Daniel Laing and O’Tavia Grant, both hailing from Old Harbour Bay, St Catherine, would catch glimpses of each other in their early days of growing up and exchange shy greetings. In 2016, their connection deepened when they began corresponding on Facebook. For years, their exchanges remained casual until January 2021, when they decided to take a leap of faith and elevate their relationship. Despite O’Tavia’s migration to the United States, the distance did little to hinder their burgeoning romance. “I would make frequent visits to Jamaica just to create and spend cherished moments with Daniel,” O’Tavia tells Tuesday Style Vows. Indeed, they would indulge in memorable dinner dates, enjoy virtual movie nights, and relish in-person experiences. Their communication knew no bounds, as they would spend countless hours conversing on the phone — falling asleep together, tackling household chores, taking lunch breaks, shopping, and doing daily commutes.

On Bended Knee

The relationship was taken to the next level in October 2022, during one of O’Tavia’s many visits to Jamaica…

As they were preparing for dinner at Russell’s T20 Restaurant and Sports Bar, Old Harbour, St Catherine, Daniel’s friend volunteered to capture a few photos of them. Daniel excused himself, ostensibly to retrieve his wallet. Little did O’Tavia know that this was all part of a meticulously planned ruse. Daniel returned, and as they adjusted their poses, his friend could hardly contain his excitement. O’Tavia turned around, only to find Daniel on one knee, ring in hand. Overwhelmed with joy, O’Tavia eagerly accepted his proposal, saying yes to a future together.

Preparations for the wedding began in earnest mere months after the engagement.

Wedding Bells

The couple exchanged vows on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at the Old Harbour Bay Baptist Church. Sash Exquisite Event principal Sashell Knight and her team, who handled the décor, used shades of brown and gold to create a rustic theme. Awaiting his bride at the altar was Daniel, wearing a champagne-coloured three-piece jacquard suit. The ring-bearer, Dejon Thompson, and flower girl Au’Ryah Beckford, led the way for O’Tavia, who captivated all in attendance as she walked up the aisle on the arm of her dad, Author Grant, in a champagne, mermaid, long-sleeved, lace and pearls-embellished gown by LuxbridesJae.

Reverend Robert Campbell was the officiant.

Vows now sealed with a kiss, the bridal party recessed to the lyrics of Burna Boy Ft Ed Sheeran’s For My Hand.

Let The Celebrations Begin!

Described as an intimate and heart-warming affair by the newly-weds, the reception was a true testament to their love and the joyous atmosphere they wished to create. Serving as the master of ceremonies, Tafari Forbes engaged the guests with his easy banter, ensuring the proceedings were thoroughly enjoyed by all. To kick off the celebration, the wedding party danced their way into the reception hall of Sterling Villa, Old Harbour, to Ding Dong’s Bounce. Following their lead, the newly-weds made their grand entrance to the tune of Ding Dong’s Happiness, setting the tone for a night of merrymaking. And adding a touch of romance, saxophonist Damoy Walker serenaded the bride with the soulful melody of Best Part by Daniel Caesar ft. H.E.R., following which guests enjoyed a delectable array of dishes prepared by O’Tavia’s family. The highlight of the evening, however, came as the newly-weds cut their two-tiered vanilla and red velvet cheesecake. As their family and friends raised their glasses for toasts, the room filled with well wishes and applause.

The newly-weds opened the dance floor with Calum Scott ft Leona Lewis’s You Are The Reason. Soon after, their loved ones joined them, bringing the evening to a formidable close.

Photographer: Jamaica Intensity Media