The Love Story:
"Once upon a time, about ten years ago, I met a handsome Burnley boy named Ben on a university swim team trip to Loret de Mar. While Ben says he knew instantly that I was 'the one,' I didn’t fall quite as quickly. In fact, it took over a year of his very persistent efforts before we officially got together—and in Ben’s own words, “persistence is key!”
On our first date, things took a turn during my allergic reaction to penicillin. I ended up swollen and in A&E wearing oversized sunglasses, barely able to swallow. Not exactly the romantic moment most couples imagine for their first date—but Ben stayed by my side through it all. From there, we had our official first date at Taco Bell, where he accidentally ate half my Crunchwrap before realizing it wasn’t his. (I wasn’t impressed!)
Then, on Valentine’s Day in 2015, Ben took me to Piccolino’s in Sheffield and asked me to be his girlfriend. I said yes—and that’s where our real story began. Since then, we’ve graduated university, started our careers, bought homes, adopted our fur baby Ralph, and traveled the world together—Bali, Iceland, Dubai, Switzerland, and so many more places filled with adventure, laughter, and good food.
Ben proposed in May 2023 on a beach in Mauritius during a surprise photoshoot he arranged at sunset. I turned around and there he was, down on one knee. It was truly the fairytale moment I never expected—but one I’ll cherish forever.
We are the best of friends and truly each other’s match. We’ve grown up together, faced challenges, and built a life full of love, travel, chaos, and connection. And now, after all those years, I get to call him my husband."
Gown Featured Right: ASPEN | 2023 PEN·LIV
