It's Just Lunch

Revdex.com:I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID 10288808, and have determined that this does not resolve my complaint.  For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below.[To assist us in bringing this matter to a close, we would like to know your view on the matter.]
My issue has not been resolved, I was told there were no males in the system from 45-55 in the database-by [redacted] in their Detroit office and was told we are always having people sign up so, we'll call you, it's been two weeks and no call, if thats the case, then why did they tell me there were a "Plethora" of men in Cincinnati.  I consider this false advertising and I want a FULL REFUND or I plan to take them to small claims court.
Regards,[redacted]

I am a really happy client of It's just Lunch. I have had 4 dates so far and each one has been a really nice experience. The men I have been introduced to are of a very high caliber. They have done a really nice job matching me up to men that I have a lot in common with. My team of matchmakers listen to my input, they get back to me in a timely manner, and there is always a match waiting for me when I am ready for one. I don't know how I would navigate the dating world without a service such as this. Highly recommend this service.

Outstanding service...their due diligence in understanding their clients' needs practically guarantees a match!

This company was very deceptive about the service that they provide. I was told via phone, prior to signing any contract, that I would have at least one date per month and I would have profiles sent to me of potential suitors prior to these arranged dates. I was "interviewed" as to my statistics and desires in a potential mate. I was assigned an individual, named [redacted], who was to essentially be my "match maker" and manage my account. She was always very difficult to reach, never returned my phone calls, and I would actually have to initiate any return phone call because she would never return my calls. When I voiced my dissatisfaction with the lack of communication and lack of potential dating profiles, I was then told "we don't typically contact you for a 2 week period", which I would have never agreed to! I was skeptical when my one month anniversary with the company was rapidly approaching, and I had not received any calls or emails from [redacted]. When calling to complain and ask for a manager to discuss my contract and payment, I am told that [redacted] is my account manager and any escalation of complaint needs to go through her first. This is a conflict of interest, as [redacted] is part of the problem and cannot appropriately handle my complaint. I have requested an escalation from her this evening and was told "that management will reach out to you within 48 hours" and when I asked who I can ask for if they don't, I was told that I cannot be directed to any one particular person or number. There is not even a way to handle complaints with this company! They are indescriminately keeping a non-refundable fee, despite breaking the verbal contract that they made with me. This company is not upholding their end of their agreement/contract to me as a client, and should not remain in business.Desired SettlementBecause the company lied to me before I signed my contract, I would like a refund of my fees.Business Response It's Just Lunch regrets to learn of any dissatisfaction the consumer has experienced as this is not the norm with IJL. The consumer joined 9/15/2015. Her membership if for a one time non-refundable interview fee followed by monthly revolving payments for an additional 6 month term. The each monthly payment provides 1 date introduction or 2 match declines to the client. Her agreement does not provide that a date will be provided on a monthly basis as we would never be able to guarantee this due to the hectic nature of the client's schedules that we deal with. IJL contacts the consumer with a purpose, with a match. We will call only when appropriate and will contact the consumer when there are updates to report or matches to present. IJL has cancelled the consumer's monthly payment plan, however, she still has 2 dates remaining. We have discussed her concerns, updated her profile with these concerns, assigned her a new Dating Director and are working together with the consumer to provide a positive dating experience. Thank you.

It's Just Lunch continues to call and email me nearly 10 years after our business relationship ended, despite numerous requests to stop.I was a client of It's Just Lunch (IJL) sometime around the 2003 or 2004 time frame. I did not have success with their service, but found a match another way, dated for three years, and have been married for another five.In that time period, I have been repeatedly contacted by IJL with more "matches" or "promotions". Each time, I have either not responded, or responded to tell them I am married. I have received at least three phone calls this year, the most recent on 7/10/2014. Every time I ask them to stop calling. Most recently I was told they would "make a note in my file". I have also received multiple emails:Wednesday, October 26, 2011 - From "[redacted]", an IJL rep. I responded with "I'm married. Please remove me from your list."Mar 13, 2012 - From "[redacted]", IJL rep. I did not bother respondingTuesday, June 12, 2012 11:16 AM - From [redacted] IJL rep. I responded with "I'm married. Please take me off your list."IJL's behavior has bordered on harassment, and considering the nature of their business, it's in very poor taste to continue contacting someone who is married.Desired SettlementI do not wish to be contacted by IJL again. Ever.Business Response It's Just Lunch regrets any frustration the consumer has experienced. We will no longer contact the consumer and have updated his record to indicate this as well. Thank you.Consumer Response Thank you.

