Their story began in March 2021, when mutual friends introduced them at a friend's dealership. At the time, neither of them had any idea that one casual introduction would change both of their lives.
A few weeks later, at a gathering with friends, they shared their first kiss. Somewhere in those early days, Gabriella jokingly told Ryan that one day he'd have to buy her a ring because she was going to be his future wife. At the time, it was just a joke... but, as it turns out, she was onto something.
Not long after, Ryan met Levi on the very first day Gabriella brought him home. From that moment on, the three of them became inseparable. Their first date to Hartbeespoort - with a very tiny Levi tagging along - was just the beginning of a life they would build together.
Over the years, they celebrated birthdays, holidays, career milestones, and in 2023, bought their very first home together. Ryan completed his CA articles, Gabriella earned her psychology degree, and somehow their house became the place where family, friends, good food, plenty of laughter, and one very spoiled Levi always seemed to gather.
They're complete opposites in all the best ways. Gabriella is the spontaneous one, always planning the next adventure, while Ryan is the calm, steady presence who somehow keeps everything on track. Together, they've found the perfect balance.
Then came 1 February 2025. Ryan somehow managed to do what very few people thought was possible - he completely surprised Gabriella. Arriving at Toadbury Hall convinced she was attending a friend's conference, she spotted a beautiful proposal setup in the distance and casually mentioned how lovely it was that someone was getting engaged. A few steps later, she realised the "someone" was actually her. Almost four years after Gabriella joked about Ryan buying her a ring, he finally did. Now, they can't wait to celebrate the next chapter of their story with their favourite people!