JOURNAL
RUUSK COUPLE: GRACE + DILLON
Grace and Dillon's love story unfolded like a gentle sunrise – quiet, steady, and full of wonder. When Grace and Dillon first crossed paths at a local climbing gym, there was an ease between them, a spark of joy in every encounter, and a sense that something meaningful had begun. In the years since, their story has grown through kindness, curiosity, shared adventures, and a love that feels like home. From spontaneous road trips to the quiet magic of sunrises in the Grand Tetons, every chapter has been written with intention, joy, and deep connection. Today, we’re honoured to share a glimpse into their journey. When you first crossed paths, what stood out - was it something said, a shared laugh, or just a quiet feeling that this person might be significant? Dillon said he thought I seemed fun and a little mysterious, haha. I distinctly remember thinking, the first time I met him, how genuinely kind he seemed. Every time I saw him at the climbing gym, I felt so happy to see him and excited to chat. There’s always been such a calm, quiet knowing in our relationship – like a steady sense that this is the person I want to be with. It’s always been an easy, wholehearted “yes. What’s something about your relationship that makes you feel more like yourself? Or has helped you grow into a better version of who you are? Dillon has always accepted me exactly as I am, and that has meant the world to me. No one has shown me as much kindness or compassion as he has. Grace has helped me become more aware of myself and who I am. In our relationship, I’ve become more open-minded, patient, and kind. The hard edges I may have had before are softer now – and I’m better for it. Grace has helped me notice the unseen wonders of the world and appreciate that they exist. My worldview has expanded because of her. Is there a memory (big or small) that feels like a turning point in your story together? • Meeting at the climbing gym on a random morning in May, before we started dating. We connected over our love of food and good restaurants – and happened to be the only two people at the gym that afternoon, a detail Grace has always thought was sweet. • A spontaneous road trip to Colorado to climb a 14er (a mountain over 14,000 feet), which later became the place we’d call home. • Getting our dog, Sunny Grace and Dillon, how did the proposal unfold? Looking back, what made it feel true to the two of you? We go to Jackson, WY almost every year now, usually to Grand Teton National Park. Teton has some notoriously difficult campgrounds to book – Jenny Lake specifically – especially if you don’t do it six months in advance or more. Our anniversary is in July, and this year we planned a road trip to Utah and Wyoming. Dillon set several notifications for Jenny Lake, hoping that in a stroke of good fortune, a site would open up and we’d get to stay there for the first time. (Note: Jenny Lake is really special to us. Not only is it stunningly beautiful, but we usually end our hikes by jumping into the perfect, clear, icy blue water – it’s the perfect end to a hike.) Luckily, a campsite opened and Dillon managed to book it within 30 seconds of getting the notification. When we arrived at the Tetons, Dillon made sure I thought we had a site at a place we’d been to before – but as we drove up, he revealed the surprise that we’d be staying at one of our “holy grail” campgrounds. That evening, Dillon told me he wanted to watch the sunrise over Jenny Lake and the Tetons, which is another key tradition of our trips. Throughout the day, he was quietly scouting spots for the proposal, looking for a location that felt right and had the potential for a little privacy. The next morning, we woke up at 5 AM and walked from the campground to the rocky shore of Jenny Lake, with an incredible view of The Grand in front of us. Dillon was so nervous during the 30-minute wait for the official sunrise and the light to hit the peaks that he was shaking (though that may have also been from the cold, haha). When the sunlight finally began to hit the snowy peaks, and the perfectly calm water reflected the mountains and sky, we stood there taking in the view with no one else around. That’s when Dillon got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. It was a moment that held our shared history, so many of our favourite things, and felt like the sun rising on the next chapter of our lives. Grace's Wedding Trio: Moons XS Organic Ring, 1ct Diamond Solitaire & Shimmer Thin Organic Ring What kind of life are you most excited to build together - whether that’s a feeling, a place, or a rhythm of your own? A life built on shared growth and deep comfort – where we support each other fully, keep discovering new things together, and create a rhythm that feels uniquely our own!