I spoke to a sales person. I was made promises that were complete lies and they charged my credit card $1,000 when I was told is was $900.00.[redacted] the sales girl I originally spoke with promised me that she had 6-12 matches for dates with me. (12/31/13)She told me Names of the guys their professions (CEO, DR and etc, hobbies, how they looked etc. (Turns out they did not even exist!) I told her I only would date non smokers and Christian men. It turns out as soon as I sign up she disappeared off the face of the earth. The dating director [redacted] set me up with a guy that smoked when [redacted] told me they did not even accept smokers. The they wanted to set me up with someone else in Jan and I said I was unsure due to 1st date being a complete waste of time. My new dating director [redacted] was now taking over and begged e to give her a chance to match me I finally let her in hopes she was genuine. Oh course it was a complete total disaster! The phone # I had for her was disconnected and she was not emailing me back to verify the date and date time. She finally called me back on another #, pushed the date back to where we could barley eat before the place closed. He was blatantly not a Christian. (Also he did not even have a good paying job, but I was told all their clients had good paying professions and that they screened them etc.)They had no other matches for me is was a total lie and a scam. I am so furious they basically cheated me out of $1,000 with their lies. I was lied to and ignored and I hope that you can prevent them from taking others $. It would have been 100% different if I was not lied to, but to promise me dates with guys that do not even exist is very bad business. Please do something to keep others safe from this scam.Thank you!Desired Settlement$1,000.00All I want is what I paid due to service promised not being rendered.Thank youBusiness Response It's Just Lunch (IJL) regrets to learn of any dissatisfaction the consumer experienced with her membership as this is not the norm with IJL. The consumer's membership has been cancelled in accordance with the terms of her membership agreement. The consumer joined IJL on December 29, 2013 and paid her initial non-refundable interview fee and her first month's payment; her membership was for monthly payments and each payment requires IJL to provide 1 date introduction. In January the consumer attended 3 date introductions and her personal Interview with IJL, which is above the standard level of service provided per month. We take each date a time, require feedback from the consumer to be submitted after each date, and fine tune the dating process. All of the members that were presented to the consumer she accepted as introductions and attended the dates. We cannot promise chemistry or attraction which is why the feedback is so important as it really helps better the matches and we get to know our clients better and better. It is important to note, IJL has presented matches to the consumer in accordance with the general criteria and guidelines presented in her initial interview with IJL, the same interview process that all clients go through, and we represented her to other IJL members based on this information, just as we do with all other IJL members. The consumer no longer has a membership with IJL and we wish her the best in her further endeavors.

Review: I was recruited by this company (they called me) and I joined the dating service for $2000.00. I was told there were many clients in Richmond area that fit my criteria. The contract was for 6 months or 4 dates which ever came later. It has been almost 6 months and I have been on one actual date. They have tried to set me up only 2 other times both of which did not meet my criteria ( one wanted kids... I am 47) There are no eligible matches in Richmond for me and there never was. I think it is reprehensible that they pretend to have many eligible men to date and further more that these individuals are hand picked especially for you. I am not expecting a full refund, I did go on one date, but a partial refund I think is fair. In addition, and maybe more important, I just don't want them to lie to other women with false promises and take their money. It's not fair to pray on vulnerable women for a profit.

Business

Response:

We regret any dissatisfaction the Consumer may have experienced. However, we wish to correct the statements that Consumer provided in her comments.The Consumer claims that there are no matches in her area, which is not accurate. In fact, the Consumer has attended one date and received two other matches. TheConsumer provided positive feedback for the date she attended.With respect to the matches the Consumer received, each date was carefully selected per IJL standards, was well coordinated by the dating director and, met many of the key parameters the Consumer discussed with IJL. IJL truly hopes our clients will connect, however, personality and attractiveness are subjective to eachindividual. IJL works to introduce its clients to other IJL clients and participants, who based upon IJL's interactions with each, IJL believes is a good match. All of the matches IJL presented to the Consumer, are very good matches for her.IJL has contacted the Consumer to resolve her concerns and will assign a new dating director to handle her membership.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the offer and/or response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and have determined that this proposed action would not resolve my complaint. For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below.

The company claimed to have matches for me in the Richmond area when I signed up in April. I went on one date, as previously stated, and did not hear from them again for months. They claimed to hand pick your dates meeting your criteria discussed with the dating coordinator. They then tried to set me up with a client that wants children as one of his criteria, I am 47 years old, and clearly not a "good match" for this person, so I declined that match. (With the premier membership you are allowed to decline dates that do not meet your criteria). 4 months went by without a match or phone call. When I did email my dating coordinator with complaints she took 2 full weeks to respond to my email; the contract says they are responsible for responding in 48 hours. I was promised a service of 4 dates over a 6 month period and did not recieve this. In addition, the dating coordinator was unorganized, confrontational and argumentative. For such a highend service and fee of 2000.00$, you expect better service and for them to fulfill their end of the contractual agreement. I do not want another dating coordinator, I want a partial refund. I went on one date and would like the remaining 1500.00 back. Thank you

Regards,

Review: I contacted this company in october. I was given information and a contract. I never proceeded past the contract and I have requested a refund. They are refusing to refund the initial fee even though I never used their services.

