On a warm June day in 2019, Anita Stephenson, a dedicated sports teacher at Seaward Primary and Infant School, found herself unexpectedly approached by Mark Collins, a spirited young man who had just finished a game of football with his friends. Little did they know, this chance encounter would be the start of a beautiful journey together.

Mark, a quality assurance team manager at The Office Gurus, was immediately drawn to Anita’s beauty and grace as she trained some students on the field. With a mischievous grin, he playfully asked her to train him as well, sparking a brief but memorable interaction. Days later, Anita, intrigued by this stranger’s boldness, reached out to him on Facebook, starting a conversation that would change both their lives.

As they got to know each other, Anita and Mark discovered a deep connection: a mutual love of football, and a passion for success. Despite attending different high schools, their paths had crossed before while Anita was in teachers’ college, and they quickly realised they were kindred spirits.

Mark shared with Tuesday Style Vows (TSV), “I started seeing her every once in a while as she was attending Shortwood Teachers’ College. During this same year, my mom passed and Anita was a tower of strength and that made me realise even more that she was very special and not just any other woman. We’ve had our fair share of ups and downs, and while at times it felt like some came to break and separate us, it only made us realise how much we were meant for each other. We have been together for over four years and it has been a journey.”

The proposal

Mark knew it was time to take the next step. In 2023, the two came to a mutual agreement that they should get married, forgoing a proposal. “I’ve learnt to appreciate things despite the different obstacles we’ve faced throughout. Last year, we decided that it was time to tie the knot. It has been a priority since then and now that it has manifested as the scripture says in Mark 10:9, ‘What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate,’ I strongly believe that this union is of God,” Mark expressed.

The ceremony

As they stood before Reverend Garland Black at the beautiful Hibiscus Lodge Hotel in St Ann on April 28, 2024, they exchanged vows, promising to love and cherish each other for eternity. The ceremony was a reflection of their love and shared values, with baby blue, navy blue, and gold accents adorning the venue, curated by Dedra Green of Destination Weddings. Anita looked radiant in an ivory lace and tulle mermaid gown from Bliss Bridal Boutique, complemented by a bouquet of white roses and baby’s breath, while Mark was dashing in a navy blue blazer and deep blue pants, complemented by a white shirt and navy blue bow tie.

Surrounded by their closest friends and family, including the bridal party, consisting of Daeja Ford, Diesha-gay Phipps, Monique Dawkins, Ryan McNeil, Jahiem Durant, and Mark Collins Senior, the couple celebrated their union with heartfelt vows and a mixtape of their favourite songs, curated by DJ Corefyahh. Anita slow-marched up the aisle to I Choose You by Ryan Darling while her bridesmaids entered to Calm Down by Rema.
A Thousand Years by Christina Perri flooded the halls during the signing of the register.

Although there was no reception, the love and joy shared on this special day filled the air. As the newly-weds sealed their commitment with a kiss, they knew that their journey together was just beginning. With hearts full, Anita and Mark embarked on their next adventure, honeymooning at the luxurious Iberostar in Montego Bay, ready to start their happily ever after.