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RUUSK COUPLE: LUCY + PADDY
From a golden-hour surf at Bells Beach to dreamy tinnie trips, long-distance adventures, and a surprise proposal on the water – Lucy and Paddy’s love story feels like something out of a sun-drenched film reel. With a shared love of the sea, slow moments, and spontaneous plans, their relationship has grown from laughter and lightness into something deeply grounded. They shared with us a glimpse into their story – the moments that shaped their connection, the beautiful balance they bring to each other’s lives, and the sweet (and clever) proposal that brought them full circle. What was one of the first things you noticed about each other that made you think, “I want to get to know this person better”? LUCY We first met at Bells Beach on a dreamy Sunday afternoon – the surf was glassy, the air was warm, and that golden hour light was just magic. I was catching up with a mutual friend, Tao, in the carpark when Paddy rocked up as we were getting suited up. Funny thing is, Tao had actually mentioned Paddy before, saying we should meet because of our shared love for boating and similar interests. So it felt serendipitous when he appeared. It turned into one of those fun, light-hearted surfs – wave after wave, so many laughs, and Paddy doing headstands on his board just for the fun of it (I was very impressed). Afterwards, we cracked a beer and watched the sunset turn the sky pink and lilac. That’s when he asked me if I wanted to go out on his tinnie that week. That was the moment. This goofy, insightful, adventurous soul had me completely intrigued. And as for that first date on the tinnie? A full moon, a few beers, another fiery sunset... it was beautiful. PADDY On our first date we went out on my little tinny. Where we live in Torquay you have to launch it off the beach which can be a bit tricky sometimes. I’m used to holding people’s hand through the process because not many people have done it before and have no idea what’s going on which can be dangerous. But this time was different, as soon as the trailer hit the water Goose was on to it. She pulled the boat off the trailer, turned the bow in to the waves, and waded out to hold the boat in deeper water to wait for me to drop off the car. I just stood there silently thinking ‘wow…this is rare.’ In what ways do you feel like your partner compliments you, or brings out qualities in you that you didn’t expect? LUCY Paddy has this beautiful balance of being deeply compassionate and wonderfully quirky. He brings such a caring, thoughtful perspective to everything – and somehow blends that effortlessly with his playful, witty side. He makes every adventure brighter and taps into that childlike part of life that’s so easy to forget. He constantly surprises me – whether it’s making me laugh out loud with a perfectly timed comment, bringing home a record or sending a song that captures a feeling or moment so precisely. There’s a little magic in the way he adds thoughtfulness and spontaneity to every day. And where he brings heart and humour, I bring the wild plans – I love surprising him, dreaming up our next adventure, and making it all happen seamlessly. We complement each other by showing up, lifting each other up, and making space for playfulness, every single day. PADDY Goose is extremely proactive and organised and I very much exist in the moment and like to enjoy the opportunities that present themselves. I think we both help each other in this way. I help Lucy slow down and she helps me to speed up. When it comes to adventures I’m very practical and love to dive deep on the tools and equipment we need to have the best time – but Goose thinks about all those elements that brings that experience to another level. For example I’ll make sure we have all the gear we need to get there and stay warm, and Lucy will make sure we have a cheese board ready and at the most opportune time to soak in the view or sunset. What’s one experience you've had together that has really shaped your relationship and made you both grow as a couple? LUCY Early in our relationship, Paddy was relocated to Queenstown, New Zealand for a year – so we found ourselves navigating long distance right in the middle of the honeymoon phase. Whilst we missed each other, it was one of the best things that could have happened. Our communication was incredible, and every visit felt like a concentrated burst of connection, adventure, and quality time. I’d fly over for 2–3 week stints, and we’d make the most of every moment – snowboarding, hiking, exploring new places. We would make up for all of our missed dates while apart and snow tour at sunrise on the peaks above Queenstown, have wine and cheeseboards on the banks of crystal clear lakes, hike to natural hot springs along azure rivers, all surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Those experiences solidified our relationship. They taught us how to communicate, how to stay connected from afar, and gave us a foundation of shared memories that we’ll always hold close. PADDY