Product_Or_Service: Dating serviceDesired Settlement: DesiredSettlementID: Refund

I am requesting a refund.

Consumer

Response:

Hello,

Review: IJL, after 8 weeks of membership, has not delivered on any of their services. They have never returned a call or email within the 24 hour time period, yet alone within a week. I've had 2 calls returned, and have called or emailed no less than 20 times. They argued with me about my "feedback" that they requested for an hour on the phone, they missed scheduled, confirmed phone and in person meetings. They switched "dating coordinators" on me three times, each sending an automated email introducing themselves, and then not responding to my phone calls or emails. I often got the response from someone else " so and so is not in the office today and will contact you when they return ". They don't seem to return, as after each, I get assigned to a new dating coordinator.

As far as I can gather, they are not in San Diego, they are in Florida, and I have never spoken to nor met anyone from San Diego. For my in-person meeting, they told me there was no San Diego office (after I had paid). I would never have signed up for an in-person dating service that had no office in San Diego. This is a scam. I would like a refund.

I have send them a more detailed email outlining my frustrations and received one phone message stating, again, that my dating coordinator would respond. I have also emailed and called, leaving messages that I want a refund.Desired Settlement: I'd like a refund. I have also submitted a request directly to my credit card. The San Diego people should be notified that this is a scam.

Business

Response:

It’s Just Lunch regrets to learn of any

dissatisfaction the consumer has experienced as this is not the norm with IJL.

It’s Just Lunch will have a supervisor reach out to discuss her concerns and

develop a plan for resolution to work with the consumer to provide a positive

dating experience and help her achiever her dating goals. Thank you.

Review: Contract was signed on July 22ndst. Full payment was processed by credit card for $2,600.No services provided. Contract calls for a 3-day cancelation policy. I cancelled the contract on July 24th. The company has refunded no money, does not return phone calls or emails.I have proof of everything detailed aboveDesired Settlement: Full refund of the credit card charge

Business

Response:

This matter has been resolved with the customer. He has agreed to contact the Revdex.com to remove his complaint.

Thanks.

Consumer

Response:

The people copied on this email work for "Its Just Lunch".

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and have determined that this proposed action would have resolved the complaint if the company had taken this action. As of today, the company has made many false promises and multiple lies (many of which have been recorded) and has made no attempt at resolving anything. No action has been taken by the company. I continue to request a complete refund to my credit card, and will take further action against this company (including legal action) to get this complaint resolved.

Regards,

Business

Response:

This email is moot. The issue has been resolved with the client, and he has agreed to remove his Revdex.com complaint.

Consumer

Response:

The business has resolved my concern. Please kindly remove my complaint.

Thank you

Regards,

Review: I have joined IJL4 (the San Diego franchise) 3 times. Yes, that's right. The 1st and 2nd times were pretty good. I didn't meet the love of my life but I went out on some decent dates.

I was about halfway through my 2nd membership and they called me up asking about the Elite Service. It was pricey but I fell for the hype anyway. Big mistake! The matchmakers were useless. They didn't do even half of what they promised. I didn't go on one date for the 1st 2 months of a 6-month contract. They sent me on two dates (one was OK and one was lousy) and then I called up to complain (again). I find out that the local franchise is out of business and the corporate office will be handling me. Things did not get better when the franchise took over. I went out on one lousy date and then they told me that my contract was up. I didn't get a fraction of what I paid for. They told me they would give me one more date but that's still not nearly what I was expecting.

DO NOT sign up with these guys. Both corporate and the San Diego franchise suck!

Does anyone know how to get a hold of them? I'd like to take them to small claims court but I don't even know who to sue cuz IJL4 is out of business.Desired Settlement: Partial Refund

Business

Response:

It’s Just Lunch regrets to learn of any dissatisfaction the

consumer has experienced with his membership. The San Diego It’s Just Lunch

office has recently undergone a change in ownership. As the new owners of the

office we wanted to assure him that customer service is very important to us

and we will be continuing to provide the services available under your membership.

When the office transitioned to corporate ownership, the client had 1 month of service

remaining on his membership agreement with the prior owner. We provided the consumer

with 1 date introduction during this period of time, which positive feedback

was provided by the client. After this date introduction the client’s

membership expired.

As a good faith effort to ensure the client has a positive

experience, It’s Just Lunch will provide the client with 1 additional date introduction

to resolve his concerns and to end his experience with his membership on a high

note. We look forward to working with him to provide a positive experience.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and have determined that this proposed action would not resolve my complaint. For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below.

Before the change in ownership I was promised many things that I did not receive. After the change in ownership the unprofessional manner continued. The matchmaker I was assigned to was rude and inflexible. I was told I would receive an additional match and that has not happened. I have left messages and they have not been returned. It is my understanding that the original owners are in control of the money that I paid. I would like to speak to them about a getting a refund. No one seems willing to help me with that process.

