At Elements Design Build, we believe that a house does not become a home until it is filled with the love of family. We also know that family can be built in many different ways…
In October 2014, we went to a cooking class that changed our lives forever. There, we met a foreign exchange student and her host mom, who just happened to be the local coordinator of an exchange student program. After leaving the class, we looked at each other and said, “We could do that!” So, we filled out the application and at the end of December, our new exchange daughter, Bruna, arrived from Brazil to join our home.
Below is a blog we wrote for her foreign exchange program.
When dreams collide…
You had the dream of coming to the United States. We had the dream of having a daughter. And God had a plan.
We finally met face-to-face on December 28, 2014. We knew immediately that you were special by the sweet way that you greeted Maddie, your new puppy “sister.” Bruna, it is difficult to describe how incredible you are…
Bruna is one of the most amazing young ladies we have ever met. Although she is gorgeous, super smart, and extremely talented, she is also humble and kind and considerate. She does not realize how graceful she is at aerial silk nor does she know that she plays the guitar well and sings beautifully. We love listening to her giggle with her friends. And the deep emotions that she feels… Well, it is hard to explain the joy that it brings to our hearts. Bruna gets excited about little things like squirrels or a Selena song or fireworks over Cinderella’s Castle. Watching her stare at Van Gogh’s paintings for the first time is a memory that will forever be burned in our minds. She has made us look at life through new eyes and see the magnificent wonders around us. We are so grateful that God placed Bruna, the perfect daughter for us, into our lives. We are forever family.
Love you, Bruna. You. Are. Amazing!
Hugs and Kisses from Your Host Parents,
Brandi and Dane
About Elements Design Build
Elements Design Build is a family-owned company. We live, work, and play right here in South Carolina. So, when you hire Elements, you not only get someone who can expertly design and build your dream home, but also someone who can tell you where to find the best Italian food in Greenville!
To learn more about us, click here…


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