Early in our relationship I got asked to move to New Zealand for work. We’d only been seeing each other for 5 months at the time but we had to make the decision of whether to commit to a year of long-distance. Thankfully we did because it was one of the best things we did as a couple. There was no insecurity, no ‘why didn’t you text me today’, no jealousy. We both understood that each of us had our own things going on and had complete trust in each other. When it comes to relationships I often think ‘if it’s easy, it’s right’ – and although it was hard to be apart, the communication and trust always felt easy and that’s the most important thing. Lucy, can you describe the moment when you decided that you wanted to propose to Paddy? We had just bought a new tinnie and ambitiously thought we’d refit the whole engine and electrical setup in a weekend – classic us. It ended up taking a month of solid work, with Paddy doing most of the intricate installs, teaching himself as he went. I was genuinely blown away by his tenacity, patience, and the care he poured into turning that boat into something magical – a vessel for adventures, camping trips, and memories yet to come. One afternoon, as we were tinkering with the motor and laughing at how many trips to Road Tech Marine we had endured (after forgetting something, again) and just enjoying the process, I had this quiet moment of clarity. Among the tools, tangled wires, and shared purpose, I just knew: once this boat was ready, I wanted to propose to him in it. On the water. Somewhere remote. Doing what we love most. The idea formed: I’d hide the ring on a fishing lure. (Don’t worry – it was tied with clear line and to my wrist… just in case it went overboard!) Fast forward to a dreamy weekend at Gypsy Point – warm and not a breath of wind. We’d been catching flathead after flathead when I asked Paddy to help me with a “snagged lure.” He came over, saw the ring, and I asked, “Do you want to keep fishing together forever?” It was perfect. A moment – and a story – we’ll be telling for a long time. Even more special, it brought us full circle – back to where it all began, our first date on the water. Now that you’re engaged, what part of your future together excites you the most? Is there something you’re particularly looking forward to? LUCY Dancing through this life of adventure with my perfect partner – that’s what excites me most. The future feels so full: of surf sessions, fishing trips, discovering hidden camping spots under starry skies, and cozy nights in at our new place, spinning records. Paddy’s always up for taking the more adventurous route – and I love that about him, because I’m the same. The week I proposed was a double up of life events – we also bought a house! We’re currently renovating it, and we can’t wait to move in and create a space that reflects us, where we can keep growing together. That’s our next big chapter – along with our wedding next year, which we’re dreaming up as one big, love-filled party. PADDY We recently bought our first home, so I’m looking forward to just us living together and creating out own little nest…but with that said I’m just excited for a life-time of fun! We both love getting out there, getting after it, and having a whole lot of fun. The ideas never stop and I just know that a life with Goose will be a really, really good time. Paddy's Men's Oval Signet Ring personalised with Flush-Set Navy Sapphire.
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RUUSK COUPLES: MADITA + ARNE
In the heart of Paris, beneath soft skies and the gentle hum of the city, Arne asked Madita to spend forever with him – a proposal filled with intention, love and quiet magic. Having met in school, their story unfolded naturally, growing through shared adventures, quiet moments, and the life they’ve built side by side. We feel incredibly honoured to have played a small part in this next chapter. Here, they share a glimpse into their journey so far, and the beautiful moment that marked the beginning of their forever. What were you each doing in life when you met - and how did the other person unexpectedly fit into that moment? We met in school and neither of us was actively looking for a partner. What are some things that you love doing together? We do a lot of sports together, read, and go on trips. Have you faced a challenge or adventure together that helped you see your relationship in a new light? We moved to a new city together right after school to study, which brought us very close. Was there a conversation or quiet knowing between you that led to the proposal - or was it a total surprise? We’ve been together for 8 1/2 years, so we’ve talked about our future many times. But I didn’t expect it on that day because it was my birthday. So it was the perfect birthday surprise. If you picture yourselves years from now, what kind of life are you most proud to be building together? We want to travel a lot more together, start a family, and grow together. Madita now wears our Mini Luna Ring, a gentle reminder of their golden moment in the city of love.