I may consider settling for a partial refund but until then I remain unsatisfied.

Regards,

Business

Response:

It’s Just Lunch has communicated with the consumer and he

accepted an additional date to resolve his concerns. He went out on this date

on April 22nd. A client accepting a date and moving forward is

considered a resolution at IJL. Should the consumer still not be satisfied with

the resolution provided and accepted by the consumer, we recommend he contact

the company he entered into an agreement with. The date provided by IJL US was

a good faith effort to have the consumer complete his membership on a positive

note with IJL.

Review: Telephone harassment: I was a customer, ending about 5 years ago. Customer Service Representatives have continued to call me during these past 5 years despite multiple instances where I requested that I be permanently removed from their marketing/contact list(s) and that they stop calling, and stop leaving messages. I try to screen calls as best I can, but when they do get a hold of me it's a hard sell conversation. And they continue to ignore my requests to stop calling (last message 10/02/2013). As I have previously indicated to them, I consider this disrespectful and a form of harassment.Desired Settlement: I am not a customer. Remove me from whatever mechanism it is (whatever IJL calls it: marketing list, sales list, contact list, prospective list, retention list, recovery list) that allows Representatives to keep calling.

Business

Response:

We apologize to Mr. [redacted] for this problem. We are taking additional measures to make sure he is on our "do not call" list.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and have determined that this proposed action would not resolve my complaint. For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below.

With all due respect, taking unspecified "additional measures" is an insufficient solution, especially based on their previous disregard for my requests.

Review: I entered into a contract for services totaling $2200. I have been charged $2400 - the company acknowledged in writing the overcharge for services but refuses to refund difference, despite having a written contract clearing identifying the cost of services as $2200.

Additionally, and equally important, the company has failed to provide the services described in their advertising and for which they contracted. I have contacted the company directors on four separate occasions (by phone and email) seeking a full refund of services. During a conversation with the company director to lodge my initial complaint I was told the service advertised had clearly NOT been provided but that the company absolutely never gives refunds to anyone and no other restitution would be considered. The only solution suggested was to continue with the contracted services in hopes of improved outcomes. There has been no additional follow up to address my concerns/request despite my multiple attempts at communication.

In summary, this company has charged me $2400, knowingly not provided the services agreed to in the contract and refuses to refund my money despite having not provided the services in the contract.

I have a detailed summary/chronology of all interactions that can be provided if additional information is needed.Desired Settlement: I am seeking a full refund of my money.

Business

Response:

First, Ms. [redacted] is correct that she was inadvertently overcharged by $200. We have let her know that we're willing to refund this amount, but she refuses to give us her credit card for refund purposes.

Second, our contract with Ms. [redacted] is valid and non-refundable. We have thus far met our obligations under the contract, and we remain ready to fulfill our remaining obligations. However, despite the fact that we've had several directors contact her, she has indicated that she's unwilling to move forward.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and have determined that this proposed action would not resolve my complaint. For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below.

The business, Its Just Lunch, contacted me on 12Nov13 seeking my credit card information to refund only the portion of my contract that was overcharged. I believe this attempt to reconcile the overcharge was prompted only by the Revdex.com complaint. The business was first notified of the overcharge 2.5 months earlier and acknowledged the overcharge in writing. However, despite multiple attempts to have the charge reconciled they were completely unresponsive until the Revdex.com compliant was filed. This poor service and disregard for my request is consistent with the services I have received thus far.

As I have communicated to Its Just Lunch, through multiple phone calls and in writing on 22Oct13 and on 03Dec13, they have failed to provide the services they were contracted for and advertise for. They claim to be a personalized "matchmaking" service that is different from online dating services. However, after three horrible/failed matches their Director acknowledged to me on the phone that she did not "personally match" me to any of the dates as was promised in the expectation of services provided. Instead, I was told I was matched by others in the business using a checklist. This is wholly inconsistent with the services the company claims to provide in their website advertising and with the expectation set by their staff after my initial interview.

I attempted to voice my concerns about the service after the very first date, in which I (unaware) was sent on a date with a married man(!), and was told by the ILJ staff that the match was an error that was to be corrected by the Director to ensure I received the services promised/contracted for. As mentioned above, that did not happen.

I have made multiple attempts to reconcile the services with this business and at each attempt I have been told that I simply must live with the quality of services being provided and trust that the company can improve as they have a strict No Refund policy. However, their contract clearly states they do offer refunds in certain circumstances.

I feel this company has violated my trust by failing to fulfill their contract and provide the services for which they adverstise and are further promised/reinforced by their staff. Unlike other service providers, matchmaking is a very personal service that requires a high level of trust between the parties. This company has completely violated that trust, treated me extremely poorly and only became partially responsive to my concerns after the Revdex.com complaint was filed. Therefore, their proposal to continue to utilize their service does not satisfy my complaint as I do not believe they can deliver on the services they claim to provide, nor do I believe I would receive fair treatment following this complaint. I am seeking a full refund of the $2400 that I have been charged to satisfy this complaint.

