Samantha Schubert and husband Oliver Knott speak candidly about falling in love and staying in love.

Their chemistry is effortless, and their banter, easy. They are, in a word, well, two words- in love. This year on June 8, it will be eight years they’ve been married and already there are plans on how they’ll celebrate the tenth. “We’re going to Las Vegas and have our wedding vows renewed by Elvis Presley,” shares Sam. Before the wedding however, Sam and Oliver had known each other for seven years. What Oliver did know for certain after only one week of meeting Sam was that he would marry her.

THE PROPOSAL
When asked about the proposal, Oliver is reticent. This is understandably so because it is after all, a very personal and private matter. Sam offers to tell it but does so in hushed tones and she takes her time etching out the details as if it happened only recently but in actual fact, Oliver proposed in 2001. The marriage took place nine months later at St. Peter’s Pembury, Old Church in Kent.

MARRIAGE AND PARENTHOOD
For Sam and Oliver, marriage was easier in the first year. There were lesser responsibilities to begin with. But upon returning to Malaysia a year after marriage, the children came along quite quickly but never once would they have both wanted it any different. Marriage, states Sam, doesn’t change a person’s life. Children do, “…but so what?” she questions.

Marriage and parenthood really works for Sam and Oliver because they keep each other involved in the other’s life. “We encourage each other. Oliver has always been so patient with me. He’s my best friend and he loves to cook – that’s a real bonus!” adds Sam giving her husband a fleeting look of silent thanks that speaks volumes.

When asked what enriches them as a family, Oliver and Sam are unanimous in agreeing that it’s the children, almost six Jodie, Harry, aged four years and six months and 16-month old Thomas. Together, they define what a beautiful family looks like. We have a system, an understanding that when one of us is working, the other one will be at home,” she shares.

TOWARDS THE FUTURE
They are a couple destined to grow old together, laughing and teasing their way through the years. With children, Sam adds, there has to be a lot more planning to life. “You never know what’s around the corner, so living life to the fullest for us is a must.”