19/12/2012
From The Jamaica Observer August 27,2012
Vows: An Everlasting Love
Monday, August 27, 2012
How they met
Rory and Jonelle met through a mutual friend, Stacey-Ann Hesson. "She told me about this guy in her MBA class who saw my picture on Facebook and thought I was the most beautiful girl in the world," shared Jonelle. After much coaxing from her friend she finally decided to give in and communicate with him. A week later, the two met in person at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel (which is where Rory had classes at the time). "When I saw Rory, it was so magical. He looked at me then said, 'Sorry, give me a minute,' then he turned his back to me and took a deep breath. I guess I took his breath away," said Jonelle.
The newly-weds Rory and Jonelle Reid, embrace post ceremony.
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The Engagement
The couple dated for two years before Rory proposed on January 21, 2012, which also happened to be their anniversary. "I made dinner plans that evening and was going to propose then, but I thought she might expect it at dinner. So I proposed at the stroke of midnight instead," recalled Rory.
The Wedding
They tied the knot on July 21, 2012 at New Life Assembly of God Church. The couple's dream wedding was brought to life by the careful planning of Rose Nesbeth of Bridal Dresses and Things. The ceremony commenced with the arrival of the bridesmaids who walked up the aisle to Going to the Chapel by Dixie Cups in beautiful yellow and orange dresses designed by Alfred Algelo. The bridesmaids were accompanied by groomsmen who were nattily attired in suits by Beautiful Brides & Mr Tux.
Guests stood upon the arrival of the bride who stunned in make-up by Paul March with her hair in an elegant updo beautifully coiffed by Vonessa Smith. She glided up the aisle, with her mum Suzette Samuels by her side, to Halo by Beyoncé in a gown also designed by Alfred Algelo, which she paired with Bridget Sandals. The gown was from his Sapphire collection and featured crystal beading, sequins and taffeta flowers. As Jonelle made her way to Rory, he was immediately taken aback by her beauty. "It was like feeling every exultant emotion all at once. I felt like everything was right in the world and couldn't wait to get started," he shared.
The ceremony was officiated by Reverend Dr Douglas Robb who helped the couple exchange their vows. As the couple signed the marriage register, Shaneil Taylor sang At Last by Etta James and From this Moment by Shania Twain. The couple then jumped the broom as a symbol of the joy, health, happiness and prosperity, as they began their new life together with a clean sweep. There was too, a sand ceremony, which signified the joining of their lives with Christ.
The Reception
The reception took place at the Pavilion of the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel. The reception area, which was beautifully decorated by Rose Nesbeth, also included a photo booth, which allowed guests the opportunity to create personalised keepsakes from the wedding. After dinner, a video documenting their journey to the altar was played. The video was filmed and directed by Rashford 'Rocky' Thompson of Rocky's Video Productions.
The couple's mothers then unveiled the four-tier red velvet black forest wedding cake which was created by Rose Nesbeth and Robert Bonner of Bridal Dresses and Things. The bride and groom shared their first dance to Breathless by Shayne Ward. They then danced the rest of the evening away with their guests to the selections of DJ Mikie T of Kool FM.
The newly-weds honeymooned at Sandals Grande Riviera Beach & Villa Golf Resort.
