In June 2022, Parsa and Elisabeth—just under 40 miles apart across the great expanse of the Washington, D.C. metro area—were respectively inspired to try out a dating app called Coffee Meets Bagel after speaking with friends who found their spouse on the app. They matched the first day Elisabeth joined the app and quickly dove into discussions about their hobbies, families, and shared values which resulted in Parsa asking Elisabeth to spend the upcoming Sunday together. They met up in downtown Silver Spring, MD with Parsa showing up in a grey business suit to Elisabeth’s surprise (he wanted to look his best for an important date). She was even more surprised when he started speaking, and he had an Australian accent (a result of his 15+ years growing up Down Under). The conversation flowed naturally, and while enjoying a drink outside together at McGinty's Public House, a butterfly landed on their table. Butterflies hold a special meaning to Elisabeth and her family as a sign of remembrance for her mother, Jane Dorman, who passed away in 2017. Elisabeth knew then that her mum approved. The date lasted for over 7 hours across the attractions of Silver Spring, until Elisabeth had to set down her game controller at Dave and Buster’s to announce that she needed to go home to her dog, Chip. Elisabeth and Parsa have been together ever since.

One major hurdle remained before things could become serious: the meeting of Parsa's pug Rosie and Elisabeth's lab-sharpei mix Chip. Parsa warned Elisabeth that Rosie typically didn't like other dogs, particularly larger ones. Elisabeth assured Parsa that, worst case scenario, Chip would gladly be the omega to Rosie's alpha. As soon as Rosie saw Chip, there was no barking or growling, only tail wags and a gentle booping of noses. They are now great companions and nap partners. Rosie still loathes other dogs, especially big ones.

Elisabeth: "Our second date. We just had dinner; Parsa turned to look at me and said, 'Let's get some ice cream.' He then proceeded to turn on Heart's 'Alone', belting along with Ann Wilson as he drove us to a nearby frozen yogurt place. I remember having this gut feeling, 'I think this is my person.' My logic then said, 'Hold your horses - just enjoy getting to know Parsa.' My intuition was correct." Parsa: "About 3 months into us dating, I made an impulsive decision to DIY remodel my kitchen, entryway, family room, and dining room all at the same time. On paper, this idea seemed fun and logical; in my minds eye, everything seemed straightforward. In reality, however, this very undertaking rendered the entire main floor of my house a construction zone. Just great! So with the dining room clearly out of action, our dinners were relegated to sitting on the floor upstairs. It was in those moments, with nothing but our own voices to keep us company, that I realized this remodel is bigger than me; it’s about an investment towards starting life with Elisabeth."

Since they couldn’t remember the exact date they became “official”, Parsa and Elisabeth went out to celebrate their first anniversary towards the end of June 2023 at The Melting Pot because #fondue. Parsa was anxious throughout the three-course meal, while Elisabeth munched away on delicious melted cheese and chocolate and judged his jitters. They later returned to Elisabeth’s condo, where they exchanged anniversary cards, and Elisabeth gave Parsa a pocket watch. Parsa then looked guilty and said that he didn’t have a gift for her before racing out of the living room. Elisabeth was extremely confused before Parsa sprinted back in with a small box in hand. Drawing inspiration from his favorite scene in Rocky II, Parsa said, “But I do have this. Want to spend the next 30 to 40 years together?” Inside the box was the engagement ring they had designed together 3 months prior. Never having seen Rocky II, Elisabeth said, “It better be 50-60 years,” and she began to cry happy tears. Rosie and Chip ecstatically joined in by giving kisses.