“CarpeDM can have a massive positive impact on the collective economic and health status of the Black community.”
Swiping right and superficial connections often dominate the realm of online dating. Naza Shelley founded CarpeDM to revolutionize how professional Black women find love in Washington, D.C., and beyond. This exclusive, member-only dating community marries the convenience of a modern dating app with the personalized touch of a dedicated matchmaker, offering a unique and impactful solution to a long-standing problem in the dating world.
The Vision Behind CarpeDM
CarpeDM was born out of a deeply personal frustration with the current state of online dating. As a professional Black woman herself, Naza experienced firsthand the challenges of finding meaningful connections in a market that often overlooks or undervalues Black women. “For far too long, we have inexplicably been at the bottom of the dating totem pole,” she shares. “I wanted chemistry. I wanted a real connection. I needed help!” This passion and determination led her to quit her job and dedicate herself to creating a platform to address these challenges head-on.
While at Howard Law, Naza met Sali Hama, who later became Co-Founder of CarpeDM. Its mission is clear: to elevate Black women, help create healthy families, decrease the marriage gap in the Black community, and build generational wealth. The company achieves this by combining technology-enabled matchmaking with exclusive singles events, offering an innovative and essential service.
Personal Matchmaking at Your Fingertips
One of CarpeDM’s standout features is its dedicated matchmakers, who work closely with members to understand their true needs and desires. This personalized approach ensures that every match is curated with care, enhancing the chances of finding a meaningful connection. “We dig deep, getting to know your true needs and desires and tracking your dating success,” Sali explains. “We guide you to your special someone by sending you candidates curated to meet your needs.”
Elevating the Online Dating Experience
CarpeDM’s patented video-first dating app is a game-changer. Unlike traditional dating apps that rely on endless swiping and superficial conversations, CarpeDM requires a 5-10 minute video date within 72 hours of matching. This feature allows members to gauge chemistry and compatibility from the comfort of their homes before deciding to meet in person. “Chemistry is the key to a successful relationship,” says Naza. “By requiring a video date, you get to know your match before over-investing.”
A Commitment to Quality and Safety
Quality over quantity is a core principle at CarpeDM. The platform is designed to prioritize the safety and satisfaction of its members through a rigorous vetting process. Every member undergoes a multi-step verification, including a 1:1 matchmaker interview, identity check, and criminal history screening. This ensures that the community remains exclusive and trustworthy. “We only accept the best,” Sali emphasizes. “Your safety is our priority.”
Impacting the Black Community
CarpeDM is more than just a dating app; it’s a movement to uplift the Black community. By fostering meaningful relationships among professional Black women and their admirers, CarpeDM contributes to creating healthy families and generational wealth. “The fastest way out of poverty is being in a two-income household,” Naza points out. “CarpeDM can have a massive positive impact on the collective economic and health status of the Black community.”
Giving B[l]ack
True to its mission, CarpeDM gives back to the community. A portion of every membership is donated to organizations that support the Black community, ensuring that the impact of CarpeDM extends beyond its members. “Our members care about their communities,” she notes. “We Give B[l]ack by donating a portion of our membership fees to support the Black community.”
Looking Ahead
As CarpeDM continues to grow, the future looks bright. The company is excited about the impact it will have on its members’ lives. “We’ve been in operation for a year, and while we have plenty of couples that have met because of CarpeDM, we will be thrilled to announce our first engagement, marriage, and baby as a result of our efforts!” Naza exclaims.
Innovating for a Better Tomorrow
CarpeDM proves the power of innovation and the importance of addressing underserved communities. By offering a service that combines the best of online dating and traditional matchmaking, CarpeDM is setting a new standard for the dating industry. “Innovation isn’t just about creating something new,” Shelley reflects. “It’s about creating something that’s truly needed and positively impacts the lives of the people that use it.”
Join the Movement
For those seeking meaningful connections with professional Black women, CarpeDM offers a unique and unparalleled dating experience. “We know your value. We got you,” Naza assures. “I promise that by submitting your profile, you’ll be one step closer to finally finding love, and our tech and team of matchmakers will be here to help you every step of the way.”
CarpeDM is not just a dating app; it’s a community, a movement, and a revolution in online dating.
