Abstract: A notes function and a diary function for an online dating service is provided. Each subscriber to the online dating service has access to a message center for communicating messages between candidates. The messages in the message center are organized as threads. Additionally, a subscriber may create and edit a note associated with a candidate and/or an email message between the subscriber and the candidate. The note is by default accessible to the subscriber and inaccessible to the candidate. Furthermore, the message center can provide a facility for enabling a subscriber to create a diary regarding online dating service activities. The diary can include the authored notes, summaries, impressions, videos, movies, pictures, graphics, colors, messages, threaded messages, threaded list views, and the like.

Abstract: A method, system, and apparatus are directed towards enabling a subscriber of an online dating service to perform a search for potential candidates to a long-term relationship. Various search criteria may be employed to generate an initial list of candidates. The invention employs the search criteria to identify a potential candidate list for the user. The invention further allows the user to edit inline with a display of the potential candidates various search criteria components using, for example, a drop-down menu to identify an importance of a search criteria component, or to otherwise revise the search criteria. The revised search criteria may then be employed in revising the potential candidate list.

Abstract: A system and method are directed towards enabling a user to track the status of communication with other users in an online dating environment. Each user in the online dating environment can predefine a current status of availability and/or interest in receiving communications from other users in the online dating environment. When a communication is received, a predefined message is returned indicating the predefined status, such as “currently dating someone.” In addition or alternatively, each user can provide an interim response to received communications, giving the requesters some indication of a level of interest in further communication. An interim response can include a request for additional information about potential suitor, an indication that more time is required to think about a dating request, an indication that a user is definitely, or definitely not, interested in further communication. Requests and responses can be communicated via email, IM, SMS, or other forms.