The breathtaking beauty of Lovers Point in Monterey recently played host to a truly international love story.


The engagement session of Stephania Valencia and Eliasz Misztela. Against the dramatic Pacific coastline, their connection shone brightly, a testament to a bond that transcends borders and cultures.


Stephania and Eliasz's paths first crossed in the summer of 2022, a modern romance sparked through a dating app. Their shared zest for exploration and the natural world quickly drew them together, alongside a mutual curiosity that led to conversations spanning every imaginable topic. It was clear from the start that their connection was built on a foundation of shared passions and genuine interest in one another's world.

The magic continued on March 23rd of this year when Eliasz orchestrated a surprise proposal at the picturesque Carmel River Beach. Imagine the scene: the California sunshine, the sound of the waves, and then the heartfelt moment as he asked Stephania to marry him, surrounded by the joy of their closest friends. Now, they are joyfully engaged and eagerly anticipating their life together!

Their journey, like many, has had its unexpected moments. Just four months into their relationship, Eliasz faced a setback with a soccer injury requiring knee surgery. This unforeseen challenge, however, only deepened their connection. Trading outdoor escapades for cozy moments at home, they discovered the strength of their bond in any environment. Even after two years of navigating the recovery process, their shared love for nature persists, as they've found new ways to explore and enjoy the outdoors together.


Stephania and Eliasz are a true partnership. They cherish experiencing life side-by-side, from meticulously planning their next travel itinerary to the simple pleasures of a movie night with their favorite Cold Stone ice cream. Their home is a haven shared with their beloved cats, who even get to join their human parents on leashed adventures in a nearby forest! Having built their relationship since the summer of 2022 and sharing a home since the summer of 2023, their connection has blossomed into something truly special.


To describe them as a couple, one thinks of words like loving/passionate, peaceful, fun, romantic, and adventurous. Their engagement session at Lovers Point perfectly encapsulated this vibrant dynamic. The tender glances, the laughter echoing against the waves, and the comfortable harmony they exuded were a joy to witness.

As they embark on wedding planning, the world is their oyster! Stephania dreams of a destination celebration, torn between the romantic allure of Europe and the vibrant beauty of South America, a nod to their diverse backgrounds. With their shared love for the vibrancy of spring and the warmth of summer, their wedding is sure to be a beautiful reflection of their personalities.


Living in Monterey, they appreciate its unique charm and its convenient location, offering a blend of coastal beauty and easy access to various experiences. Lovers Point, with its stunning views, served as the perfect backdrop to celebrate this significant milestone in their international love story.

Stephania and Eliasz, warmest congratulations on your engagement! Your story is a beautiful testament to the power of connection that knows no borders. We wish you both a future filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures together!

A couple embraces beneath towering cypress trees on a grassy hill with pink flowers blooming in the foreground.
A couple shares an intimate moment under a large cypress tree overlooking a foggy coastal vista at sunset.
A couple in stylish autumn outfits walking together on a path with tall plants and greenery in the background.
Beautiful pink flowers bloom along a stone wall with cypress trees and coastal homes in Pacific Grove, California.
Pink flowering ice plants bloom along rugged coastal cliffs by the ocean in Pacific Grove, California.
Close-up of hands displaying an engagement ring with white nail polish and a watch against an orange patterned fabric.
Couple enjoying view from stone wall surrounded by vibrant pink flowers and coastal cypress trees in Pacific Grove.
Couple walking joyfully together on a coastal path with purple wildflowers blooming along the cliffside on a bright day.
A couple embraces while sitting in a garden surrounded by vibrant purple flowers and lush greenery.
Two figures stand on dramatic rocky coastal cliffs overlooking misty ocean waters and rugged shoreline.
Two people stand together on dramatic coastal rocks overlooking a rocky beach and ocean view on a cloudy day.
A couple stands together on dramatic rocky coastal outcrops overlooking the blue ocean on a cloudy day.
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Couple holding hands and enjoying a romantic moment on a rocky beach with coastal cliffs in the background.
A romantic couple embraces on a rocky beach with waves crashing against coastal rocks in the background.
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