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We first met at a church weekend away back in 2016, during that time I was studying for my A-levels, which quickly turned into Esther and her friend distracting and forcing me to play ping-pong with them. Esther had a way of keeping me distracted. Looking back, I’m so glad she did.
We quickly became close friends, discovering shared interests and a mutual sense of humour. Before long, we just clicked, and I was lucky enough that she thought I was funny.
Eventually, I worked up the courage to ask her out, and from that moment on, we’ve faced life’s challenges together.
In 2020, I underwent the first of many eye surgeries, and more recently, in 2023, I had to endure four more. The experience left me completely drained and shaken. Yet, through it all, I remember Esther’s unwavering support. She stays faithfully by my side — even during the toughest days, like when I had to lie face-down 24/7 for 30 days, looking like the world’s worst pirate.
Funnily enough, we soon realised we had crossed paths before 2016 after finding a group photo from a church sleepover in the old Gold Hill building – both of our baby faces standing on opposite sides.
After Six years of dating, I found the perfect way to combine two of my favourite things: Japan—my favourite place, with Esther – my favourite person. It’s hard to say what was better though, her saying yes after realising it wasn’t a joke or her not realising the whole time building up to the trip that I was going to propose, despite the many obvious clues.
Now, we can’t wait to start this next chapter together, celebrating with our closest family and friends as we begin our forever.