Fernanda and Michael were introduced when Fernanda replaced an eighty-year-old man in her role at work. Michael immediately considered this an upgrade, but admittedly did not realize the extent at the time. Daily coordination from opposite coasts quickly proved that they worked well together, but admittedly Fernanda did not realize the extent at the time. While spending time together on business trips it became apparent to Michael’s friends first as they foretold the future – “in a couple years you will be living in the southwest”.

Occasional business trips gave way to monthly visits. They watched Pats games in bars and ballets in theatres. Fernanda attended Christmas parties. Michael attended birthday parties. Michael met Fernanda’s immense, spirited family and was swiftly won over by her son. Fernanda met Michael’s tiny, loving family and swiftly won over his mom. The distance was a challenge that was managed with nightly video chats, a curated joint playlist, and countdowns to the next adventure.

Michael proposed to Fernanda on December 29th, 2017 in San Juan Capistrano – where they stood together a year earlier. They held their civil marriage on October, 10th 2018 in Salem, MA – where their relationship began two years earlier. Since then they have crossed borders and time zones. They have conquered piles of paperwork and career shifts. They have embraced different languages and adapted to different climates. All of this to be CLOSER. We are honored for our growing family to join us – small and large, from northeast to southwest - in celebrating the life to come. 10/10/2020 <——-SCRATCH THAT .....10/09/2021 😅