Clarisa and Matthew
More About Us
1. What New Mexico city do you live in?
Clarisa and I are products of Albuquerque and Rio Rancho. We are both proud, native New Mexicans!
2. How did you meet and how long have you been together?
We met at my favorite juice spot here in Albuquerque in September of 2003. I had stopped there with my brother prior to going to see a motorcycle he was wanting to buy. Clarisa was at this establishment and I recall her outfit and beautiful smile with shinny braces that absolutely hooked me! As nervous as I was, I spoke to her. As we parted ways, I could only dream of seeing her again. Then, Tom and I arrived at the residence of the motorcycle. A man introduced himself and relayed that the bike belonged to his daughter. Then, Clarisa walked into the garage and stood next to it. We looked at each other, smiled and said nothing, but our hearts were beating passionately! So you see, one way or another that day, we were destined to meet. We became engaged on September 4, 2007 and one month later, arrived at our four-year anniversary mark.
3. What do you both do for fun in New Mexico?
Clarisa and I enjoy dining out, while incorporating green chile and cheese on just about anything you can imagine! The fine art showcased at the National Hispanic Cultural Center is also a favorite. We also have a passion for riding motorcycles, as Clarisa is a licensed roadracer in Albuquerque.
4. Tell us about your occupations:
Clarisa is employed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Contracting Division, Albuquerque District. She works day-to-day with the contracting team to solicit, award and modify military and civil projects.
I am a security contractor and work overseas in conjunction with the military in Iraq, abroad and nationwide.
5. What has been your most memorable moment together as a couple?
Some time ago, we concluded that a Catholic wedding is a desired ceremony for us. Therefore, I chose to complete my sacraments of First Holy Communion and Confirmation while recently deployed in Iraq. I requested that Clarisa become my sponsor as I yearned for a deeper connection within her soul, especially since I had drifted from my faith at one point in my life. Our bond has now become even more extraordinary! This is no doubt the hallmark of our relationship.
6. What would you like voters to know about you?
We are both conscientious about lending our valuable time to the needs of our New Mexican communities.
In depiction of this, Clarisa has donated thousands of hours volunteering for Catholic Charities of Central New Mexico – placing goods and services to families in need and the National Hispanic Cultural Center of New Mexico – facilitating media presentations for the Curator. Her non-profit work has consisted of the Sleep and Human Health Institute – assisting in the diagnostics of sleeping disorders and treatments for the less fortunate and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, New Mexico Chapter – aiding with treatment and control while improving the quality of life of those who possess this disease. I have also contributed equal hours to Young Marines and Toys for Tots via the United States Marine Corps in New Mexico. I initiated and taught a Young Marines satellite program, emphasizing military knowledge, history and discipline at Enchanted Hills Elementary post offering my time at Lincoln Middle School, both in Rio Rancho. Regarding Toys for Tots, I have collected and placed toys in the hands of needy children statewide by means of parachuting. Clarisa and I not only aspire to succeed in our personal lives, but also have the impetus to assist and be affiliated with humanitarian efforts.
7. What do you look forward to the most during your dream honeymoon in Italy?
The opportunity to visit the Vatican would completely compliment our spiritual commitment to each other. Sipping Italian coffee at dawn and tasting fine wine in the Italia sunset as we embrace the touch of our hands, the depth of our soul and the warmth of our hearts. We also plan to use this monumental time to discuss our future plans as man and wife and bring forth the very best with our united bliss.
8. Tell us why you deserve to win the $50,000 New Mexico Dream Wedding:
Clarisa and I are enormously invested in New Mexico and the communities, where we have been born and raised. We are well rounded and balanced individuals who have strived diligently toward our goals and accomplishments. Nothing has freely been afforded to us; we have worked strongly for our well being and that of others. Winning this contest will no doubt assist us financially as we are still completing our college degrees. It will also accolade the New Mexico lifestyle that we embrace. We hope that we may be able to receive back some reward for the fruits of our labor. Our busy agenda is not an option, but rather a reality. Thus, our lack of resources and time prevent us from planning the wedding of our dreams. We can’t wait to marry and require your votes to fulfill our fantasy.
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Photography provided by: Kyle Zimmerman Photography
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