The best kind of relationships begin unexpectedly. That’s why you don’t look for love; it comes to you just at the right time.

These words from a collection of love notes by Victoria Brinson are ones that, Tuesday Style Vows (TSV) reckons, would elicit knowing smiles from Vivienne Henry and Carlos McLeish.

Their journey to love commenced with a casual telephone conversation. “There were no expectations,” related Vivienne. “We were introduced by my Ardenne High School BFF Tanya Graham. I’d been single for over a year, so there wasn’t much enthusiasm on my part. Plus, when I discovered that he lived in Canada I literally rolled my eyes in exasperation.” Little did she know that Cupid’s arrow was about to score a bull’s eye!

They would speak three days later and within two months their focus was in keeping the relationship in high gear by travelling and spending quality time together. So sure was Carlos that he’d found the love of his life that he proposed a mere 10 months after their first date.

Vivienne was all smiles as she recalls the proposal.

“In December 2018, my charity hosted its annual Fancy Frenz Clothes Giveaway and Kids Treat in Montego Bay. Carlos secretly solicited the assistance of all my Fancy Frenz…and tricked me into believing that I was hosting a mock wedding. I would instead show up to a room filled with my nearest and dearest with Carlos on one knee holding the gorgeous ring that I had tried on during one of my many visits to Canada.

Their relationship was nurtured during the novel coronavirus pandemic. There weren’t a lot of destinations that were fully opened so Vivienne sold Carlos on the idea of getting married in the Dominican Republic on his birthday weekend, which was also the fourth anniversary of their first date. He agreed and they went on to create their dream weekend — #UnleashTheMcLeish.

As soon as discussions arose regarding the wedding venue, the choice was clear: the luxury oceanfront Villa Blue Orchid, Orchid Bay, Cabrera Dominican Republic, served as the perfect location for the globetrotters. Wedding planner Yndira Vega, from Easy Events Solution in the Dominican Republic, was tasked with turning the space into a coral and rustic-themed haven.

As the sun set on Saturday, March 12 and with 120 of their closest relatives and friends as witnesses, Carlos and Vivienne said their ‘I do’s’.

For her walk up the aisle Vivienne chose a soft white Allure Couture gown with matching cape from Pantora Bridal. Her bouquet of pink, white and coral roses created the perfect foil. Ruelle’s I Get To Love You was specifically chosen by Vivienne as an expression of love to her bridegroom. His sartorial choice meanwhile was a custom tuxedo by Delon Bayley from Long Island, New York.

The nuptials, which included a ribbon ceremony, were officiated by Kevin Renfrow.

The reception, described by the newly-weds as being filled with fun, laughter and lots of dancing, was held at the same venue.

Formalities commenced when master of ceremonies Wesley “Burgerman” Burger from Mello FM announced the arrival of the bridal party who made their entrance to Famalay by Skinny Fabulous, Machel Montano and Bunji Garlin. The newly-weds then made their entrance to Cloud 5’s No Behavior (Whole Place Shell Down). This was immediately followed by the couple’s first dance as husband and wife to Ruelle’s I Choose You.

The cutting of the four-tiered vanilla and pineapple cake by Caliche Repostería, Puerto Plata, and dinner catered by the staff at La Cocina De César were followed by lively toasts, games, lots of laughter and dancing which brought the affair to a memorable end.

The newly-weds enjoyed a mini-moon at the Cliff Hotel in Negril. A complete honeymoon is slated for 2023 with an European tour.