Welcome to the wedding of…

This story deserves to be published as a romance novel so buckle up! It all started back in 2018 when 18 year old me (Steph) was invited by a good friend Maddie to check out this new gelato shop in Vic Park purely on the premise of 'you should see the guys that work there!'. Although not too interested in the 'guys', obviously I said yes because who would say no to gelato!? On arrival, I hop out of the car and I’m stunned by this handsome man with luscious blonde hair standing in the window making coffee... you can only guess who that is. After the comment of 'you're not wrong!' and discovering a new favourite hangout spot... the name of Hot Boys Gelato was established. Fast forward to a random Tuesday in May of 2020 when I forgot to pick up Bianca from school! Leaving the house in my most grotty clothes and unwashed hair, I drove as fast as I could to pick up my sister. Feeling so bad, I took B to Pietro/Hot Boys Gelato to say sorry for being late. As we walk in, we bump into one of my school friends (Esther) who also worked at Pietro. We got talking and as the conversation progressed, Esther proceeds to ask "Steph, you're like really single hey??" With a worried yet disgusted look on my face, I hesitantly reply, "Yeah why?". Meanwhile, Esther sent a message to THE hot boy (Josh) who was working behind the counter reading, "Steph is v single. Come talk to her". When the store cleared of remaining customers, Josh came around the counter and introduced himself with the widest eyes and biggest smile... the look of a man who has just taken a massive head dive straight into the pool we call true love. Now you have to remember, this is Josh's first proper encounter with me... but I have been eyeing off this dude for the last 2 years, fanaticising about the next time he would ask me if I wanted my dark chocolate with ricotta, orange, and dark chocolate split single scoop in a cup or a cone. I never thought it would ever get this far! We talked and talked and got on instantly! Meanwhile, Bianca is just sitting there laughing her head off at the whole situation. It ended with Josh asking me for my phone number... and the rest is history! - Steph

Reflecting on the weekend I proposed to Steph fills my heart with overwhelming joy and love. Steph had just endured a week of eight exams, and I wanted to surprise her with a special getaway to celebrate her hard work. I had meticulously planned this moment for months, with the help of her parents, sister and my friends ensuring every detail was perfect. Our day started with a delightful breakfast at Meelup Farmhouse, where I discreetly retrieved the ring from my car after telling Steph I needed to pee, I then nervously kept it in my pocket during the entire breakfast. Later, we made a stop at Sugarloaf Rock under the pretense of taking some scenic photos. Little did Steph know, this picturesque location was about to become the backdrop for a moment that would change our lives forever. As we stood there, surrounded by the beauty of the location, I found myself overwhelmed with love for Steph. I knew that this was the perfect moment to profess my love and commitment to her. With trembling hands and a heart full of love, I got down on one knee and opened the ring box, revealing the exact ring she had been dreaming of. The look of surprise and joy on Steph’s face is something I will cherish forever. In that moment, surrounded by a breathtaking view I asked her to be my partner for life, and she said yes. It was a weekend filled with love, joy, and the promise of a beautiful future together. - Josh