I am happy to provide documentation of all of my exchanges with this business as evidence of my attempts to reconcile my concerns directly with the business, and their failure to be responsive.

Regards,

Business

Response:

It’s Just Lunch regrets to learn of any dissatisfaction the consumer

has experienced with her membership. The San Diego It’s Just Lunch office has

recently undergone a change in ownership. As the new owners of the office we

wanted to assure her that customer service is very important to us and we will

be continuing to provide the services available under your membership. We are

very excited at the opportunity to work with the consumer and feel confident

our staff will meet or exceed your expectations. We would like to take some

time to get acquainted and review the consumer concerns.

We have attempted to reach the consumer to discuss her

concerns via phone as this is the most effective way to have a meaningful

dialogue. We look forward to connecting with the consumer and providing a

positive dating experience.

Review: I have repeatedly received calls from the staff of It's Just Lunch, a dating service. I have repeatedly asked them to remove me from their call list but they have not done so. I have received calls from [redacted] at [redacted] and [redacted] at [redacted]. I consider this to be a form of harassment and would not be surprised if others share this sentiment.Desired Settlement: I would like to know that this has been addressed with the company and that I will not be contacted ever again.

Business

Response:

It's Just Lunch apologizes for any inconvenience this consumer experienced and have adjusted her record accordingly so no further contact will be made per her request.

Review: I have asked them several times over the past 2-3 years to remove me from their phone solicitation list but every few months I keep getting calls.Desired Settlement: Stop contacting people that request so, forever. Thanks.

Business

Response:

We are very sorry that Mr. [redacted] has experienced this problem. We are taking additional measures to ensure that he is on our "do not call" list. One of our representatives will be contacting him to let him know this has occurred.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution would be satisfactory to me. The business has contacted me one last time and I consider this complaint resolved.

Regards,

Review: I signed on with Its Just Lunch in the summer of 2012. I was told I would be partnered with people who were single. My first date told me he was seeing someone and had asked to be put on hold. I companied and was asked to pay 5 thousand dollars to upgrade to a more "palatable" clientele. I declined and asked for a prorated return of funds as I saw this was a sales scheme and not a match making service. I was put on six-month hold after six month hold, with people putting me to voicemail rather than help me. I finally complained again to be told IJL was sold and because it was sold they would not honor any returns. I told the telephone agent I needed that email telling me no returns in writing and the customer service agent refused. The company offers no personal interviews like I was promised and is based in Florida.Desired Settlement: I would like a prorated refund. I went on two dates, no interview and one date was a mistake on IJL's behalf.

Business

Response:

It’s Just Lunch regrets to learn of any dissatisfaction the

consumer has experienced with her membership. We are very happy to report that the San Diego

It’s Just Lunch office has recently undergone a change in ownership. As

the new owners of the office we want to assure the consumer that customer service

is very important to us. At the time of

the transition the consumer’s membership had since expired, however, It’s Just

Lunch has reached out to the consumer to provide an amicable resolution and

hopes to provide a positive dating experience and we are awaiting her response. We look

forward to working with her going forward.

Consumer

Response:

?Hello,

I tried to work with IJL but received conflicting information. My first phone conversation with a representative of IJL informed me they lost all my information therefore were not able to let me know that IJL was changing hands. My second phone call I was informed I had been put on hiatus and they would consider switching my account to one of a colleague in lieu of monetary repayment. After she requested in her profile men of color in a certain age range we received a message stating they would not restrict color or age. Given this flies in the face of IJL I contacted IJL simply as a new customer and asked if they would restrict people to racial choice. She said that they did it was their priority to match people with their preferences. I also asked for all of my information indicating I had “expired”. but they have refused to produce any of my information from the prior IJL. I went ton two dates for 1300 dollars, no face to face interview and now lost paperwork and a transfer that I was not even informed about. This was a horrible, expensive rip off. Please advise my next steps to reopen my case and move forward with my complaint.

Sincerely,

IJL Washington is very professional and business-like, just like most Washington, D.C. organizations. I had interviewed, paid my money, and participated in many dates. My advice is to be patient. Just like any other dating service, one must be hopeful yet realistic, and know that it is just one means of meeting people to date.
IJL does a great job on the first interview to learn what you are all about and attempt to match you with what you are seeking. On paper, many dates were just what I had said I wanted. It was a matter of chemistry. Either it is there or it is not. Or there is enough there to have a second date. For me, there was no chemistry on the dates.
But, like any other dating service, most dates won't work, and it is the rare occasion that it might. For me, it was my 6th date on IJL... and boom, a connection. A very strong connection. One in which I could share all.. wishes, hopes, dreams, problems, you name it. On the first date/meeting, we talked and laughed for 4 hours and the date lasted 5 hours -- a first for me at 43 years old. And the next date was planned, and the next and the next. So, my advice is, if you are serious about dating and finding a partner, visit IJL and be patient. :) Also be honest on everything you want... you never know! And realize, those that are making the commitment to IJL are serious about finding love / a lasting commitment. Give it a try.

