Vows: A Love Story fit for Hollywood

Kimberley Issa Denise Sherlock and André Sean Marriott-Blake were married on Saturday, December 8 by Reverend Dwight Fletcher in a ceremony held at the historic Devon House. When we think about “the one” oftentimes it’s anchored in tropes found in romance novels. However, this pragmatic young couple decided that they were each other’s forever based on shared experiences, mutual ambition and strong family upbringing.

Sherlock and Marriott-Blake share a number of similarities. Both attended prestigious Catholic high schools (Sherlock went to Immaculate Conception High School and Marriott-Blake to Campion College), both worked in the editorial department at the Jamaica Observer, and both their biological fathers have passed away. The ceremony included a tribute to their fathers that culminated in the bride and the groom each releasing a white dove representing the deceased.

The bride wore an ivory old Hollywood Berta Bridal-inspired dress by Allanhu Wedding and Event Design House with a princess-like train, and the groom a dapper three-piece tuxedo from Spokes Apparel. The bridesmaids wore dresses designed by Simone Michelle (MISIM) that comprised gold sequinned bodices and flowing black chiffon skirts; the groomsmen’s ivory and black tuxedos were, too, from Spokes Apparel. The bridal bouquet and floral arrangements were created by M Style XP.

The wedding theme was old Hollywood glam and this was realised by Main Event and M Style XP. The ceremony saw gold Chiavari chairs facing the steps of the iconic mansion, divided by a red carpet. The reception, held on the east lawn, had tables topped with plumes of feathers, roses and gold accents. Catering was provided by Unique Eats. During the reception, the couple debuted a short film about their relationship that brought the Hollywood theme full circle.

After the reception, the Marriott-Blakes headed to Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa for a minimoon. In January they will head to Mexico or the Dominican Republic for the real deal. For the next five years, to commemorate their anniversary the couple will donate $100,000 to students in need from one of their alma maters — Southborough Primary School, The Queen’s Preparatory School, Campion College, Immaculate Conception High School, The University of Technology, Jamaica, The University of the West Indies, Mona and the Norman Manley Law School.