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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. How did you two first meet, and what were your first impressions of each other? 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. What’s a little habit or trait you love about each other that others might not notice? M: “I love your sense of adventure- whether it’s finding micro adventures in the day-to-day, or planning international escapade- you love squeezing every bit of life out of life.” 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.” We adored the beautiful photos from your special proposal. Can you share the story of your proposal? We travelled up the coast for a long weekend away to a place that’s really special for us. Jake had pre-warned me that a proposal would not be on the cards, and not to get my hopes up. After dinner on the first night, we went down to the beach for sunset and an unveiling of a ‘secret project’. Jake had made a photo book narrating our relationship story, split up into chapters across different seasons. The last page simply had written ‘shall we make this official?’ This went straight over my head initially, and Jake made me re-read the page. He took my hand and said, “I have something to ask you,” guiding me a little further down the beach. Then he dropped to one knee and asked. Time slowed for a moment—it was quiet, simple, and the easiest yes. What are you most excited about for this next chapter together? The lead up to our wedding is so exciting- we can’t wait to share our love with family and friends. We’re really looking forward to building our life together and planning more adventures. Do you have any wedding plans in mind yet, or are you just enjoying the engagement bubble for now? Plans are officially underway! We managed to get a date in Spring 2025, and have most of the essentials planned. We are well on the way to sealing the deal!
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RUUSK COUPLES: HALEY + TIM
Every love story is unique, but some have a way of capturing the beauty of life’s unexpected turns and perfect timing. From a serendipitous first date by the ocean to a breathtaking sunrise proposal in the heart of the Flinders Ranges, Haley and Tim’s journey is one of love, connection and adventure. In this heartfelt interview, they share the moments that brought them closer, the qualities they treasure most in each other, and the love that’s grown through every shared adventure and stolen glance. This is a story of soulmates finding home in one another. How did your love story begin, and what were your first impressions of each other? We actually met on Tinder. We matched and Tim decided to play hard to get, making me ask several times for a first date. We eventually got there, and he picked me up and took me to the beach for sunset drinks and dinner. Haley: I remember thinking that he was different from anyone I had ever met before and I knew I wanted to know more. Tim: Haley’s kind heart really stood out, she seemed like a nice person. She also looked prettier in person, she reverse cat fished me, haha. From our first date, our story began and we’ve spent pretty much everyday together since. We road tripped to Tasmania three months later, where we first said ‘I love you’, and moved in together not long after that. Our love grew with every adventure we took, and every memory we made, and the in-between, mundane moments were just as good. What made the Flinders Ranges the perfect location for your proposal, and how does it reflect your journey together? Flinders Ranges was the first stop on our South Aus road trip, and Tim was planning on proposing towards the end of our travels, just to keep me guessing. I was obviously hoping it would happen at some point, but I definitely wasn’t expecting it. We got up early to drive to a lookout for sunrise, expecting it to be super busy. As we were driving there, we saw absolutely nobody (minus a few kangaroos) and the most beautiful sunrise was forming in the sky. I was in tears pulling up, because it was that beautiful. On that day, we were gifted the most perfect sunrise, in a stunning location, with absolutely nobody around. It was the perfect representation of our story. We have spent our entire relationship appreciating natural landscapes, the more untouched the better. It’s where we have created our most cherished memories, and it’s where we feel most at home. It was the perfect series of events, and I guess Tim just knew it was the right stop. Can you describe the moment when Tim proposed? What were the feelings you both experienced in that moment? We were sitting watching the sunrise and Tim had told me he needed to go get a drink. After what felt like the longest drink break ever, he finally returned. “Will you marry me darlin?” Haley: Five words I’ll never forget, but spoken specifically in his voice. I was definitely shocked and cried a whole lot of happy tears. Then I was filled with overwhelming appreciation for Tim and everything he is. Tim: Super nervous, I wasn't planning on doing it for another few weeks but the moment was so perfect. I quickly decided if I was going to do it, it had to be now so that she could get some nice photos with the sunrise. I tried setting up my phone to film it but couldn't get it to stay up in my panic. Was super relieved and happy once it was over. What qualities in each other do you admire most, and how have they shaped your relationship over time? Haley: I admire Tim’s ‘who cares what anybody thinks attitude’. He’s been a guiding light, and has brought so much logic and clarity to our relationship, making the tough times much easier to handle. Also his generosity and loyalty. He would literally move mountains of the people he loves. These qualities have taught me so much about the meaning of friends and family, and have only strengthened our bond. Tim: My favourite qualities in Haley are her big heart and hard working nature. She's very kind and is always ready to get her hands dirty when needed. I grew up in a very 'do it yourself' house so I knew my future wife would need to be willing to give anything a crack and Haley does it better than any girl I've met. What are you most excited about as you step into this new chapter of your lives together? Building our acreage into the best possible home for our future kiddies!
