Our Story Begins long before we ever dreamt of love and marriage. Two souls, linked by chance, brought together by coincidence. We first met in our younger years and soon became familiar faces, intertwined in family and new found friendships. As years began to pass by our interactions became fewer, yet always connected by the invisible thread of fate. There are moments in life that consequentially change the course of your existence forever. For us this occurred in 2015. A routine function between family friends, a meeting of eyes, a cataclysmic encounter of mind and heart. Two distant acquaintances, positioned on opposing ends of a familiar pool house. In that moment, all the best laid plans between two young souls were shattered and recreated endlessly. From that day the cycle began. Intermittent “meetings” regarding a Debs ball, used as a guise to have our parents transport us around, just for a chance to immerse ourselves in this newfound shared existence. Before we knew it, we were engulfed in a relationship. A companionship between ourselves and shared between families on either side. Each becoming a member of the others household. Sharing nights on lawns, looking to the stars and pondering our place among them. In this time there was a certainty, a comfort in the incomprehensible longevity of such young love. We were each other’s first love. Many warned against it. Many doubted the chances we had. We merely just existed together. The time for questioning would come, but not then. The years ticked by as monthly anniversaries turn into annual events within the blink of an eye. With that came a world ever changing. The warnings of others became a reality, we- alongside our environments- began to change, From university, to jobs, to moving in together. Suddenly the weight of changes appeared. It was in these changes that we found an answer to those questions that were so carelessly placed on us. Just like before we found a certainty. This time, we found it in the uncertainty, and the ability to shift and change. To fulfil new needs and wants and love the new skin under what was shed. Mixed in these moment came a decision, a promise made between partners, during a trip to an island. Once in Zanzibar, the question was posed, as we floated on crystalline waters in a paradise that felt our own. A country that will forever hold the weight of our second last promise to each other. As the big day approaches, we plan to make the final promise to each other. The promise to love, in sickness and in health. To continue to adapt and shift as we have before. To provide a stabile home for those who come after us. A promise that encompasses any obligation, duty and joy that comes from that day forth. After 10+ Years, it is our chance to say; "I do." If you find yourself reading this story, know that you, in some way, have had an impact on the partnership you see before you today. Much like the wings of a butterfly, however small your actions were perceived, your attendance on this hallowed day is proof of your contribution. To those who are involved, as much as this day is ours, we wish for it to be yours too. Without each and everyone on of you, we could never be the union we are today. So, to express our gratitude for your contribution. We would like to say; You are formally invited to the Buchanan-Pieters wedding.