Elise Jernigan and Travis Clark's love story is a heartwarming tale of two elementary school teachers finding love amidst the classrooms and hallways of Linwood Holton Elementary School. Travis, the beloved general music teacher, and Elise, the new hot fourth-grade teacher, met in a school where colleagues were quick to notice the potential spark between them.

Travis, though an introvert and a bit shy, caught glimpses of Elise in the hallways but hesitated to make a move due to fear of rejection and personal rules about dating coworkers. It took a push from a colleague, Mrs. Wade, to bring them together. Mrs. Wade noticed the instant connection when Travis and Elise were in the same room and encouraged Travis to ask her out.

Travis, unsure and flabbergasted, sought advice from Mrs. Wade, who, being with Elise at the time, immediately invited him to a local bar. The sparks flew once again, and the connection deepened as they spent the night playing games, having drinks, and learning about each other. The night ended with exchanged numbers and plans for a first official date.

Their first date took place on a local trail in Richmond, Virginia, where they walked, talked, and got to know each other. Over the weeks, they explored Richmond, went to local restaurants, rode bikes, took nature walks, went to soccer games and traveled to the mountains of Virginia. As their bond grew stronger, Travis realized that Elise was the one for him.

As the couple approached one year of dating, Elise became overwhelming sure of the feeling, that Travis had all along - that he and she were meant to be together. Over the next few weeks, they discussed rings and started planning their life together. However, a surprise twist came when Travis took Elise to a ring store, only to find out that her preferences in rings had changed. Determined to get the perfect ring, Travis quickly devised a plan, redesigned the ring, and successfully surprised Elise.

Having gained confidence, Travis approached Elise's parents with gifts of love and flowers to seek their permission to marry their daughter. With their blessings, he patiently waited for the right moment to propose. Late October Travis brought Elise to the Natural Bridge near Roanoke, where, under the bridge, Travis got on one knee and asked Elise to be his wife. Tears welled up in her eyes as she joyfully accepted.

Unbeknownst to them, a priest was present and offered a blessing on their engagement, filling both Elise and Travis with immense joy and the belief that their union was destined. Travis had one more surprise up his sleeve – a surprise engagement party at Elise's parents' house, where the couple shared their engagement story with friends and family.

Their love story continues to unfold as they work to strengthen their bond, showing patience, love, and commitment to each other every day.

On June 8, 2024, Elise Jernigan and Travis Clark will embark on a new chapter of their lives as they exchange vows and begin their journey as a married couple, surrounded by the love and prayers of their friends and Family.

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Virginia Museum of Fine Arts