What began as a chance meeting during a week-long wedding dance rehearsal 16 years ago blossomed into a lifelong love story, as the Southern Courier news editor, Lucky Thusi, and Nombulelo Thusi (then Zulu) finally tied the knot.

The couple celebrated their union with a two-day traditional wedding ceremony, starting on September 27 at the bride’s home in Orlando, the very place where their love story began in 2009.

Day two saw the celebrations move to the groom’s family home in Emdeni, where the joyful occasion brought together families from as far as KZN.

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Lucky first met his soulmate when he accompanied a friend to a wedding rehearsal in Orlando.

That friend was marrying Nombulelo’s aunt, and she was part of the bride’s family entourage.

“I was looking at her the whole week during rehearsals, but I only asked her out after the wedding,” Lucky recalled.

Their first date was a classic: Lunch and a movie at the Maponya Mall. However, timing was not on their side because Nombulelo had to return to Durban, where she was studying.

They tried to make a long-distance relationship work, keeping in touch by phone, but eventually drifted apart.

Fate, however, had other plans. In 2010, Lucky had returned to Orlando for a family function with his friend, only to be surprised when he discovered that Nombulelo was the person serving them food.

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“Apparently, she had returned after getting a job offer this side. I didn’t know she was back,” Lucky said.

For Nombulelo, the reunion was just as profound, “When we met again after being apart while I studied in Durban, it felt like coming home.

The distance had only strengthened what we shared, and seeing him again reminded me that no matter where life took us, our connection was unshakable.”

From that point, the couple rekindled their relationship, and on September 27 and 28, that serendipitous encounter came full circle when they exchanged vows surrounded by family, friends and colleagues.

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Reflecting on their journey, Nombulelo said she realised Lucky was her soulmate through countless little moments.

“The way he supports my dreams and makes me feel safe, understood and loved without even trying. What I love most about him is his heart, patience, kindness and the way he respects and cares for everyone around him.

“I love how he makes me laugh, even on my hardest days, and how he always reminds me of what truly matters in life. He brings out the best in me, and that’s when I knew he was the one.”

Lucky echoed her sentiments, praising his wife’s character and ambition.

“She is caring, kind, respectful and down to earth, with a never-ending desire for education. I think her educational background keeps her humble.

“She is well educated, is doing her Master’s in quantity surveying and recently received her Honours degree from Wits University.”

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As a couple, they hope to grow together, building a home filled with love, laughter and respect, while facing every challenge as a team.

Their goal is to achieve financial stability for their family while keeping God as the foundation of their marriage.

They also shared a heartfelt message for young couples planning their weddings.

“If we could advise young couples planning their big day, it would be not to lose sight of what the day is truly about. It is not about the perfect flowers or the perfect venue; it is about the two of you, standing together and ready to begin your journey,” they continued.

“Enjoy every moment, stay present and remember that while the wedding lasts a day, your marriage lasts a lifetime.”