After years of unsuccessful dating in Los Angeles, both Emily and Dan knew they had to get creative when it came to finding their person. On the recommendation of a friend, and figuring she had nothing to lose, Emily reached out to a pair of LA-based matchmakers in late 2021. Turns out, it was the best decision she made. The matchmakers set them up on December 9, 2021 and it was the first and only date Emily went on with their help. It was a freezing (for LA!) and windy night and they sat mostly alone on a makeshift patio due to COVID restrictions. But the moment they started talking, they both knew there was something special. This was made even more evident when they were asked if they wanted another round of drinks and Dan said, “I’m actually having a good time, so let’s do it”. Emily now knows that, for Dan, this was a pretty big emotional statement. As they got to know each other, they were struck by how much they had in common—they had been in the same year at USC, were both from the Northeast, had Jewish families with roots in Southern California, and most importantly they immediately felt comfortable with each other. They quickly bonded over a love of food, travel, work, and gently ribbing the service at the restaurant. Three years and counting later they have combined their lives and become even better together. They’ve travelled the world, blended their families and friends, and supported each other through many joyful moments and some hardships. They couldn’t be more thrilled to be starting their life together as a married couple and can’t wait to celebrate with everyone!