Hailing from Bethlehem in the Free State, my dad has always been a pillar of strength and integrity. He's lived a life marked by ambition and achievement, from his athletic days to his pioneering work at Capitec Bank where he played a key role in democratising banking. Known for his vast general knowledge and as a fascinating storyteller, he impresses with insights on almost any topic. Alongside his professional accomplishments, he is known for his incredible generosity, having given so much to many people. His life is not only about success but also enriched by daring projects, travel, and adventure—just ask him about his trip to Lagos. His approach to life combines serious intent with a light-hearted touch, instilling in us the values of integrity and the importance of making the most of life. These principles have taught us to carve our own paths, give more than we take, and face life’s challenges with a good sense of humour. As we celebrate our wedding, I'm inspired by his example—a life not just lived but fully embraced, filled with learning, laughter, and a generous dose of love.

Meet my mom, the girl from Kimberley, whose spirit is as radiant as the diamonds mined from her hometown. She's the kind of teacher who has turned the saying 'if you're good at something, never do it for free' on its head, teaching math out of a genuine love for the subject and delight in her students' success. Known for her calm approach, she has a remarkable ability to untangle and solve life’s challenges. She never takes anything at face value, teaching me to question everything from larger philosophical life questions to everyday social rules, instilling in me that rules are merely suggestions. She's the one who taught me that 'if you don't ask, you'll never know.' With this philosophy, she's opened numerous doors and, quite cheekily, gotten away with more than a few things over the years. Effortlessly making friends wherever she goes, she embodies an easy-going charm and an infectious enthusiasm that lights up any room. Her laughter is as uplifting as her lessons, inspiring us to love every moment. She doesn't just live life; she brightens every part of it.

My Mom is a mix of cozy home comforts and exciting adventures - loving, caring, and always there for you. She enjoys the occasional champagne or Irish whiskey for a special treat. But what really lights her up is talking about her travel adventures in Australia or Africa. She's full of stories about exploring new places and meeting interesting people, despite coming from the quietest town in the German Black Forest. Her moving to Cologne in her 30s was a pure cultural shock, until now she won't understand the local slang —a true explorer with a taste for the finer things in life.

Some people have nice aunts, but without a doubt, I have the coolest 'tannie' on the planet. Mandie is the ultimate social butterfly—forget the six degrees of separation; with her, it's always just one. No matter where you're from, she's bound to know someone you know, which is a feat in itself. Always eager to lend a hand, she's known for her generosity, constantly helping out wherever she can. Mandie is the life of any party, always ready for the next adventure with her infectious enthusiasm. Above all, she has a kind heart made for connecting with and loving others. Her spirit and warmth make her not just a fabulous aunt but a true friend to all who know her.

My grandmother is the epitome of beauty, grace, and the very definition of what it means to be a lady. Growing up in a close-knit family of seven siblings, she has always cherished her family ties. She and my grandfather shared over 55 years of marriage, a testament to their loving and kind relationship. Even after all those years, she could still show a hint of jealousy when I mentioned a girlfriend my grandfather had dated before her—a playful glimpse into their enduring bond. She's a treasure trove of stories, a legendary word puzzler, and an enthusiastic rugby supporter—indeed, the only time you might hear a swear word slip from her lips is during a rugby match. Her elegance and spirit continue to inspire everyone around her, and at 93, she's still going strong, embodying a lifetime of grace and resilience.

My brother is truly the best one could ask for—kind-hearted with an infectious smile, and always ready for any adventure. A natural sportsman, he excels in any game that involves a ball, demonstrating his impressive talent across various sports. Much like our dad, he possesses a curious and innovative mind, always dreaming up new ideas or figuring out how things work. Since he moved just 20 metres away from us in Berlin, we’ve been incredibly fortunate to share countless travels, card evenings, and many exciting adventures together. He and I share a unique sense of humour, often leaving us in stitches while those around us can only roll their eyes. Having him just a short walk away has genuinely made all the difference. It's been a real blessing to have him close, making everyday moments that much better.

Annie has been a cherished part of our family for eight years, bringing with her a spirit of kindness and care that touches everyone she meets. She shares a close bond with her own family, particularly evident in the joy she takes in being the godmother to her niece, Mara. Her relationship with my brother is a testament to her loving nature; together, they have built a life full of adventure and mutual support. Since moving to Berlin, we’ve enjoyed many memorable moments together, from spirited games of Padel to experiencing the excitement of the Rugby World Cup 2023 in Paris. Her thoughtful presence and enthusiasm for life have certainly enriched our family.