Brisbane's powerful musical couple reveal their secrets to a 22-year relationship
A Brisbane power couple have revealed how their relationship has thrived – despite an annoying habit when it comes to lids.
What started over a shared interest in music turned into a 22-year relationship and now one of Brisbane’s most powerful musical couples.
Pediatric anaesthetist and Brisbane Chamber Choir president, Jason Schoutrop, 52, and Musician/violist with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Tomkin, 56, share their secrets to their long and happy relationship.
JASON
How did you meet? At a mutual friend’s going away party. Our friend was a musician leaving to work in Melbourne with the Melbourne Symphony.
What was the first thing you noticed about Nicholas? He was so good looking and everyone was talking with him. Just so friendly with everyone around him. I was nervous about talking to him.
When did you first know it was love? It all happened so quickly, once we had gone out on a date, we were communicating all the time and catching up. Within a few months, I was head over heels and then one year later, we moved in together.
What was your most standout date?
It had to be our first date. We agreed to meet after the party and we chatted all evening until it was time to go home. That first kiss was what really sticks in my mind.
What is the most romantic thing Nicholas has ever done for you? It really is when I come home late at night and find a flower from the garden with some sweet treats waiting for me on the kitchen bench.
What is the secret to a happy relationship? Taking the time to talk about things and don’t let things bottle up. Everyone needs their own space as well so respecting that is important too.
Who puts the bins out? Nicky does.
What is the thing you argue the most about? Travelling plans. The end result is always great, but it can take time.
What do you find the most annoying about each other? Choosing which TV shows to watch together.
Who does the most cooking? Nicky does. He is the master of creating wonderful dishes with what we have at home.
What is the trait you like most about him? Always being so open to experiencing new ideas and trying new things.
When were you the most vulnerable in your relationship? During those difficult days at work where you have used all your energy and things don’t go well.
NICHOLAS
How did you meet? We met at a mutual friend’s going away party. I was sad my friend was moving away but very happy and excited to meet Jason.
What was the first thing you noticed about him? His charm and ease in chatting. We shared many interests and common views. We clicked pretty much immediately.
When did you first know it was love? At our first date together, I felt butterflies as the evening progressed, and I knew he was the one and this was love.
What was your most standout date? Definitely our first dinner date together. It’s very exciting getting to know someone when there are butterflies involved. Each year on our anniversary we go back to the same restaurant to celebrate again.
What is the most romantic thing Jason has done for you? He sprinkled flower petals on the bed for my birthday.
What is toughest thing you’ve had to overcome together in your relationship? When we’re both busy during the days and evenings which is quite often, we hardly see each other. We leave notes on the kitchen bench. The danger is to drift apart.
What is the secret to a happy relationship? To accept each other just as they are and not wishing them to be different from who they actually are.
Who puts the bins out? Me.
What is the thing you argue the most about? That I interrupt him and don’t listen to what he has to say. And that I decide what we watch on TV in the evenings.
What do you find the most annoying about each other? Jason has trouble putting lids back on things. Toothpaste, jars etc. It’s fascinating that someone of such high intelligence has trouble with this.
Who does the most cooking? Me.
What is the trait you like most about him? He is a truly kind, loving and thoughtful person.
How do your pets bring you together? Over the years we have been so blessed with three wonderful beagles. They have bonded us together as a family. We have really enjoyed pampering them, taking them for long walks and day trips.
