How It Started..

The 24th of April holds a special place in the lives of Roland and Alex.

Not just because it's Kelly Clarkson’s birthday or the day the Hubble Telescope launched into space, but because it marks the explosive inception of their adventure-filled romance, where two kindred spirits came together.

Almost three years ago, with the cunning orchestration of two insightful friends, Roland and Alex embarked on their first date. Their connection was immediate, electric, and the conversation flowed effortlessly for four unbroken hours.

But, in an unexpected twist, Alex suddenly cut the date short. The reason, though it may seem absurd to some, left Roland utterly spellbound.

"Early. Morning. Gym."

These three seemingly innocuous words struck Roland like a thunderbolt. He was smitten, captivated by their shared passion for preposterously early bedtimes and pre-dawn awakenings—a quirk that has continued to baffle and exasperate their friends and family ever since.

From that fateful night on, their bond grew stronger, fuelled by a shared love of travel, the great outdoors, and the meticulous art of spreadsheet management. They've crisscrossed the globe, visiting eight countries, all meticulously planned and documented in shared Google Sheets. These digital chronicles, brimming with tasks, comments, and deadlines, were a testament to their mutual devotion and organisational prowess. Before long, it was clear: they had found their other half.

Eighteen months later, on Christmas Day, Roland, ever the romantic, and Alex, with her freshly made dinosaur-shaped pumpkin scones, ventured to their third-favourite beach in Perth—a location chosen not out of sentiment, but because Alex wanted to change things up that day.

There, in the morning sun, Roland took Alex’s hand in his, the warmth of the sand beneath his knee a mere reflection of the fire that burned on his sun kissed back but more so within his heart.

Without hesitation, Alex responded with an enthusiastic “Yes,” quickly followed by the much-anticipated consumption of the prehistoric-shaped baked goods

Their relationship is a harmonious blend of complementary strengths—Alex’s gastronomic talents and spontaneity paired with Roland’s appreciative palate and pragmatism has created a balanced and fulfilling dynamic. Their journey has been an unending series of adventures, laughter (thanks to Alex), and the occasional carefully assigned task (courtesy of Roland).

Living in Manila has meant many of their cherished moments have been shared just between them. The Second of March is different. This celebration is not just about their love; it’s a gathering of friends and family who have supported them from afar, an opportunity to witness the growth of their relationship in person.

Here is a glimpse into the journey of Roland and Alex, capturing the essence of their shared life—a story of love, delightful quirks, and meticulously planned adventures.