanks to Katherine and the Friends1st team.”
(Cordelia from Wembley)
“I was really grateful for the critique and was a really worthwhile service. I am more confident that the emails I
send out are as good as they can be.”
(Pamela from London)
“Katharine your commitment to us as a group has been tremendous. All the different facets of dating that we’ve done have been fantastic.”
(Christine from Oxford)
“You work so hard and I am so impressed with you. I am lucky enough to have found someone so no longer need your services. Continue with your very good and hard work.”
(Constance from Wiltshire)
“I think the contact with members of your team have been wonderful and I have never had to wait long for a response to my queries.”
“Thank you for sending me your updated Friends1st material. I see that my recent Facebook posts in regard to the format of your product were misplaced, as friends1st is indeed a classy bespoke service that is the antithesis of online dating services. I have actually been married for the last 10 years but I have a friend who needs your services and I would like to pay for his membership fees”
” Many thanks for the opportunities that Friends First presents and it’s unique style “
” I always had my doubts about joining any dating site due to previous experiences that were awful. However the need to move on was pushing me not to fear the unknown and try again. I was just surfing the internet and suddenly your website popped up!! It intrigued me and I wondered why and how did this happen. I never knew about your site, and I paused and thought could this be of God. ??
It not only answered my questions running in my mind at the time but it was a relief as I read through your site. The fact that you are Christ centered, deal with Christians only, the way you have made it possible to sieve through the fake and have committed people joining, building friendships first and the rest is history. That was amazing and was my deciding factor to take the plunge.
The continuous contact from your office, on telephone, emails has been of much help and amazing. It took me a while to join, but believe me, I recommended your services to a friend who joined before I did, that’s how much trust I had in your organisation. What really influenced me is the fact you have filtered your way of doing the dating scene and dealing with genuine people in an old fashioned way that is the best!!
The journey is still at an early stage but so far am so happy, and looking forward to what is in store as I prayerfully wait on God’s leading. I will continue to tell other singles out there who have been afraid to join dating sites because of previous experiences about your organisation, especially because of your Christian virtues and because you address each individual personally. Huge blessings. ”
” I am very impressed by the way Friends First have fully explained their objectives in the form of regular telephone contact and by mail. I feel sure Friends First will greatly assist me in my endeavors to find a friend. “
“I recently came across friends1st(heavenly partners in Ireland) ,through Vox magazine.
Their advertisement caught my attention so I had a look at their introduction video and I was very touched and had some tears as I saw a picture of crosses. Katharine gray shared about the foundations of friends1st ,i then decided to ring, and Katharine answered the phone . I have felt so welcomed and supported in such a short time of joining and I’m looking forward to receiving profiles of male members, I truly believe this is genuine CHRIST centered ,committed to helping christian ,like minded male and females on their journey to finding the right life partner. “
“It’s been a pleasure to have registered with Friends 1st last year. I learnt a lot from my membership. I was able to meet someone and we are getting on very well. His profile was not sent to me because I had screened his age off. I would admit that I judged the profiles sent to me during my membership but thank God for the
events. That was what worked for me, we are soon to be engaged before moving in together. We are very happy and contented with each other. I have made friends from your company and have realised many are still acting like I used to act and that is judging profiles and some are even judging people during events. I’m concerned that
might keep them waiting for long. “
” From the my frist point of contact with friends1st It has been nice to have contact with real people who understand the importance of our Father in matters such as a relationship and have set up a network for the true believer “
“So far I feel the team at first first have been fantastic, so supportive and genuine. There is a genuine hotline if I ever needed it and everyone is so supportive. I feel open and honest to give the team my true feelings. Friends1st really do care about you individually. Excellent service so far and let this continue. You don’t feel left alone once you have joined up at friends first but feel as a true genuine member and want to crack on with finding someone. “
“Friends1st is a friendly group of people seeking to support those of us who need a little help meeting a life partner.
Friends1st has helped to build my confidence in being able to meet the right person & has also helped me to see opportunities for friendships that I had not noticed before 👍🏾”
“Wow! I’m really impressed with the profile you’ve written for me. You did extremely well to condense all the stuff I was saying on the phone onto a very fluid and grammatically excellent blurb for my strange character!
Really, thank you very much, Sarah. “
“Its based in Britain not overseas. There is a genuine hotline if I ever needed it. Everyone is so supportive.
I feel open and honest to give the team my true feelings. Friends first really do care about you individually. Excellent service so far and let this continue.”
“My attitude was why bother.
Then I did a lot of soul searching to what I really want and it was a case of nothing
ventured nothing gained, again there was a lot of thinking.
Your staff were very supportive and welcoming made you feel so secure, I feel good as its off-line,
I am looking forward in meeting new people and being so hopeful”
“Thank you for the positivity of all the people who contribute to the magazine…it does inspire.”
“At first I was sceptical about joining Friends1st because I have been a member of several introduction agencies in the past, some of which made very convincing promises but seemed more interested in taking money off you and providing a very poor service before going out of business. I once joined an agency which cost £800 promising a very personal service and I only received a few introductions and it soon went out of business. More recently I joined Nexus which again went out of business quite suddenly a few years ago.
Friends First seems to be a big improvement on previous experiences with no less than 33 profiles received in my first batch. This is probably because of my age in that there are a large number of ladies in my age group who for various reasons are on their own and are looking to replace lost loved ones.
I took the plunge to join Friends1st partly as a result of sales calls I had from you and because you stated that you had a large number of ladies of a similar age to myself on your books.
I feel there is hope for the future that I will eventually find the person I am looking for.
I would recommend your organisation to others.”
” At last a way to meet like minded Christian people who are also looking for a serious relationship, by first making friends! After being divorced for over 12 years, I was fed-up on mainstream on-line dating sites, and my friend introduced me to FriendsFirst. It is a refreshing way to approach meeting someone special with support from the team, and lots of helpful material to work through and social events to attend, so much better than blind dating. It provides a re-set to the way we think about dating, throwing away a list of must haves, and encourages you to be open to all opportunities. I cannot wait to receive my first profiles by post in a couple of weeks! You even get to go on your very own photoshoot, there are different levels of membership, and you can pay in instalments too, so you can still afford to go out and meet other members and be sociable. Watch this space……”
” Merion and I would like to say a big thank you to Friends1st, in particular, Katharine who was very encouraging to myself when I was ready to give up. Katharine said to me, “You only need one” Well I found him and we both feel truly blessed. We serve an amazing God and he proves over and over that he is in control of our lives and everything happens when the time is right. God has our lives mapped out but organisations like yours help us to meet up. Many thanks and may God continue to bless the work that you do. We would like to encourage other people who find themselves in the same position as us to keep on writing and contacting other members – you will find the right person and for us, it was when we were least expecting it.
I feel there is hope for the future that I will eventually find the person I am looking for. I would recommend your organisation to others. “
Discover if we have Christian members living close to you!
We only started putting these testimonials on our homepage on 15th June 2019, so if you’d like to see testimonials from before this date please click HERE.
