Chester Francis-Jackson and Fiona Hargreaves, Contributors

It was the most anticipated nuptial of the season, in international high society circles, and on Friday, May 22, land baron and businessman, Alexander Vereker Hamilton, of Lowood, Scotland, and Caymanas Estates, Jamaica, and the charmingly lovely Erica Anne Downer, socialite and philanthropist of St Andrew, Jamaica, said their I dos, at the Bowden Kirk, Melrose, on the Scottish borders. It was a rather intimate and charming affair that saw the reverends Alastair Bennet and Joe Crawford, officiating.

Elegant ceremony

And the buzz is that it was a rather elegant ceremony made so by its simplicity and consisted of three hymns, the vows, prayers, one reading and the blessing. It was made that much more special as the couple's eight grandchildren, handed out lilies of the valley then formed a circle at the altar around the couple, symbolically unifying the two families.

After the private family wedding ceremony, a luncheon followed at Lowood House, the Hamilton's Scottish home, for the immediate family and friends. This was followed by another reception, also at Lowood, the following night, for 150 friends and neighbours, who jetted and motored in from all over the world to join the newlyweds, in celebrating their union!

Special guest

Among those present included children, grandchildren and relatives of the couple: Robert Stewart and Edward Downer; Johnny Hamilton, William Hamilton, Laura Mill, and their families. Also present were Mr and Mrs Alistair Platt; Mr and Mrs Ronnie Thorburn; Mrs and Mrs William Findlay; Mr and Mrs Gowi von Malenkrodt; Mr and Mrs Ian Hamilton; Mr and Mrs Michael Creek; Sheila Fyfe and Helen Hamilton.

The couple is expected back in Jamaica, later this year, with a reception to follow in St Andrew and prior to their wedding trip to New Zealand in the new year. And already, it's emerging as the most sought-after invitation.