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RUUSK COUPLE: SARAH + DYLAN
As we turn the pages of Sarah and Dylan’s love story, we embark on a journey that is both heartfelt and everlasting. Their romance, which began in the vibrant halls of their university, has flourished into a decade of shared experiences and cherished memories. Their engagement, set against the tranquil backdrop of a cozy cottage in the bush, was a serene prelude to a wedding day brimming with personal touches and meaningful celebration. Every detail from their candlelit reception to the matching tsavorites in their wedding bands embodies the essence of their journey and the promise of their future together. How did you meet? Or, what are some of your favourite memories of each other in the early stages of dating? We met during our first year of Uni. We knew each other for almost 2 years before getting together. We would see each other at parties through mutual friends, liking each other for ages but not saying anything, to the point where people around us kept asking when we would get together. We have now been together for 10 years and it has been the absolute best! Sarah: I remember really liking Dylan and thinking he was lovely, kind, funny and very attractive. I kept thinking this for another 2 years before getting together. Dylan: I was instantly attracted to Sarah, found her funny and quick, and tried to spend as much time with her as I could. I loved her taste in music - Portugal, The Man, Weezer, Arctic Monkeys. I loved how headstrong she was about the important things, but she was also so easygoing and relaxed. How did Dylan propose? Dylan proposed in late May 2023 on a weekend away in the bush, in a cosy cottage in front of the fire. It was the loveliest weekend. On Sunday, Dylan had organised for both our families to meet at a pub in Redfern to celebrate. What was, or were some of, your favourite moments from your wedding? We got ready together with our family and friends at an Airbnb on the wedding day. It was such a lovely, chill day. Our friend Lauren captured the day on camcorder and looking back already at the footage, getting ready together was so special. We were both a bit nervous for the ceremony, standing up in front of everyone however it ended up being one of our favourite parts of the day! Our guests gathered into the courtyard at Three Blue Ducks, I (Sarah) had my sister standing by my side, and Dyl had his brother Cameron. Once the ceremony finished, the margaritas started flowing and we had the best boozy candle lit dinner party, followed by dancing. It was so special having all our family and friends together to celebrate. We were lucky to have our amazing friend Jessica from the Golden Dandelion style the wedding with beautiful flowers, plants, fabrics and candles. Once the wedding was over a bunch of us headed to the pub to continue the party. Can you let us know how you personalised your wedding band and why this is important to you? Dylan and I both chose tsavorite stones on our wedding bands. On my wedding band, I had diamonds to match my engagement ring, complimented with two Tsavorite stones (I loved the deep green colour so much!). I love wearing both of these rings together now, they tie into each other so perfectly, and connect with Dylan’s wedding band. We have had the pleasure of creating your beautiful engagement ring & wedding band. How has it felt to have your rings handmade for your love story? Sarah: I love my RUUSK rings! They are the perfect mix of unique and timeless. I love that when I look at my rings, I think of the engagement, the beautiful wedding and a lifetime with Dylan. My rings are something I will have and treasure forever. Dylan: When ordering Sarah’s engagement ring last year, the RUUSK team were so helpful. They were extremely responsive and answered all my questions, providing photos of different gemstones, carats and sizes for the Solitaire. The delivery process was smooth and inconspicuous, allowing the proposal to remain a surprise, and the ring itself was so special. Sarah's Wedding and Engagement Ring Stack: 0.5ct Diamond Solitaire Ring (engagement ring) + Two by Two XS Organic Ring with Flush-Set Tsavorites and Diamonds (wedding ring). What are you both really looking forward to in your next chapter of married life? Can't wait for many more adventures together, and a lifetime of love. We are grateful to share in the wonder and joy of Sarah and Dylan's special day. We wish the happy couple all the joy and love as they embarking on this exciting next chapter as Mr and Mrs. Photographer: Gui Jorge Photography (@guijorgephotography)Location: Three Blue Ducks, Rosebery (@threeblueducks)Wedding dress designer: Rewritten London (@rewrittenlondon) Make up: Emma Gerrie Makeup (@emmagerriemakeup)Hair: Suzanne Henderson (@suzanne_henderson)Stylist & Flowers: The Golden Dandelion (the_golden_dandelion)Bridal Shoes: St Agni (@stagnistudio) Celebrant: Somerset (@somer_oflove)
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RUUSK COUPLE: KENNETH + BEL