Review: First of all, I appreciate any assistance you can provide. Below is a summary of what occurred between it’s just Lunch and me on Monday, September 9th. The woman on the phone indicated to me that she was the matchmaker that would be doing the matches and she has been doing this for 18 years (implied she has been with It's just Lunch doing matches for 18 years), but I believe she was actually a sales person who gets paid on commission of how many contracts she sells, not the actual matchmaker. She also told me after 6 month, I would continue to get matches (one a month) for $99 per month, but the contract does not say that at all. Again, being told to read a contract on line while she is holding asking for credit card information, being in a hurry for another appointment, does not allow time to actually read to contract at all, which I believe is what they are hoping for and what occurred with me. Thank you for your time. [redacted]

Summary - During the first week of September 2013, I filled out an online request form to get information for “It’s Just Lunch” (IJL), thinking this is something I might be interested in doing at some point. Next I received a call from [redacted] who left a message, followed by us trading calls for several days until we finally connected on Monday, September 9th at 3 pm. When we talked she asked me questions, then told me she was emailing me the contract and she would hold on the phone while I read and signed it – next she would need my credit card information. I asked if I could read and sign it later, but was told no. Honestly, this happened so quickly that I reacted more than actually making a conscious decision to move forward with this service at this time. Furthermore, reading a contract while someone is holding on the phone and asking if you are ready to sign it, barely giving you time to read the contract is a tremendous amount of pressure. I was also working during this time, and had several things going on simultaneously.

A few hours later, I looked at my work schedule and realized I did not have time over the next three months to spend time dating, given all my IRS year-end and audit responsibilities, along with my family commitments. Since I had just signed the contract within 8 hours earlier that afternoon and no service had been provided by IJL at that point, I immediately emailed IJL and asked to kindly cancel my contract until such a time when I would have sufficient time to meet people. I explained the sign-up process happened so quickly that afternoon that I did not have time to think about how soon this was starting or my work and family commitments. I also mentioned that I thought we could possibly have a mutually satisfying relationship in the future, but not at this time. I thanked them for their understanding and consideration to release me from the contract at this time.

It is worth mentioning that it was not until that evening that I fully realized the contract could not be canceled. [redacted] had also indicated on the phone that IJL would continue to provide dates monthly for $99 per month, but this is not how the contract reads. Quite frankly, emailing someone a contract and staying on the phone while they are asked to read it, does not give a person sufficient time to read and understand what they are signing. Perhaps that is the point – they want the person to sign the contract without understanding the exact impact of what you are signing.

The next day I received a call from someone at IJL welcoming me. I explained my situation and desire to cancel, also mentioning the email I sent the previous evening letting them know I wanted to cancel the contract. I was told they did not allow cancelations, but I asked her to check anyway. I got a call later that afternoon, denying my request. I was told I could delay my start date, but this would leave $3,500 on my credit card at 18 percent, which is not acceptable to me.

I am extremely disappointed in how IJL responded to my request. It is my belief, if IJL were a reputable company (which is what I originally believed them to be) they would have responded in a more professional manner and allowed me to cancel. At $3,500 for a six month membership, guaranteeing only one date a month, it would appear at first glance that this is a top notch matchmaking service, which is how they advertise the**elves. Since Monday, (9/9) I have conducted some research and found, even though, they advertise the**elves as a ”matchmaking” company, they do little more than provide names of people, which is no different than any other dating service. This is a misrepresentation on the part of IJL, along with how they represent the service they would provide for the $99. Knowing what I know of them today, I have no interest in using their services either now or in the future. From my perspective, ITJ appears to be a company whose business model is to get contracts that cannot be canceled signed using high pressure, stronghold techniques.

I t appears they are also taking advantage of the fact that there is no right of rescission in DC or VA, which is really too bad considering their business tactics.

It's just Lunch Ratings: Since that time, I did some research and below are some recent ratings that I found on It's just Lunch:

• It's Just Lunch Review (ItsJustLunch.com)

• Authored by: [redacted] on Thursday, September 19 2013 @ 06:47 PM

The contract is a trick, they put the amount of money for 5 dates within the year which ever comes "LATER" which means they do not have to even get you the five dates and no refunds. If you contact Channel 6 they will do a story to expose them-please pass on!!

• It's Just Lunch Review (ItsJustLunch.com)

• Authored by: Anonymous on Monday, July 22 2013 @ 11:44 PM

Do not do it . its a scam they took your money and rip you off, with lies and empty promises . the worst thing I spend my money on.

