Rafa and Sam officially met in 2019.
Their first conversation took place at a church camp, when Rafa told him, “You played beautifully today.” From that moment on, friendship came naturally. Sam was spending his vacation in Brazil, while Rafa had just moved back to Belo Horizonte.
For one week, they worked together translating for visiting missionaries. Sam always made sure Rafa had a ride home, and Rafa would often invite friends to join them afterward, finding little reasons to spend a little more time together.
The week passed far too quickly, and as Sam’s trip came to an end, they both knew what they had found was too special to simply leave behind.
Neither of them had imagined a long-distance relationship. But life rarely follows the path we expect. Time would pass either way, the only question was whether they wanted to find each other waiting at the end of it.
It certainly wasn’t easy, but they were never alone. Through every season of waiting, they relied on Jesus to teach them patience, faithfulness, and the value of trusting His timing.
Since the day they chose each other, they have talked every single day. Distance never kept them from being present in one another’s lives. There were countless video calls, countless flights, tearful goodbyes, and joyful reunions along the way.
After six years of longing to be in the same place, Sam and Rafa are overjoyed to finally close this chapter and begin the next one together. If you are here, you have been part of that journey.
The couple cannot wait to celebrate the most anticipated day of their lives surrounded by the people they love most.
With great joy, Samuel and Rafa will celebrate the beginning of a new chapter surrounded by the people who mean the most to them.
On August 8, 2026, at 3:00 PM, they will exchange vows at Villa Moura Olival in Acuruí, Minas Gerais. Nestled among the scenic landscapes of the Serra do Gandarela, the venue was chosen for its warm atmosphere, elegant architecture, and seamless connection to nature.
Surrounded by mountains, lush greenery, and natural light, family and friends will gather for an intimate and unforgettable celebration.
Guests will be welcomed with a pre-ceremony reception, offering time to arrive, settle in, and enjoy the surroundings before the celebration begins. The ceremony will start promptly at 3:30 PM, and guests are kindly encouraged to arrive in advance.
Celebrating this day surrounded by loved ones is truly the greatest gift of all.
For those who would like to contribute in another way, the couple has thoughtfully prepared a gift registry to help them build their new home together.
Samuel and Rafa are deeply grateful for your kindness, generosity, and for being part of such a meaningful moment in their story.
Guests are kindly requested to submit their RSVP by July 19, 2026.
When completing the form below, please enter your name exactly as it appears on your invitation. This will help ensure an accurate guest list and seating arrangements.
The suggested attire for the wedding is formal.
As the celebration will take place outdoors on grass and surrounded by nature, guests may wish to choose footwear accordingly. For added comfort and ease of movement, block heels or lower heels are recommended.
For guests planning to extend their stay, Sunday offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the natural beauty and local charm of Acuruí and the surrounding region.
From waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks in the Serra da Moeda to the quaint village of Acuruí and the historic town of Ouro Preto, located about 40 minutes from the venue, there is no shortage of places to discover. The region is also home to excellent restaurants, cafés, and the breathtaking mountain landscapes that make Minas Gerais so unique.
Villa Moura Olival is located approximately 90 minutes from Belo Horizonte, making it possible for guests to travel to and from the venue comfortably on the same day.
For those who prefer to enjoy the weekend at a more relaxed pace, a selection of accommodations within 45 minutes of the venue has been provided below.
Guests are encouraged to book early to ensure the best availability in the area.
