Tired of dating apps, a 42-year-old woman from San Francisco has taken love into her own hands with a bold billboard campaign. Lisa Catalano purchased a dozen billboards promoting her new website, MarryLisa.com, inviting eligible bachelors to apply to date her.
The site includes details about her hobbies, interests, and what she’s looking for in a partner, giving hopeful applicants a clear idea of her expectations.
Lisa Catalano’s Bold Move
“I never expected I would do something like this in my life,” Catalano told People magazine, adding, “I’m almost in shock that I did it, really.”
Her decision to go public with a billboard campaign comes after growing frustrated with dating apps that “never seemed to go anywhere.”
From Joke to Full-Fledged Campaign
Catalano said the idea for MarryLisa.com began as a joke but quickly turned into a serious effort.
“Every time I would get frustrated with how the dating scene in general was, I would spend another five, ten minutes just typing away on my computer, making the website as a little creative outlet,” she explained.
Simple and Eye-Catching Billboard Design
The billboards are straightforward, featuring her photo alongside the website link in bold yellow font over a black background.
“I wanted something that was just very simple, to the point, and a little bit eye-catching,” Catalano said.
The Website and Application Process
The website features a detailed application form, asking about education, occupation, hobbies, and values. Catalano explained: “I don’t think I’m being out of line with my non-negotiables. I want somebody who is looking for a committed, monogamous relationship who would like to try for starting a family. I’m looking for someone who leads a healthy lifestyle.”
What Kind of Partner She’s Looking For
Catalano is seeking someone aged 35 to 45 who shares her views on religion and politics and maintains a healthy lifestyle. Applicants have ranged from ages 19 to 78.
Having lost her fiancé in 2023 after a terminal illness, she admitted dating again felt “strange” after years in a long-term relationship: “I do think the apps can work, really, but in my case, I’m just not getting the results.”
Responses and Public Reaction
Since launching the campaign on September 2, Catalano has received around 1,800 applications. She acknowledged mixed reactions: “People either love the idea or they hate it. They either think what I’m doing is incredible and brave, or they think I’m the worst person on earth, and there’s no in between.”
Despite this, she remains optimistic: “I think there’s a guy out there who’s a perfect fit for me. And I would venture to say that his application could already be in my inbox right now.”
