We Bring Lesbian/Bi/Trans Singles Together
As Matchmakers and Event Hosts for the only exclusively Lesbian/Bi/Trans matchmaking agency in the US, we work hard to bring singles together. We are a warm and welcoming bunch and we're always striving to ensure you have a stellar experience. Find out more about each of us below.
Dr. Frankie Bashan
Founder / CEO / Principal Matchmaker
Dr. Frankie Bashan is a psychologist, matchmaker, sex therapist, and overall relationship guru who has been using her clinical background in conjunction with technology and personalized algorithms to play matchmaker nationwide. She believes that EVERYONE can have the righteous, passionate love they deserve. As an expert guest for a variety of publications, podcasts and videos, Dr. Frankie strives to introduce her clients to quality matches that make their hearts flutter. She knows first-hand the struggles of queer singles and she wants them to find THE ONE in any way possible - Speed Dating Events, Full Service Matchmaking, Training Programs, or with her Dating Coaching help. Read more >>
Denise Rai
Client Services Director
Denise Rai is a seasoned matchmaker and love coach who has been helping individuals find true love and build fulfilling relationships for over a decade. Denise approaches matchmaking and coaching from a holistic perspective, taking into account not just her client's preferences and goals, but also their personalities, values, and life experiences.
Denise is known for her warm, compassionate, and intuitive approach to matchmaking and coaching. She takes the time to get to know each of her clients on a personal level, understanding their unique needs and desires, and tailoring her services to meet their individual needs.
As a love coach, Denise offers personalized coaching sessions that focus on helping clients build self-confidence, develop healthy communication skills, and cultivate a positive mindset for love and relationships. She believes that true love starts with self-love, and works closely with clients to help them overcome limiting beliefs and emotional blocks that may be holding them back from finding love.
Denise's approach to matchmaking is also highly personalized, with a focus on quality over quantity. She carefully screens and matches potential partners based on her clients' preferences and criteria, and provides ongoing support and guidance throughout the dating process.
Denise's ultimate goal is to help her clients find lasting love and build strong, healthy relationships that bring joy, fulfillment, and happiness to their lives. Her passion for matchmaking and coaching is evident in every aspect of her work, and she is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those she works with.
Denise is known for her warm, compassionate, and intuitive approach to matchmaking and coaching. She takes the time to get to know each of her clients on a personal level, understanding their unique needs and desires, and tailoring her services to meet their individual needs.
As a love coach, Denise offers personalized coaching sessions that focus on helping clients build self-confidence, develop healthy communication skills, and cultivate a positive mindset for love and relationships. She believes that true love starts with self-love, and works closely with clients to help them overcome limiting beliefs and emotional blocks that may be holding them back from finding love.
Denise's approach to matchmaking is also highly personalized, with a focus on quality over quantity. She carefully screens and matches potential partners based on her clients' preferences and criteria, and provides ongoing support and guidance throughout the dating process.
Denise's ultimate goal is to help her clients find lasting love and build strong, healthy relationships that bring joy, fulfillment, and happiness to their lives. Her passion for matchmaking and coaching is evident in every aspect of her work, and she is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those she works with.
Iris Tiska
Event Coordinator
You can find Iris in our Zoom room as well as creating in-person events for Little Gay Book! Iris has a passion for fostering connections and creating safe, authentic and fun spaces for her Queer Community to thrive. Iris has produced, consulted and founded Queer events in the Bay Area for over 15 years.
Sara Jane
Online Event Host
You can catch Sara Jane in our Zoom Room where she creates a warm and welcoming space where individuals can have fun, make connections, and build meaningful relationships. Sara Jane's life-long mission has been to create beautiful spaces for our Queer Community to meet. Before joining the Little Gay Book family she produced events for prominent LGBTQ organizations including Curve Magazine, Frameline Film Festival, Sweet Travel, and the Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders.