• Totally sucks

• Authored by:debbie on Wednesday, July 03 2013 @ 07:27 PM

Very expensive and not worth the $$$!!! Liars and cheats. Bait and switch. Tells you about all the great matches then you meet none because they are " not available". They contradict their initial interview and promises. Horrible experience. Would not recommend to worst enemy! My experience was [redacted] or south florida.

• It's Just Lunch Review (ItsJustLunch.com)

• Authored by:Anonymous on Friday, February 22 2013 @ 02:43 PM

WARNING! IJL is not a responsible firm when it comes to managing your Personal Information Privacy! While this service might suit some single people and you might find they are successful in matching you up, you are also placing yourself at risk when providing your personal information and photographs to IJL. So go in with your eyes wide open! Upon ending your contract with them they hold on to EVERYTHING.... EVEN THOUGH THEY MAY PROMISE YOU IN WRITING THAT THEY DESTROY YOUR INFORMATION. Unfortunately they cannot be trusted and you have no idea what your personal information is really being used for... or when they may contact you again out of the blue to solicit you for their costly services again. Of course the catch 22 is that the less information, or incomplete information, that you provide might impact their ability to successfully match you. That said, it was not my experience that they really even considered any of the qualities in a partner that I disclosed to them in the first place, let alone applying the feedback I provided at the conclusion of a date. Bottom line: protect your personal information and do not trust IJL with it, save your money, and if you see someone that strikes you as the person you would like to go out with, simply pay that person a nice simple compliment to get the conversation started (you don't even have to smile when doing so if you are a shy person, that's okay) and you will be AMAZED at what you can do on your own! :-) Save your money and maintain your privacy, don't go with IJL! Best wishes!!

• It's Just Lunch Review [redacted], BC (ItsJustLunch.com)

• Authored by:Anonymous on Saturday, January 26 2013 @ 11:19 PM

Now I'm not sure if this company is still around since I stopped using them last year as they ripped me off for $3,600. But I've noticed they no longer advertise in the Georgia Straight - probably for good reason.

I see my last comment has disappeared off this site so just to make sure people are aware....one simple word is you consider 'It's Just Lunch' just say NO.

Total rip-off. SCAM. And quite frankly the biggest mistake I have ever made. They are scam artists and full of [redacted].

Move on. Sign up for [redacted] will give you a great deal of $9.95 per month!

Better than $3,600 for 6 dates that aren't even available or married or just too old.

• Reply to This |

• Permanent link to this comment

• It's Just Lunch. It's Just a TOTAL SCAM

• Authored by:Anonymous on Thursday, January 24 2013 @ 03:36 PMDesired Settlement: At this point, I want nothing to do with this company (now or in the future) and I want them to refund my credit card for the $3,500 they charged me. I have not had any services provided to me by IJL and I have returned to sender all of their postal mailings unopened. I appreciate your time and assistance and I feel quite stupid for falling for this scheme.

Best regards. [redacted]

Business

Response:

November 1, 2013

[redacted]:

It’s Just Lunch (UL) is a dating service for busy professionals. We specialize in setting pressure-free first dates for our clients. After determining that we can accept a client, we offer a few different membership options. In this case, **. [redacted] opted for our 6-month membership.

On June 12, 2013, **. [redacted] Authorized this transaction of $3,500 as payment on her membership as she electronically signed, initialed, and provided her driver’s license number for a validly executed contract in the District of Columbia while speaking with her matchmaker. On this date, **. [redacted] also provided It’s Just Lunch with her credit card information and became a client of It’s Just Lunch. I have enclosed a highlighted copy of her signed contract for your review.

At the time of enrollment, she set seven parameters for the men she wanted to meet, as follows:

1) Age: 55-67

2) Marital Status: Doesn't Matter

3) Ethnicity: Caucasian ;

4) Smoke: No

5) Education: Doesn’t Matter

6) Religion: Christian-based or spiritual

7) Children: Doesn’t Master

Based on these seven parameters, we felt confident in accepting **. [redacted] as a client since we have many appropriate matches that fit these characteristics.

Our matchmaking process is as follows:

1) Find a match who fits all seven parameters of both the man and woman,

2) Ensure they have at least 2-3 things in common to discuss as icebreakers.

3) Call the woman regarding the man and tell her about him (we never disclose last names, addresses, or phone numbers).

a. First Name

b. Age

c. Children (do they have any?)

d. Marital Status

e. Height

f. Eye Color

g- Hair Color

h. Smoke?

i. Education

j- Religion

k. Profession

1. Ethnicity

m. Common interests

4) Get the woman's dates of availability to meet the man.

5) Call the man to tell him about the woman and get his dates of availability to meet her.

6) Set the date for a time and location that is convenient for both parties.

7) Call and remind both parties the evening before the date to ensure they do not forget.

8) Make the reservation.

