Caris & James

The universe and creation conspired to bring James from Saltcoats, Scotland and Caris from Miri, Malaysia both to the most isolated city in the world. And thank God for online dating - very literally, as they sent virtual waves on Christian Connection.

Date one was on a Wednesday in October 2014. The location of choice was a coffee and cake at Wild Fig - followed by a beach walk, impromptu swim (and nearly drowning) and a stunning sunset which confirmed that this was the beginning of something extra special. After defying death, James boldly offered Caris a kiss, marking an unforgettable first date. Date two was that Friday, with dinner and dessert in Leederville. Date three was the next day, Saturday, where James met Caris' friends. Date four was that Sunday, a brunch in East Perth. It was on this day that Caris treasured in her heart that she had met the man of her desires. Date five was later that night for a family dinner - where Caris passed James' test: getting the approval tick from big sis Heather. Caris cooked dinner for three - food being a common theme in week one, and little has changed. Needless to say she passed with flying colours (Heather's actual words). Since then it's been 4 years of great dates, delicious meals, belly laughs and growing in deeper appreciation for one another. With the wisdom that marriage is hard work and every relationship has trials, there is still no one better than they want to do life than with one another.

In 2016, James made his first trip to Malaysia to meet some of the Kelabit tribe, giving him some insight to the massive family he would later be married into. In 2017, James and Caris travelled back to Scotland for a memorable holiday and to meet James' beautiful family. Caris saw snow for the first time after James adamant efforts driving up multiple hills. This trip back to his childhood town also started a new chapter where Perth for the first time, felt like 'home' for this Scotsman.

Three years after first meeting they went for a dinner date on a casual Monday evening. Yet again the Perth coastline lit up with a striking orange sunset, where James proposed at Odyssea. With a sneaky ring hidden in an oyster shell, Caris said yes! April 2019 will mark the official day these two souls join in a forever love, sealed with a lifetime commitment and grand adventures.