Shelley Simpson
San Diego & Online Event Host
Shelley Simpson is a marketing dynamo by day, serving as the CEO of Small & Mighty Marketing, a boutique agency renowned for its social media wizardry and web magic. Beyond her thriving career, Shelley's passions encompass biking, aerial arts instruction, canine companionship, coffee sipping, and thrift store treasure hunting. However, it's her role as a matchmaker for queer women that truly defines her. As the pioneering host of Dr. Frankie's speed dating events, Shelley has united countless couples and even found her own lasting love in the process. With a playful, sassy, and smart spirit, Shelley embodies the art of both marketing and matchmaking.
Nikki Preston
Los Angeles Event Host
Outdoorsy, adventurous, and creative, Nikki spends her days working as a Radio Host. In her free time, Nikki enjoys hitting up the beach, going on hikes, exploring new places, and visiting other countries.
Nikki's favorite part about hosting is helping the LGBTQ+ community connect while getting to meet new people.
Nikki's favorite part about hosting is helping the LGBTQ+ community connect while getting to meet new people.
Katie Cleary
Bay Area Host
Lively, social, and caring, Katie spends her days working as a Communications and Development Specialist. (This means that she helps businesses grow and meet their goals!) Outside of work, Katie is a mom of 2, a partner, and has 7 pets. She enjoys traveling, live music, yoga, and spending time with friends.
Katie's favorite part of hosting is creating an atmosphere that people feel comfortable and authentic within. She likes to see people loosen up when they talk to her so that they're more open to their potential dates.
Katie's favorite part of hosting is creating an atmosphere that people feel comfortable and authentic within. She likes to see people loosen up when they talk to her so that they're more open to their potential dates.
Becky
Bay Area Event Hosts
Becky is a positive, adventurous, and welcoming person who spends her days working in HR! In her spare time she loves to dance and travel.
She loves hosting for Little Gay Book because it brings her joy to bring people together in a place they can relax and laugh with others.
She loves hosting for Little Gay Book because it brings her joy to bring people together in a place they can relax and laugh with others.
Lily Noonan
Boston Event Host
Lily is a true multitasking marvel! By day, she's a compassionate mental health counselor, specializing in LGBTQ+ care for individuals and couples. But when the sun sets, she transforms into a delightful mix of an improviser, a dazzling drag performer, and a culinary wizard in her own home kitchen. Her heart is dedicated to crafting safe havens where queer individuals can truly blossom as their authentic selves. Adding a sprinkle of whimsy to her repertoire, Lily also collaborates with ComedySportz Boston, using the power of improv to host communication-focused workshops for corporations across the Greater Boston area.
Lily firmly believes that humor and authenticity are like the secret ingredients for building heartwarming connections. She's absolutely thrilled to infuse these qualities into the magical events organized by Little Gay Book in Boston!
Lily firmly believes that humor and authenticity are like the secret ingredients for building heartwarming connections. She's absolutely thrilled to infuse these qualities into the magical events organized by Little Gay Book in Boston!
Ricki Anaya
Austin Event Host
She/They- Ricki is a mover and shaker in more ways than one. By day, she's an Austin, Texas Real Estate Broker wheeling and dealing in the property market. By night, she's tearing up the dance floor as a leader with the sensational Lux Mambo team.
But wait, there's more! Ricki is also the visionary founder of Queer Dance Austin, an electric community platform that celebrates the healing and connective power of dance. Plus, she's a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ representation, serving on the board of directors for Drag Story Hour—a project turning the tide against LGBTQ+ erasure and amplifying the voice of diversity.
Want to keep up with Ricki? Follow her on Instagram @HomesbyRicki and @QueerDanceAustin.
The best part? Ricki's heart is on the market! A firm believer in the magic of face-to-face connections, Ricki is all in on the power of events like these to help us put down our phones and pick up meaningful, lasting relationships. So come on down, get out of your comfort zone, and let Ricki guide you through an evening of potential love matches and endless fun!
But wait, there's more! Ricki is also the visionary founder of Queer Dance Austin, an electric community platform that celebrates the healing and connective power of dance. Plus, she's a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ representation, serving on the board of directors for Drag Story Hour—a project turning the tide against LGBTQ+ erasure and amplifying the voice of diversity.
