Rewinding back to November 2021: We were wearing masks in crowded spaces. Many of us were titled essential workers and wore them all day. Some folks were still home for a “brief” remote work period. We carried vaccination cards in our wallets. While most curfews and mandates lifted, it was still bitterly cold outside. Obviously, it was the perfect time to dive into the local dating pool. 🙃 Whitney and Freddy matched on Bumble. After a few days of witty banter via the dating app, they exchanged numbers and agreed to chat on the phone after work. Their phone date lasted nearly six hours! They bonded over interests in music, food, movies and travel. They shared their dreams, fears, and values. They both hold gratitude for therapy and life’s journey. While the content in hindsight was quite deep, the conversation was easy-going and full of laughter. Immediately after they hung up, Freddy began planning the first real date! He texted Whitney the next day, “Would you join me for dinner this Friday? Do you like Ethiopian food?” She gladly accepted the invitation. They had a lovely time. He thought, “Wow she’s SO beautiful” and she thought “He’s handsome and omg he has DIMPLES!” The conversation was just as relaxed and enjoyable in person. The following week they caught a movie for their second date. Both appreciated the other’s company and loved talking throughout the day. However, they were each unsure of how the other felt and timid to let sparks fly…. UNTIL Their third date! Freddy introduced Whitney to his friends and the group attended an ‘Emo Night’ concert at DC’s 9:30 Club. The nostalgic music and good vibes disarmed them. They let their inhibitions go. They danced, sang and laughed all evening; holding hands and whispering in each other’s ears over the loud music bred a new intimacy. All doubt washed away. This was the real deal and their feelings were confirmed as mutual. From that night on they were inseparable! Freddy and Whitney spent Christmas and New Years together. In February they embarked on their first trip! In three short months their relationship blossomed. As they say - the rest is history . . . . . In later conversations, we’ve both noted: “I knew you could REALLY be the one after our third date” From trips to San Diego, San Juan, Cartagena and beyond, to moving in together, to hanging out with each other's friends and families in the DMV, Park Ridge, Cali, New York, and Virginia Beach — we have shared many wonderful memories! To our guests: We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your love & support as we celebrate our next chapter together. 🩷 See you at the wedding! It’s going to be a blast!