What happens when two people’s souls connect but their faiths differ? For Anu and David, that’s when you let love take the lead.

Couple #3: Anu, 33, founder and CEO of Swirl Events; David, 31, director of online learning services at Scholastic, Inc.
LoveStage: Engaged

Sometimes, a scheming third wheel is just what’s needed to jumpstart a relationship. Anu and David had a mutual friend who had always wanted to set them up, and finally the opportunity arose. The amateur Cupid invited her unaware friends to happy hour at a museum. Both showed up—David, somewhat reluctantly, and Anu, only because other plans fell through. “The connection was instant,” says Anu. “Attending the event turned out to be the best decision we’ve ever made.” Unfortunately, her parents felt otherwise initially. Anu is Hindu, and David Jewish. It took some convincing and a lot of charming (on the part of David), but eventually, Anu’s parents fell in love with David as well. In fact, it was during a meeting of the two families that David asked Anu’s father for her hand in marriage.
First Thing He Noticed About Her
David: “Anu caught my eye right from the start, but she was already deep into conversation with someone else. However, what I first really noticed was how intently she listened to the other person. Her eyes didn’t wander around the room. She was sincerely interested in what the other person had to say and did not seem to have her own agenda.”

Trait She Loves Best About Him
Anu: “David is kind. That might sound boring, but he’s truly one of the good guys. He’s a good person who wants to do good in the world.”

Secret to an Enduring Relationship
Anu: “Don’t expect the other person to be your entire world. It’s important to have other friendships and areas of interest outside of your partner. It’s unrealistic and too much pressure to expect all of your fulfillment to come from one person.”

David: “Ensuring that the other person can also pursue their dreams. You have to be willing to compromise and sacrifice. It cannot always be about you and your goals. And you have to be willing to share the driver’s seat.”

Best Relationship Advice She’s Ever Heard
Anu: “A wise girlfriend once told me to put a magnifying glass on the best parts of your relationship. Focus on and explore that instead of focusing on what might be less than perfect.