Our story began at a casual braai in April 2019. Simon, still in his work clothes and looking quite sharp, was on his way to the bathroom when he happened to meet Marli, who was rocking her usual Friday style—jeans and a cozy sweater. We struck up a conversation, and what was supposed to be a quick hello turned into an entire evening spent together, sharing stories and laughter. Before leaving, Simon asked for Marli's phone number, and by Monday, he sent that first message. We spent the next few weeks getting to know each other better, but our official first date didn’t happen until May. During that date, Simon made it very clear that this was just the beginning—"the first of many." True to his word, Simon asked Marli to be his girlfriend six months later, and we’ve been inseparable ever since. We’re still as madly in love as we were that first night, and we’re so excited to celebrate our special day with all our friends and family.

In January 2024, Marli and Simon went on a road trip through the Garden Route. After a brief stay in Jeffreys Bay, they were en route to Plettenberg Bay, where they enjoyed their first night at a cozy guesthouse. They had already planned the next day the night before, starting with a hike. But at first light, it was clear that things wouldn’t go as planned. At this point, Marli had no idea what Simon was planning, so when he suggested hiking in the gloomy weather, she wasn’t exactly thrilled. However, after some gentle persuasion, she agreed, and they set off on the Robberg Hiking Trail together. As they hiked, Simon spotted a lookout point and suggested they climb up to it. By the time they reached the scenic spot, exhausted, they took a moment to catch their breath and take in the view. A few seagulls caught Marli’s attention, and as she turned back, there was Simon, down on one knee, with a ring! Her answer, as you might guess, was a very happy YES!