A Love Story That Grew From Thorns to Blooms
Australia’s beloved landscape and interior design couple, Charlie Albone and Juliet Love, have shared a journey that spans over 15 years. Their relationship, which has been showcased on television, is far from the typical “love at first screen test” narrative. Instead, it began with a few awkward moments and a lot of growth.
Thorny Beginnings
In 2009, Charlie and Juliet were both scouted for a lifestyle show that would eventually become The Party Garden. They met for the first time with producers at Rushcutters Bay Park to trial their chemistry and dynamic on-screen. While the screen test went well, it was not without its challenges.
Charlie recalls that he showed up hungover, leaving Juliet less than impressed with his one-worded answers and stiffness, which he now attributes to nerves. Juliet remembers thinking he was rude and uninterested in making an effort. Despite this rocky start, the show continued, and as they got into the rhythm of things, Charlie found his comfort zone in gardening.
Early Seedlings
Charlie shares that he thought their first meeting was like a first date, while Juliet saw it as a work-related event. As a former presenter on Selling Houses, Charlie was invited to the ASTRA Awards and asked if he could bring Juliet along as his co-host. He saw it as a date, but Juliet interpreted it as a professional outing.
It wasn’t until Charlie put his arm around her that she realized it was more than just a work event. Although hesitant at first, Juliet eventually accepted the offer, and she admits she’s glad that Charlie was persistent.
A Love in Full Bloom
Following their first date, the relationship moved quickly. The pair were engaged within nine months of their first meeting in April 2009 and married just six months later. Life then took an unexpected turn when Juliet became pregnant with their first son, Leo.
A few years later, their second son, Hartford, was born. However, life became more challenging for Juliet, who felt unusually depleted and exhausted beyond the responsibilities of being a mother. After a health scare late into her pregnancy with Hartford, she was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes following several medical tests.
“It came out of nowhere, but quite life-changing,” Juliet shared. “It’s a full-time job managing it.” She has been open about her diagnosis with her sons, who she says are amazing and have adapted to the new normal.
Navigating Challenges
Due to the nature of Charlie’s TV work, often away on shoots for Selling Houses, the couple had to navigate long-distance relationships earlier on in their relationship. This can be particularly challenging with young children involved. However, Charlie and Juliet have managed to maintain their bond through support, respect, and communication.
“Our values as far as love and marriage go are very similar,” Charlie said. While it’s tough to spend time apart, he acknowledges that it also provides perspective and makes their reunions all the more meaningful.
Embracing New Roles
Although Charlie is away for work less often these days, Juliet has embraced life as a boy mum. She continues to share her journey with her followers, offering insights and support to others facing similar challenges.
Listen to Their Complete Love Story
Hear the full story of Charlie and Juliet’s journey on The Australian Women’s Weekly Love Stories podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts. The couple reflects on how they continue to keep their garden alive all these years later.
For more tips and tricks to elevate your home, sign up to Charlie Albone and Juliet Love’s newsletter, The Living Edit. Catch them on Better Homes & Gardens on Channel 7 and 7plus. Watch the episode here:
