Shailesh grew up in the small town of Louis Trichardt where he spent a lot of his time with his friends terrorising the residents of Eltivillas with random cricket balls flying through their windows. Luckily, he outgrew that (the property damage, not the beautiful game) and attended the University of Pretoria where he fell in love at first sight – well, almost!
Des grew up in Polokwane with her face firmly planted inside every book she could find. A love affair so deep it had her regularly attempting to do her chores while simultaneously reading through her favourite scenes – much to her mother’s horror. This love also led her to the University of Pretoria where an innocent smile just about knocked her out.
In honour of our 10 year anniversary, we’ve decided to celebrate our union with our closest friends and family. But before we get to that, let’s take a quick walk down memory lane…
At the beginning of first year, Des and Shai’s residences were grouped together to participate in the university’s RAG charity events. At the first meet up, seated under the great oak tree in the middle of the grounds, Shailesh looked up as a group of incredibly beautiful ladies joined him and his friends. He was particularly intrigued by the one wearing a “cool hat” (his words by the way), while Desray was so mesmerized by his smile that she went home and told her mom all about the handsome guy she met. Unfortunately, due to the wonders – and slightly concerning horrors – of first year, the pair would only meet up for the RAG events, flirt a little then go their separate ways.
After finally exchanging numbers and starting a friendship over BBM, Shailesh was taking a long, 5-hour bus trip home to LTT when he messaged Desray. The two held the riveting conversation for the full trip and discovered just how many things they had in common. Before the end of the trip, Shailesh asked her out to play pool and a giddy Desray said, “Yes!” The date involved tons of laughter, lots of blushing and Des embarrassing herself with her complete lack of aim – which Shailesh, thankfully, didn’t hold against her. By the end of the evening, they had already set up more dates to meet up and the rest is history!
After 5 incredible years together, Shailesh proposed at a beautiful hotel in Pretoria.
Together with their best friends and partners-in-crime, the pair got married in a beautiful, small ceremony with the most vibrant officiant ever!
5 years later, we are inviting our families to join us as we honour our marriage the traditional way!
Our wedding celebration will involve bringing together both our cultures in two beautiful traditional ceremonies – it’s going to be a busy day!
Read these articles below to better understand our different cultures:
