Their story began on September 24, 2022, over a charming brunch in Yaletown, just days after both had returned from separate travels across Europe.

Whether it was fate or perfect timing, the moment they met felt effortless and right. George was in his true state of readiness, and Athena had just returned from Greece, gently reminded by her yiayia that it might be time to find a nice boy. From the very first day, George knew Athena was the one. By their third date, on October 1, 2022, he asked her to be his girlfriend.

What Athena didn’t know then was that, shortly before meeting her, George had applied for a UK visa. When it was approved, he knew he had to share the news. He took Athena to a cozy restaurant in Gastown and ordered a bottle of wine, maybe two.

Taking a deep breath, George finally said:

“I’m just going to come out and say it. Before I met you, I applied for my UK visa. I got the acceptance letter. It’s been approved. I’m going to move to London.”

Athena nearly choked on her wine. Her eyes began to water, but before she could respond, George continued:

“I’m telling you this not because I want to break up, but because I want to ask if you would move to London with me?”

It was a leap of faith. She could say no, and that would be the end of it. Or she could say yes.

Without hesitation, Athena said yes, and just like that, a new chapter began.

London quickly became the time of their lives. They worked, explored, traveled to 18 countries in a short span, reunited with old friends, made new ones, and began collecting local art pieces, a passion that admittedly became more George’s than Athena’s. Their little flat in Angel, Islington, became home. They even joked about one day getting married at Islington Town Hall, a funny thought at the time and a quiet glimpse into the future.

Now back in Canada, George and Athena are thrilled to begin their next chapter together, surrounded by the people they love most, as they celebrate their wedding day.