RUUSK COUPLES: JAKE + MADISSON
Their love story began with a stolen glance across a crowded airport check-in line. For Jake and Madisson, this serendipitous moment—at the end of two European summer adventures—quietly marked the beginning of something truly extraordinary. What followed was a long-haul flight filled with hopeful glances, a perfectly timed introduction (thanks to a little “How I Met Your Mother” magic), and a connection that felt destined from the start.
From spontaneous micro-adventures to dancing under the stars, their love has been stitched together through thoughtful gestures, shared sunsets, and the joy of building a life side by side. Now, with a heartfelt beachside proposal behind them and wedding plans on the horizon, Jake and Madisson are stepping into a beautiful new chapter—one grounded in deep admiration, quiet moments, and the magic of finding your person when you least expect it.
We had both been travelling Europe for the summer and first saw each other while checking in for our return flight to Sydney. We were trading glances in line, both fearful that we would reject each other and end up seated together on the long flight home. It took Madisson’s best friend to notice the chemistry and the world’s luckiest game of “have you met Ted?” (How I Met Your Mother reference) to get us talking. We got to spend a few hours together on our layover between flights, and by the time we landed in Sydney, we were both secretly hooked on each other. A text was sent, a date was arranged, and the rest is history.
Jake’s impression: Madisson was beautiful and reserved, and she carried herself with grace.
Madisson’s impression: Jake was friendly and a very calming presence, and I loved his way of storytelling.
J: “You’re always looking out for a way to make someones day better whether thats a conversation with a stranger to buying your friends a “just because” gift. You’re a every thoughtful person, and I love that about you.”
Do you have a favourite memory from your time dating that stands out?
M: “We went on a trip to New Zealand last year, it was our first international adventure together. The entire trip was a dream, but I had a moment climbing a mountain for sunset that I realised that Jake would be the person I’d get to share all of my adventures with- that was one of my favourite moments in our relationship.”
J: “Very difficult decision, but if I had to pick one specific memory it would be dancing under the stars at Boomerang beach. It’s a special memory I’ll hold close to my heart forever.”
What are you most excited about for this next chapter together?
