This is the time for year in review lists, and as elite matchmakers, we’re always keeping up with what makes couples tick. In that regard, we present our favorite couples of 2017 — our list of couples who really caught our attention this year.
Some just began seeing each other this year. Others have been married for many years. But they all have one thing in common: they all faced challenges in their relationships, and yet they found ways to overcome them, and keep their love very much alive.
It’s always big news when famous couples break up. But what about the ones who get together – and stay together? We think they deserve our praise, and not just because of who they are. We can all learn from their stories, and their success.
So here, we’re not just presenting a list of favorite couples. We’re telling you why we like them. As elite matchmakers who meet many successful singles, we’ve discovered that, while every couple has their own unique traits and circumstances, there are elements of love that are pretty universal. These couples show us what true love and commitment are all about.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. Of course, they are on our list. They are pretty much on everyone’s list – and for good reason.
Why we like them: They both confound popular expectations. An American actress, Meghan wasn’t expected to fall for a Prince. (Sure, Grace Kelly did it – but that was long ago.) Harry wasn’t expected to fall for an American. But they both opened up to the possibility of love. Now they – and the world – have a royal wedding to look forward to.
Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriquez. JLo and ARod. Don’t they just sound as though they should be together?
Why we like them: They both had similar obstacles to overcome. They’ve both been married before, and they were both divorced single parents. But they navigated those hurdles and found ways to connect with one another. Together with Jennifer’s two sons, and Alex’s two daughters, they’ve become a happy, blended family – a modern-day Brady Bunch. When it comes to love, it looks like they’ve both hit a home run.
Dax Shepard and Kristen Bell. They are husband and wife – and two of Hollywood’s busiest actors. Plus, through their humorous videos, they give us a refreshing glimpse into their married life.
Why we like them: Even after they’ve exchanged vows, they are refreshingly honest about what it takes to keep their relationship going. In an revealing interview with Today’s One Small Thing, Dax opened up about their marriage, and said: “Not unlike your body, which won’t just stay in shape on its own volition, you really have to be maintaining the relationship. And it’s often uncomfortable work, but it needs doing or we won’t stay together.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.
Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban. – She’s one of Hollywood’s best actresses. He is a music superstar who fills arenas and sells millions of records. One of Hollywood’s top power couples, they’ve been married for 11 years now.
Why we like them: They both had great success this year. She won an Emmy for her heartbreaking performance as an abused wife in Big Little Lies. His album, Ripcord, was one of the year’s most popular CDs. Yet they both know that success does not necessarily bring love and happiness. As busy as they are, they know when it’s important to be there for one another. Nicole told People magazine this year that, especially after filming emotionally wrenching scenes for Big Little Lies, she was grateful to have Keith by her side when she got home. She said, “Luckily, I have a partner who is artistic so he understands what it takes to support that. I came home to loving arms, to someone who would hold me, and I was really upset at times.”
And last, but certainly not least:
Our client couples – as proud elite matchmakers, we want to give our biggest shout out to our clients who have either started relationships, or got married this year. Most are very private, and out of respect for their privacy, we can’t name them. But let’s just say it’s been a very good year – for them and for us.
Why we like them: There are so many reasons, but here are two big ones: they all showed a willingness to learn about themselves, and to open themselves and their hearts to their new soulmates. And we are thrilled and proud that they trusted us to guide them.
What about you? If you are single and looking for that special someone, contact us. Who knows? You could make our favorite couples list for next year!