After seven years together, Joe Gauci and Eleanor Grocke’s love story reached a beautiful new chapter with a heartfelt and perfectly planned proposal in McLaren Vale. Joe surprised Eleanor with a stunning weekend escape, beginning with lunch at Down the Rabbit Hole before proposing on the back deck of their Rare Earth Retreats accommodation with every moment thoughtfully captured by a close friend and photographer.
The Proposal
Joe proposed to Eleanor at Rare Earth Retreats in McLaren Vale, on the 13th June 2025
Joe had planned the whole proposal perfectly. We had a beautiful lunch at Down the Rabbit Hole. The weather was perfect, which was lucky as it had been raining in the days prior. We spent the afternoon catching up, as we’d been apart for close to a month due to Joe’s work. Later that day, we checked in to Rare Earth Retreats, where he proposed on the back deck of our accommodation. Joe had organised for the moment to be captured by our friend, who is a photographer – something I’ll cherish forever. That evening, we cooked a beautiful pancetta bolognese for dinner and enjoyed a quiet night in, soaking it all up. The next day, Joe had organised lunch at Wirra Wirra with both of our families to celebrate. The entire proposal came as a complete surprise to me, which is a credit to Joe’s planning.
Tell us about how you first met.
We went to the same high school and although we had mutual friends, somehow we’d never really spoken. That changed at a party at the end of Year 11, when Joe came up and introduced himself. From there, we started getting to know each other and by March of Year 12, we were officially together. We have been together for seven years.
The Ring
Eleanor's ring is a bespoke Class A Design.
What is your favourite aspect of your ring?
My ring is an emerald cut diamond with a bezel setting. I’ve always been drawn to the bezel setting – it feels timeless and elegant, yet has an understated edge that makes it feel unique. I also love how the cut shows off the diamond’s clarity. It’s honestly the most stunning ring I’ve ever seen!
Why did you choose Class A?
Class A has an amazing reputation and has been around for so long that when it came time to buy a ring, Joe had several people recommend them. We also know a few people who work at Class A, which helped reinforce that trust. Despite living overseas, Joe worked closely with Daniel to source the perfect diamond and create the ideal setting. He thought it might be difficult to get a ring made in Adelaide, but Daniel and the team were incredible. They guided him through every step. Given Joe had little knowledge of the ring-making process, the staff made it all feel seamless. We’re so grateful for the experience and couldn’t be happier with the final result.
Joe and Eleanor, a huge congratulations from all of us at Class A!
We absolutely loved hearing your proposal story, every detail was so beautifully thought out.
Joe, it was such a pleasure working with you to bring Eleanor’s dream ring to life especially from halfway across the world! Your trust in us, even from overseas, meant so much, and we’re so glad to hear how much you both love the final piece.
We wish you both endless happiness as you continue building your life together in the UK and beyond. With love, The Class A team x