9) Get feedback regarding the date. The questions we ask are as follows:

a. How long did you spend together?

b. Did you have good conversation?

c. Did you find you have common interests?

d. Do you fed there was chemistry?

e. Did you exchange contact information?

The contract states it “contains the entire agreement of the parties, and all prior communications, oral or written, are without force and effect as it is the specific intent of the parties that this Agreement alone sets fourth the ter** on which the parties have mutually agreed" This is highlighted in the attached contract. Just to clarify, there are no other parameters or agreements made outside of what has specifically been referenced above.

**. [redacted] has made several serious claims we would like to address. Firstly, **. [redacted] claims that the contract does not say she could continue her 6 month membership at $99/month as her Matchmaker described. However, the contract clearly states, "Client hereby enrolls for a period of six (6) months from today’s date at which time this agreement automatically renews on a month to month basis until cancelled by Client. Client directs UL to make monthly automatic monthly debits of $99.00 from his/her checking account or credit card (as authorized below). This has been highlighted in the attached contract as well.

**. [redacted] also made the claim that we use high pressure, stronghold techniques and refers to us as a scheme. However, our interview process is rather lengthy and is designed that way for us to get to know our clients well and give them every opportunity to ask questions and feel comfortable before moving forward. **. [redacted] also claims she was not provided the opportunity to read the contract before signing but the contract is provided to the client before signing as is shown in the attached screen shots. **. [redacted] had the opportunity to review this before signing (on the same page). ;

**. [redacted] indicates she tried to cancel her membership. This is accurate. However, per our signed contract, ‘This personal services agreement is non-assignable, non-transferable, non-cancelable and non-refimdable ” Our attorneys advise us making an exception for one contract and directly violating it jeopardizes the contracts of our 2,000 other clients as well. Since **. [redacted] indicated her busy schedule was a concern in beginning her membership right away, we offered to post-pone the start date of her membership to a time of her choosing when she might be better able to utilize the membership.

**. [redacted] also makes the claim that we “do little more than provide names of people” and are "no different from other dating services.” Our process as described above outlines that we provide much more than names to our clients. Firstly, we conduct an in-depth interview with every potential client. We only accept clients if we feel confident that we have many great matches who fit what they are looking for (and who would be interested in meeting them as well). From there, the Matchmaking begins. We take into account age, ethnicity, marital status, smoking, education, religion, and children as well as other criteria our clients have indicated they are looking for (well-travelled, etc). We also consider the feedback they provide on their dates as well as the feedback we get from other clients about their potential dates. We also invite all our clients in to meet with us after their first date to better understand them, answer any questions, and provide them the opportunity to meet with our Director of Operations and their Dating Consultant. Once we make a match, we will call a client, provide them with their match’s first name, age, children (if they have them or not), marital status, height, eye color, hair color, smoking, education, religion, profession, ethnicity, and common interests. If our clients have additional questions about their match, we are happy to answer those questions and provide them with as much information as possible (while still maintaining client confidentiality). From there, we ask for availability from both clients and schedule a date at a convenient time and location. We make the reservation for the date and remind both parties the day before the date. After the date, we gather feedback regarding how long the pair spent together, if they had good conversation, common interests, chemistry, and if they exchanged information. As you can see we do much more than simply provide names. Our clients appreciate that we take care of all the details and never provide contact information or places of employment so their privacy is protected until they choose to share it.

Lastly, **. [redacted] included various reviews about other Its Just Lunch offices. These reviews have no bearing on her case or experience with us. Additionally, these are all regarding other UL offices. In Washington, DC we are a franchise and operate differently than other offices might so truly, the memberships, experiences, and policies described are irrelevant to the way we do business and the experience **. [redacted] has had with us.

In conclusion, we regret to hear of **, [redacted]’s dissatisfaction and we take her claims very seriously. However, as explained, we are bound by our contracts so are unable to provide [redacted] with a refund. In an effort to resolve this dispute, we will make **. [redacted]es six month membership available for her to use at a later date of her choosing. We still have many great matches for **, [redacted] and I look forward to working with her at a time that better suits her.

If you have any questions, please contact me directly at [redacted].

Thank you,

Consumer

Response:

[To assist us in bringing this matter to a close, you must give us a reason why you are rejecting the response. If no reason is received your complaint will be closed Administratively Resolved]

Review: [redacted]

Dear Revdex.com - I very much appreciate your assistance in helping me try to resolve this complaint.

I am rejecting the IJS response for

several reasons:

This is a great business. Very attentive to client needs. The staff are very enthusiastic and responsive. They associates also listen, which is paramount for a dating service.

I am very satisfied with the results and quality of the ladies I met throught IJL. My match maker Nicole Shaw treated my like family and arranged many wonderful dates. Currently I am in a relationship with a wonderful lady I met through IJL and could not be happier. I can strongly recommend Nicole and IJL.