Want to keep up with Ricki? Follow her on Instagram @HomesbyRicki and @QueerDanceAustin.
The best part? Ricki's heart is on the market! A firm believer in the magic of face-to-face connections, Ricki is all in on the power of events like these to help us put down our phones and pick up meaningful, lasting relationships. So come on down, get out of your comfort zone, and let Ricki guide you through an evening of potential love matches and endless fun!
Lisa Iancin "LI"
New York & New Jersey Event Host
Lisa, affectionately known as LI, isn't your run-of-the-mill real estate professional. She's a trailblazer who embarked on a journey to forge deeper connections within the LGBTQ community. Her decision to join forces with Little Gay Book as an event host was driven by an unquenchable thirst for networking, forging new connections, and crafting memorable experiences.
Unforgettable Event Experience: One of the standout moments in LI's event-hosting journey was the creation of the "QTown After Party" – a unique fusion of celebration and queer networking. LI took the stage to facilitate introductions, and a radiant smile graced her face as she witnessed these interactions evolving into valuable business connections. It was during this event that LI realized she was contributing to something greater than herself, fostering profound connections within our community.
Life Beyond Event Hosting: Outside of the event-hosting world, Lisa (LI) finds solace and exhilaration in the world of surfing. Riding the waves allows her to unwind, recharge, and strike the perfect balance with the energy and excitement of event planning.
Unforgettable Event Experience: One of the standout moments in LI's event-hosting journey was the creation of the "QTown After Party" – a unique fusion of celebration and queer networking. LI took the stage to facilitate introductions, and a radiant smile graced her face as she witnessed these interactions evolving into valuable business connections. It was during this event that LI realized she was contributing to something greater than herself, fostering profound connections within our community.
Life Beyond Event Hosting: Outside of the event-hosting world, Lisa (LI) finds solace and exhilaration in the world of surfing. Riding the waves allows her to unwind, recharge, and strike the perfect balance with the energy and excitement of event planning.
Tanya Ware
Chicago Event Host
During the day, Tanya thrives as a dynamic trainer, but her passion for matters of the heart never takes a break. Her commitment to the world of romance is unwavering, a constant beat in her life's rhythm. Currently, Tanya is embarking on a transformative journey towards becoming a doula and intimacy coach. Her unique approach is centered on embracing individuals with open arms, free from any judgments.
With a rich background in matchmaking and event hosting across diverse settings, Tanya is now elated to join the vibrant Little Gay Book family. Beyond her professional pursuits, she's an avid reader and a devoted ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. This opportunity represents a golden moment for Tanya to magnify her deep admiration and respect for this remarkable community.
On a mission to facilitate love and connection, Tanya is here to guide her fellow queer clients on their path to discovering meaningful relationships. If you're ready to explore the journey of love, Tanya is your enthusiastic and empathetic companion, excited to embark on this adventure with you!
With a rich background in matchmaking and event hosting across diverse settings, Tanya is now elated to join the vibrant Little Gay Book family. Beyond her professional pursuits, she's an avid reader and a devoted ally of the LGBTQIA+ community. This opportunity represents a golden moment for Tanya to magnify her deep admiration and respect for this remarkable community.
On a mission to facilitate love and connection, Tanya is here to guide her fellow queer clients on their path to discovering meaningful relationships. If you're ready to explore the journey of love, Tanya is your enthusiastic and empathetic companion, excited to embark on this adventure with you!
Mo Sketch
Chicago Event Host
Meet Mo Sketch, your go-to host for all things fun, queer, and unforgettable. Mo brings a world of fascinating experiences and talents to the Little Gay Book family.
Fun Fact #1: Mo is not just double-jointed; their 7-year-old is too! Talk about a family of flexibility.
Fun Fact #2: Last year, Mo decided to take a spin as a wedding DJ. Because who wouldn't want Mo's infectious energy and musical prowess at their special day?
