Elisa and Felipe first met in 2017 at Brasília International School, a Christian international school in Brasília, Brazil, that follows an American curriculum and prepares students to study abroad. Felipe noticed Elisa early on, at the school’s open house, while Elisa noticed Felipe during the first week of school when he shared his art portfolio with the class.

A group of students had gathered around his drawings, and Elisa, curious, joined in, impressed by his talent. Felipe introduced himself and offered to draw something for her. When she asked for a black-and-white lion, he agreed and asked for her phone number to send it to her afterward.

Later, Felipe admitted he had brought his portfolio that day, hoping it would catch Elisa’s attention.

During that school year, their friendship grew and eventually turned into a relationship. They were each other’s first love. But when Elisa’s parents expressed that dating wasn’t appropriate at the time, the two decided to end their relationship out of respect for her family and their shared faith.

They continued at the school for the rest of the year until Elisa graduated and moved away. Life took them in different directions, but they remained grateful for the time they shared.

In 2024, years after going their separate ways, Felipe came across Elisa’s LinkedIn profile and saw she was living in Ohio. In 2025, after she graduated, he reached out to reconnect. To his surprise, Elisa replied, and their conversation picked up naturally from where it had left off years before. As they talked, it became clear that the connection they once shared was still there. Felipe flew to Michigan to meet her parents, as well as to see her again after so many years apart.

Today, they have family in Virginia and Pennsylvania and plan to build a life together in the U.S. Most importantly, they continue to share a deep commitment to their faith in Jesus. They don’t see the years apart as wasted, but as a season God used to shape them individually, growing their character, refining their purpose, and drawing them closer to His presence. Looking back, they see His hand in every detail. Looking ahead, they trust in His love and plans to lead them forward, together, and with purpose.

E&F

Wedding Day

3:00 PM

Ceremony

3:30 PM

Cocktail Hour

4:30 PM

Reception & Dinner

8:00 PM

Send-off