It’s hard to resist when a trusted friend sings the praises of someone and presents him as “the perfect match” for you. So it was as Laverne Miller, albeit hesitantly, accepted a first date invitation from retired Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Taylor, the man who would sweep her off her feet.

It was just over two years ago that fate orchestrated the initial meeting. A mutual friend had worked with Leslie at the Jamaica Defence Force in Jamaica for many years, and later worked with Laverne at Bank of America and was convinced that they would complement each other perfectly. She finally wore down Laverne’s reserve, vehemently vouching for Leslie’s character, and with Laverne’s permission, gave Leslie her telephone number.

Several telephone conversations ensued before a fantastic dinner first date in Buckhead, Atlanta, where they lived. Leslie was “the consummate gentleman,” Laverne reveals, and thereafter they spent every weekend in each other’s company for approximately two years. One evening, following the anniversary party of a couple of friends, Leslie took Laverne home and as she stepped away he gently tapped her on the shoulder. She turned around to see him on one knee, ring in hand. He uttered the words: “You have become the centre of my universe and I want to spend the rest of my life with you.” The response was a resounding “Yes.”

Fast-forward to The Emory Hotel & Conference Centre, Atlanta, Laverne dressed in a beautiful strapless gown from Brides of Demetrius, Atlanta, walked up the aisle on the arm of her brother Laurel Miller. A tearful Leslie received his bride.

They were preceded by Laverne’s daughters from a previous marriage, Michelle Samuels Benjamin, matron of honour, and Nicole Samuels, maid of honour.

Laverne carried a beautiful bouquet of ivory and white garden roses sprinkled with yellow statice and yellow crespedia wrapped in antique white satin ribbons. Michelle and Nicole carried bouquets of ivory hydrangea with blue delphinium and yellow garden roses.

Best man Anthony Knight and groomsman Retired Lt Col Lenworth Marshall stood by Leslie, whose eyes never wavered from his bride’s as he delivered his vows, smiling from ear to ear. Laverne’s happiness was palpable as she came down the aisle with her husband greeting family and friends along the way.

Carolyn Reid, Emile Johnson and Jordan Blackman ushered guests into the adjoining hall for a wonderful reception where several toasts were dedicated to the couple under the chairmanship of master of ceremonies, Jamaica-based accountant, Leighton McKnight.

Laverne and Leslie honeymooned at Sandals Montego Bay.