Every love story begins somewhere, and ours began subtle yet sure — the kind that grows stronger with every moment shared. From a simple meeting to a bond that feels written in the stars, our journey began and felt like something we’d both been waiting for.

A chance encounter between two people in different worlds — I in Botswana and she in South Africa — yet somehow, destiny made sure our paths crossed. One evening at PRIMI restaurant, what was meant to be a simple hangout turned into something far deeper. I still remember how her laughter filled the air, how easily our conversation flowed, and how I found myself wishing the night would never end. Something about her felt familiar, like a piece of home I didn’t know I’d been missing.

That moment became the first page of our story, and on December 10th, 2020, we gave our story a name — “Us.” From then on, every moment has been a beautiful continuation of that first spark — a love that feels both timeless and new every single day.

Over the next five years, we grew together — learning, unlearning, and finding balance in the ways we love and understand each other. We’ve spent time ironing out our imperfections, growing patient, and learning to love each other the way each of us wants to be loved. We never gave up on each other. Through all of it, our connection only deepened. We’ve shared countless adventures, our shared love for travel taking us to breathtaking places that somehow always felt like home — because we were together.

When the time came to ask for her hand in marriage, I knew it had to be somewhere as unforgettable as our story. So, in the heart of the Okavango Delta — under the watchful eyes of antelopes and elephants — I found the courage to ask. I had written a proposal speech, carefully planned just like this note… but when the moment arrived, every word disappeared. All that was left was what truly mattered — speaking from the heart. She looked at me, asked if I was sure, and I said yes. Then she said yes — and that was the moment everything changed.

Now, we invite our friends and family to share in the celebration of that “yes.”

P.S. This is how I remember it — the start of our story, and if Michelle remembers it differently, that’s okay… I’m pretty sure I’m right this time (which, as she’ll tell you, doesn’t happen often).