It all started in October 2022, with a spark ignited across the great Atlantic. Ruan, a sun-kissed adventurer traversing American farmlands, and Mart-Mari, living a serene life amidst the Cederberg's majesty, connected in a whirlwind of virtual conversations.

Hours melted into nights as they conversed, sacrificing sleep for the joy of each other's virtual company. Ruan, a seasoned adventurer, found his wild heart at ease with Mart-Mari's tranquil presence. Little did he know, he had journeyed to Rocklands many times, unknowingly getting closer to his future love.

Even before their first in-person meeting, Ruan knew Mart-Mari was his future wife. In June 2023, he returned to South Africa, ring in hand, a testament to the profound connection they had forged despite the miles. Meeting in person only solidified what they already knew – their love shared a fervent passion for the outdoors, adventure, and travel.

Their first meeting led to an adventure beyond their wildest dreams. They crisscrossed South Africa, etching epic memories onto their souls: riding horses on the wild coast, spearfishing in turquoise waters, and conquering rock faces. Quiet nights around crackling campfires drew them closer, each star whispering tales of their blossoming love.

With the dust settled and memories swirling, they chose the Cederberg as their home. For Mart-Mari, it was a return to her roots, the heart of her childhood in the shadow of the majestic mountains. For Ruan, it was a homecoming to Rocklands, a climber's paradise etched into his soul. Their family soon expanded with the arrival of Liefie, a lively pup who added a furry dose of joy to their lives.

But life, as it always does, sang its occasional discordant notes. Beach buggy brakes screaming down a mountain pass, nearly losing their new car in a flooded river's wrath, a baptism in bat guano as Oudtshoorn winds wreaked havoc on their tent and Frankenstein pizza fails. Yet, through it all, their love held fast, a lighthouse in the stormiest seas.

And then, in a moment as unexpected as it was perfect, Ruan popped the question. Not in a fancy restaurant or on a secluded beach, but in a…leaking hot tub. Yes, you read that right. But amidst the bubbly chaos, Ruan's words resonated with a depth that transcended the setting. He asked Mart-Mari to be his forever, and she, with tears in her eyes and a heart overflowing with love, said yes.

This is their story, a love woven from Instagram DMs and Cederberg dust, etched in epic adventures and quiet moments by the fire. It's a testament to the power of connection, of finding your other half in the vastness of the world. And as they celebrate their wedding, surrounded by loved ones, they know this is just the beginning. For their love story, like the Cederberg mountains, is forever unfolding, a grand adventure waiting to be written.

Q + A coming soon!