We had the good fortune of connecting with Ann Parnes & Maria Murray and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ann Parnes &, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
After Hello’s national expansion is driven by a powerful synergy of business-building and connection expertise. Co-founder Maria Murray brings nearly two decades of invaluable experience in the health, wellness, and fitness industry, where she’s excelled as a business consultant, remote recruiting solutions expert, and Vice President of Operations. Her proven ability to rescue and launch brands nationwide showcases her exceptional talent for creating streamlined systems and fostering growth.

Complementing this, Ann’s seven years as a matchmaker and founder, coupled with a background as a prosecutor, provide a unique lens for understanding the nuances of successful professional connections and the critical elements of compatibility. Her legal training honed essential skills in analysis, understanding motivations, and strategic judgment, which are now directly applied to thoughtfully curating impactful matches for After Hello.

Together, Maria’s deep operational acumen and passion for holistic well-being, combined with Ann’s understanding of relationship dynamics and strategic assessment, create a formidable foundation for revolutionizing professional matchmaking, expert date coaching and online concierge services across the country.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What truly sets us apart is our meticulous methodology, which blends the art of understanding individual needs with a strategic, almost scientific approach to compatibility. We don’t leave anything to chance. By taking the time to deeply understand our clients’ values, lifestyles, and relationship goals, we optimize the potential for meaningful connections. Furthermore, we’ve evolved beyond traditional matchmaking by incorporating online concierge services and personalized date coaching, offering comprehensive support to navigate every stage of the dating journey with confidence.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Upscale Bars and Restaurants
Midnight Rambler (Downtown Dallas)
A stylish cocktail lounge with expertly crafted drinks and a sophisticated yet lively atmosphere. A great place to meet confident, cultured singles.

The Crafty Irishman Public House (Dallas)
A warm, welcoming Irish pub known for its friendly staff, live music, and relaxed environment. It’s perfect if you want a place that’s social but not pretentious.

Eddie V’s Prime Seafood (Fort Worth)
With its swanky V Lounge and live jazz music, Eddie V’s is a refined setting that naturally attracts an upscale, professional crowd.

Bar Eden (Bishop Arts)
A chic cocktail bar with a greenhouse vibe, perfect for those who appreciate a more intimate, aesthetic setting.

Catbird (Downtown)
Located on the 10th floor of the Thompson Hotel, Catbird’s stunning terrace and stylish ambiance make it a go-to for meeting well-traveled and ambitious singles.

The Standard Pour (Uptown)
This spot is buzzing during happy hour and late nights, drawing a crowd of young professionals who are open to meeting new people.

Parliament (Uptown)
A cozy yet energetic cocktail bar where engaging with fellow patrons and bartenders feels effortless.

Social Clubs and Activities
Dallas Sport & Social Club
If you love staying active, this is a great way to meet other fitness-minded singles through sports leagues and social events.

Le Sol (Oak Cliff)
A private social club that blends wellness, networking, and a stylish atmosphere—ideal for forming meaningful connections.

Park House (Highland Park Village)
An exclusive club that attracts professionals and creatives through curated events, fine dining, and an upscale bar scene.

Unique Venues and Events
Mutts Canine Cantina (Fort Worth/Uptown/Allen)
Love dogs? This is the perfect casual setting to meet fellow pet lovers over drinks while your pups play.

Run Clubs
Mix fitness and socializing by joining a local run club—one of the easiest ways to meet like-minded people with a shared passion for health and community.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
We’ve had the opportunity to work and connect with such incredible clientele. Hearing their stories, participating in their dating journey and helping build confidence for successful, long-term relationships has been the fuel that keeps our team inspired, We are deeply aware of the trust they place in us, and we are honored to play a role in their happiness. Seeing lives transformed by healthy connections brings immeasurable joy.

Website: https://www.afterhello.com

Instagram: @afterhellomatchmaking

Linkedin: After Hello Matchmaking

Twitter: @loveafterhello

Facebook: afterhellomatchmaking

Youtube: @AfterHelloMatchmaking

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.