Michael and Elise's love story began unexpectedly at a New Year’s party in 2017. Though he wasn’t what Elise thought she was looking for, he turned out to be exactly what she needed. Over the years, they kept in touch, but it wasn’t until 2020, when the world slowed down, that their love truly blossomed. Both back in their hometown of Erie, PA—Elise furloughed from her resort job in Colorado and Michael attending online classes—they found time to reconnect deeply.

Their bond strengthened as they pursued their dreams, with Elise completing her degree in Arizona and Michael finishing his at ASU. In 2022, their journey led them to Northern Virginia, where they eloped, celebrating their love in an intimate and timeless way starting a new chapter in their new home.