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Matt & Melina

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Matt

Grillo

&

Melina

Curbelo

May 25, 2025

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Our story

In a twist of fate that could only be described as serendipitous, a tale of love transcends borders and the limitations of geography. Imagine, if you will, a young woman from the vibrant city of Santa Cruz, Bolivia, and a young man from the “bustling” streets of Secaucus, New Jersey. Their paths, each embarking on new chapters far from the familiarity of home, were destined to converge in the most unexpected of ways. Our story unfolds in 2022, when Melina, embarked on her journey to George Washington University. She stepped into a new country with hopes as vast as the sky. Her mission—to pursue an LLM degree that promised not just academic rigor but the adventure of a lifetime. Meanwhile, Matt, driven by his own passion for the law, set his sights on Washington DC, eager to carve out his legal career. Little did they know, their individual quests for personal growth would set the stage for a remarkable meeting of hearts. Fate, with a gentle nudge from the modern marvel of a dating app named Hinge, orchestrated their first encounter. On the 4th of November, Melina and Matt had their first date and it was nothing short of magical. They talked about IP law, Bad Bunny, and shared a plate of their favorite appetizer—calamari. That first date blossomed into a weekend spent together, swiftly transitioning into sharing both an apartment and mutual aspirations for the future with each other. However, love, in its journey, often encounters trials. For Melina and Matt, this trial came in the form a daunting challenge posed by U.S. immigration law that threatened to separate them just as their lives had intertwined. Fully aware that their moments physically together were fleeting, Melina and Matt cherished every second of their togetherness with fervent intensity. Their deep bond led Matt to a significant decision during his first trip to Bolivia—proposing amidst Samaipata's stunning mountains. The joy of their engagement was tinged with the bittersweetness of their imminent separation, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with the trials of distance. Despite the miles that lay between them, their commitment only grew stronger. They managed to bridge the distance with relentless FaceTime calls, periodic reunions—which became treasured moments for crafting new memories—achieving shared goals (aka taking the Bar Exam), and intricately planning their future wedding. Currently, the geographical divide persists, yet their love continues to thrive, untethered by distance. With every sunrise, their bond deepens, whether they’re basking in each other’s presence or yearning from afar. One day, they know they will be together again, and that will be forever. On May 25, 2025, we will be celebrating their story that is a testament to the power of love, a reminder that true connection knows no boundaries, and that when two hearts are meant to be together, they will find a way—against all odds. As we continue to navigate the challenges and joys of their journey, Melina and Matt's love remains a beacon of hope, a narrative that celebrates the beauty of finding one's soulmate in the most unexpected of places.

For all the days along the way
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