As admirers of love in its many forms, we are always enchanted by the way two lives can intertwine, often in the most unexpected places. What begins as a simple shared interest can blossom into a partnership rich with laughter, adventure, and devotion. Mel and Simon’s story is a testament to this magic from chance meetings on winding trails to building a life filled with travel, companionship, and treasured memories. It was a joy to help Simon design the perfect engagement ring for Mel, and now we are delighted to share their heartfelt love story, complete with hiking boots, sunsets, and a proposal that is as memorable as it is romantic.
How did you and Mel meet, and what defining moments in your relationship made you realise that they were the one?
Mel: We met through a shared love of hiking. Our first date was at Morialta Falls, where we hiked the Three Falls track. Our second was at The Wheatsheaf, where we discussed our individual passions for craft beer (Simon) and politics (me). We then went on weekly Friday night hikes. It wasn’t until a few years later that Simon snuck his way into my heart, and since then we’ve travelled around Australia as well as overseas together, bought a house, adopted a cat, and built a life together.
Simon: I took a long-planned year off to travel in 2019 and, despite experiencing many amazing countries, places, and people, I couldn’t stop thinking about Mel. I eventually cut the trip short as I realised that where I most wanted to be was back home with her. My favourite time of that year was the two weeks I spent in Tasmania with her.
What traits do you both appreciate most in each other?
Mel: Simon is very caring, very funny (not quite as funny as me), and is a great conversationalist. He can (and does) have a yarn with anybody about anything. He also has a LOT of passions and hobbies, including birdwatching, surfing, hiking, photography, and snorkelling. I feel very lucky to be number one among all of his passions.
Simon: Mel is very selfless, intelligent, funny (not quite as funny as me), and efficient. We share many beliefs and values, but also have complementary differences. Mel gives me the impetus to do more rather than just think about it. We make a great team, and I am very lucky to have her (and her baking).
We’ve heard all about it in store, but tell us again about your romantic proposal that Simon so thoughtfully planned!
Simon planned for us to go on an evening hike to see the sunset at one of our favourite spots, Chambers Gully. We parked and headed out, only to find that the track we usually take was closed for maintenance not an auspicious beginning. Luckily, we re-routed, and when we got to the viewpoint, there was no one else there (it can get quite busy!). Simon went down on one knee and, after rifling deep in his backpack, turned around and in one fluid motion opened the ring box upside down and watched the ring fall straight into the dirt. It was difficult to tell who was more shocked, but thankfully Mel said yes. Nothing that a quick dust-off couldn’t fix!
We love how much thought and effort Simon went into designing your gorgeous engagement ring. Tell us about your experience with The Classic Jewellers and any tips you have for couples searching for their engagement rings.
Mel: Get your partner to do it for you lol.
Simon: Get your partner’s best friends to plumb her for ring preference information. Then get them to review and approve the CAD files.
What are you both looking forward to in your new chapter together?
Lots more adventures together, including hiking, travelling, and continuing to cherish the time we spend together.
