There are few love stories that cross continents, involve a global pandemic, and nonetheless start in Lenox, Massachusetts. In January of 2020, Gabriela travelled from Resende, Brazil to the United States to work as an au pair for a family based in New York City. Little did she know that she would not be living in the big city for long. Walks in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park would soon turn into hikes up Monument Mountain in Great Barrington as the family she worked for soon moved to Berkshire County, escaping the city as COVID became a serious concern. From the tropical rainforests of Brazil to the freezing, desolate landscapes of Western Massachusetts, this transition was less than easy. But at least there was still one charming, young lawyer in the area. Connecting through a dating app, Matt knew he couldn’t miss his one, fleeting opportunity to meet and impress this young, beautiful woman from a country he had never visited. Pouring on the charm, Matt convinced Gabriela to go on a date with him. The only question was where. Someplace fancy, Matt thought as he suggested two locations: Bizen in Great Barrington; or Bistro Zinc in Lenox. Thankfully, Gabriela chose Zinc, where one of Matt’s best friends just so happened to be the general manager. Excited by his chance to impress her, Matt called the restaurant and asked for the best table in the house. His friend didn’t just oblige, he over-delivered, providing complimentary appetizers and champagne during their meal. Needless to say, Gabriela was impressed and agreed to go out on another date. Soon enough, she was best friends with Matt’s dog, Emma, and there would be no separating them from there. Gabriela was soon welcomed as part of Matt’s family and has even learned how to make Spanikopita. Gabi’s family has been no different in welcoming Matt into their fold. From dancing on a balcony to Brazilian pagode music in Cancun to beach trips in Rio de Janeiro, their match was deeper than they could have imagined.