If the dating app world is full of flings, RSVP is the long-term relationship that’s stood the test of time. Trusted, dependable, and still capable of sparking butterflies, it has been helping Australians find love long before swiping became second nature. At the helm is CEO Lucia Haigh (feature image), who’s keeping the romance alive by blending RSVP’s legacy of authenticity with the possibilities of modern tech. We sat down with her to talk about what makes RSVP different, how it’s navigating today’s swipe-first culture, and why sometimes the best match is the one with history.
What was the spark that led you to build RSVP, and how does it stand apart in such a crowded dating app market?
The spark behind building RSVP was love. Having found and then lost the love of my life, I came to realise that love is what truly makes life meaningful. That experience gave me a deep sense of purpose: to help others find the same. RSVP isn’t just another dating app – it’s one of the very first online platforms that many Australians recognise and trust, a place that has already created countless love stories over the years.
Protecting and nurturing this long-standing, uniquely Australian community so that people can continue to connect authentically feels like a mission worth dedicating myself to. In a crowded market, RSVP stands apart because it’s built on history, heart, and real connection.
Did RSVP grow out of your own frustrations with existing apps, or from spotting a wider industry gap?
RSVP didn’t grow out of frustration with other apps so much as recognising a unique space it had naturally evolved into. While it wasn’t originally designed specifically for the mature market, over the years it has become the trusted home for men and women who value tradition, loyalty, and deeper connections. Many of these members have been with RSVP for years, drawn to its long-standing reputation. What began as a rich, web-based platform has now adapted to mobile, offering the same simplicity as modern dating apps while continuing to honour the depth and authenticity that set RSVP apart.
In your view, what are people truly craving in their search for connection today — and how is RSVP delivering that?
People today are craving true compatibility — someone they can truly feel at ease with, share life with, and rely on for support. RSVP delivers on this by combining brand trust with a platform designed for meaningful connection. Our reputation attracts singles who share similar values, while our detailed profiles and matching algorithm help members find partners aligned with what they’re looking for. We encourage a culture of respect and sincerity, where members take the time to read profiles, express interest through gentle winks, and engage in thoughtful, genuine conversations.
How does RSVP tackle issues like ghosting, safety, and the swipe-first dating culture?
Ghosting and rejection are part of modern dating, but we aim to handle them with care. RSVP offers predefined “Not Interested” responses to give members clarity without unnecessary hurt, while also providing guidelines and resources to help people move on in a healthy way. We recognise ghosting can be painful, but sometimes the reasons behind rejection can be just as difficult to hear — so our focus is on encouraging resilience and self-confidence.
On safety, we actively work with Australian organisations and professionals to tackle eSafety and online romance scams, ensuring our members can date with confidence. And when it comes to swipe-first culture, we see things differently — if that’s what someone is looking for, there are plenty of apps to choose from, but RSVP is about fostering respect, sincerity, and genuine connection.
Do you think technology can ever recreate the magic of serendipity in dating — or is romance still beyond the algorithm?
I believe we should embrace technology as an integral part of modern life. While nothing can fully replace the magic of serendipity, technology gives us more choices and better chances to meet the right person. In that way, it can actually create the conditions for deeper romance and a more fulfilling life.
How do you see AI and emerging tech shaping the way people connect in the near future?
With AI and emerging technology, online dating is entering its most competitive era, and every platform will need to adapt and define its own niche to serve people’s diverse needs. These tools will prioritise safety and wellbeing while making the search for love more efficient. AI can improve compatibility matching, personalise recommendations, and help foster respectful communication, all while providing better protection against scams and harmful behaviour.
As a woman in tech leadership, what’s been your biggest learning about breaking through barriers?
My biggest learning has been guiding a long-established company to adapt and thrive in a highly competitive industry dominated by big players. It’s about creating a space that’s unique and valuable for RSVP’s loyal members, while continuously modernising our technology, design, and even our workplace culture. I’ve learned the importance of doing more with less, embracing AI, and building a culture driven by passion and a shared mission.
What advice would you give to women who want to innovate in industries where they aren’t yet the majority voice?
My advice is to find what you’re truly passionate about and believe in, then dive in without hesitation. Do it for yourself and for the experience, rather than worrying too much about the outcome. Focus on the journey, embrace the learning, and enjoy the ride.
