I found love in you

And I’ve learned to love me too

Never have I felt that I could be all that you see

It’s like our hearts have intertwined into the perfect harmony

This is why I love you

Ooh this is why I love you

Because you love me

You love me

Why I Love You by Major

They say that the best love stories begin with friendship. The adage proved particularly apt for wharfage supervisor Davene Cochrane and distribution engineer Randolph Naylor, whose decade-long odyssey led them to the exchange of vows on April 6. The intimate ceremony took place at Pollyanna Caterers in Kingston.

Their story began within the walls of Rollington Town Seventh-day Adventist Church, some 15 years ago. Through their shared involvement in church activities, Davene discovered a quiet charm in Randolph.

“Our friendship grew stronger as we started to attend the annual Pathfinder Camp during the Easter holidays. He has always been the more reserved individual, while I was more outspoken,” Davene shared with Tuesday Style Vows (TSV).

Things took on new dimension when she returned from a work and travel assignment overseas in 2018. Absence certainly made the heart fonder as, by November of that year, they had begun dating. Beyond his meticulousness, it was Randolph’s patience and selflessness that confirmed to Davene that the love of her life was her best friend.

“I knew he was the one when, no matter what he did, he put me first and loved me for me,” Davene reflected. He was patient, organised and detail-oriented, and those were some attributes that even drew me closer to him, worse because I love to procrastinate.”

There was no procrastination regarding their future, however. During a romantic getaway at the Moon Palace Hotel in Ocho Rios, St Ann, on November 3, 2024, Randolph ensured that the occasion would be unforgettable for Davene.

“After dinner, while we gazed at the stars and reflected on life, he got down on one knee at the gazebo and proposed,” Davene said.

Five months later, they would replicate the intimacy of the proposal in their wedding ceremony. The venue was decorated by Canvassed Moments Event Decor & Planning.

For her special day, Davene wore a gown by NashWear. Escorted by her father, Dave Cochrane, Davene walked up the aisle to the dulcet tones of Why I Love You by Major. Guided by Pastor Shaun Edwards, Davene and Randolph exchanged vows, bringing their friendship and love full circle.

“It was indeed a magical wedding, knowing all that was planned [was] actually coming to reality. Hearing each other’s written vows — this made me realise that love is a beautiful thing ordained by God,” Davene said.

While the reception wasn’t a traditional affair, forgoing the first dance, the newly-weds did partake in some customary moments, such as the cutting of their three-tiered fruitcake by Pollyanna. The night was filled with dancing and joy, a fitting end to Davene and Randolph’s special day as they now look to their future.

The couple enjoyed their honeymoon in Tamarac, Florida.