Here in New York–and buzzing cities just like it–it’s an all-too-common problem: Despite the myriad people we come across each day at work, on the street, at the bar, it seems nearly impossible to find someone that we really connect with. For many of us accomplished city gals, happy hour encounters often prove fruitless, and traditional online dating has offered only mediocre results–and, often, fake profiles. Many of Nichole Salva’s pals complained of the same conundrum, but it wasn’t until a friend told her about his idea for a luxury, invite-only dating site for young professionals that the idea truly clicked with her. Now, in her role as public relations head, business development specialist and jack of all trades for Sparkology.com, she is fulfilling her desire to make a real impact in others’ lives: by helping them find love.

Tell us what the inspiration was behind “Sparkology.”

Sparkology was created to fill a void. All of my friends are attractive, successful young professionals that didn’t have trouble meeting people, but they weren’t meeting the right people. The bar scenes offer little hope and most felt online dating wasn’t for them. The ones that had tried it echoed the same comments—the men did not meet their standards, most of the profiles were fake and the messages they received were essentially spam. We wanted to create a better way for busy young professionals to meet. Sparkology was born. Dating was evolved. (Click here to view a two-minute animation explaining the philosophy behind the site).

What is the most stressful thing about starting a new business venture?

Everything. My job has no limits; I am involved in every aspect of the company, which is exciting but also very stressful. The job has great flexibility, but with that comes responsibility, which means the emails never stop… I may need to put out a fire at 11:30 on a Friday night. At the core, my role is public relations and business development; therefore, I am responsible for the growth and reputation of Sparkology… no pressure!

What differentiates your company from other dating sites?

People always ask me who our biggest competitor is, and honestly we don’t feel like we have one. We are not just another niche site that happens to cater to young professionals–we have completely re-engineered the online dating experience. First, as an invite-only site, we have quality members. All of our members are educated, successful young professionals. Additionally, all of our men are verified grads of top universities.

Second, to encourage men to send meaningful messages, we charge them a fee to initiate a conversation with women. Women are also encouraged to send messages, and they can do so freely. Third, Sparkology offers luxury service in the form of city concierges that will help you with everything from planning the perfect date to selecting the best profile photos. Additionally, we host exclusive events where our members can meet in person.

What advice do you have for those of us looking for love online?

Get offline quickly. I know this sounds strange, but we encourage our members to meet offline after a few messages have been exchanged. Too many sites encourage chatting and the back and fourth, and we believe true chemistry can only occur in person. A quick coffee date can’t hurt!

Also, spend some time on your profile. Just like you wouldn’t use the same profile on both Facebook and LinkedIn, the same is true for a dating site. Your goals are different. You want your photos and “about me” section to give a little glimpse into who you are and what you are looking for in a relationship. If you are not the most creative or articulate writer, sometimes it’s best to just write about what you did last weekend.

What are some of your hobbies/favorite pastimes?

In the fall, Gator football! Long brunches with friends. Cooking at home with my boyfriend (which really means drinking wine while he prepares dinner!). Playing with my new puppy, Charlie. And exercise–I am a spinning fanatic!

How do you relax and unwind after a long day?

With a bottle of red wine and some reality TV.

How has being involved with Delta Gamma contributed to the person you are today or enhanced your career aspirations?

I would like to preface this question by saying that, unlike most girls, I never wanted to be in a sorority. I moved around a lot throughout my childhood, and girls were not always the friendliest. So when I went to college, the idea of joining a sorority sounded like the furthest thing from a good time.

That being said, joining Delta Gamma was the best decision I made in college. My greatest memories are with my sisters, and the experience truly shaped the woman I have become. It taught me what true friendship means, how to trust and depend on others, and how to open up to new people–women, in particular women. I also think it made me a more understanding person.

In terms of a how it helped me professionally, I think it has made me a more effective team member. I am able to interact with people of all walks of life. And my experience with DG showed me the importance of having and maintaining my networks and relationships.

If you know a DG who should be spotlighted (including you), let us know!  Contact Meghan at sisterspotlight@nycdg.com with your nomination.

See all of our sister spotlights here: http://nycdg.com/category/sister-spotlight/