It all began at the Israeli consulate—because every great love story starts with paperwork, right?

Nina was there renewing her passport, minding her own business, when Joseph’s mom, Rosie, spotted her. Joseph’s mom, Rosie, started the conversation by complimenting Nina's shoes, and, as Jewish mothers do, quickly pivoted the conversation from fashion to matchmaking.

Rosie assured Nina, “I never set up my son with anyone!” The whole consulate joined in, cheering and rooting for this match. A consulate clerk even slipped Nina a paper, whispering, “Give your number to this woman!”

Skeptical but amused, Nina passed along her digits, joking she didn’t expect Rosie’s son to actually call. Meanwhile, Rosie returned home, promptly telling Joseph, “It’s my birthday, and the only gift I want is for you to call Nina.” Joseph, confused (it definitely wasn’t Rosie’s birthday), agreed to call anyway.

Joseph promptly reached out and invited Nina to an event, but—if you know Nina—you know better than to text her on a busy Tomchei Shabbos Thursday! Silence ensued, causing Joseph to wonder if she was really interested.

But fate (and Rosie, obviously) wasn’t done yet. After finally connecting for their first date, Joseph quickly realized his mom was right—there truly was something special about Nina. Of course, Nina’s infamous phone-answering habits caused a few bumps along the road, leading Joseph to think she wasn’t interested.

Fast forward a few months to Israel. Nina arrived late to a Shabbat dinner, completely unaware Joseph was actually leaving the dinner when he saw Nina approaching, but quickly made up an excuse, claiming he was just outside for some 'fresh air'. In a perfectly orchestrated twist of destiny, they bumped into each other outside. Joseph casually (strategically) suggested, "Why don't you sit at my table until you find your friend?" Little did Nina know, the seat her friend was saving was precisely between her and Joseph.

And from that moment, there were no more misunderstandings—just love, laughter, and a promise from Joseph that he'll always answer his phone, even if Nina doesn't.

The rest, as they say, is history.

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