The couple stayed in Greece from the last week of April to the second week of May, spending around 18 days there.
Spending time there during the Greek spring would make most girlfriends or partners happy, but Jacaranda's Rob Forbes took it a step further and proposed to his long-term partner.
And she said, “Yes.”
“I was a little nervous, which I guess is to be expected, but I was also very excited. I knew Leah would say yes,” Forbes said. Citizenlaughter.
“When I got down on my knees, she dropped what she was holding! Jesus, tears, laughter and we celebrated late into the night.”
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Careful planning leads to the perfect proposal
Co-organizers Driving with Rob and Roz Jacaranda FM producer John McGregor had it all planned out, including choosing the perfect venue and the perfect ring that his partner of four years, Leah Jazz, would love.
“I'm so glad I took the time to buy such a beautiful ring and that we were able to be in such a beautiful place. I love love and I love being in love.”
The announcer chose Greece's picturesque landscapes, combining crystal blue waters and ancient history, as the perfect backdrop to propose to the love of his life.
“Spring is beautiful. It comes before the high European summer season so it's quiet. The fruit trees (which are everywhere) are all in bloom,” Forbes said.
“The orange trees in Athens were bursting with citrus fruit. The water was cool, the nights were calm and the atmosphere was fantastic. I also visited during Greek Easter and it was a very cultural experience.”
The couple stayed in the European country from the last week of April to the second week of May, spending 18 days there.
Where love blossomed in Greece's most romantic city
The proposal took place in their first stop, Nafplio, a city known as “the most romantic city in Greece.”
“I proposed there. It's small, cozy and intimate. The old town is a maze of narrow streets and squares where cars can't go. People are walking, eating and laughing. In that way it feels a bit like home,” Forbes asserted.
He found the Greeks to be just as friendly and welcoming as the South Africans.
“Everywhere we went, people were happy to gather around a table, chat and give advice. Nobody was rude, everyone was friendly and everyone wanted to gather around a big table with their friends, dance, eat, drink and laugh. South Africans know how to be happy like that.”
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Rings: Eternal Treasures
The wedding band chosen by Forbes was designed by Cape Town native Mignon Dobermann.
“We probably talked about three or four designs back and forth for about two weeks. We had a pretty clear idea of what we wanted. Leah wanted something art deco, but I wanted something a little different, timeless. I think it's really beautiful.”
The engaged couple have yet to set a wedding date: “We have some plans but nothing is set in stone yet. 2025 could be the year.”
Forbes magazine reported that he was inundated with congratulatory messages from listeners of his show.
“It's so unbelievable! I've received congratulations and words of encouragement from all quarters and my Jacaranda FM family is so excited. I can't wait to finally be a part of this event!”
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