Vencott Smith and Sunji Barham

Not even the hundreds of miles that separate Vencott Smith and Sunji Barham, could diminish the attraction and love they had for each other. In fact, it only made their union stronger. So on July 25 at their Gleaner sponsored wedding, the two with the presence of 88 witnesses, took a bold step and committed their lives to each other, becoming husband and wife.

The outdoor wedding ceremony, began an hour later than the scheduled time. But guests and the groom waited patiently for the bride to arrive at the Millsborough home in Upper St. Andrew.

The moment finally arrived. Guests took their seats on immaculately white covered chairs with green detailing and members of the bridal party assumed their positions. Marching down the aisle, in their burnt orange and apple green dresses, the bridesmaids and groomsmen strolled to the song, A love so beautiful aptly setting the stage for what was to come.

Guided by her two sons Kwane and Kevaughn Hayle, the bride made her way to her groom, marching to Etta James' At Last. Meeting his bride the groom surprised her with a red rose and led her to the wedding arch to meet Reverend Trevor Dawkins.

Following the formalities, the new husband and wife were introduced to family and friends as Mr and Mrs Vencott Smith for the first time.

eciding to capture every beautiful moment, the bridal party travelled to Hope Gardens for photographs. And while they did just that, guests took their places at the reception area. Pleasantly greeted upon entry by wedding director Christine Powell, guests were directed to their respective seats and a cool drink to beat the summer heat.

Under clear skies, the reception area was decorated with lights and the bold and bright colours of apple green and burnt orange. Even the trees which surrounded the space added pizzaz to the already attractive layout.

Once the guests of honour arrived, it was a celebratory mood.

The couple met 10 years ago at the National Water Commission where they were both new. They worked in the same lab where Smith was an analyst. Their relationship blossomed but she moved to New York. He decided to make their union official and flew to New York and proposed. Now, no longer his girlfriend but wife, he says moving to the United States to be with her is something he will have to do.

latoya.grindley@gleanerjm.com