Mikey and Luisa’s story began at Kenyon College in Italian class, where fate—and their professor—played the role of matchmaker. Little did they know being paired in the same group for an entire year was no coincidence. With five daytime classes and three evening sessions each week, the universe (and Daria, their professor) had clearly set the stage for something special.

Mikey and Luisa officially began dating in June 2019, just as Luisa graduated college and Mikey was living in Washington, D.C. Their plans to move to New York City took a detour when Mikey accepted a job in Los Angeles that July, turning their relationship into a 2,790-mile long-distance adventure. Despite the distance, their connection never wavered. Monthly visits, endless FaceTime calls, and a shared determination kept their love strong. After two years, Luisa moved to California in 2021, and the couple settled in Marina del Rey. Mikey, Luisa, and Carla, their fur-daughter were looking forward to starting a new chapter. In L.A., they built a community of friends, explored the state, and indulged in their shared love of animals, traveling, and pickleball. Luisa also earned her MBA from Pepperdine, forming lifelong friendships in the process. Together, they’ve created a life filled with love and adventure.

On Saturday, March 30th, 2024, Mikey proposed to Luisa at the Venice Canals in Los Angeles. Luisa had an inkling something was up—her friends had taken her for an unexpected glam day the day before, and Mikey seemed unusually invested in her nail color choice. That morning, Mikey planned a brunch with friends but suggested a stroll along the canals first. As they walked, they approached a bridge adorned with beautiful greenery and roses. There, Mikey dropped to one knee and asked Luisa to marry him. Without hesitation, Luisa said yes! But the surprises weren’t over. As they posed for photos on the bridge, Luisa was overwhelmed to see both their families had flown in from the East Coast, other family members drove in, and their friends from L.A. all gathered to celebrate. Mikey had orchestrated every detail perfectly. Surrounded by their loved ones, Luisa and Mikey celebrated their engagement in a day filled with love and unforgettable memories.