Fun Fact #3: Mo's first wedding to their ex-husband, Kevin, was quite the fiery affair – literally! Mo's dress caught on fire at the reception, but thanks to quick thinking from the wedding planner, the day was saved. Fast forward, and Mo found themselves on the set of "Chicago Fire" as Captain Leone, living out Kevin's childhood dream. From day player to recurring cast member, it was quite the journey, and Mo joined SAG right before the pandemic hit.
Fun Fact #4: Mo is a fierce advocate and won a significant pregnancy discrimination case with the Chicago Commission of Human Relations after a personal loss. Today, Mo is a proud parent to two incredible rainbow babies, who are also their mini-me's, aged 7 and 8.
Fun Fact #5: Mo is a multi-talented artist who plays the piano and is currently cooking up a country hip-hop album with their best friend JPoet X and 2 Deep Entertainment. Stay tuned for some musical magic!
What truly inspired Mo to join the Little Gay Book family is a passion for making love connections and creating safe spaces for queers to be authentic, vulnerable, and, of course, have a blast. Mo knows that life's all about fun, and they're here to channel their inner Cindy Lauper to bring joy to everyone. Having been a matchmaker before, Mo understands the magic of true connections, like finding a twin flame.
And when it's time to unwind, Mo's go-to is dancing, laughing, and sometimes, belting out a tune or two. Because in life, there are moments when all you need is a song to open up, heal, and realize that the person right in front of you might be the one of your dreams. So, get ready for a rollercoaster of fun and love, because Mo Sketch is here to create unforgettable moments with you all. Let's dance, laugh, and make some amazing memories together
Fun Fact #1: Mo is not just double-jointed; their 7-year-old is too! Talk about a family of flexibility.
Fun Fact #2: Last year, Mo decided to take a spin as a wedding DJ. Because who wouldn't want Mo's infectious energy and musical prowess at their special day?
Fun Fact #3: Mo's first wedding to their ex-husband, Kevin, was quite the fiery affair – literally! Mo's dress caught on fire at the reception, but thanks to quick thinking from the wedding planner, the day was saved. Fast forward, and Mo found themselves on the set of "Chicago Fire" as Captain Leone, living out Kevin's childhood dream. From day player to recurring cast member, it was quite the journey, and Mo joined SAG right before the pandemic hit.
Fun Fact #4: Mo is a fierce advocate and won a significant pregnancy discrimination case with the Chicago Commission of Human Relations after a personal loss. Today, Mo is a proud parent to two incredible rainbow babies, who are also their mini-me's, aged 7 and 8.
Fun Fact #5: Mo is a multi-talented artist who plays the piano and is currently cooking up a country hip-hop album with their best friend JPoet X and 2 Deep Entertainment. Stay tuned for some musical magic!
What truly inspired Mo to join the Little Gay Book family is a passion for making love connections and creating safe spaces for queers to be authentic, vulnerable, and, of course, have a blast. Mo knows that life's all about fun, and they're here to channel their inner Cindy Lauper to bring joy to everyone. Having been a matchmaker before, Mo understands the magic of true connections, like finding a twin flame.
And when it's time to unwind, Mo's go-to is dancing, laughing, and sometimes, belting out a tune or two. Because in life, there are moments when all you need is a song to open up, heal, and realize that the person right in front of you might be the one of your dreams. So, get ready for a rollercoaster of fun and love, because Mo Sketch is here to create unforgettable moments with you all. Let's dance, laugh, and make some amazing memories together
Cindy Weintraub
Bay Area Event Host
Meet Cindy, our newest event host extraordinaire! With a passion for breathing new life into the lesbian scene in the South Bay, Cindy is a seasoned lesbian, masc left of center, and an awesome event planner/operator.
One of her most memorable experiences was orchestrating spectacular movie and theatrical events for our LGBTQ+ community, raising over $250,000 for our local LGBTQ+ Center. ""Gaylapalooza"" at San Jose's Hammer Theater featured an impressive lineup, including talent from Opera San Jose, Bay Area String Quartet, Rainbow Women's Chorus, SF Drag Queen Countertenor, Drag Ballet Dancers, the San Francisco Lesbian & Gay Freedom Band, and the fabulous MC drag queen icon Elsa Touche. All of them generously donated their time to support our community.
