Wise men say only fools rush in

But I can’t help falling in love with you

Oh, shall I stay? Would it be a sin?

Oh, if I can’t help falling in love with you

Haley Reinhart’s rendition of the Elvis Presley classic Can’t Help Falling in Love filled the air as medical doctor Janielle Evans, escorted by her parents, Patricia Simpson and Neil Evans, made her walk along the lawns of Laughing Waters exquisitely transformed by Michelle Levene-Phillips who per the bride’s request for a bohemian chic affair used a triangular-shaped arch decorated with mostly pampas grass and silk flowers in the wedding colours of terracotta, brown, green with a hint of peach. Mahogany Chiavari chairs lined both sides of the aisle.

The nuptials took place on Sunday, January 28, 2024, less than a year after the historical neighbourhood of Casco Viejo, Panama City, with its quaint colonial architecture, afforded the perfect backdrop for business consultant Leon Beckford to declare his love and indeed a ring to Janielle during an April getaway.

The couple — whose eight-year friendship began at the UWI, Mona Campus’ Elsa Leo Rhynie Hall — exchanged vows guided by Father Donald Chambers at Laughing Waters, a location they had fallen in love with during a January 2023 beach trip with friends.

The reception followed on the property’s front lawns where guests dined under a clear-top tent that was decorated with ivory fabric and strings of fairy lights. Tables were dressed with ivory cloths and tablescape included wooven rattan chargers. The bride and groom’s table was a farmhouse sweetheart table decorated with pampas grass and silk flowers at the base.

The newly-weds danced the night away to sentimental songs like Mortimer’s
Lightning and Lauren Daigle’s rendition of You Are So Beautiful.

CREDITS

Photographer: Kamar McHugh Photography

Wedding Organisers: Xaundre & Zhara-Marie Mohansing

Wedding Décor: Michelle Levene-Phillips

MC: Toni-Ann Martin

Catering: Annette’s Catering