A Short Version of Our Story
We met in Belgium
Ana Belén had recently moved there to study for her master's, and Jonas was working as a software engineer in Gent.
Beautiful friendship turns to love
What began as a beautiful friendship, full of adventures and late-night talks turned into something more. Somewhere along the way, we realized we were falling in love.
Adventures across Europe
Early on, Ana Belén moved around Europe for her studies (Italy, Montenegro, Spain, and France). But instead of letting distance keep us apart, we made it part of our story. We found ways to meet in each place, turning new cities into shared memories. When Ana Belén returned to Ghent during its famous 10-day summer festival, Jonas couldn't wait to show her how fun and just a little wild the city could be.
Life in Bremen, Germany
Later, Ana Belén moved to Bremen, Germany, to begin her coral research, and Jonas became a regular visitor, bringing home-made cake and gifts for her birthday *.*
Pandemic brings us closer
Then came the pandemic and, suddenly, we found ourselves living together for nearly nine months. Those quiet, uncertain days brought us closer than ever. We got to know each other's best habits (and quirks), learned to share a home office, and embraced each other as we are.
The proposal
In lockdown, Jonas proposed during a walk through one of Ghent's medieval neighborhoods, with a beautiful moon-lit view of the castle.
Civil wedding & honeymoon
We had a small civil wedding in Belgium, no party, but we could celebrate our honeymoon along Amalfi Coast, Italy.
New life together
The journey has been both challenging and beautiful. It's deepened our bond and reminded us that home isn't a place, it's wherever we're together.
Still exploring the world
We haven't stopped exploring the world, it's a passion we share and keep living out. From diving in remote corners of Indonesia (where Ana Belén taught Jonas how to wash clothes by hand for the first time, he was genuinely thrilled by this life skill!) to wandering through markets in China and Brazil, travel continues to shape our story.
Jonas never used to swear, not even after stubbing his toe! But now, he does… in Spanish. No idea where he picked that up...
Jonas never used to swear, not even after stubbing his toe! But now, he does… in Spanish. No idea where he picked that up...
Ready to celebrate
Now, five years after our civil wedding and after everything we've experienced, we're finally ready to celebrate our marriage by the church, this time with special people. We can't wait to share this moment with you!