ROMANCE SPECIAL Kai: Caroline arranged a surprise party for my 30th birthday at a gorgeous house in The Cotswolds. Caroline: Flowers at unexpected times and gorgeous birthday meals he’s cooked at home. What’s the secret to a long-term relationship/marriage? Time as a family with the children and time just as a couple; trust; and always agreeing the woman is right!
JULIAN AND CHARLIE TAGG
We like to think of them as the Barack and Michelle of local football (Julian is chairman of League Two Exeter City FC, and Exeter City Ladies): important but charming, and ever so cute together. How long have you two been together? Over a decade now, says Julian, but it still seems like yesterday.
Above: Kai and Caroline Horstmann Below: Julian and Charlie Tagg
out. Maybe fine for a club but not for your own wedding. Luckily, I had a clean bra and tons of fake pearls so winged it on the day. Moral: always try on your wedding tackle before the big day! What’s the secret to a long-term relationship/marriage? I think it’s a matter of choice every step of the way – check in with yourself and make the decision to travel together. That’s a bit serious; really it’s about shared values and having fun. There’s no secret formula.
CAROLINE & KAI HORSTMANN
Local girl Caroline is operations director of the Cock A Hoop collection of luxury holiday homes and foodie outlets. Her other half, Zimbabweanborn Kai, keeps himself fairly busy too, in the back row for Exeter Chiefs. They have two daughters and live in Kenton.
And how did you meet? We met at salsa night at Timepiece – I must have impressed Charlie with my footwork!
WE MET OVER SNAKEBITE AND
CHEESY
CHIPS
What are your favourite places locally for a date night? For Valentine’s Day we always visited the Royal Clarence. What’s the most romantic thing each of you has ever done? I proposed to Charlie at the top of the Empire State Building. Her response was: “I’ll give you an answer when we get down” – she’s not fond of heights! w
How long have you two been together? 16 years, says Caroline. And how did you meet? We met at our student union, Diva’s, at Swansea University over a snakebite-and-black and cheesy chips – times have changed! Favourite places locally for a date night? It usually has to involve food as it’s a bit of an obsession in our family. On the rare occasion it’s just the two of us (there’s usually another couple in tow), we would go to our lovely restaurant in the village, The Rodean; The Terrace if we want a night in town; or The Galley for its lovely seafood. Ode Cafe at Sheldon is also a favourite when we are a family. What’s the most romantic thing each of you has ever done? www.mediaclash.co.uk I EXETER LIVING I 19