Our FunDza family is known for its love of celebrations. We’ve celebrated new books and exciting ventures, birthdays and new births, graduations and personal achievements. And, we’ve celebrated with those who’ve left to embark on new adventures.
The second of February marked the first time that we’ve had the opportunity to celebrate one of us tying the knot. Nandi Tshabane married her partner Debrah Grootboom at the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court.
The ceremony was attended by close friends. We celebrated with Nandi on the Monday after the fact. Regaling us with stories about the special day, Nandi said that the wedding was facilitated by an old Xhosa lady. “She was so understanding, sincere and fully supported us, making sure we were comfortable. She mades jokes here and there.”
We were also pleased to hear that disaster was narrowly averted on the day. Nandi’s best and oldest friend, Sisand aka “KK”, was going to be the witness. But she lost her wallet that morning and her ID was inside the wallet. Nandi had to make a plan, calling one of her former colleagues to be the witness. But Sisanda was shattered that she couldn’t play the important part. As they were waiting for the former colleague to arrive, Sisanda received a call from Capitec Bank. Her wallet – and ID – had just been handed in by two young people. She ran off to get it and was back in time to be the official wedding witness.
Pre-wedding smiles at the courthouse
Exchanging rings, with “KK” proudly looking on
When it came to the moment of the exchanging of rights, the marriage officer asked Nandi and Debrah to say how they feel about each other. This is what Nandi said:
“Debrah, I have met a lot of women in my life, but from the first time we started our journey, I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you. Yes, it has not been easy but the love I have for you makes everything easy for me. Even my life has been made easy just by being with you. You were my childhood crush, it is not everyday that one gets to marry the person they have always fantasized about, so clearly dreams do come true!!!”
We wish Nandi Tshabane-Grootboom and Debrah Grootboom-Tshabane everything of the best as they embark on their life journey together. May they find deep fulfilment and happiness in one another’s love.