Once upon a time, in the year 2010, two kindred spirits crossed paths at Booker High School. Pieter and Jacqueline, both deeply immersed in the world of music through the school’s VPA Music program, collaborated on countless performances and projects, unknowingly drawing closer with each shared note and rhythm. In those early days, Pieter couldn’t help but be captivated by Jacqueline, seeing her as not only one of the most beautiful but also one of the most talented souls in the school. Jacqueline, on the other hand, saw Pieter as the quirky trumpet player, often in trouble for his mischievous ways in jazz band. Little did they know, their journey together had only just begun, and their shared love for music would soon bind their destinies in ways they could never have imagined.

Although they went separate ways for University, Pieter and Jacqueline reconnected at the former Smokin' Joes bar in downtown Sarasota. A week later Pieter attended a Florida Everblades hockey game in Fort Myers to spend time with Jacqueline. After having a wonderful time at the hockey game, Pieter and Jacqueline went on their first official date.

In April of 2023, Pieter, Jacqueline, and her parents set off on an unforgettable journey to Ireland, where Jacqueline would compete in the Worlds Irish Dance Competition. As the excitement of the competition faded for Jacqueline, the weight of a different kind of anticipation grew heavier for Pieter. After quite some time, Pieter had finally found the courage to ask Jacqueline the question that had been in his heart for so long. One crisp, windswept day, the four of them made their way to the picturesque Howth Lighthouse, where Pieter had envisioned a perfect proposal. But as the fickle Irish weather had other plans, the wind began to pick up, and the skies opened full of rain. Undeterred, Pieter led Jacqueline and her parents to a cozy pub called Summit Inn. There, amidst the warmth of the fire and the clink of glasses, Pieter got down on one knee and, with a heart full of love, asked Jacqueline to marry him. And in that moment, surrounded by the charm of Ireland and the people they cherished, the next chapter of their story began.

In the spring of 2024, Pieter and Jacqueline returned to Ireland. This time, Jacqueline was once again competing in the Worlds Irish Dance Competition, but the trip held even greater significance. They had decided to take the opportunity to make their love official, saying "I do" in the very town where their journey had taken a life-changing turn a year prior. Their wedding took place in the intimate beauty of St. Mary’s Church in Howth, a place now etched in their hearts. Pieter’s brother, Aengus, stood by his side as best man. After exchanging vows, the newlyweds returned to the Summit Inn, where the familiar warmth of the pub and the friendly faces of the locals—who remembered them from the year before—greeted them like old friends.

Pieter and Jacqueline are excited to welcome their closest friends to celebrate their first year of marriage on April 5th, 2025 in Nashville, TN. They couldn't be happier and look forward to sharing an incredible evening with everyone. Please RSVP no later than February 17th, 2025.