It all began on a chilly day in October 2015. I just graduated college and moved back home from Philadelphia. I was focused on studying for my nursing boards when my friend told me she had an Indian coworker she wanted me to meet. I was reluctant at first as I was never "set up" before, but eventually, I said, “Okay why not?” My friend called me in the middle of the day and said she showed Vin my Instagram and he was going to text me soon. I was so confused because this was all so sudden and new to me… but I rolled with it! We texted for a few days, talking about our interests, families, and past travels. Vin planned our first date at an Italian restaurant. I guess he got the hint after I mentioned only like 50 times how much I loved pizza and wine! Lots of laughs and good conversation summed up that night, and there truly was an instant connection. I also thought he was a lot more attractive in person which didn’t hurt. :) It got a little awkward because there was a lady sitting next to us who asked: “Is this your first date?” We both started laughing and replied with an even more awkward "Yes…" Vin got to know me pretty well pretty fast that night as I showed him my top 3 traits: easily spills food on her shirt, laughs a LOT, and can have really dry humor. The next 5 incredible years together were packed with great food, amazing travels, and constant laughs, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
It was the fall of 2015, I had just moved into downtown Jersey City to be close to the new job I started. I remember going out for lunch with a couple of new coworkers and one of them randomly mentioning she wanted to set me up with her Indian friend that was single. As many do in this day and age, I asked for her Instagram handle so I could see her for myself and take it from there. A follow, a few likes, and a DM later I found myself texting and getting to know this mystery girl. I planned our first date at an Italian restaurant after she repeatedly professed her love for pizza and wine. Upon seeing her for the first time in person I was nervous and a bit awkward, mainly because I knew I saw something special in her. We enjoyed a night of eating our favorite food and sharing stories about who we were. I even had to ask her what village her family is from because that’s what Patel’s have to do haha! (IYKYK). Luckily we were compatible in that department. :) From that night on, our relationship kept growing while continuing our conversations, traveling the world and eating along the way.