Volunteering on the same charitable foundation is what brought Howard Bingham and Kristan Russell together; Cupid’s hovering arrow ensured their happy-ever-after when they tied the knot on January 20, 2024 at the Kencot Christian Fellowship.

Howard told Tuesday Style Vows (TSV) that he realised Kristan was a “good yute” after interacting with her occasionally for committee duties. There was mutual respect and indeed interest on both parts. In time, Kristan resigned from the foundation position and Howard would now be seeing Kristan less. Their friendship slowly dwindled.

They would, however, reconnect sometime later on a trip with friends to Somerset Falls. The attraction this time around could not be ignored, even though Kristan kept her feelings close to her chest. They both started video calling with Howard taking more initiative in building the friendship. Indeed, he shared with TSV that over time, he realised that “God had given my heart to Kristan. She would ask detailed questions that were embedded in the caverns of my heart”.

Howard had finally ended Kristan’s 25-year wait on a young godly man! Fact is, how could Kristan not be moved by Howard’s admission: “Truly, truly you have captivated my heart.” Their first kiss soon followed and then came the declaration of love.

The proposal

It’s April 5, 2023 and Howard has asked Kristan out on a date at the Spanish Court Hotel. Some women just know, and Kristan just knew this was the day she was going to be proposed to. Because she had no doubts, Kristan ensured she got her hair, nails and make-up done for the “date!”

She was spot on! On the rooftop was Howard on bended knee with ring in hand. A man of few words, Howard immediately cut to the chase and asked Kristan for her hand in marriage. Kristan’s emphatic “Yes” was framed in the broadest grin.

The CEremony

The couple’s exchange of vows was guided by Pastors Errol Bolt and Jamin Wedderburn. Kristan, escorted up the aisle by her father Robin Russell, was a delightful sight in a mermaid gown with high side splits. Shanakaye Ritchie sang Original Kristan Song, written by one of her bridesmaids Moniqueca Reid.

The reception

A short cocktail reception followed with décor handled by Simple Perfect Events and friends Mijan Guy, Keisha Bramwell and Yowanda Baker. Catering for the reception was handled by Kencot Christian Fellowship friends and family. The newly-weds enjoyed their first dance to the Chris Brown hit Sensational. Maid of honour Shakiera Bell brought the bride to tears during her tribute on friendships and the blessings in Kristan’s life.