Partnership in Haarlem: A New Chapter Begins

Our Partnership in Haarlem: A New Chapter Begins

Becoming official felt like a quiet yet powerful moment. When we decided last summer to move in together from the start of 2025, registering our partnership was already on our minds. It was a step toward something bigger—strengthening our bond with a foundation of trust and commitment. But unlike a wedding, there was no dramatic “I do.” Just two signatures, a legal confirmation, and a promise between us.

A couple of weeks after returning from Colombia, we squeezed into a packed Mini, our dear friends Anita and Thomas as our witnesses, and cruised toward the gemeentehuis van Bloemendaal. The ceremony was short—ten minutes, five signatures, and suddenly, it was official. A moment so simple, yet it carried so much weight. Sebas beamed with happiness, and I couldn’t stop smiling either.

Marriage vs. Registered Partnership: What’s the Difference?

Love isn’t defined by a single moment or a grand ceremony. It grows through the choices we make for each other every day. For us, a registered partnership was one of those choices. Unlike marriage, there was no ‘I do,’ no long speeches, no dramatic walk down the aisle. Just a legal commitment, signed and sealed, strengthening our bond in the most meaningful way.

But simplicity does not mean less significance. A registered partnership carries much of the same legal weight as marriage, with a few differences, particularly in parental rights and dissolution procedures. It gives us the security of being legally bound while leaving space for something more in the future. Because who knows? Maybe one day, when the time feels right, we will celebrate this love with all the vows, music, and magic of a wedding. For now, this step was exactly what we needed to move forward together.

A Fresh Start in Haarlem

The past weeks have been a test of patience: endless waiting, gloomy skies, and freezing temperatures. But change is in the air. Spring is coming, and with it, a fresh start for us.

In April, we’ll be moving into our own little home. One with a south-facing garden and a beautiful view. We haven’t found it yet, but we know it’s out there waiting for us. Until then, Haarlem is our temporary home, and we’re making it our own. Cozy cafés, charming streets, and new discoveries are filling our days as we settle into this new chapter of our journey.

This partnership is more than just a legal agreement. It’s a milestone, a commitment, and an adventure. Hand in hand, we step forward—through Haarlem and beyond.

From the Caribbean to winter wonderland – A new Chapter! Follow our journey in real time on Instagram!

If you haven’t yet, check out our book The Art of Thriving in Long-Distance Relationships where we share our journey in more depth!

Read more about our last days in Colombia before heading to the Netherlands here!

Thank you for all your support so far! Tot volgende week! 😊