When she's not dazzling us with her event-hosting skills, you'll find Cindy enjoying warm-weather activities like kayaking, sailing, and exploring new western towns. She's also a music enthusiast, often listening to live performances, and she loves taking leisurely strolls with her dachshund and cat. In the winter, she hits the slopes for some skiing fun or hosts sing-along parties at her house, showcasing her talent on the Steinway Grand. And let's not forget her penchant for international adventures, as she jetsets to Europe, Scandinavia, Asia, and Central and South America for fun, culture, and delicious food!
But that's not all; Cindy is a woman of many talents. She can juggle, perform magic tricks, and play a mean piano. Her unique skills and vibrant personality make her an invaluable addition to our Little Gay Book team. Get ready to be wowed by Cindy's event-hosting prowess and infectious enthusiasm!"
One of her most memorable experiences was orchestrating spectacular movie and theatrical events for our LGBTQ+ community, raising over $250,000 for our local LGBTQ+ Center. ""Gaylapalooza"" at San Jose's Hammer Theater featured an impressive lineup, including talent from Opera San Jose, Bay Area String Quartet, Rainbow Women's Chorus, SF Drag Queen Countertenor, Drag Ballet Dancers, the San Francisco Lesbian & Gay Freedom Band, and the fabulous MC drag queen icon Elsa Touche. All of them generously donated their time to support our community.
When she's not dazzling us with her event-hosting skills, you'll find Cindy enjoying warm-weather activities like kayaking, sailing, and exploring new western towns. She's also a music enthusiast, often listening to live performances, and she loves taking leisurely strolls with her dachshund and cat. In the winter, she hits the slopes for some skiing fun or hosts sing-along parties at her house, showcasing her talent on the Steinway Grand. And let's not forget her penchant for international adventures, as she jetsets to Europe, Scandinavia, Asia, and Central and South America for fun, culture, and delicious food!
But that's not all; Cindy is a woman of many talents. She can juggle, perform magic tricks, and play a mean piano. Her unique skills and vibrant personality make her an invaluable addition to our Little Gay Book team. Get ready to be wowed by Cindy's event-hosting prowess and infectious enthusiasm!"
Talisha Herald
Seattle Event Host
Talisha from Seattle – your new go-to for a good time and the mastermind behind the curtain at our latest events. What sparked her decision to join Little Gay Book as an event host? Simple: She attended one of our events, had an absolute blast, and walked away with a bunch of new connections. She's all about the joy of meeting people face-to-face and is on a mission to make that happen for others in our lively community.
Talisha's highlight reel is filled with moments that brought a grin to her face, especially those that have expanded her queer circle in every direction. Professional networks? Check. New friendships? Check. Romantic connections? Double-check. "The more queers in my life the better!! 💕 Amiright or Amiright?"
When she’s not creating memorable evenings for us, Talisha is out soaking in live music, hitting the road on spontaneous trips, or playing the gracious hostess, cooking up a storm for friends and loved ones. And her business? Well, she's one of the lucky ones who calls her work her play. So, get ready for events sprinkled with Talisha's fun-loving spirit, where connections are waiting to happen, and every night is a chance to add more queers to your squad.
Talisha's highlight reel is filled with moments that brought a grin to her face, especially those that have expanded her queer circle in every direction. Professional networks? Check. New friendships? Check. Romantic connections? Double-check. "The more queers in my life the better!! 💕 Amiright or Amiright?"
When she’s not creating memorable evenings for us, Talisha is out soaking in live music, hitting the road on spontaneous trips, or playing the gracious hostess, cooking up a storm for friends and loved ones. And her business? Well, she's one of the lucky ones who calls her work her play. So, get ready for events sprinkled with Talisha's fun-loving spirit, where connections are waiting to happen, and every night is a chance to add more queers to your squad.