From adventurous first dates to a profound love for nature and the great outdoors, Kenneth and Bel have crafted a story that is uniquely their own. Their shared passion for exploring the natural landscape took them to Utah’s stunning red rocks where Kenneth proposed, now forever partners in this grand adventure called life. As a talented videographer, Kenneth captured their proposal with his keen and creative eye, offering us a vivid glimpse into their special moments. Join us as they recount their journey from their first date to their epic proposal and upcoming celebrations, all set against the backdrop of their shared love for adventure and creativity. Tell us a little bit about how you both met? Bel and I met on Hinge. She sent me a rose, and I immediately liked her smile. I told her I was from the midwest, and she told me she was from the Deep South (as in Brazil). Her sense of humor was what brought us closer. On our second date, she left her water bottle at the summit of an overlook hike. I drove back the next morning by myself and hiked back up at sunrise to retrieve the bottle. She later told me that was the reason she continued to see me. Our love continued to grow from there! Kenneth + Bel's holiday post-proposal, featuring Bel's Oval Diamond Wide Organic Ring. What would be your favourite way to spend time together? We both love camping and National Parks. Whenever we get overwhelmed with work and people, we drive off road with our overloading set up, find dispersed camping spots without anyone around, and enjoy the quiet and night skies. Your proposal looked so picturesque - Kenneth, can you tell us why you chose this place to propose to Bel? We were off roading and camping through Utah and Wyoming with a group of friends, and I knew I wanted to propose on this trip. Although there were so many beautiful spots along the way, I really wanted it to be an intimate moment for just Bel and I. In Idaho, we parted ways with the group and drove back to California on our own, making a stop in St. George, Utah. It was extremely hot, and after camping for almost a week straight, we both wanted to stay in a hotel for the night with air conditioning. However, I told Bel that I didn’t want to spend the last day of our epic camping trip in a hotel room without seeing one last sunset. I found this overlook just as the sun was setting behind the gorgeous red rock, and I knew it was the perfect spot. Since I’m always filming things with my camera, Bel had no idea this set up would be any different from the others. When I got down on one knee, she was in complete shock! A hiker had passed by moments before I proposed, and when he circled back down the trail, Bel held up her ring finger prominently in the air, exclaiming “HE PROPOSED!” The hiker congratulated us. Bel, what was your favourite part of your proposal? Kenny knows how I love a surprise and he really did it right. I had no clue what was to come since he always films us in cute moments in nature, so the surprise itself was my favorite part. The second favorite was definitely the ring! I had casually showed him some rings I liked on my phone and he somehow memorized the name of the brand and ordered the exact one I showed him. The whole thing was a dream coming true! With a shared passion for creativity and adventure, what are you most looking forward to in the future? I’m looking forward to our wedding celebrations! With both of our families so spread out, we decided to have a couple different celebrations. First, we will be traveling to Brazil to get married in a church where her grandma will be playing the piano and singing for her as she walks down the aisle. Bel’s grandmother’s musical talent has always had a hold on Bel, and her dream has been to have her play for her at her wedding. After Brazil, we will have another wedding celebration in Sedona, Arizona where my parents live. We both fell in love with the energy and the beautiful red rock that Sedona has to offer. Photographer: @luadeandradephoto Kenneth + Bel: @kennethmbauer + @iimbassahy
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RUUSK COUPLE: MADELEINE + JEI
Love has a funny way of finding us, often through the unexpected connections and adventures that shape our lives. For Madeleine and Jei, their journey began with a little help from mutual friends who saw their potential long before they did. From early dates filled with spontaneity and shared playlists to a proposal amidst the serene beauty of Lovers Falls in Corinna, TAS, their love story is a testament to serendipity and undeniable chemistry. As they embark on this next chapter together, Madeleine and Jei are eagerly anticipating the joys of building a life as a team and introducing themselves as the Strolins. Join us as we delve into their heartfelt journey, from memorable firsts to the promise of a future filled with love, laughter, and endless adventures. How did you meet? Or, what are some of your favourite memories of each other in the early stages of dating? We were set up actually! Some friends who really understood the assignment (2 different couples independently and simultaneously attempted to set us up). And ever since then it's been adventure after adventure! On our third date Jei