Our Love Story

The love story of Daan and Mariaan is one of hope and healing.

On 21 July 2024, Daan embarked on a journey from The Netherlands to South Africa to find spiritual restoration, emotional growth and physical healing. That flight towards freedom and light was about to change his entire life...

On 21 July 2024, Mariaan was celebrating her birthday, not knowing that the biggest gift she could have ever prayed for, was on the way to Cape Town. And when she herself was ready for her own healing to begin, the stars aligned for these two souls to meet each other on 3 September 2024.

When their eyes met, their souls recognised each other immediately. It was truly love at first sight, and they both realised in that moment that they never have to walk alone again. They spent the rest of Daan’s time in South Africa falling in love, getting to know themselves and each other better and grew more confident in knowing that this is a forever love.

After Daan had to return to The Netherlands, Mariaan could visit him and his family in December. Some say that when you know, you know. And Daan knew: This woman is going to be his wife! On 21 December he went down on one knee on a bridge in Paris with the Eiffel tower (and a freelance photographer) as their witness as he proposed to Mariaan. Eversince, their love has been unstoppable.

The next chapter of their journey had Mariaan on a plane to The Netherlands where they could spend three gloriously valuable months together. As most of you know, the true test of trust and hope came when she had to return to South Africa to face the process of emigration: Dutch exams and inburgering, endless visits to Home Affairs to get the necessary paperwork done, legalising documents and the almost unbearable waiting for approval from the Dutch authorities. In the five months they had to spend apart, the light of their love could not be dimmed with distance or time. They grew stronger as a couple and as individuals and continued their healing journey, driven by their determination to be together. Once you find your soulmate, you don’t let go!

You are invited to witness the next chapter of their journey: the wedding! Marrying the love, patience and kindness that these two souls hold for each other, in front of family and friends, is a magic to great not to share.

In honour of both Daan and Mariaan’s recovery journey, no alcohol will be served at the ceremony or reception.