In 2018, Jamaicans Duvaire Wauchope and Deborah Brown embarked on a journey to chase academic success, but instead found something much greater: Each other. Their unexpected meet cute led to the forging of an inseparable bond that culminated in nuptials on May 13, 2025, at Boone Hall Oasis in St Andrew.

In February 2021, their paths crossed for the first time at fast food restaurant franchise Subway on the Alabama State University campus. Health-care student Deborah was instantly taken by Duvaire, an accounting student and track athlete, who immediately struck up a conversation that was destined to change both their lives.

“I heard his voice behind me — the first Jamaican accent since I’ve been on campus, and I was immediately captivated! I asked a quick question regarding the menu that turned into an hour-long conversation,” Deborah told Tuesday Style Vows (TSV). “After exchanging numbers that evening, we became inseparable, connecting every day after his [track] practices.”

By December, as they learned more about their shared interests and values, it became undeniable: Their initial attraction was evolving into something deeper.

They began dating in 2022, despite some reservations about risking their friendship. Deborah’s concerns quickly vanished when she went through a difficult period, and was touched by Duvaire’s support.

“During one of the hardest moments of my life, he was simply solid. He was there for me, praying for me and with me — it felt like nothing less than divine intervention. In that time, I truly felt like he was a gift, like he was made just for me,” Deborah said.

Two years later Duvaire proposed.

“I thought I was going for an impromptu photo shoot, but my best friend ‘cancelled’ and Duvaire suggested dinner. After a lovely dinner out, we stopped at his apartment, and when I walked in, my loved ones were there! It was so beautifully decorated, and he got down on one knee,” Deborah said. “My heart was racing and my hands were shaking as he asked me to marry him. It was an amazing moment in my life.”

Seven months later, their beautiful chapter began. Escorted by her father, Rowan Brown, Deborah made her walk up the aisle as Ruelle’s I Get to Love You filled the air. There to receive her hand was her bridegroom, debonair in a white and green tuxedo, for the ceremony officiated by Percival Palmer.

The reception continued at Boone Hall Oasis. Following dinner, Deborah and Duvaire cut their two-tiered coconut cake and then shared a memorable first dance to Brian McKnight’s Back at One.

The newly-weds honeymooned in Nassau, Bahamas.

Deborah is escorted up the aisle by her father Rowan Brown to I Get to Love You by Ruelle. (Photo: J Royal Productions)

Duvaire and Deborah exchange vows guided by Percival Palmer.(Photo: J Royal Productions)

Deborah and Duvaire perform the sand ceremony. (Photo: J Royal Productions)

Mr and Mrs Duvaire Wauchope make their way down the aisle. (Photo: J Royal Productions)

Duvaire (third left) celebrates with his groomsmen (from left) best man Javar McDonald, Judah Corriette, Roger Barrett, Philip Beckford and Kevin Smith. (Photo: J Royal Productions)

Sharing in Deborah’s joy are her bridesmaids (back row, from left) Ramoya Allen, Shanice Hamilton, maid of honour Kayla Edwards, Arianna Brown, Tiona Nicely-Matthews and flower girls Saige Jarrett (front row, left) and Ximena Marsh. (Photo: J Royal Productions)

Congratulating Duvarie and Deborah on their nuptials are Duvarie’s dad Harvey Wauchope (left), his mum Indra Copes (second left), Deborah’s dad Rowan Brown and mum Sonia Brown. (Photo: J Royal Productions)

The newly-weds cut their two-tiered coconut cake. (Photo: J Royal Productions)

Deborah and Duvaire open the dance floor with Brian McKnight’s Back at One.(Photos: J Royal Productions)

The happy couple share their first kiss as husband and wife. (Photo: J Royal Productions)