What started as an unexpected change of plans became the beginning of something beautiful… and slightly ironic. In July 2025, Ana had a trip planned to Spain, but when it was canceled, she decided to visit her brother and his family in Iowa instead.

While there, she joined a dating app with zero expectations, and that’s where she met Ryne. They started talking and quickly realized they had a lot in common. Ryne even knew a bit about Brazil through his sister-in-law, which gave him a solid head start. Not long after, he asked Ana out for coffee, but she said no. Yes, really. She was focused on family time and, if we’re being honest, not too excited about meeting a stranger.

Lucky for both of them, Ryne didn’t give up that easily. Even after Ana returned to Brazil, they kept talking.

What started as casual conversations turned into something much more meaningful, and by October, Ryne got on a plane and flew to Brazil to meet her in person for the very first time. Their first meeting happened at the airport, with Ana’s parents there for the full introduction right away, no pressure at all. It was exciting, a little nerve-wracking, and unforgettable.

And in a move that set the tone for everything to come, Ryne gave Ana a promise ring on the very first day they met. During his time in Brazil, they made memories they will never forget. They traveled to Rio, met friends and family, enjoyed the beach, and introduced Ryne to Brazilian culture, including his first caipirinhas, which he approved of immediately.

After more time apart, Ana returned to Iowa for Christmas, where she spent a month getting to know Ryne’s family and falling even more in love.

By March, they both knew they were done with long distance. Ana moved to Iowa on March 18th, ready to start their life together. Just a few days later, on March 21st, Ryne took Ana to the botanical garden in Des Moines. As they walked through the plants and waterfalls, he seemed a little nervous, but Ana did not think too much of it until she turned around and found him down on one knee. With a beautiful diamond ring in his hand, he asked her to spend forever with him. This time, she said yes. And now, here they are, still laughing, still choosing each other, and ready to begin their next chapter together.