Catarina & David

Our story is not just ours.

Every relationship is seen from more than two perspectives. You have celebrated with us, laughed with us, supported us, and helped shape our story in ways you may not even realise.

Below are memories shared by the people we love. If you have a story, photo, piece of advice, or a few words for us to keep, we would be honoured if you added it too.

Memories from the people we love.

Submitted by Vivian Rocha
• The Early Days

Vivian Rocha

When Catarina first told me about David, then the first date, the trip, the tattoo, and finally the engagement, I’ll admit—I was a little scared! Everything seemed to be happening so fast. But then I saw them together, and I understood. Some things don’t need more time to make sense. You two simply fit. The love they have for each other is so easy to see—in the way they look at each other, the way they are together, and how naturally they seem to have found your person. I wish you a lifetime of that same love, always grounded in respect, friendship, laughter, and the certainty that you chose the right person to walk through life with.

• The Early Days

JT Smith

I remember sitting with David at the bar inside Hayden Block one afternoon shortly after the two of them had met - Catarina was in Brazil at the time - and I just remember the smile that came over David's face when he was talking about her and how amazing she was. I think it was the first time I'd ever heard her name, but he was already clearly head over heels. And every single time he's mentioned her since, he's had that same goofy smile, like he still can't quite believe his luck. Seeing the two of them together - whether it's out watching UFC or just at home having one of Catarina's amazing homecooked meals - you can see how much they respect each other, and how deeply they care about each other. They just fit. Seeing them so happy is infectious, and I don't think I've ever been more excited for two people in my life.

I wish you both so much happiness and health, and I can't wait to see what the next chapter of your shared story holds.

• The Road to August 15

Jon himmens

I've known David for many years, and we've shared more than our fair share of business trips, great dinners, and adventures. There are certainly a few stories from Las Vegas... but as they say, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas! And then there's the time his son managed to get a tooth knocked out at my house... now that's a story for another day. Joking aside, one of the greatest privileges has been watching David's life change after Catarina came into it. I still remember him telling me, with complete certainty, that he'd "met the one." The moment I met Catarina , it was easy to see why. Watching the two of them together, and seeing how they've so beautifully blended their families, has been truly inspiring. Building a life together takes trust, patience, compassion, understanding, and above all, love—and they embody all of those qualities. David and Catarina are simply perfect together, and I couldn't be happier for them. Wishing you both a lifetime of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories. Congratulations on your wedding—this truly is a match made in heaven!

Marriage is not about keeping score, it’s about deciding whose turn it is to apologize, even if you know you are right!

• Our Future

Hilary Knightley

When David first met Catarina, I remember him telling me something along the lines of "If she isn't "the one", then there isn't "a one" (I paraphrase because I can't find the original message)!

Rather than a memory, I am offering some sound advice from my favourite fictional character! "Love is taking a few steps backward, maybe even more, to give way to the happiness of the person you love." Winnie-the-Pooh

Submitted by Cristiano M
• How We Met

Cristiano M

I still remember the first time we met David. After weeks of Catarina and Raquel trying to organize a couples’ night out, we finally made it happen at Rendezvous. Great food, live music, and four people who were all a little shy and trying to figure each other out. Conversation started with the usual small talk, and I think everyone was just a little tense at first. Then the music started. Like a true gringo, David was standing there nice and stiff on the dance floor… and I couldn’t help but laugh. Thankfully, that didn’t last long. As the night went on, everyone relaxed, we had a great time, and it became clear that he was simply a genuinely kind, easygoing guy. Since then we’ve shared dinners, laughs, and a few get togethers together, and every time has felt a little more natural than the last. It’s been great getting to know David, and even better seeing the life that he and Catarina are building together. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and many more memories with family and friends. Congratulations!

Submitted by Marcia Venturin
• How We Met

Marcia Venturin

Life is full of surprises, and there is no denying that. For me, the biggest surprise came in May 2025, when my daughter introduce me to the new love in her life. That day, I felt as though I had gained another son. Handsome, strong, and very kind - but most importantly, it was easy to see, from the loving way he looked at her and stayed by her side, that he had truly chosen my daughter with all his heart. For me, that was more than enough. Today, all I wish for both of you is lifetime of happiness. May you always have the courage to overcome whatever challenges life may bring, plenty of laughter to brighten your days, and peace to strengthen the love you share.

• The Proposal

Cory Vallis

Ok, so yea, they totally got me with the fake proposal. Kudos to you both. Funny not funny, hahahaha. But even the real proposal caught me off guard, but in a really good way. You see, when ever David talked to me about Catarina, he lit up in a way I’ve never seen before. It was a combination of super excitement, total bewilderment mixed with complete and utter confidence. I’ve never seen anything like it and you know what, I was ALL for it! Seeing the absolute joy in his stern little British face when he spoke of her was infectious. How someone could know that they have found their person that fast with such conviction, was like watching a real life Hallmark movie. It was and IS, absolutely beautiful. And for that, my friends, I say thank you. Thank you for showing me that that there are still hopeless romantics in this world.

No more fake anything please. My old heart can’t take it, lol. I wish you both a lifetime of ‘hell ya’s’. Hell ya I’ll take that road trip. Hell ya I’ll dance in the rain with you. Hell ya I’ll watch the kids. Hell ya I’ll spot your deadlift. Hell ya I was wrong. Hell ya I’ll love you forever!

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