Kate and Devin's Wedding - Jamaica

Our Arrival

Kate, the bride, messaged us as soon as we stepped off the bus at the Sandal’s resort property in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. “Come meet us! We’re at the Polo Club!” Kate and Devin’s families had gathered for drinks.

*Filled with giddy excitement and a few “Bob Marley” drinks, we bonded over the upcoming ceremony.*

Katelyn

Three years ago, we were captivated by Kate’s energetic personality and mixology bartender skills at Big Boiler Brewing, where we’d frequented. The following year, Kate had asked Chuck, my husband, if he could preside over her wedding to Devin. It would take place in Jamaica. I was thrilled at the prospect of being part of their love story and wiggling my toes in the warm sand!

Two years later we were in Jamaica! Let the celebration begin!

Pre-Wedding

The morning of the wedding, Kate had invited me to assist with her bouquet. She’d wanted to be sure palm leaves would adore the arrangement. I had armed myself with supplies: scissors, wire, tape and some IKEA palm leaves (incase I couldn’t easily secure natural ones.}

However, there had been no need to worry. The resort staff had put together a stunning arrangement that complimented the bride’s beaming personality. Looking at the bouquet, Kate and I confirmed, “It’s perfect!” “It’s beautiful!”

*Kate’s Bouquet Photo Credit: Kristin* *Gruell*

“I do have another job for you.” Kate walked me into the next room. “Would you take this to the ceremony?” Kate handed me the decorated photo of Stacy, her Mother, who had passed when Kate was seven years old. “I would be honored.” My voice caught in my throat as my eyes welled with emotion. Stacy held a knowing smile and likable eyes. I wrapped my arms around the frame guarding it as an extension of my friend, Kate. To the bride I said, “I’ll see you soon!” I leaned forward, touching cheeks and kissing the air. I held Stacy tightly on the bus ride to the other side of the resort where Chuck was preparing the intimate venue. I sat Stacy’s photo in a place of honor.

*Reverend Garland Black, the Jamaican officiant, introduced himself. He would be responsible for proclaiming the couple as husband and wife, otherwise, Chuck would be conducting of the ceremony.*

Kate’s father and Devin’s mother had attended the same high school. She had leaned over and said, “Who would have thought that 30 years later they’d be in Jamaica watching their children get married?”

Hand Fasting Ceremony

Immersed in Kate and Devin’s love, our gathering reflected their adoration for each other. Directing the couple to join their right hands in order to proclaim intent, Chuck draped a maroon rope over Devin’s wrist and a tan rope over Kate’s. These ropes represented the families from which they’ve come. Then Chuck added a white and blue rope over their joined hands. “This represents the family you build today.”

“Handfasting signifies that your souls are bound eternally even when the physical bonds are separated.” Chuck explained. “You make these promises today with the understanding that you are committing to be a partner to one another and to become one spirit.”

As Chuck fastened the strands together around their grasp he stated, “In the joining of hands and the fashion of the knot, so are your lives now bound, one to another. By this cord you are thus bound to your vow. May this knot remain tied for as long as love shall last. May this cord draw your hands together in love, never to be used in anger.” Kate and Devin pulled the rope tightly with their left hands as they released their clasp. An eternity knot was bound as a symbol of their devotion.

*With the waves clapping, Kate and Devin read their very personal commitments to one another.*

“Over the past few years, I’ve had the opportunity to get to know Devin and Kate.” Chuck contributed his description of the couple. “They remind me of two kids that like to explore the neighborhood catching frogs, reading books, watching the stars and listening to music together. These two kids have a deep appreciation for each other as they quietly hold hands and just, “be” with each other. For some, the wedding is the big event. For Kate and Devin their love for each other is the big deal.”

Vows and Rings

*The couple exchanged rings. Reverend Black joined the pair and pronounced them husband and wife.*

The Happy Couple

Salt water waves applauded the shore as the happy couple was joined by close family and friends for photos following their ceremony. I stole snap shots of the bride and groom.

The Reception

As a group, we rode a bus to a Greek-style overlook located in another section of the tropical landscape.

The resort staff had created exquisite elegance for the outdoor reception! Hors d’oeuvres and an open bar started the evening. Classy jazz music danced from a sound system.

*Kate bubbled with glee as her photographer friend, Kristin, clicked festive photos!*

A cake was set on a pedestal for the bride and groom to cut. It was then quickly returned to air conditioning for plating. A delicious four course dinner was followed by the decadent dessert.

The Saxophonist

Over a year ago wide-eyed Kate had shared that she had wanted to have a saxophonist play at her reception. Weeks later at Big Boiler Kate was animated as she told me about the confirmation of the musician scheduled for their big day!

*The talented instrumentalist enveloped our group into a timeless bubble.*

The couple’s first dance charmed the palm trees who were standing guard over the party. During the father-daughter dance, Kate and her father, David, sang along as they stepped with the beat of the music.

The Rabbit Hole Speakeasy

Nearby, “The Rabbit Hole” Speakeasy was about to open. The party decided to move into this venue. Using the whispered password, “Gum Shoo,” at the rounded, wooden door hidden by shrubbery we were permitted inside. Knowing Kate had wanted to go to the underground bar, I had packed a beaded flapper dress and headband. After making a quick change, we joined the clan and found Devin and Kate nestled on a black leather couch near the dance floor.

Soon we headed to the third floor overlooking the joint. Celebrating with the bride and groom in the hidden hide-a-way brought about a lasting bond!

Thank you, Kate and Devin, for inviting us to be part of your wedding day! I cherish our friendship and the memories we’ve made! Here’s to many years of wedded bliss!