From Coworkers to World Travelers: A Cycling Elopement

Their romance began not with a grand gesture, but with Tupperware containers and a shared passion for cycling. Zoe Ashbridge and Stewart met as coworkers, both single and navigating the complexities of modern dating. Their daily lunch breaks became the foundation for a relationship that would eventually span the globe.

What started as casual conversations over sandwiches quickly evolved into something extraordinary. Within a month of their first date, Stewart proposed an idea that would change their lives forever: a 24,000-mile cycling adventure across 32 countries. Without hesitation, Zoe said yes, and the couple began planning an 18-month journey that would test their relationship, endurance, and ultimately lead them to elope in one of the world's most beautiful locations.

Both Zoe and Stewart were working professionals when their paths crossed. Zoe was deeply immersed in the world of online dating, while Stewart was focused on his cycling ambitions. Their synchronized lunch schedules became the catalyst for their connection, as they regularly ate together at the office.

Their bond solidified when Stewart mentioned his plan to cycle the highest pass in Wales. Zoe's immediate response was enthusiastic: "I'd love to do that." Stewart invited her to join him that very weekend, and they conquered Gospel Pass together. The following lunch break, Stewart asked Zoe out for dinner, and their relationship began in earnest.

"He stayed over and never went home. The rest, as they say, is history, and what a ride it's been so far."

Just one month into their relationship, Stewart revealed his ambitious plan to quit his job and cycle around the world. He had already mapped out a turn-by-turn route spanning 32 countries, with enough savings to travel for 18 months while unemployed. His accommodation strategy was simple: carry a tent and stay in affordable hostels and Airbnb rooms.

Zoe's response to Stewart's proposal was immediate and unequivocal: "Yes!" She needed to save enough money to cover her flights, while Stewart handled the logistics of the bikes and route planning. For several months, the couple practiced financial discipline, cutting costs wherever possible while maintaining one non-negotiable luxury: a monthly meal out to enjoy their time as a young couple.

As their departure date approached, Stewart organized their transportation. He selected bright yellow steel-frame touring bikes specifically designed to handle long-distance cycling and the additional weight of their luggage. The bikes were built for endurance and practicality, essential for the months of travel ahead.

Their departure from the UK was emotional and unforgettable. They waved goodbye to their families at Stewart's mother's house and wobbled down the driveway on the heaviest bikes they had ever ridden. Zoe describes the feeling as nervous, excited, and weightless—a perfect summary of leaving behind stability for adventure. Everything they needed for the next 18 months was packed into six bright yellow panniers attached to their bikes.

The cycling journey presented a constantly changing tapestry of landscapes and challenges. One of the most striking transitions occurred when the couple left Georgia and entered Azerbaijan. The gorgeous greenery of Georgia gave way to the flat desert landscapes of Azerbaijan, marking their first major environmental shift.

Australia presented similar contrasts. The couple rode across the Nullarbor Plain, a vast expanse of flat desert land where they encountered kangaroos and Wedge-Tailed Eagles. The remoteness of this region was staggering—service stations were over 100 miles apart, requiring careful planning for supplies and water.

As they reached New South Wales, the terrain transformed again into green mountains and the challenging Bulli Pass. At the summit, they discovered a wedding venue overlooking the sea, which sparked conversations about their future. They discussed what they didn't want in a traditional wedding: first dances, speeches, and the pressure of managing invitations. This moment planted the seed for their eventual elopement.

After Australia, the couple flew to Queenstown, New Zealand, to research what was required to marry there. They learned they needed a marriage license and a celebrant to officiate the ceremony in front of two witnesses. Through online research, they found Sean, an Irish gentleman who became their celebrant.

Sean proved to be the perfect choice, described as having a steady voice, calming presence, and impeccable timing for humor. He offered a practical solution for their witness requirement: his wife Vee and friend Chris would serve as witnesses in exchange for two quality bottles of wine. After just one call with Sean, Zoe and Stewart felt officially "engaged-ish."

The couple booked a wedding date, purchased New Zealand-gold wedding rings, and hired wedding attire. Stewart surprised Zoe with a formal proposal and a placeholder ring, to which she enthusiastically said yes. Their next challenge was a 500-mile bike ride from Queenstown to Christchurch to reach their wedding location.

Unforeseen challenges arose when a landslide at Haast Pass threatened to make them miss their own wedding. The beauty of their elopement plan became clear: they only had themselves to please. Zoe made calls to Sean, the hair salon, and the florist to change the date. Once the landslide was cleared, they continued their journey to Christchurch.

The couple married at The Sign of the Bellbird in the Port Hills of Christchurch. The setting was breathtaking—rolling hills covered in the yellowest flowers contrasted against deep green mountains and gorgeous blue skies. The natural beauty provided the perfect backdrop for their intimate ceremony.

On that quiet hill, with only themselves to please and nothing but birdsong and sunshine, they spoke their vows and became husband and wife. There were no crowds, no pressure, and no expectations—just the two of them, which had been the essence of their journey together over the previous year.

Their adventure didn't end at the altar. What followed was an eight-month honeymoon cycling home via South America, completing their global cycling expedition. Their story demonstrates how a shared passion for adventure can transform a workplace romance into a lifetime of shared experiences.

This remarkable journey illustrates how shared passions can forge deep connections that transcend traditional relationship timelines. From lunch breaks to global adventure, Zoe and Stewart's story shows that meaningful relationships can develop quickly when built on common values and mutual support.

Their elopement in New Zealand highlights the appeal of intimate ceremonies that focus on the couple's bond rather than external expectations. By eliminating traditional wedding pressures, they created a moment that was purely about their commitment to each other.

Most importantly, their story serves as inspiration for anyone considering a bold life change. Whether it's quitting a job to travel the world or taking a chance on a new relationship, sometimes the greatest adventures begin with a simple "yes" to an unexpected opportunity.