In a twist of fate, Mike's first meeting with Mallorie was not in Italy amidst the backdrop of Rovere's picturesque streets, but through the screen of his mother's phone. Mallorie was on vacation visiting Rovere with Stef (Mike's cousin), when the two stopped by Mike's mothers home - interrupting the daily family video call. Giuliana (Mike's mother) turned the phone around so Stef and Mallorie could say hello. Mike, worlds apart yet instantly connected, greeted her with a spontaneous “howzit,” and that is where their story begins. From that moment, their connection grew - becoming friends on Instagram. Conversations began and Mike shared his plans of visiting Stef and David (his cousins) in Boca Raton, Florida. The news was met with excitement from Mallorie. November 11th, 2021 became a day to remember. Mike, having taken his maiden voyage from Miami airport on the tri-rail, finally landed on Stef’s doorstep in Boca. He was warmly welcomed by his cousins and Mallorie, as well as the familiar sounds of country music and the smell of boerewors sizzling. After meeting, Mallorie and Mike quickly became inseparable, realizing their bond was genuine. They spent only a short month together and as Mike prepared to leave for South Africa, they promised this wouldn't be the end of their story. This was the beginning of the challenges of a long-distance relationship, daily FaceTimes and calls enabled the bond to grow. Traveling from the U.S to South Africa, with stops in London and Italy between. A special night in South Africa sealed the fate, when Mallorie answered Mike’s question with a “yes!” This would be the moment that paved the way for the future together in sunny South Florida. Now, as they prepare for their next adventure, they wish to include you to toast to their past, revel in their present, and cheer for their promising future. Can't wait to see you there!