Love Letters
François & Julia
Love can take many unexpected turns, and for Julia and François, it all started with a chance encounter online. Despite being 880 km apart, their connection deepened through daily calls and endless laughter — what began as a long-distance romance soon turned out to be ‘happily ever after’.

So you started in a long-distance relationship. Tell us more.
Julia: Yes, it was back in 2020 when everything was shut down due to Covid. We happened to chat on social media while I was in Switzerland and François in the UK. It’s still a miracle how we found each other from that far away, but it looks like fate wanted it that way! We stayed in contact every day for three months straight until we met in November for the first time in person.
What made you feel this relationship was something special?
Julia: We knew we were made for each other from day one. Even through our hardships, we never gave up. All the while being 880 km apart during Covid, we still felt safe together. Due to hours of FaceTiming, we knew every little thing about each other, so we were already so in love even before meeting in person. Just a smile through a FaceTime call could change your mood, as if you were hugged and embraced.
François: It actually wasn’t easy, especially during Covid when the borders were closed, and we couldn’t see each other for months. But every evening after work, we talked via FaceTime until we fell asleep and took every opportunity to see each other. We knew it was worth it.
It’s still a miracle how we found each other from that far away, but it looks like fate wanted it that way!— JuliaWhy did you decide to propose in France?
François: I knew I wanted to propose to Julia before we moved in together, and the last opportunity to do so was on our way to Switzerland. I wanted to find the perfect location, something truly special.
The plan was for us to arrive at the location at sunset. Our photographer would casually approach us, offering to take some free pictures. Julia had no idea that, while she posed, I had already moved to the setup — candles, flowers, and fairy lights arranged for the big moment. Then, as she turned around, there I was, down on one knee. And, of course, she said yes!
@juliaxfrancois_d Proposal 💍 #proposal #engagement #viral ♬ That Part - Lauren Spencer Smith Julia, did you suspect anything beforehand?
Julia: Not at all! The whole process of moving to another country with all the documents and logistics was driving me crazy, so I was too stressed to think about anything else. Usually, I can tell when he’s up to something, but this time, I had no clue. And to be honest, I was really impressed with his organisation.

Tell us about the ring. Did Julia love it?
François: Yes! Julia already had an idea of her dream engagement ring. She had shown me so many pictures and videos, so I knew exactly what she would love. Finding the perfect ring wasn’t easy, but I wanted everything to be just right for the proposal. When I saw the one, I knew it was hers.