invited me to a wedding (foreshadowing much), our fifth date was, said wedding, where I met all of his friends (who told me that he was obsessed with me). We started dating a week or two later. Jei would make me playlists called "Mads Musts" for me to listen to on the way to work, and would send them to me every day. Essentially, Jei was whipped early on and so was I! I guess that's why 9 months later we were engaged. When you know you know. How would you describe each other in three words? Mads is Bubbly, warm, and gorgeous. Jei is funny, sweet, and genuine. Jei, when did you know that you wanted to propose? And how did you propose to Madeleine? I knew I wanted to propose when I realised it doesn't get better than this. Mads is everything I'd ever look for so I knew I didn't need to keep looking. I proposed at the stairs of Lovers Falls in Corinna, TAS - I didn't go in with much of a plan if I'm honest, but in the moment it all just fell into place with the help of some friends. Madeleine, what did you love most about your special moment? Honestly, I was expecting the proposal every day except the day he proposed! It was a big kayak out to the spot and I was honestly fighting for my life by the time we got there. But, I loved that he managed to surprise me, and it was the most beautiful place I'd ever been (and the kayak back was a breeze with the post engagement high). What are you both really excited about in this next chapter together? We are so excited to build a life together and meet people as a couple. Getting to say "Hi, we're the Strolins" is gonna be really cool. Jei proposed with our 0.4ct Diamond Fine Solitaire Ring personalised with a wider 3mm band, which sits beautifully on Madeleine's finger. Congratulations again to the happy couple, we couldn't be happier to play a small part in your special moment, and we are so honoured to have been so warmly invited to hear about your love story. Wishing you all the love and happiness as you embark on this next journey together.
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RUUSK COUPLE: MADI + MEIKA
Against the surreal landscape of snowy Lake Louise in Banff, Madi and Meika promised each other forever in a way that was true and unique to them. Adorned in their colourful coats and wedding rings, they said their vows and in a sweet and private moment - a memory they will cherish forever. We had the absolute pleasure of speaking to the happy couple about how they met, their special day saying 'I do' and all their shared, unforgettable memories in between. How did you meet? Or, what are some of your favourite memories of each other in the early stages of dating? Madi met Meika in the local hair salon where she spent over two hours doing a simple trim on Madi's hair. We couldn't stop chatting and laughing and the connection was there from the start. After that Meika went to move interstate and then Covid happened and brought her home where Madi was searching for that beautiful hairdresser that had disappeared. What did your proposal look like? Madi proposed first at beautiful tropical Heron Island on the beach at sunset, Madi used a clam shell as the ring box Meika had found that day when we were snorkeling. Meika proposed back to Madi in a beautiful cabin in the woods in Sunshine Coast hinterland. What was, or were some of, your favourite moments from your wedding? We eloped in Banff in winter. The day was magical, snow was fluttering all day and we said our vows on frozen Lake Louise. Our favourite part was our bright and fun fur coats that stood out in the snowy forest. Can you let us know how you personalised your wedding bands and why this is important to you? We both have special words engraved on our wedding bands, my sunshine and my darlin. These are names we call each other daily. We have had the pleasure of creating Madi's beautiful engagement rings & both of your wedding bands. How has it felt to have your rings handmade for your love story? We love our beautiful RUUSK rings, they have been curated to represent our love for each other and nature, Madi's engagement ring has a sapphire for her love of the ocean and the Luna ring sits on top as a sneaky memory of our first kiss under the moon. It was such a lovely interpersonal experience working with the team at RUUSK, they were accommodating to our preferences and really helped us decide on the right choice. What are you both really looking forward to in your next chapter of married life? We are excited to start this next chapter as wifeys and enjoy the adventures to come. We are looking forward to working towards our future dreams, laughing the whole way through. Madi and Meika's beautiful wedding and engagement ring stacks including RUUSK's Mini Luna Ring, Pear-Cut Sapphire Alma Ring and matching Thin Organic Rings personalised with princess-cut Ceylon Sapphire and Natural Diamond flush-set in band. Once again, we are so beyond excited to hear the happy news. We wish the happy couple a future filled with all the love and happiness as they embark on this next chapter together! Photographer: @nicoleleighphotos
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